What makes a good...

Photograph

There are as many answers to this as there are photographers and grains of sand in the Sahara combined. Some argue that quality is a subjective thing - also known as the "well I like it" approach. Some argue that there are definite rules that must be followed. As always, the truth lies somewhere in between.

From a purely technical perspective the things to consider are: focus, colour balance, saturation, tonal range, grain/noise, exposure, depth of field and composition.

From the artistic side, consider mood, feeling, emotion and story conveyed. Consider also the shapes, patterns and textures. Either by virtue of their harmony or disharmony do they resonate with you, the viewer?

Ultimately, I view the technical areas as tools used to deliver the artistic. A technically flawed but emotionally charged shot will always, for me, win hands down over a technically perfect shot which has no feeling.

My rule of thumb for judging an image is to ask if I would hang it on my wall, or could I see it on the front cover of a magazine. If the answer to either one is a yes, then it is a good picture.

On occasion, it is necessary to break to rules to get the shot you want. I'm not talking about acceptable flaws but rather the deliberate breaking of the rules and guidelines. That said, it is essential to master the rules, before you can transcend them.

Photographer

For me, a good photographer is all about the "eye", the ability to look at the same thing as everybody else but to see something new, and to be able to convey that in a photo; somebody who can show the extraordinary in the mundane, rather than make the extraordinary look mundane.

Model

A great model is one who can communicate mood and feeling just using his or her pose and expression. It is not about beauty, body shape, or any other physical attribute. It is something that comes from within. The models with whom I've worked that have inspired me most are those who are most comfortable with themselves - body and mind - and who have a strong sense of self.

Portfolio

For both models and photographers your portfolio, or "book" is your biggest marketing tool. It should reflect your style and skills at their best.

• Use only your best quality images. Be brutal in your selection. If you can see a flaw, no matter how tiny, so will others. It is better to show three superb images than six mediocre ones.
• Keep it to no more than 12 images
• Images should be a minimum of A4, preferably A3. You should also keep a pocket sized portfolio, with the same images at 6"x4", with you at all times. You never know when it will come in handy.
• Use a good quality portfolio book (you can get these in most arts supply shops). Not only will this protect your images, it will look more professional.
• A difficult issue is to balance showing a variety of work, with showing your individual style. Ideally your personal style should come through even with a variety of different types of image.
• If you are presenting your portfolio for a particular job, ensure that the images shown are appropriate. For example, a selection of even the most tasteful art nude shots may stop you getting that job doing a wholesome family lifestyle shoot. Keep a pool of portfolio shots and tailor the portfolio as appropriate.
• Keep it up to date. As you do new work keep the portfolio refreshed.
• When selecting shots, listen to the opinions of others. Sometimes we can become blind to flaws in work we love. Others may see things we have missed.

For models in particular, the following considerations should be borne in mind:

• Include work from a variety of photographers with a variety of styles. Even more so than for photographers' portfolios, it is important that you demonstrate versatility.
• Include a mix of headshots, three quarter length and full length shots.
• At least one full length swimwear shot is advisable to give the viewer a better idea of your body shape.

Copyright Paul Flanagan 2008. All rights reserved. Unauthorised use or copying prohibited.