Updated June 2023
Capture the allure of vibrant aesthetics by shooting models with neon signs, an electrifying, and visually striking concept. At our photo studios for rent, such as Hill 4 and Chicago 6, photographers can find a wide selection of neon signs to add a captivating element to their photoshoots. Neon signs create a unique ambiance, casting a vivid glow that enhances the model’s presence and adds an edgy and modern flair to the images. Whether it’s capturing the essence of a bustling cityscape or creating a neon-lit dreamscape, these photo studios provide the perfect backdrop for photographers to unleash their creativity and achieve stunning visuals that make a lasting impression.
One of our favorite Youtubers, photographer/videographer Peter McKinnon recently released a video where he shared 5 tips on how to shoot NEON PHOTOGRAPHY in a notorious Brandon Woelfel style.
Following Brandon down the streets of New York, Mr. Mckinnon captured some beautiful B roll footage of what’s going on behind the camera and later had a coffee break with the photographer to go over 5 tips we are about to share.
1. Find Organic Light Source and Use It To Your Best Advantage
The source of Brandon’s light could be any size neon lit banner. It might say anything from “open” to “ice cream here” and be as small as a foot in length. While the size this small might seem insufficient to light up the model, Brandon insists on the opposite. So do not underestimate what a small neon sign can do. Try and experiment with it. Use it to light, style and color your portraits.
2. Use external props and misc. stuff on photos (PRISM)!
Brandon is know to use prism a lot on his photos. He used it so much that now it has become a part of his iconic style. When putting a prism in front of the camera, the reflection from it cuts through the photo right away creating a very interesting, distinguished effect. Besides, prism, he also likes to use CDs, since it has similar reflection.
3. Choose a time of day to shoot. And stick to it.
Brandon always shoots his neon photos at dusk. Everyday, at the same time he walks down streets and shoots. Every single day. Always at the same time. Having such rigorous consistency is important when you really want to hone on every detail of your style and create that constant aesthetic. So if you would like to have a theme to your portrait series, try shooting always at the same time of day, whether it is dawn or dusk, or the whole day. The key word here is consistency. Brandon also suggests that if you are uncomfortable shooting at dusk, try shooting at dusk only for a month, so you could transform your fear into your strength and end up with one more tool in your tool kit.
4. Posing and Changing Positions
Brandon doesn’t stop moving while on the shoot. Neither does his model. He constantly changes the frame, its orientation, going from vertical to horizontal. He is moving a model from left to right, has her sit down, stand up, throw her hair back, walk and look backwards. All for the sake of variety of options when going through selects after.
5. Camera Settings
Brandon shoots
very under exposed so that he could maintain low ISO.
Shoots in raw, so he could bring highlights/shadows up in post without noise introduction.
Watch the full episode with Peter McKinnon and Brandon Woelfel: