the visual attention from the hard goods product. In showing a set of six champagne glasses, filling only one of them with the bubbly champagne is more interesting than filling all six.
CHILDREN’S FASHION. Photographing clothing for children for catalog pages presents another set of special requirements. Such clothing shown on a figure will sell better than when shown flat, or off-figure. The children, as models, are emotionally appealing and relatable. The very best results can be obtained by allowing the children to be themselves, to act like kids do. Shots that accomplish this objective can be totally
|
charming. But it necessitates working with children, and (even if they are professional models), they are less controllable and will require a longer shooting time. Children’s natural antics can be captured on film for very special depictions. The shooting crew will probably be called upon to display a great degree of patience. Lots of film will be wasted, and time will be lost. And such factors as naps, hunger, tiredness, and short attention span must be dealt with. Accomplishing the desired natural behavior on the set involves establishing a rapport between the art director and photographer and the children, and in helping the kids to
|
become oblivious of the activity going on behind the camera. It is a good idea to plan for plenty of distraction elements; keep a big box handy with small toys and stuffed animals, and a good supply of fruit, cookies, lollipops and balloons. When a child becomes tired, or fidgets on a set, send in one of the distracters and you’ll probably extend the shooting. You’ve not only given the child something to physically hold onto, you’ve also diverted their attention from staring into the camera. Busy sets are confusing enough; try to minimize the effects by having only one person give instructions and directions to the child. It can be the art director or the photographer, but should not be both.
|
