Model photography Chicago

Some Chicago area photographers enjoy being in front of the camera as much as behind it. Chicago area photographer Rebekah Rodriguez is a prime example of this. Rebekah uses her camera to document her life and the lives of those around her to such a degree that she can almost be considered a documentary filmmaker.

Chicago portraits have no set lookto them. So much culture, ethnic diversity, personalities and lifestyles requires more than one portrait style to encompass it all. Why do you think I enjoy my work so much?

Isn’t it interesting how black and white photography pictures still interest most people who appreciate photography? While digital camera technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, black and white photography apprears to be gaining popularity with digital photographers. And don’t count film out just yet. Polaroid photography is currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity, particularly with young photographers. I personally think it’s a wonderful form of rebellion against the huge trend in digital photography. It’s more than just rebellion though - I made this portrait with a $5 garage sale Polaroid that was made in the 1960s, using film that was discontinued and 3 years past its expiration date.

I made about 100 portraits while on vacation in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada, and I was surprised by how people responded so positively to my ancient looking camera. When I’d made the same trip previously, I brought my digital camera. The difference in people’s interest in being photographed by the two cameras was night and day. This positive interest in the Polaroid camera resulted in a much higher percentage of hits, or photos that I was happy with. It just goes to show that newer isn’t always better.

Old black and white pictures are some of my favorite photos to look at, especially old portraits. I found this portrait of a vaudeville performer while rummaging at a flea market. From the look of it, I’m guessing it was photographed around the turn of the century by a professional studio photographer. The photo is surprisingly well preserved, despite the graininess of it.

This photo inspired me to photograph vaudeville and circus performers. I had the opportunity to do that yesterday. You can click here to view them.

Chicago model photographers

Kids portraits Chicago

A photographer in Chicago IL has such a rich array of people to choose from that it’s typically a long term project. It will certainly be a life-long pursuit for me.

A Chicago portrait artist gets exposed to a wide variety of cultural norms. In the case of this model, what began as a lighthearted modeling shoot became an artistic portrait shoot. I’m told this is a traditional Middle Eastern pose. Note how straight the hands are.

Photography in Chicago Illinois is such a fun and rewarding activity that I can confidently say that I’ll be making portraits for the rest of my life.