Cameras from Louis Assoulin: How to Take Proper Photographs of Tattoos

The method for taking photographs of models with tattoos is a bit different from that of models with natural skin. Tattoos obviously make the skin look different, so a different setup and approach must be taken to accurately capture them. The differences are mainly in the small details, but before everything else, make sure your photography equipment is up to par and bought from quality sellers like Louis Assoulin. Once your equipment is ready, follow these easy tips to ensure your success:

Find your focus

In tattoo photography, your focus isn’t a single point, it is t an area of the image that you want to emphasize the most. This will typically be the central tattoo. If your model only has one tattoo, use the most interesting part of that tattoo as your focus.

Get the depth of field right

A shallow depth of field gives the impression that you are ‘covering up’ the model’s tattoo. If the tattoo is large, use telephoto to get the whole tattoo in focus and blur the background. Adjust your model’s position accordingly, if you prefer using a 50mm prime lens.

Properly light the tattoo along with the model

Proper lighting is key to having both the model and the tattoo adequately displayed. Regarding your use of rim light, make sure the tattoos are at an ideal distance from the light, or else they will burn out. Tattoos are best kept in the mid-tones, where they can be properly lit and clearly visible.

Pose your model based on the tattoos

While most model photography will rely on posing the model in a way that complements her body, tattoo photography means accentuating the tattoos at the expense of the pose. This means you have to pose the model in such a way that the tattoo you want to photograph won’t get wrinkled, stretched, or distorted in a not-so-ideal manner.

When shooting a tattooed model, it wouldn’t hurt to talk to him or her as you set up your gear. More than a way to pass the time, this is a great way to watch them, observe their general posture, and get an idea of how they move. You can put that camera purchased from vendors, like Louis Assoulin, to better use that way.