The Alluring Work Of Michael Tarasov [NSFW]

When shooting a photograph, aside from the technical aspects I believe the most important roll of portrait photography is what are you trying to convey to your audience. What mood are you setting? Whether it be comical, tragic, romantic, ect… This is important since you are essentially telling a story with someone’s actions or expressions.(This is probably why we are all drawn to B&W shots of homeless people).By using light, shape, color, or movement of the body we can emphasize these expressions. This is what I believe sets you apart from the teenage girl who calls herself a photographer because she takes pictures of her friends in the park.(Not that there’s anything wrong with that). But I think we all look to take our photography to the next level.

Look at guys like Martin Schoeller and Joey Lawrence, yes they are great with light and have resources to get some amazing shots, but if look at the subjects in most of their work you feel as if you are on the same emotional plane as the person. They have a way with connecting to their subject, which in turn creates these captivating images. Peter Hurley is another one of these photographers, he took headshots to the next level simply by getting his subjects to be completely open in front of the camera. Michael Tarasov has a way with connecting to his models. Each one of his images are emotionally touching. For the most part his light is not super technical, his post production is good but nothing to be discouraged by, but what makes each one of his images so alluring is the connection you feel with them. He is creative and executes his concepts. Michael Tarasov was born in Saint-Petersburg in 1984. He graduated from Saint-Petersburg State University of Film and Television as a cameraman. Michael started shooting photography in 2001, and has also cooperated as a photographer with some top film directors. Check out his 500PX. I Hope his work inspires you and helps you to create more enthralling portraits.