Unique Photoshoot Idea: Glitter Photoshoot

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Glitter Photoshoot – My Thoughts

By: Sharon Lewis Fitness Photographer

My husband does not mind many things. He is always so supportive of my crazy creative ideas when it comes to photoshoots. I use water in my studio, black lights, a dancer pole, milk baths, water hose, you name it. But there is one thing that he just absolutely can not stand and that’s glitter! He pretty much hates the stuff. I do feel his pain because glitter gets everywhere! I had a glitter photoshoot done on myself once and that stuff stays in your hair for weeks. As much as it is a pain to clean off, the experience and images are definitely worth it. It is a very fun shoot and the pictures come out incredible!

First thing to absolutely do is cover everything with plastic! Get the plastic stuff at the hardware store that painters use to paint interiors of houses. You will need to cover the area around your shoot with it and even the bathroom! Seriously cover anything you think people will touch. To get the glitter on your subject first you need to apply either Vasoline or Hair gel to their skin. I’ve used both. Make sure the client is on a sheet so it’s easier for you to clean up afterwards. I ask the client what colors they prefer. I will often mix 2-3 colors together like gold/silver or purple/pink, Red/gold. It just depends. You really can’t go wrong. Then you sprinkle the glitter on top (most of the glitter should stick). Glitter can get expensive so always look out for deals and coupons (I think Michaels always has days with 40% off on everything). The backgrounds for the photoshoot can also be various things. I’ve used plain black or white or colored back ground. I’ve used string lights. I’ve used foil wrap. Play around with what looks you like.  Don’t forget the floor! I’ve had great success with glitter looks on the floor since you can spread the glitter around your model. Play around with the depth of field because glitter does well as a reflective bokeh in the background. 

This type of shoot is really fun because you can play around with so many things. I like to use rim lights as well as key light for lighting because I want the glitter to shine from the everywhere. I’ve not tried colored gel lighting but I’m sure it would look pretty cool. I also put different reflective prisms in front of the camera to create cool reflections from the glitter and lighting. Once I’m done shooting, the best way to keep the glitter to a minimum is to have the model towel off some of the glitter with a towel she brought, then change into loose fitting clothing. It may take several days until all of it is off but it’s all part of the fun experience.

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