ABOUT  PHOTOSPHERE

I am a photographic enthusiast who has been involved in digital photography since 1995, long before the word "megapixel" came into existence.
Over the years, my primary interest developed towards studio portrait photography.
Photographing sporting and action events has also proved to be an exciting and pleasing venture.
However, producing deep and moving portraiture has become my primary goal and area of interest.

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Murray Purdon

Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with many wonderful models. From those with much experience to those who had never been in front of a studio camera before.

Experienced models have been a pleasure to work with. Able to deliver whatever I have required with a natural ease.

However, I find that my best and most enjoyable work has been done with models who have little or no photographic experience.

Models unfamiliar with photographic work do not have a "Modelling face" to hide behind while in front of the camera, making it easier to capture a piece of their personality in the photograph.

Although nervous in front of the camera to start off with, they soon relax and begin to enjoy the experience - allowing their own personality and character to show through.

When photographing a model, I try to find some piece of their personality to bring out. To steal a glimpse of their soul and capture it in the photograph.

As with any photographer though, I do have preferences that I try to bring out in my photography. I enjoy a feeling of melancholy in my photographs. A deepness and a pensiveness that draws emotion from the image.

When I choose a model to invite for a photo shoot, I try to find someone who looks as though they may be able to deliver the solemn, melancholy look that I am after.

I have been fortunate to find many such models. Some in particular who have returned many times for additional shoots.
I find that I am always able to bring out more of the model on the second shoot, once I have seen what works for them and what does not.

I always try to make my models feel as comfortable as possible in front of the camera.
For someone who has not had much experience in front of the lens, it can be unnerving and intimidating.

I always tell my models what I have found to be the case every time. That is that even though they may be nervous to start off with, after 20 minutes in front of the camera all nervousness will be gone and the whole experience will become fun and relaxed.
This has proven to be the case with every model I have ever worked with - even the shyest.

Some models find themselves more at ease having a friend present to encourage them.
Friends of the model are always welcome at any shoot.

The basic routine of a photo shoot is fairly simply.
Shoots are typically done on a Friday or Saturday night.
The model arrives at about 6:00 pm. She will be met by the makeup artist who will spend about an hour applying the makeup chosen for that particular shoot.

Once the makeup is complete, the outfits are finalised and the model dresses for the first session.
Photographs begin, usually with something simple.

As the shoot progresses, the model will be required to change outfits, jewellery and occasionally hair.
Typically about 4 or 5 changes are made during a shoot.

Once the makeup is done the shoot continues for between 2 and 3 hours during which about 500 photographs are taken.

All of my studio photography is done in black and white.
It is my personal preference.

I enjoy the classic timeless look that it offers - as well as the deeper, more emotional feel that a black and white photograph has over a colour shot.

All make up is done to suite black and white photographs. This may also be taken into consideration when selecting outfits.

Photographs are taken at my home studio in Beacon Bay.

The address is 9 Dune Valley, Dunes Road, Beacon Bay. - Around the corner from the Blue Lagoon Hotel.

For more information on Murray Purdon

visit

www.murraypurdon.co.za