Belajar Foto: Javanese Portrait @Solo (2018)| DarwisVlog #42

Summary

In this photography vlog, the photographer takes viewers behind the scenes of a portrait session in Solo, Indonesia, showcasing the art of traditional and modern kebaya fashion. The video highlights the delicate balance between model direction, lighting techniques, and the importance of capturing subtle expressions. The photographer explains the technical aspects, such as aperture, flash, and shutter speed adjustments, to optimize lighting conditions. With a mix of ambient window light and flash, the session transitions smoothly between traditional elegance and contemporary fashion, offering a fascinating look at the creative process behind portrait photography.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker is in Solo, preparing to create a portrait, emphasizing the importance of controlling the subject's pose and expression to ensure the photo is aesthetically pleasing.
• 😀 The goal is to focus on minimal action in the portrait and use ornaments in the environment to make the image more interesting.
• 😀 The speaker mentions using a wide aperture, though the exact value (like F1.2 or F2) is not specified. The priority is to achieve depth of field and composition.
• 😀 The lighting is primarily provided by a window, even though it's late afternoon, which still provides enough light for the shoot.
• 😀 Traditional clothing is worn by the subject, specifically a kebaya from a senior designer, which aligns with the royal court (keraton) style, requiring a formal, composed pose.
• 😀 Multiple attempts are made to capture the perfect pose, with specific instructions on the subject’s posture, expression, and eye direction.
• 😀 The session involves precise timing to capture the perfect shot, as indicated by the frequent use of 'hold' or 'stop' during the photoshoot.
• 😀 The speaker adjusts the scene slightly by moving the subject and modifying the camera position to optimize the shot.
• 😀 In the second session, the subject wears a modern kebaya, combining traditional elements with fashion-forward modifications.
• 😀 The second shoot also uses window light, supplemented with a flash to ensure proper exposure. The aperture is kept as wide as possible to maintain the depth of field.
• 😀 As the shoot progresses into the evening, flash becomes a more prominent light source. The speaker adjusts shutter speed and flash power to maintain the desired ambiance and light exposure.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the photoshoot in the vlog?

The main focus of the photoshoot is capturing portraits with traditional and modern kebaya styles, while highlighting the importance of lighting, positioning, and ornaments in creating compelling images.

How does the photographer approach directing the model?

The photographer emphasizes directing the model with minimal poses, ensuring the subject’s expression and positioning are controlled to maintain the artistic integrity of the shot, while avoiding too many actions or distractions.

What role do ornaments and the environment play in the photoshoot?

Ornaments and the environment play a crucial role in making the portrait more interesting and complementary to the subject. The photographer highlights the house's interior and the details that enhance the overall aesthetic of the image.

What type of lighting does the photographer use during the session?

The photographer primarily uses natural window light but also adds artificial lighting such as flash to maintain the proper exposure as the day progresses and light conditions change.

How does the photographer adjust the camera settings to suit the lighting?

The photographer adjusts the aperture (keeping it as wide as possible), shutter speed, and flash power to balance the ambient light and flash. The aperture is kept large to capture more light, and the shutter speed is lowered in dimmer conditions.

Why does the photographer use a wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or f/1.2)?

A wide aperture allows for a shallow depth of field, helping to isolate the subject and create a more visually striking portrait. It also lets in more light, which is essential when working in lower light conditions.

What is the significance of the traditional kebaya in this photoshoot?

The traditional kebaya is used to evoke a sense of Javanese royalty, with the photographer noting the importance of capturing a regal atmosphere through careful subject positioning and precise styling, which aligns with the cultural heritage of the garment.

How does the modern kebaya differ from the traditional one in the photoshoot?

The modern kebaya is a fashion-forward adaptation of the traditional garment, blending traditional elements with contemporary design. The modern version is designed more like a dress, with a stronger focus on current fashion trends.

How does the photographer compensate for the decreasing natural light towards the end of the session?

As the natural light fades, the photographer uses more flash to compensate, adjusting the flash power and other camera settings like aperture and shutter speed to maintain the right exposure and capture the ambient background light.

What technical advice does the photographer give about flash usage?

The photographer advises using flash at a minimal power setting to avoid overpowering the ambient light. Additionally, he recommends adjusting the shutter speed and aperture to ensure that the ambient light from the background is still visible and properly exposed.