The art of vintage photography is a trend receiving tons of hype in the last few years. Achieving a look, which visually refers to a certain time period, is all about styling, proper lighting and scenery. When done correctly, the results are admired by all.
RESEARCH: When planning for your shoot the first step is researching a photographer who specializes in the style you're aiming to capture. There are an infinite amount of photographers that can take a photo, add a filter to it and call it "Vintage." The main goal should be to hire someone with a unique eye who will think outside of the box to capture and enhance your images. Someone who will make you feel like you've taken a time machine back in time to your desired era.
STYLING: The next step is styling for the shoot. What time period are you aiming to reenact? For example, a polka dot wiggle dress and red pumps would be perfect for a 1950's styled engagement shoot. Add a bow tie and collared shirt to your guy and be automatically transformed. There are many different directions your styling can go. If you are looking to capture an old grungy look to your photos, the best approach to take would be to use darker or muted tones. It all depends on the type of vintage you have in mind.
SETTING: Next would be your scenery. The setting is the main component to achieving a vintage look at your photo shoot. The location of your shoot is what ties everything together. Surprisingly so, there are many locations to choose from depending on the theme and era of your shoot. A vintage diner or airplane museum is ideal for the 1950s style.
COLORS: The colors of your clothing and make-up combined with the right scenery will give off the vibe that you have traveled back a few decades. Who doesn’t love bright red lips, circa the 1950s, when bride’s sought the most alluring shades of red possible?
LIGHTING: Lighting and timing is a key factor when planning for your vintage shoot. The late afternoon, when the sun is a couple of hours away from setting, is prime time for the “Golden Hour” photographers love to work with. Late afternoon is perfect for a darker, old school feel. The photographer is given the opportunity to play with lights and shadows to create a dramatic impact.
EFFECTS: Once your session is finished, post-production and editing comes into play. Visual effects are added to the photos to support and compliment all the components talked about above.
Your photo shoot should speak for itself. Once all these factors of styling, lighting and locations are put into play, it should automatically make you feel like you really were taken back in time. Vintage photography makes people feel nostalgic, giving them the desire to return to the past. While your photo session may have the vintage effect, your goal should be achieving timeless portraits that can be looked back on forever and simply be ageless.
CREDITS
Article written by: Alain Martinez
Alain Martinez is an international lifestyle and wedding photographer, instructor and author. His efforts with Aroos Joon have extended his portfolio into the world of Bridal Fashion photography. Alain’s work is featured all over the United States in multiple print publications and media outlets. He owns the largest non-commercial studio in Florida, one of the largest in the United States. Alain mentors photographers around the world and in his studio; an honor he believes keeps him sharp at his craft and innovative while teaching those who wish to elevate their technique.