In my career as a photographer, I have photographed many things - weddings, business campaigns, products, spectacular landscapes. But above all people of all ages and from all walks of life. Each type of photography comes with its own opportunities and challenges. Working as a model photographer in Frankfurt and Mallorca in particular brings me into contact with the most exciting people time and time again. So also with Pia Bauschwho booked me 2 years ago for a home garden story for her sedcard.
After we shot her sedcard in Frankfurt, Pia visited me on Mallorca for another shoot. We also had another business shoot this year in September. That's exactly what I love about being a model photographer: most of my clients come back to me again and again. This gives me the chance to accompany them throughout the entire modelling career process. Seeing how the models continue to develop over the years allows me to capture their evolution in pictures and thus create a complete picture of the person.
About Pia
Pia is one of those people for whom the process of development could not be more obvious. This is evident in her past alone. Through continuous reinvention in her career, Pia has reinvented herself time and time again. Coming from the IT industry, early retirement has opened up new professional opportunities. If it hadn't been for corona, Pia would have gone back to university at the age of 55 and studied interior design.
However, as studying online was not an option for her, Pia came across something completely new by pure chance: modelling. Driven her whole life by curiosity and drive, Pia has dedicated herself completely to her new passion. If I had told her a few years ago that she would start a modelling career, she would probably have called me crazy. Today we know that there is nothing greater for her than being in front of the camera and experiencing the special atmosphere on set.
Pia's way
As already mentioned, Pia has completely reinvented herself in her mid-50s. On the one hand, this is very inspiring for me. On the other hand, it is also fascinating because I will continue to accompany Pia on her journey over the coming years. Today she is a sought-after bestager model for a wide range of advertising films, image films and countless photo shoots.
I have already photographed Pia in a wide variety of settings and therefore know myself how versatile she is. This is also evident from the big brand names she has already worked with: Indoba Unternehmensgruppe GmbH, Biologische Heilmittel Heel GmbH, Beka Hospitec GmbH, Drägerwerk AG, Nudecosmetics Gmbh, Magazin Tina and a whole host of tourism organisations, to name but a few.
Pia is not only in great demand for static photography, but also shoots advertising and image films as well as video clips for her clients. Her life motto helps here: "I love to laugh for my life!". Because in advertising, of course, "laughter is in demand".
The challenges of model photography
At every shoot, Pia reminds me how challenging modelling actually is. For both of us as models and model photographers, this art form brings its own challenges.
Choice of locationThe choice of location can have a significant impact on the overall impression of a photo shoot. It should match the message of the photo and emphasise the meaning and purpose of the campaign. This is worked out together in dialogue with the model. In addition, the choice of clothing for the corresponding theme of the shoot is of particular importance. This is why it is particularly important for sedcard shoots that the clothes match. To the model, the theme and also the location.
The shoot
- Poses and expressionModels must be able to master different poses and facial expressions. This requires practice and self-confidence. As a photographer, I also have to keep an overview of what has already been shot and what has not.
- Natural lightingGood light is crucial for successful shots. The model photographer must understand how natural light sources can be optimally utilised. I always recommend Mallorca for this. This island with its soft light in the morning and evening hours offers optimal conditions.
- CommunicationCommunication between photographer and model is of the utmost importance. The model must understand what the photographer wants. But the photographer must also be able to direct the model into the desired poses. Pia and I have a great communication channel here, because we are already a well-rehearsed team. This is also reflected later in good results that satisfy clients and agencies.
Post-processing
Editing and retouchingThe post-processing of the images is an important step in creating the desired mood and atmosphere. Thanks to years of experience, I have a good eye for colour correction and subtle skin retouching to perfect the images. The exception here are sedcard shoots, which should show the model as naturally as possible. With best-ager models in particular, only minimal retouching should be carried out, as the model wants to be booked as a "best-ager" and the retouching must not make her look too young.
In this day and age where visual presence on social media and in the modelling industry is crucial, models are constantly in need of new images. I work closely with my fashion industry clients and enjoy the process that makes me as a model photographer and the model work a little better together with each shoot. With varied, professional images in a consistent style from the same photographer, my models can stand out from the competition online.
More from me
You can find many business images and advertising shots with examples and inspiration in my detailed Portfolio.