As an
addendum to my previous 16/12 Wargames
set post here’s a few behind the scenes phone snaps I took while doing my 16/12
‘Wargame’s set photo-shoot which
might be of some small interest.
I wanted to create a diorama for the photos that might look like the inside of a space station hangar, taking inspiration from some scenes in Space: 1999.
Bearing in mind the models are the ‘stars’, I don’t spend a whole lot of time on dioramas as they’re not intended for displaying purposes, only for temporary photo backgrounds, but I do try to plan them out to get the most out of them.
The diorama base and sides are made from MDF, and detailed with wood, hardboard, card and screw head covers. Finally, a coat of green spray paint and some dark panel detail.
The lights are plastic blocks with a string of clear Xmas lights fitted behind.
The curved
side was made by wetting the MDF and leaving it in a bent position for a few
days.
Lighting is
important, of course, and once the diorama is lit it’s ready for the models.
Even though
I’ve been doing this sort of thing for a while now I still like to experiment.
I am, after all just an enthusiastic amateur. I like to use at least three
separate lights, occasionally using different coloured filters depending on how
I want the photo to turn out.
I don’t always get it just right of course, but it’s always fun trying!
Thanks for this fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into your model photography magic. As I had imagined, you have a very "pro-style" set-up, with lighting an important aspect of the whole process. And I think your dioramas are wonderful - I would be thrilled to have that talent for set-making! It goes to show that with this kind of effort, you can come up with the stunning photo shoots you always do. If you're merely an "enthusiastic amateur," some of us here are semi-comatose inchworms! Bravo per usual...
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for the kind words and encouragement, Ziggurat.
DeleteOver time I've tried to improve and develop my photography skills, and thanks to the Blog and Steve at Sixteen 12 it all helps to keep my interest going and my enthusiasm fresh.
Thank you. It is always very interesting to see these behind the scenes shots, and learn how the effects were done, and the materials used. Please keep them coming.
ReplyDeleteThanks Paul, while I continue to take the pics, you'll certainly get to see 'em! ;)
DeleteWell that looks more or less like Century 21 Studios to me Scoop! Awesome stuff! I would sit by the phone! Really inspiring.
ReplyDeleteHa, ha! Thanks Woodsy, I reckon my garage/workshop/studio is a tad smaller but you might well be right ;D
DeleteHugely impressive (as always !)
ReplyDeleteFenton
Thanks Fenton:)
Delete