Boudoir and nude portraits rarely draw inspiration from skyscrapers. Yet, it happened.
An architecture photographer was taking me through his technique of turning nice but kinda bland colour photographs of skyscrapers. The transition was stunning, powerful fine art transformations.
As I watched each step dramatically altering the images, most were counter-intuitive intuitive, giving a bizarre result part way through the process.
I could see how I could tweak it for my female clients. Inner Spirit Photography’s boudoir and nude portraits are known for being on the cutting edge of sensual, intimate photographs, so this is a perfect fit.
I am still refining the look with small tweaks, but overall, I really love this look.
It is mesmerizing to watch a soft, delicate image morph into this dramatic, emotional image. It is also a bit revealing as it showcases the complexity of women too.
Each image reacts differently to the process, leaving me to gently pull a range of elements to create the look I want.
Here are some samples of images we have transformed so far.
This first one reveals how dramatic the look is from the original full colour image when transitioned into the dramatic bw with a tint. If you look closely you can see three red strands of the background fabric highlighted.
This shows how the high key bedroom set, originally filled with wrap around soft light.
Below is two of Nancy’s images. The standing image was dramticly lit to start, yet it still amps up the look.
Maddie is in the next three. These started with some drama to the lighting but nearly the mood that emerges from the BW tint treatment.
Here is another comparison. Henrietta has this on her book cover, it is powerful and elegant. The dark bw version ads more mystery while removing the sensual aspect of the colour image. In this image, like several of the others, spot colour of her lips is brought out.
This brings a simple elegance to her portrait.
In the Jacquie, the water turbulence is more noticeable. The highlight on the face and cleavage directs your eye.
This last image includes a black Harley Davidson. It nearly blends into the background yet still is a strong element. There is no doubt though wha the image is about.
I hope you enjoyed this new look of our images. It makes for a powerful art expression of what was delicately lit and mostly airy images.
We can work with new images or apply the technique to old favourites.