Phoenix based model and photographer Shantia Veney took some time to make a quick three and a half minute video demonstrating how a constant, fluid, motion of dance-like movement looked in front of the camera. She explained on Facebook that the video was to simply show how to move gracefully from one pose to another and reminded her followers that different photographers may require different actions and pauses between poses. I think her video is a fantastic example for both aspiring models and photographers alike.
It's pretty amazing to watch how, within the span of only sixty seconds, she managed to shift from from graceful reaching, to a flirty playfulness and then on to a more haunting and reflective demeanor. And all of this was done slowly with subtle, sly movements - just as fellow Fstoppers writer and photographer Clay Cook recommends. It's seriously worth a watch or three.
I asked Shantia to explain what she feels a successful model needs to be able to do since she has extensive experience on both sides of the camera and here's what she had to say.
A professional model should be able to change their posing style to fit the shoot and photographer. I believe whole heartedly that every model should be able to move fluidly between poses because it makes it a lot easier to fit into different styles.
A model that can move with grace and fluidity can always slow down to accommodate those who would like to shoot them staggered. But a model who can only move from pose to pose in hard, awkward movements will never be able to accommodate the photographers who shoot the moments between moments.
When I shoot new models, I really am just searching for someone who can emote into the camera and who will take direction without getting upset.
I also asked Shantia for a response to some of the flack she has received from her original post on Facebook, and she had this to add.
The blowback about my new video has come mainly from females and photographers. The majority has come from females complaining that I'm just a glorified stripper and to put my ass away. There has also been a good amount from photographers (and some models) complaining that they would never shoot anyone that moved like me because I don't pause.I don't indulge in the negative comments I get. If they are truly malicious, I just block them and move on. People are always entitled to their opinions, I just hope that the photographers and models who have chosen to disregard the reason for my making the video reevaluate what this demonstrates.
What do you think of the way she moves in front of the camera? Is this a method you recommend or is there a way that works better for you? Let us know in the comments!
Be sure to check out Shantia's website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
[via Facebook]
Wow. I'd just leave it on high speed burst and see what happens. Im sure there'd be a lot of keepers.
Talented model!
Actually not a bad idea to loosen up into the shoot if the model is willing to do a slow posing dance like this. You can shoot at the same time for some interesting shots, and then take a look at the video to go back and stop pose some of the favorites. Everone has their best side* and this gives you chance to see that in a quick 2 minutes.
*No I'm not talking about "that side" of Shantia, no matter how alluring it is :)
When I shoot new models, I really am just searching for someone who can emote into the camera and who will take direction without getting upset. http://to.ly/zX0T
This is amazing! Great article Aaron! I always enjoy reading your articles! Keep up the great work man, keep them coming! :-)
As for lovely and talented Shantia Veney... Wow.. Just wow.. Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful motion and fluidity.. I was in awe the entire time. The people who are getting upset by this obviously don't see the beauty and grace that was preformed before them. Sure there is a sexual notion in it, it's supposed to be but it was more than that and if people don't see that, especially "photographers" and "models", then they apparently don't understand art and should really rethink their position in this line of work. Outstanding work Shantia, bravo.
Side note... I love being a photographer... It makes me happy when I can say "This is for educational purposes... Giggity".
Thanks buddy! I thought this would be a beneficial one for sure.
Im sure a model moving like this, would learn to gauge what the photographer is shooting, and pause more. Simply, this was a self-shot video, other than herself, there was no photographer present to dictate those needed "pauses". People are way too critical of the video for what it is. Models should study it, realize the range of expression that they should be able to create in the same amount of time.
Would LOVE to shoot someone who moves like this. Just keep firing away. You can't help but get some great shots working this way.
I think it is great! Unless I'm looking for a static pose, I'd prefer to let the model do her work. Once she's moving, whether she pauses or not, I'm quickly connected to her moves and anticipate and capture what looks good.
Great vid.. imo its innovative.
Really great article and video. This is a great reference for posing.
I wonder if the women who were complaining about this video were actually models.
I highly doubt it!
I wish all model were this talented!
Yup, she's definitely got skills!
Im surr going to study her like i breathe