Kes in the studio (Patreon)

At my last workshop before the world shut down, I had Kes Rowlands and spent's half a day shooting with her.

Very common for me, I have no clue on what to do before I meet the model and see the light in the studio. If there is sun, I usually do something with this; if not, I'll work out something else.

Over the last years, I have worked with a very minimalistic approach. I rarely use any props (except a wooden box or a sofa), no clothing, and no shoes, with a few exceptions. The limitations first give a very clean took to what I do, but they also require me to experiment more with light and shape as there are few other options.

And that is a useful takeaway for shooting: By limiting your options, you focus more on what you do.

And this focus frequently makes your images stronger.

Next time you photograph, try this: Force yourself to create at least one image without any props, underwear, garments, and only using whatever daylight you have available. If you don't have daylight, use one softbox or one umbrella, set it exactly 1m/1yard from your model, and make the most of it.

Keep experimenting until you are satisfied.

I think you will find a kind of freedom in this. If you do, I'd be interested in seeing the images, so post them on Instagram and tag me @thomasholmphoto and make a hashtag @thomasholmphotochallenge