Test Shoot Child Option

Within my project outline i proposed using a child model for the role of Sara Crewe, this was the first area i wanted to test shoot as this would have a huge effect on the makeup, hair and photography design's for the final images as when using children special attention to makeup application and products is to be taken into account as also time restrictions on the length of model preparation and shooting time.

I have used the model proposed in the project outline Indiana May Simpkins not only have already having the previous parental consent forms completed she has the look i am after a pretty face but with an unusual look in her eye that works with the character profile of Sara Crewe.     Indiana is three years old nearly four and initially when looking at using her as a model i wanted to explore  how she would perform in front of the camera. I wanted to shoot Indiana on her own in a space i know she felt comfortable to see if she will work infront of the camera and could potentially work along side other models, there for the location of the shoot is at my house were she is familiar with the space.

I have created a mood board on the atmosphere and quality of the images i am looking for from the photographer Dionne Lockyear a fellow third year student who's images i was drawn to based on the naturalistic quality she focuses on. This is a key element i want to withdraw from all the images a real raw and intimate sense within the scene. Photos from the mood board such as the close ups of the girls capture a raw very naturalistic moment the colours are important when capturing this as its very airy yet with a dark sense in contrast. Further i included compositional close up images such as the blowing of the candle for the birthday cake scene and stairs similarly the compositions i don't want to be to posed and a coherent colour tone to the images taken.

https://uk.pinterest.com/milliejohns/photography-fmp/

As well as the mood board for inspiration on colour pallets and  atmosphere, I have included a break down on the 'Scenes'/compositions that will be achieved within the test shoot. This also means everyone can be clear about what is needed from both the photographers perspective but also the model Indiana and her chaperon (her mum) who will be helping costume change and general care on set.

. Stairs after PaPa leaves - Flat Stairs

Upset, sat with doll, feels alone and scared, but being brave  .

. Birthday Cake- Living Room, Table & Cake

Happy Playing, blowing out cake candles  .

. Attic- Garage

Just been banished to the attic by Miss Minchin crying and sad surrounded by candles .

. Crying/Screaming- Macro Close Up's .

. Princess Crown Poster Images- Creative .

I have asked Indiana's mum to bring a variety of costumes that would be appropriate, I have decided that the test shoot will not be in the proposed era of the 1940'/50's as i will be sourcing original authentic costumes when i am certain of the models that will be used. Makeup and Hair i will determine on the day of shooting although not particularly necessary due to the fact that this shoot is to test how the model performs infront of the camera more than testing a full look. 

{ Test Shoot } 

In reflection of the test shoot i have decided not to use a child model. On the day of shooting Indiana arrived previously to the photographer and was confidant in her space although on arrival of the photographer she became a little more timid due to the unknown new people due to this she was un keen on sitting to have her makeup done so i made the decision to keep her motivated and happy without forcing her to sit in the makeup chair. 

The shoot went well with Indiana really warming up to the camera in the last few shots, the photographer although producing some lovely images capturing the raw, intimate element i was after i found she wasn't engaging with the model wether this was because the model was very young and as a result i found myself directing and getting very involved to get the shots that were needed although sometimes the photographer wasn't prepared to shoot at some very perfect moments so i found that this effected the potential compositions of some of the final images. It has made me realise how important it will be to get a photographer that is experienced in working with live subject matters being able to capture the natural moments and movements of the models.