Photographing the Nude

Mike Crawley's Photographing the Nude is a thoroughly practical and inspiring guide for photographers of all levels. It begins by teaching a number of basic skills key to developing a sound understanding of the art–nude photography shares many of the same technical problems as other areas of portraiture.

Crawley demonstrates a wide range of classic lighting techniques, from soft diffuse lighting for a romantic mood to direct lighting that emphasizes the contours and musculature of the body. Knowing what poses are good for figure work is also essential. To that end, specially commissioned photographic sequences demonstrate the dos and don'ts.

Readers will also find information on taking more creative shots such as semi-abstracts, and technical challenges such as infra-red prints and digital manipulations. Chapters on darkroom and digital know-how form the final invaluable section.