Model: Paul Cijsouw
Photographer: Bram van Dal
1/180 F/4.5 100 Canon 5DmkIII Sigma 85mm
When I work with studio lights, I often challenge models to decide for themselves where they want to place the lamp or lamps. Because they decide for themselves where to place the lamps, they also know where the shadow will be.
They can also help determine how to place a chair when placing it.
Once such a chair has been placed, I will ask them how they can play with the balance between light and shadow. And whether or not they should look into the camera and what viewing directions there are.
Of course I will regularly ask questions about why they make certain choices. Ultimately, every choice someone makes has an effect on the photo, there are choices that turn out well and choices that turn out less well.
But by letting models, actors or people who enjoy being in front of the camera discover things, things will start to happen.
In principle, there is no right or wrong. I do encourage people to make mistakes. Making mistakes ensures that you discover new opportunities and possibilities.
Just as they are allowed to make mistakes, I still make enough mistakes myself and it is the mistakes that ensure that I continue to develop myself as a photographer.