What are the different looks that are included in a good Modelling portfolio?  It's not always necessary to do every different look. We can discuss and plan, what looks go best with your personality and what kind of work you intend to seek. some of the options are - Western casuals- jeans/shorts /tops etc, western formals/evening gown or a dress, Indian traditional or Indo western - Saree or a lehanga, closeups and beauty shots, Executive / Business look. Based on your fitness you may also go for sportswear or Lingerie / Bikini. 

ofcourse CLOSEUPS are the most important shot of your portfolio. This should be the first page of your book. Closeups can be deceptive for the clients as they do not show the full body. If you are not tall or slim, you can still look stunning and beautiful as it's only a close face shot. So, if the client is primarily interested in just the face shots for his advertising campaign, then it should not really matter to him but it does restrict him if ever plans to do a wider frame for his shoot. Also, not everyone who is not slim looks slim just from the face. many faces are broader on the other hand but they have an excellent figure. Anyways, Its all in the face of the Model to begin with !

INDIAN TRADITIONAL is the look that is a must if you plan to approach fashion designers who do Indian wear or Jewelery and Saree brands are on the list of your prospective clients. If you are aiming to do a typical indian television serial, this is again one look which you may not really want to miss. However, do not go for it if you are not comfortable in Indian wear and you are not the type who would aim at doing anything Indian traditional. You may explore doing the Indian wear in a more unconventional manner.

pallavi_01328 fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india

OUTDOORS gives you a lot of options to be very natural and play around with what ever elements are naturally available around. It's much easier to adapt to the naturally available environment as compared to the studio. However, depending upon the location it may also not be devoid of onlookers and passerby unless you are shooting in some private space. generally for portfolios we prefer shooting around the studio as it saves time in commuting to the place and the same time can be well utisilzed towards the actual shooting. 

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Adding GLAMOUR to your photographs does not always mean that you have to expose a lot. While you wear low cuts, it adds to the Glamour yet keeping it very subtle. 

pallavi_00111 Shipra Mallikshipra malik, top indian model photographed by Munish Khanna

INDO WESTERN - When we talk about Indian outfits, these do not have to be worn in  a very conventional indian manner. A more westernised look can also be achieved and it can be made to look quite sexy without being indecent.

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Satya Paul for friday-gulf news by Munish KhannaFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india Fashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india

munish khanna photography

WESTERN outfits allow you a lot of flexibility in portraying your body language as well as expressions and the possibilities of posing are a lot more as compared to Indian formal outfits. Body language does matter a lot in modelling. Also, one can shoot faster with western outfits allowing one to do more number of outfits for the portfolio. Depending upon your body type you may go for full or short well fitted dresses. 

Miss Earth India 2016 srishti_1037 munish khanna photography

You may go for BOLD looks if you plan to get into modelling or acting roles which have such requirements. On the other hand you may do it just for yourself. You portfolio is in parts and you do not have to distribute all the photographs to everyone. Send across such photographs to clients and casting directors who may need them for a specific role or campaign. You do not need to circulate them to everyone. 

or You may go for a more subtle BIKINI look. This is the look which will work well for swimwear or sportswear as it shows your toned and athletic body, most sports brands look for. In many countries it's almost a prerequisite to have one shot in the bikini as it shows your body type very clearly.  None of the options mentioned above is mandatory to create a complete modelling portfolio. To show your versatility you may express yourself in different looks which could be very varied if you have the potential. It could be a narrow range of looks if you are excluding certain looks you are not comfortable with. The whole idea is to show your best in the photographs and be what you are what you aspire to be. 

Munish Khanna is an Advertising and Fashion Photographer who has specially created one of the best online photography courses with a vast experience of teaching photography at his photography academy in Delhi. He has been running his Photography course in Delhi since 1993. Munish also specializes in helping young (or any age ) aspiring models to build up a career in the world of modelling and Acting. Do check out more details about the Modelling portfolios which he offers in Delhi. 

Follow these steps once you have got your portfolio made.

Why does one go for a professional photographer? Simply because you want to be photographed the best way possible. You do not want to take any chances with the way you are being photographed. It's all about the eye behind the camera. A good photographer can bring out the best even in an average model or an aspiring model whereas a novice is unable to exploit the potential of the person in front of the camera.

The experience of the Photographer also matters. He or she knows what works well for these Beauty contests and auditions. They are able to guide you accordingly. Good photographers have their own team of makeup artists and stylists who know how to groom you in the right manner based on what will work for you.

Good professional Photographers do charge a lot but then it's worth the price as you are paying for good work. You cannot get a good modelling portfolio on your own. You need a good team of professionals to guide you and shoot you the right way, bringing out your assets and hiding your flaws.

Do not trust someone who does not even know photography well or does not know what light will work best for a particular face structure. You are trusting someone with your whole career? These photographs are going to be your first step forward.

Check out the past work of the Photographer and then Do meet the Photographer to understand and discuss the whole process before you go ahead. Discuss the looks and the outfits. It's a teamwork. You can fix up an appointment with Munish by sending a WhatsApp message at 9871020341 or simply drop an email.

It's is highly recommended to go for a good professional Photographer, if you are planning to enter a beauty pageant or a modelling or acting career.

The following photographs were shot for the final contestants of Miss Earth India.

Miss Earth India 2016

Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016

If you are an aspiring model looking forward to get a Modelling Portfolio made for yourself or need guidance in general as a Model, do get in touch with Munish Khanna. You can get more tips on modelling and photography as you flip through this website and also get complete details of the Portfolios being offered by Munish Khanna. 

Behind the Shoot - Featuring Tatiana for Daisy Knitwear

fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india

Modelling Portfolios:

1. Diverse Looks and Poses: Munish Khanna ensures that the modelling portfolio captures the versatility of the model, showcasing a range of looks, expressions, and poses. This helps demonstrate their ability to adapt to different concepts and styles.

2. Professional Styling and Wardrobe: To enhance the overall presentation and visual impact, Munish Khanna provides professional styling and wardrobe assistance. This ensures that the model's appearance is well-coordinated and visually appealing, reflecting the desired image or brand.

3. Location and Studio Shoots: Munish Khanna incorporates both location and studio shoots to provide a dynamic and varied portfolio. Location shoots allow for a natural and realistic setting, while studio shoots offer controlled lighting and composition for a polished and professional look.

4. Image Retouching and Editing: The images in the modelling portfolio undergo professional retouching and editing to enhance their overall quality and aesthetics. Munish Khanna ensures that the final images are visually appealing and aligned with industry standards.

5. Print and Digital Formats: The modelling portfolio can be provided in both print and digital formats, allowing for versatile presentation options. Munish Khanna ensures that the portfolio is professionally designed and optimized for both physical portfolios and online portfolios or websites.

6. Collaboration and Guidance: Munish Khanna collaborates closely with the model throughout the process, providing guidance on posing, expressions, and overall presentation. His experience and expertise help models feel comfortable and confident during the shoots, resulting in authentic and captivating images.

Actor Portfolios:

1. Character Portrayal: Munish Khanna understands the importance of showcasing an actor's versatility in portraying different characters. He works closely with actors to capture a range of expressions, emotions, and personas, highlighting their acting skills and potential.

2. Scene Selection and Execution: Actor portfolios may include scenes or monologues that allow actors to showcase their acting range and ability to portray various emotions and characters. Munish Khanna provides guidance on scene selection and works collaboratively with actors to bring out the desired performances.

3. Headshots and Close-ups: Headshots are an essential part of an actor's portfolio, as they provide a glimpse into the actor's personality and versatility. Munish Khanna ensures that headshots and close-up shots are professionally executed, capturing the actor's unique features and expressions.

4. Editing and Presentation: The actor portfolio goes through careful editing and presentation to highlight the actor's strengths and capture the attention of casting directors or agents. Munish Khanna ensures that the portfolio is well-organized, visually engaging, and represents the actor's range and potential.

5. Print and Digital Formats: Actor portfolios can be provided in both print and digital formats, catering to the specific requirements of casting agencies, auditions, and online platforms. Munish Khanna ensures that the portfolio is optimized for both physical and digital presentation.

Conclusion:

Munish Khanna's modelling portfolios for models and actors are carefully crafted to showcase their unique qualities, versatility, and potential. Whether it's capturing diverse looks and poses for models or bringing out the range of emotions and characters for actors, his portfolios are designed to make a strong impression in the industry. With his expertise, guidance, and attention to detail, Munish Khanna ensures that the portfolios are professional, visually captivating, and tailored to the specific needs of models and actors.

Makeup and Hair- Roberta by Dilshad Ahmed and Yana bypoonam Rawat

# Less is More - Most of the good Photographers will hand over limited photographs to you to be included in your portfolio. This is to exclude all the unwanted pictures which are not close to absolute perfection. More images were shot so as to get that perfect smile or the perfect expression or the pose. Show only the best shots to the modelling or casting agency.

# Once you have the list of casting directors and modelling agencies in hand, start distributing your photographs. Once again, send in the best shots only and not too many photographs. while It's good to email the photographs you may also opt to fix up an appointment to meet the casting director or the modelling agency personally. Some places may not entertain you without an appointment, so it's always good to check up beforehand.

# Be Presentable -  Don't we say -"she looks like a model !"  You may look stunning in your modelling portfolio as it involves the efforts of a good photographer and a makeup artist as well. Do come across nicely and confidently as you meet the people who matter. While your portfolio is important, how you look personally also plays a role.

# Presentation of your portfolio is also important - You may opt to have hard copies of your photographs in the form of nicely put-together prints or a coffee table book. You may simply show the portfolio on an iPad / tablet or a laptop. Everyone is busy and may not be able to devote too much time to you. They may not be comfortable if you need to log on to your own Facebook of other accounts to access and show your photographs.

# Do not get trapped -Although we suggest and recommend only the most reputed agencies in the industry, do use caution and do not get trapped into fraudulent deals. 

# Performance matters - You portfolio will give you a break and help you get more and more assignments but eventually it's your own performance which will take you places. Be professional and perform your assignments well.

# Be clear - Discuss the requirements of the shoot beforehand. If you are not comfortable wearing a particular kind of outfits or are are comfortable with specific roles, do not take up the assignment instead of not being able to do things properly. It's all your choice and it is not necessary to take up every assignment.

# Take Advise and be Guided. - If you are not sure of any steps in your career as a model or an actor, do take advice and discuss with your mentor. Please feel free to contact me for any guidance as you strive to make a mark for yourself in the modelling and acting industry. You may drop a whatsapp message ( 9871020341) or simply comment below.

# Have Patience - Sometimes, it takes time for things to work in your favour. As long as you are making the efforts and moving in the right direction, things will certainly work for you in one way or the other.

CF041586 Godfather Miss Earth India 2016

If you are an aspiring model looking forward to get a Modelling Portfolio made for yourself or need guidance in general as a Model, do get in touch with Munish Khanna. You can get more tips on modelling and photography as you flip through this website and also get complete details of the Portfolios being offered by Munish Khanna. 

1. Customized Conceptualization: Munish Khanna believes in creating unique and personalized portfolios that reflect the individuality and style of each model. The portfolio is conceptualized in collaboration with the model, taking into consideration their goals, preferences, and desired image.

2. Professional Styling and Wardrobe: To enhance the overall look and presentation, Munish Khanna provides professional styling and wardrobe assistance. This ensures that the models are presented in the best possible light, with attention to details such as clothing, accessories, and overall aesthetics.

3. Variety of Looks and Poses: A diverse range of looks and poses are incorporated into the modelling portfolio to demonstrate the versatility and range of the model's abilities. Munish Khanna works closely with the model to capture a wide array of expressions, angles, and moods, showcasing their ability to adapt and deliver captivating images.

4. Location and Studio Shoots: The modelling portfolio may include a combination of both location and studio shoots, depending on the requirements and desired aesthetic. Munish Khanna utilizes different environments and settings to create a dynamic and visually engaging portfolio.

5. Professional Lighting and Composition: As an experienced photographer, Munish Khanna pays meticulous attention to lighting and composition. He ensures that the model is showcased in the most flattering and impactful manner, highlighting their features and creating a visually appealing portfolio.

6. Image Retouching and Editing: The images in the modelling portfolio go through a professional retouching and editing process. This ensures that the final images are polished, refined, and aligned with industry standards, enhancing the overall quality of the portfolio.

7. Print and Digital Formats: The modelling portfolio can be provided in both print and digital formats, offering flexibility in showcasing the model's work. Munish Khanna ensures that the portfolio is presented in a high-quality and professional manner, suitable for both physical and online distribution.

8. Guidance and Direction: Throughout the process, Munish Khanna provides guidance and direction to the model, helping them pose naturally and expressively. His expertise and experience in working with models contribute to creating impactful and engaging images that stand out in the industry.

Conclusion:

Munish Khanna's modelling portfolios offer a comprehensive package that captures the unique qualities and potential of aspiring models. From personalized conceptualization to professional styling, varied looks, and high-quality images, the portfolios showcase the model's versatility and individuality. With Munish Khanna's expertise and attention to detail, aspiring models can expect a stunning and visually captivating portfolio that helps them make a strong impression in the competitive world of modelling.

"well", I reply, "there are no restrictions on the number of Photographs as such, It's all about the number of looks.  a portfolio with about 5 looks is good enough and works for all"

"Just 5 Images ?" .......

Let me explain the difference between the number of photographs and the number of looks.

When any good professional photographer shoots, he or she does not shoot just one photograph to get one final photograph. One needs to take a number of photographs to get the one, the photographer is looking for. Well, it does not mean that it's a hit-and-trial method. It's all about how you look at a person. The aspiring model in front of the camera needs to be shot in such a manner that it enhances her or his over looks, beauty and personality as the case may be. The whole exercise is gradually build up to achieve the desired results. As you look through the camera, directing the model, you take a picture or two to further direct the model and continue to improve the posture, expressions and the overall performance of the model, who may be facing the camera for the first time.

When you pay a good Photographer, you pay him for his talent and ability to photograph you in the best possible manner, using the lighting and the camera angles to bring out the best in you. A slight shift of face in one direction may make you look better and more beautiful and gives the photographer and the model the required variations in terms of lighting and expressions. You do not want to settle for just one shot. You want to do the pictures without a smile, a faint smile and a big one as well. Some models have a great smile, some are just beautiful while some have that killer look even though they may not be conventionally very good looking. Some may be quite introvert and open up only after a few clicks under the guidance of an able photographer entrusted with the task of making a great modeling portfolio.

So, if you are looking for one good image, it certainly needs more than one shots to get that perfect shot. Not because the model may not know exactly how to pose or the photographer may not know how to click but simply because, when there are more options, you get the opportunity to pick up the best shot.

A lot of aspiring models would say, that they need just two or three photographs because they are participating in a contest and the application requires them to submit a close-up, a mid-shot or a side profile and a full-length shot. so this does not mean that you need to send just about any three photographs for a beauty contest. You need your very best shots to be submitted so that you clear this very first round of a beauty contest.

I would need to work on your looks, your expressions, the body language and the overall feel of the photograph before you send across anything for a Beauty Pageant. This is why you are paying for a good professional photographer. otherwise, you could have easily clicked these three specified photos yourself or asked a friend to do it.

I generally recommend going for a portfolio with the five different looks as it shows a models versatility very well. If you have a budget constraint you may opt for 3 or 4 looks but a portfolio with 5 looks is always more economical. While you may need one kind of looks for a particular assignment, you may probably need different looks while approaching another client. With a complete portfolio, you get all the possible variants in one go.

While there are no restrictions on the number of photographs you can have, it's always good to show around a limited number of photographs and that too just the best ones only. The idea of going for more number of looks in a models profile is to open up to different kind of roles and assignments.  

pallavi_00248 pallavi_01042 srishti_489 srishti_1038 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india jia_0288.TIF-01907.jpg

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Before we go ahead with a shoot, we discuss in detail the objective the aspiring model has in mind, before she planned to venture out in modeling or took the decision to go for a modeling portfolio. Many are just starting out while many have already made a name for themselves and would like to further refresh the looks in their portfolio. Some aspiring models are clueless as to what they are heading for. It's very important to meet and freely discuss all the aspects of a portfolio in advance and plan the shoot in accordance. The models are guided and given tips on the kind of clothes and the kind of looks that will go well with their personality so that they take a conscious decision after properly evaluating their own potential.

Different models perform differently, as they face the camera for the first time. I always meet the model, before hand to answer all his or her questions and to clear all doubts which one may have in mind in reference to modelling as a career. If you wish you can even go for a mock shoot before the actual shoot to help you build up the confidence and to understand the whole process of getting a portfolio made. during this session, I guide the model about the poses and expressions which they can go for. Aspiring models can also practice the poses and expressions on their own in front of the mirror but during this session, I am able to actually judge and help them improve their performance in front of the camera. It's totally optional to go for this session as many models approach a fashion photographer for a portfolio only a the last minute before applying for a beauty contest like Miss India or Miss India Earth.

It takes more than just sending across and submitting your photographs. You need to groom yourself and be more presentable in front of the camera. Especially for your interviews you need to gain that much-needed confidence.

P@llavi

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Sr!shti

Unnat!

Diy@ Singh

Nat@sha

Munish Khanna is one of the best Advertising and Fashion Photographer who has specially created one of the best online photography courses with a vast experience of teaching photography at his photography academy in Delhi. He has been running his Photography course in Delhi since 1993. Munish also specializes in helping young (or any age ) aspiring models to build up a career in the world of modelling and Acting. Do check out more details about the Modelling portfolios which he offers in Delhi. 

Over the past several years I have handeled several industrial shoots including some of the big names like Hero Honda, carrier, SRF, Jindal stainless, JCBL, winsome, best food rice
One of my first experiences of shooting an industrial plant was that of a milk plant somewhere in Punjab close to chadnigarh soon after I finished off from college. I managed the whole shoot all alone which involved shooting quite a few huge stainless steel equipment as well as some outdoor shots. Outdoor was simpler, although I remember some light accidentally entering my camera or probably something like that happened at the lab. When the roll was processed and developed there were some “orange” patches across some of the frames. Inside my most reliable piece of equipment was my tripod and the basic old time round tungsten studio lights with a few gateway sheets. However, I got some very good shots at least by my standards at that time.

The more recent shoot was that for Jindal Stainless. The client wanted to archive all “corners” of the two plants at hissar….

Some of the points you should be careful of while on an industrial shoot. If you are not adequately and appropriately equipped, do not venture out for an industrial shoot. There may be situations where to include the extremes of a huge machine you may need an equally extreme wide angle. On the other hand, to shoot a close up of an ultra-high-temperature furnace you may need a long lens. Going closer is just not possible. And also quite dangerous for the lens glass as it may not have been tested to withstand such high temperature. Whenever you move from a high-temperature area to another with a huge variation in temperature, do not move out with the camera hanging on your neck. Rather pack it in the camera bag and then shift. Also move slowly away from one temperature zone to another so as not to cause any damage to the lens glass.

One needs to walk a lot, so always wear comfortable shoes. Shoes are also important as in many plants you are not allowed to enter in slippers or sandals due to safety reasons. Most of the industrial shoots somehow happen in hot summers and you are not privileged enough to wear shorts as in many plants you are not allowed to enter unless you are wearing trousers. The idea is probably because there are so many hazardous elements around which may be extremely hot and if you accidentally touch them can burn up your skin. Also, you have to watch your step as you move around. There may be wide gaps in the floor (steel structures), hot elements may be stacked around which may topple if you touch them or move carelessly around on wooden planks these are kept on, keep an eye on moving cranes, many places would have very slippery floors due to oil and grease.

For electricity plug points always check out with the local electrician or concerned person before plugging in. The voltage for photography equipment should be 220-30 volts or as specified but many of the industrial equipment runs on 440volts. So be sure.

Carry enough extension switchboards with at least one or two with a very long wire so that if you do not have a suitable power supply around you may get it from the nearest location elsewhere. 

Check out with the authorities as you set up your shots. Certain industries may want to include their women employees/workers along with the male counterparts to convey that they are constantly working towards upliftment of women and do not discriminate between men and women in their work force. On the other hand Interestingly women are not officially allowed to work in certain areas of food industry due to “hygienic reasons”
Although you will see them working but can't be officially shown. Children are not allowed in any industry. So far I have not come across any industry breaking the law.
Although it is the responsibility of the authorities to notice such things but it helps to add your contribution as well in making the photograph usable in the end, unless you are not aware. So, it’s important to keep the concerned person responsible for the shoot well informed about your frame and what all is being included in it.
Certain industries may not allow rings, earrings, sweaters etc. hospitals-
I shot an operation theatre long time back. Since none of the doctors were available to pose for us, we were asked to handle things by ourselves and the printer handling the assignment was asked to be the doctor!! The rest of the team was original except the doctor! When the pictures went to the client, the hospital, they had no option but to pay me again for a reshoot ! because doctors do not wear sweaters while in the operation theatre and our “doctor’s” sweater was showing under the white coat. And there was no photoshop in those days to get rid of the sweater.
MRI machines have strong magnetic fields and you can't take any metallic equipment closer to the machine or even inside the room, so I had set up my tripod just around the doorway to shoot my frame with a man inside the machine. While we were setting up the shot, trying to figure out where to position the lights to best illuminate the shot, I suggested the MRI staff that maybe we could switch off the equipment and take the shot. But according to him it was not a good idea as it would take a long time to set the machine back in form once switched off and there was a long Que outside waiting for an MRI to be done. But isn’t the radiation harmful to the poor guy in the scanning machine? We are taking so long to set it up!! I was amazed to know that probably the guy did not need the test at all!! Just to cover up the equipment costs more and more patients are advised the test although they don’t need it !!!
On another occasion, I was asked to shoot an open heart surgery as it was actually going on. They suggested that I better watch the operation on the television in another room as the more critical part of the operation goes on. The idea was also to make sure that I don’t get disturbed by the sight of blood and the surgery. This TV camera was fitted in the operation theatre light so could see exactly what the surgeon was seeing. After a while, wearing the operation theatre outfits and masks me and my assistant entered the OT.
We both had to be extremely careful as to not trip over any wires. We were extra careful with our movements as any wrong move on our part may probably stop the heart and lung machine!!! I decided to do most of the shots with the external flash on camera as my conscience did not allow me to have a more elaborate shoot although we could have had the studio lights set up inside. Everybody including the nurses and the ward boys and of course the doctor himself seemed to be more interested in the camera than anything else. To me maybe it seemed, my presence there was not letting them pay the undivided attention to the patient who was in his late 70s. But probably for them the surgery was routine and it was just another student. As I would take a shot, the nurses behind the doctor would just lean inward, making sure that they are included as well. Suddenly everyone wanted to be around and nearest to the doctor, one place where they would be sure that they are a part of the photograph…..I was not really affected by the site of blood or anything but I wanted to be out of the theatre at the earliest as was not feeling very comfortable that because of me probably there could be a risk for the patient. On the other hand I was feeling that if a good photographer will not get affected by any sort of disturbances during a shoot and will still be able to concentrate on the shoot, a good doctor might as well…….but then surgery and shoot are two different things all together.

In interiors and industrial photography- to show the hugeness of the size is very important. Technically that means- an extreme wide angle is indispensable. This is where a full frame digital camera is most desirable. 

Many aspiring models are attracted towards the world of Modelling and Glamour expecting it to be an easygoing career but it's not always quite like that. It takes a lot of commitment on the part of a fashion or advertising model to be a good and successful model.

You need to be prepared to face long 12-plus hours of photo shoots in extreme weather. face the freezing and windy conditions in winters, wearing almost nothing and pose and smile in extreme summers decked up in woollens. Many planned advertising shoots are executed much in advance. In summer for winter wear and vice versa. Patience is the key here. It's part of the job, you can't really complain.

Besides facing these hardships, the models need to stay fit always, whether they have assignments in hand or not. You do need to maintain a diet along with a strict beauty and fitness regime without any fail. You can't afford to be out of shape even if you have not had an assignment for a long period of time at a stretch.

It can take quite a while for new models to get the first break in the fashion and advertising industry. Even after going through several auditions, models may not land up with the desired role in a Film or a television serial. While it takes time for some, it may never work for many even though they are quite talented. Models do need to be persistent with their approach towards the fashion industry.

As a Model you need to go through makeup sessions almost every day and night, not to mention that sometimes it can be quite dramatic as well. As a committed model, your job comes first and you can't say no to it if your stylist or art director is looking for a particular role. The same goes with acting. You do need to get into the skin of the character you are playing.

However, all this does not mean that Modelling is difficult and not enjoyable. It totally depends on the kind of person you are. If you love what you do, you will be able to have fun as you go through various ups and downs, easy and difficult tasks, same old boring and interesting assignments. If you are involved in your work and are committed with a professional attitude, it will definitely take you forward as besides your beauty and skills, its the professionalism and dedication towards modelling that stands you apart in the eyes of your photographer, Stylist, Art director and ofcourse the client.

This lingerie shoot was done in the middle of winters. Although there was heating in the studio but psychologically winters are winters.

This farm house was quite infested with mosquitos. kristy Reznikova certainly put up a brave front as we shot this image late in the evening with the mosquitos all around.

Though the model knew cycling well, but doing it again and again to get the perfect shot can be quite tiring.

Wearing a sweater when everyone else is sweating can be quite challenging for models. 

Another one from summers. Wish the model didn't really have to put on the hood :-) Fashion Photography for Just school rain covers

Munish Khanna is one of the most reputed, well-established Fashion and advertising Photographers based in Delhi, India and has been involved in various Fashion, Advertising and Lifestyle shoots

Q and A

In general there are so many questions and misconceptions related to wedding photography. Get some of those answered below. If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to ask. Most of the answers are general and some specifically in context of our wedding photography team that is "TOGETHER WE ROCK"

Q How many photographers will cover the functions?

Less is more. It is not important to have more number of photographers but the right number of good photographers. Many a times when the number of photographers is too high, you end of seeing more of them then the guests in the pictures.

Q what kind of photography is covered?

Both documentary and conventional style of photography is covered together.

Q who all are included in the team?

We have only one package and all our clients get the same importance. Everybody in our team is equal and strives to achieve the same perfection in their work. The photos and videos, that you see on this website belong to the team and not an individual. Shalini and Munish are constantly involved in every stage of the process, be it shooting, editing, processing or the fine tuning of the final results. However, as a conscious decision, they do not shoot themselves to ensure that everything is directed well and runs smoothly as required. Its all about the team, which is why it is "Together we rock"

wedding photography by "Together we rock" Q Why is it better to hire the same company to cover the functions of both the bride and the groom.

Not only does it make everything more economical for you, it also improves the overall coordination between different photographers covering the ceremonies. A lot of recordings are common which can be utilized on both the sides. While the teams may share common footage, they are headed by very talented photographers who work independent of each other rendering their own unique style to the photography and videography. Further, two independent designers design the coffee table books to give it a distinct identity, while keeping some common style to indicate the same wedding. Overall besides better output you save 35% of your hard earned money.

Q How are the savings calculated?

If you book 6 months in advance, you save more. If you book both sides together as well, you have additional savings. This is how it works. The number of months you book in advance, the number of thousands you save. Book 24 months in advance and save 24000. Book 6 months in advance and you save 6000 and so on.

Q what equipment is used?

Although it is the talent of the photographers which matters the most, we use only the best available equipment of international standards.

Photography- High resolution Canon and Nikon cameras

videography- Sony Ex3, Ex5 canon 5d mark III /II , 70D or equivalent.  ( we do not use any camera which is not high definition) 

Q What are the add ons?

If you choose a particular package you may add on features from the other package. You can also change the quantities. Additional price applies.

Q Can packages be customised?

Yes, the packages can be customised.  The package prices mentioned are estimated prices and once you choose the package an exact price is quoted to you based on your requirements.

O & V Pre wedding Film

Q Can i mix high definition video with normal to save cost?

A- Due to technical reasons it is not possible to mix the two.

Q How do I make the payments?

50% advance is required to block and confirm the dates. remaining 40% is to be paid at the end of the first ceremony. 10% needs to be cleared against the delivery of the books and dvds. Both cheques and cash are accepted.

How to confirm ?

Many people confirm the dates over the phone or an email. We may block the dates for you, but do not guarantee that your dates are blocked unless an advance is received. If someone else pays before you do, we may not be able to provide you the services. In other words, bookings are confirmed strictly on the basis of advance payments.

Do you cover weddings out of Delhi NCR or India?

Yes, anywhere in this world. However, based on the location, special rates apply instead of the ones mentioned above. A customised package is worked out based on the destination and requirement. Getting the visa is never a problem for any of the team members. 

I have received quotes from other photographers which are lower than yours?

Please do not compare prices in terms of quantity. Photographers may offer their services at a lower cost but it will certainly show in the quality of their work. For your project we involve only the best, be it the highly skilled photographers or the world class equipment. Its the talent and the skill you are paying for and not the number of cameras or lights used. So evaluate the photography and base your final decision on that and not just a lower cost. 

Chhavi and David at Oberoi, Delhi

Every year, a number of well-recognized beauty pageants are organised in India and internationally and a whole lot of aspirants participate in these. They generally require a close-up, a midshot and a full-length photograph of the participants along with their form. This is your first step forward and your first round of selection is going to be based on these photographs. It becomes extremely crucial that you look your very best in these photographs. Clicking good photographs is teamwork between the Photographer and the model along with the makeup and hairstylist and the stylist. Everyone's efforts count towards making you look good specifically for those three categories of photographs. It's not just clicking three photographs but several to get the right three photographs.

A good photographer will always guide you and help you portray yourself in the best possible manner in terms of your appearance, makeup, expressions and posing. It's not about the number of photographs, it all about how you are being photographed. The way the photographer highlights the features which complement you and hide away your flaws. 

A good photographer can make an average-looking person look great and at the same time, a bad photographer can make a great person look bad in the photographs. 

Meet the Photographer and discuss the requirements of the beauty pageant. Going through the process of the portfolio session itself is very rewarding in terms of the experience you gain in posing, expressions, body language and of course the confidence of facing the camera.

Many models opt for a short video which is a part of the submission in some contests. It's very important to rehearse your lines very well so that you do not fumble in front of the camera. beauty contests are not just about the looks but involve the selection process based on several points, confidence being one of the most important one.

_MUN2787 pallavi_00221 pallavi_00523 pallavi_01328 srishti_730 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016

A group photograph of all the finalists of the Miss Earth India Beauty contest. All these aspirants got a chance to be photographed by Munish Khanna.

A Modeling Portfolio is a set of Photographs shot by a Fashion Photographer who specializes in shooting a modeling portfolio as it involves understanding your potential as a model and to bring out the best in you. Highlight your plus points while taking care of your negative points. There are certain essentials involved when you are exploring modeling portfolios.  Portfolio is your first tep in the world of modeling or acting and a good one can shape up your career in modeling, be it advertising, ecommerce, Films, TV serials or Ramp. A Good modeling portfolio includes the following features -

A clean Beauty or Head shot

This is one of the most important part of your portfolio. It shows you without any props or other paraphernalia as such and it's simply you! It shows you in the most natural manner, though it does not mean that you do not wear any makeup but its kept very natural. makeup is important to provide the right contouring of the face and it helps correct the flaws. So no makeup look also has makeup :-) Usually it's a good idea to keep the shoulders bare or wear a dress which is minimal over the shoulder so as not to cause any distractions.

Editorial shots srishti_513

These kind of images show your versatility, creativity and expressions along with Body language. These can be more of fun shots showing your spontaneity towards the camera. Or how you fit in an environment and play around with the props and accessories. These shots are more to convey your own individuality and personality even if it's an artificial and not the real you!

Full length Body shots

A full length photograph is a must in all model's profile. the objective is to show the proportions and body type to the prospective client or Modelling agnecy / casting Director. Wether you are aiming for Ramp, Ecommerce or Fashion magazine editorial work, this shot is important. Ideally do not wear outfits which hide the body contours. It's better to get into shape before venturing out for modelling but for photographs you don't really need to hide anything. If you are not in perfect shape, let it be. Just face the camera and pose confidently. there is a place for everyone. If you are perfect, wear what shows your body type well. If you are doing more than one full length shots then the outfits can be planned accordingly. 

Indian wear

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Always go for country specific outfits as well unless you have ruled it out of your modelling options. Prospective clients and agencies would like to see how you would look in their kind of outfits. Go for it if you would like to target this area. Both close and full length shots are important in this case.

Specialised Target Areas like Jewelry, swimwear lingerie etc

Your Portfolio should convey what you intend to do as a model. If Lingeries or swimsuit modelling is not in your list, you do not essentially have to include it as a part of your modelling portfolio. You also have the option to do it and show it only to relevant clients and agencies. This may not be a part of your regular portfolio. However, it's always a good idea to decide before hand and plan your shoot accordingly. If you do not have swimwear shots in your portfolio, you may not get calls for same. So if you have no inhibitions, include these images in your portfolio as well.

A Good combination of Outdoors and Indoors

It's generally good idea to include both outdoors and indoors in your portfolio. besides adding variety to your shots, shows you in both artificial and natural light.

Presentation matters a lot

Put together your portfolio nicely and neatly in a File or in the form of a coffee table book. Or show the images on your own laptop /iPad as a slideshow. Do remember to arrange them in good order of priority and less number is more. Show off only your best and do not clutter it. Understand the requirement of your prospective client / agency and show the images accordingly besides your main images. If you are targeting swimwear, showing images in Indian ethnic wear makes no sense and vice versa.

You portfolio in the form of Coffee table books

You are Beautiful! You are confident! Offering a blended version of Glamour and Boudoir photography by a seasoned photographer to bring out the best in you. You don't have to be a model or a modeling aspirant to go for it. Do it just for yourself or your loved ones. An experience of a lifetime to unveil the real you. Get a complete makeover, the way you want it, the way you like it - as you are doing it just for yourself. Go bold or give it just a touch of intimacy to add that glamor. 

FAQ s

What is Boudoir Photography?

"The term "boudoir" may also be ascribed to a genre of photography. Boudoir photography is not generally a new concept and numerous examples of famous women photographed in a boudoir style from the 1920s through the 1940s.

Typically shot in a photographer's studio or luxury hotel suites, it has become fashionable to create a set of sensual or sexually suggestive images of women (and occasionally men and couples) in "boudoir style". The most common manifestation of contemporary boudoir photography is to take variations of candid and posed photographs of the subject partly clothed or in lingerie. Nudity is more often implied than explicit. Commercially the genre is often (though not exclusively) derived from a market for brides to surprise their future husbands by gifting the images on or before their wedding day. Other motivations or inspiration for boudoir photography shoots include anniversaries, birthdays, Valentine's Day, weight loss regimes, other form of body change or alteration (such as breast augmentation or reduction) and for servicemen and women overseas.

Boudoir Photography may, in some cases, be distinguished from other photography genres such as glamor photography, fine art nude photography and erotic photography." - quoted from Wikipedia.

Is it a strict version of Boudoir?

Yes, if you want it to be. No, if you would like it to be blended with glamour and semi nudity. There are no rules. You can do it the way you want it to be and the way you are comfortable. Remember, you are doing it just for yourself.

Can you keep it confidential?

Yes, if you would like to.

Do you do couple shoots as well ?

Yes, only if you want an artistic approach. If you are looking for something else, this is not the right place.

How much do I have to expose?

That's absolutely your choice and as per your own consent which can be discussed beforehand. The photographs are shot artistically with a play of light and shade. 

How much does it cost ?

Rs. 45,000/-  for three different makeovers / looks / settings

Does it include makeup ?

Yes, it includes makeup and hairstyling by a professional makeup artist.

Does it include wardrobe ?

Its best to bring in your own stuff but we can help and suggest what you should bring and sometimes even provide you with some stuff. You may go for Lingerie, Bikini or some other such outfits.

How many pictures will I get ?

You will get 30 final retouched and enhanced photographs.

How many photographs will be shot.

As many as are required. There are no restrictions.

Can I bring along a friend? 

yes, certainly. However, bring along someone you are friendly with and not conscious of. Someone you are not uncomfortable posing in front of. Also, its fine to bring along one friend or at the most two but not a whole bunch!

What is the minimum age ?

You must be more than 18 years old supported by a documentary proof.

Makeup and Hair- Roberta by Dilshad Ahmed and Yana bypoonam Rawat Makeup and Hair- Roberta by Dilshad Ahmed and Yana bypoonam Rawat

Makeup and Hair- Roberta by Dilshad Ahmed and Yana bypoonam Rawat        

"Boudoir Photography in Delhi, India by fashion and advertising photographer, Munish Khanna."

With outdoor subjects, especially architecture and landscape, the time of day is critical to 
the photograph that one takes. The changes in the angle of light determine how the subject appears and how it appears better at a certain time compared to the other. The viewpoint will need to be changed as per the available light. 

This is especially true if you want to show a particular element, such as form or color.  Many photographers prefer to shoot early in the day or late
 in the afternoon. The low angle 
of the light means that it is more diffuse than at midday. Furthermore, the angle is better at revealing the form of a landscape. Its interesting how the same place can look drastically different at different times of the day. Of course it looks different in different seasons.

What time you need to get up to take advantage of the early light will, of course, depend on
the time of year and your location. But one advantage of avoiding the middle of the day is that as the sun rises, the lighting changes quickly—allowing you to produce a varied portfolio of pictures in a short time. This is why professional landscape photographers like to be in position before dawn, so they are ready to capture the rapid transformation. In some parts of the world, and in some months, this period of change will last longer than in others. But if you miss dawn and the sun is higher in the sky, you become more reliant on the weather to create interesting lighting effects.

Retro park in Madrid, Spain

Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE at sunset.

Not the last light

Indian ocean, Singapore

Painted with Light Kata Beach, Phuket, Thailand

After a hectic photography trip in ladakh, we were returning back to the hotel, when the approaching traffic caught the eye. One advantage of not driving yourself is, you get to notice a lot. well, you do notice otherwise also but are not always able to shoot. Tried to align the approaching lights along the rear view mirror in this late evening twilight shot taken at high ISO. 

Lisbon,Portugal

Early or Late part of the day

Actually, besides seeing light, you need to be good at seeing. Anyone can take a photograph but when you talk about taking a good photograph, it’s all about seeing not just the light but your complete subject. What to shoot? How much to show are important questions that decide if the photograph is good. That’s the difference between a good Photograph and a snapshot. The content.

Once you are able to take a good Photograph, a costly ( or good ) camera or a lens may make your shooting easier or more convenient but not that a costly camera by itself will create good photographs. You may have the most expensive camera or lens with you along with eventually the experience of handling it, but if you do not have the aesthetic sense of seeing, composing, framing, spontaneity and an understanding of your subject, be it an object or a person, You cannot take a good photograph. You can just click a picture. so there is a lot more to it than just clicking. Think beyond the equipment.

Though the wall behind is white, i decided to illuminate the whole image in such a manner so as to keep the wall in shadows. Lighted up the model with a strip light from the side. 

While shooting lingerie, one needs to take care that the detail is prominent enough. A simple photograph was illuminated with a round Beauty Dish and what you see on the pink backdrop is the shadow created by the light. The direction of light plays an important role in defining the contours, form and texture. one belief

Although I do not generally crop my photographs but for this one of a Ghat in Varanasi, shot from a boat was cropped from top to exclude some part essentially because I wanted to give the image a wider feel. 

The subject has been illuminated with an external light source besides having the light sources in the frame. This is actually a combination of two different exposures. One to get the right effect of the candles and the other one to suitably illuminate the subject. technically speaking, if the light source is included in the frame one may think of showing that as the source of light on the subject. However, in this case the light is coming from a source not in the frame. 

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While shooting one may always take options and do stuff which is not really conventional. noticed it and could not resist keeping the face just behind the leaves. Fashion photography let's you explore  such chances and opportunities to experiment.

There is generally a debate if it's a good photograph when you create it all or when you click it which already existed. Both involve efforts and require a good eye and vision. You create what you imagine and in the other case you see and frame only what you wish to convey through your photograph. It exists but it needs a photographers vision to show that in his photograph. A good photographer would spontaneously capture and exclude the unwanted elements in the existing scene. On the other hand in a well planned setup, it will again involve the Photographer to be able to show it the way he wants to to with the help of lighting, filters, and the choice of lenses. abstracts

While shooting the original Constitution of India, found the side of the large book quite interesting and shot it in an abstract form.

Found these seed pods very interesting as these these were quite large in size. Noticed them while conducting a Photography workshop in Hyderabad. Brought them back and shot them in water. This is a triptych which was put together for one of my photography exhibitions on abstracts.

This photograph is all about colours. The Pre-wedding shoot of the young couple was shot at one of the exciting locations in Delhi - Hobbiton. 

The lavish big fat Indian Destination wedding was spread over a Royal fort palace in Rajasthan. Used a Fish eye lens here to capture this fun moment in between the shots.   It's not always necessary to photograph the Bride when she is emotional about leaving her family. These are mixed feeling and there are moments when she is happy and is smiling. Why not include one of those shots as well in the final wedding collection. cameras have evolved a lot. Though the bride was illuminated by the ambient light and she was looking in the right direction, it's quite possible to shoot in very low light situations as well with today's advanced sensors in our cameras. It was the natural spontaneity of the child that was caught on the camera. being able to shoot fast is very important especially when photographing children, just for yourself or professionally for kids modelling portfolio.

Munish Khanna is a well renowned Advertising and Fashion Photographer based in Delhi who regularly conducts photography courses in Delhi.

Munish Khanna, considers himself to be a Photographer who can shoot anything - and everything - that comes before him. the reason: he does not want to be labelled as a photographer who can shoot only specific types of pictures.

Khanna developed his interest in photography at an early age and has done a couple of professional courses in this stream. He has shot for several designers, ads, celebrities like Ravi Shanker and Nandita Das, amongst others, and has also done several interior shoots. At the moment Khanna teaches a professional course in Photography in Delhi.

Timber Trail 

A shot taken for Timber Galery for an ad campaign. The effect of the lights and the arrangement of the pottery have been crafted well to make the picture interesting. very interesting, in fact.

It is the View

What is the highlight of this visual? The lighting has actually been done from the top, and not from the bottom, even though it may seem so. the smaller glass piece has been filled with crystals to let the reflection of the light play about on the surface.

Stark reality

A shot taken with an emphasis on leaves drying during autumn, Says Khanna " I enjoy taking shots which would otherwise go unnoticed. And this photograph was one of those".

Big Apple

A shot taken in the streets of New York for a designer based in the US. Khanna had chosen this locale particularly because of the old brick-laid streets, which are still present in some areas of New York.

One on One

This shot was developed after merging two snaps on each other. the first shot was of the model while the second one was of a rough fabric texture. the shot of the texture was then imposed upon the previous shot to get this effect.

Glory in colour

The Niagara falls at night. This shot shows the Canadian side. During the night the falls are illuminated and keep changing colours.

The Bond

Pristine affection. This shot aims to capture the love between a father and his son. According to Khanna, this shot was particularly difficult to take as it involved a lot of running around to capture the reflection of the sun in the center.

Don't Look at The Food

This snap was taken in a restaurant at Delhi's Maurya Shereton. Khanna had to use his lights, along with the lights in the restaurant.

Naturally beautiful

This shot was the cover of a book on natural beauty techniques, to be published by harper-Collins. the model's body has been covered with sand granules to bring out the message in the book through its cover. 

Two in One

One of his favorites. No, the other Polo is not a reflection. There are actually two of them. the Polo that is only partly visible has been placed behind a magnifying glass, The surface used is made of glass which is wet, for overall effect.

Eye of the Tiger 

This shot was taken at the Calcutta Zoo. " The camera was placed in a manner to avoid the wired enclosure. But the light was directly on the tiger's face and it seemed as if he was posing for me," claims Khanna

Numbers Game 

Guess how many people are in this snap? Well, three. A snap from his personal portfolio, it has the reflection of three children standing in front of a laughing mirror.

Ethereal

Tunisha behind the veil poses for a catalogue shoot for kanwaljeet's designer collection." The shot was taken from the top in order to make it attractive," says Khanna. The beauty of the golden-coloured fabric is enhanced by the effect of lights. 

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© munish khanna photography

• How to set up your camera straight out of the box - You may read your camera's manual for this but when you have gone through the instructions in our course, it will all be so easy to handle. There are videos to explain all camera controls. If you get an idea about one brand, you will be able to handle any other brand or model as well.
• How to get that sparkle in the eyes of your subjects - Most of us love shooting people and the loved ones in our families. Learn to shoot them better with minimal equipment. It's easier to shoot with a lot of equipment but it's important to learn how to manage with minimum equipment that you have.
• How to know which camera settings to use in different situations - Our Photography course prepares you to handle not just one kind of photography situation but different situations, Different lighting setups, camera models and a lot more in one single course.
• How to take sharp pictures with a beautiful blur in the background - Photographers are generally quite fascinated by background blur or Bokeh as it is called but sometimes end up not having the right sharpness on the subject itself.
• How to get the perfect exposure (not too bright, not too dark) and when not to bother.
• How to shoot at any time of day in a variety of natural lighting situations - You should not be restricted by the time of the day or night. Learn well through our online or in person photography course that you can handle any kind of lighting at any time.
• How to shoot indoors and outdoors using different settings and accessories.
• How to take your camera off auto and begin shooting at a mode where you have complete control of eerything
• How to override the camera. understand situations where you may be required to compensate for light. 
• Know about different Lens types and how to know if you need a new one
• How to edit your images - Understand the complete Digital workflow from shooting to editing to getting the final print, which you may plan to put up in your own photography exhibition.
• How to achieve beautiful skin tones and colour in your images- Get the complete understanding of White balance as you set in up on your camera and even as you retouch your images on the computer.

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This Photography session is for you if ...

• You are a Mother or a father, who wants to take better pictures of your children
• You are a Blogger who would like to add or improve the quality of the photographs in your posts. 
• You want better product pictures for your e-commerce website, boutique, shop or business
• You are an aspiring professional photographer and wish to improve your skills to take you forward to the next level.
• You are a beginner or intermediate photographer and wish to understand if you are heading in the right direction as a budding photographer.
• Photography is what you always wanted to do but due to your job or other time constraints, could never continue with your passion. 

whatever is your requirement, our complete online photography course covers everything from shooting to the final output. And we are constantly in the process of adding and supplementing new course content and videos to it.

This online Photography course has been prepared, structured and executed directly by Munish Khanna, one of the best in the field of Photography. The course includes articles and tutorials explained through photographs and videos.

It was time to upgrade to the next level. Hasselblad is of course a name everyone is well familiar with. Went for 501 cm which was a again a manual camera with a waist level style of shooting. I recall the first time I loaded the camera with the film, I was not quite sure how to do it as it's entirely different from regular 35mm film cartridges. Unlike today, there was no Google to refer to. So rushed to the processing lab to get a quick lesson on how to load a medium format hasselblad camera with film just before the shoot. One needed to see through the ground glass at waist level to focus. It was not too heavy and one could easily shoot handheld as well. However I soon started facing the problem of light leak in the camera and it was time to move on. Hasselblad did not have a built in photometer so an external Seconic photometer had to be used.

In the meanwhile, it was important to upgrade to an Autofocus camera as well. Although I liked canon systems, went for Nikon systems as Nikon cameras were considered much more professional as compared to Canon. I bought my first Autofocus camera, F 801s along with Nikon F501 as a backup. 

mamiya RZ 67 Pro IID accepts digital backs as well On the medium format front, I opted for Mamiya RZ 67 II camera as it was a bigger frame as compared to Hasselblad. Also while shooting magazine covers or double spreads, I used to keep two vertical sheets in the ground glass to convert my frame into a vertical / horizontal frame for better composition for covers and vertical magazine pages. So effectively I was using 6x4.5 instead of 6x6 cms. Mamiya on the other hand was 6x7 cms with Bellows for macro work. Went for two lenses, one for Fashion and general work and one wide angle for interiors. Now the great thing about this camera, though it was manual focus, was that I could attach a Digital Back to it. I had already used Phase one Digital back with Mamiya systems in New York. Digital had already come in but it was still time before it could get more popular. Scanned reproduction of Mamiya RZ 67 II shot on either Kodak or Fuji transparency (Most likely Fuji Provia or Velvia )

Nikon D100 was one of the first professional digital cameras from Nikon and I set my hands on it when it was launched. Digital changed things a lot on the personal front for all photographers. There was much more to try out and experiment as no cost on film was involved. Had D 200 as well before I switched over to Canon. Since the time of Canon EOS 5D, have been using mark II to mark III and maybe soon mark IV, if I do not switch over to Mirror less. And it will be Sony for sure if I go for mirror less. fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india

One of the Magazine covers shot on Nikon D 100. Friday is the lifestyle Magazine of Dubai based Gulf News

meanwhile, it was time to move over to medium format digital as well for high end Fashion and Advertising photography. At the time of Film, Small, Medium and Large format were more familiar terms to people who mattered. However, with Digital photography and with the advent of internet, crop sensor and Full frame became more familiar terms.

Phase one was the obvious choice as was familiar with the brand in New York. Since my medium format did not have autofocus decided to go for a new camera as well. Hasselblad and Mamiya were the two options. Hasselblad had some heat issues and I wanted to buy all lenses together so that I could cover from extreme wide to Tele and not to miss the Macro. My overall costs were lower with Mamiya 645 AFD II and I could buy all the lenses, mostly fixed focal length lenses. Phase one P 30+ was my first medium format Digital Back and have shot several photographs with this medium format back on Mamiya 645 AFD II. There has not been much development in autofocusing systems on medium format cameras so the focusing on  AFD II is not all that great with only one focusing point. maybe I will soon be upgrading to Phase one Camera for faster focusing or may explore some other cameras but have not yet done any research as this camera and back are anyways serving me very good and I am getting great sharpness and Dynamic range.

Press - Munish KhannaMunish Khanna, New Delhi, India Press - Munish KhannaMunish Khanna, New Delhi, India

Munish Khanna was featured on the Phase one website

I have always been very conservative and liberal at the same time while buying and upgrading my equipment. I am not into wildlife photography so I may not explore a very fast camera. For Fashion or street, a fast camera is fast enough and one does not necessarily need the fastest camera on the Earth. Don't ever compromise on the lenses and always go for the Best ones.

Upgrading is endless. As mirror less cameras are advancing in technology, there will be time very soon when the features of a mirror less camera will become way more attractive than  a DSLR and it will be time to upgrade yet again before some new technology knocks the door once again.

Munish Khanna is a New Delhi based Advertising and fashion Photographer who started his career as a Photographer around early 90s and continues to shoot on various Photography projects besides teaching Photography and shooting films.

© Munish Khanna photography

As a fashion and Advertising Photographer, I come across several assistants and my own students who are learning photography from me through my online and Practical Photography courses in Delhi. Some of the common mistakes these beginners make as a photographer are listed below. These are very simple yet very significant aspects of Photography that most of amateurs ignore or overlook.

Do not get too confused with WHITE BALANCE.

While I am not advocating that you should shoot with the wrong white balance but if you are not too sure about it, it's better to keep it at AUTO or DAYLIGHT.

If you have shot in RAW, you can certainly fine-tune the white balance on your computer at a later stage as well. "Daylight" is closest to shooting on Film and AUTO works quite fine in most of the situations.

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This image has a warm cast all because it has been shot during the Golden hours of the evening. It is desirable to keep this warmth instead of opting for a technically perfect while balance.

Make sure that the Horizon is not uneven in the photographs.

It should not appear to be imbalanced except when you intentionally due to compositional reasons deliberately keep the camera at an angle for impact. However, it should never be off balance accidentally.

All modern cameras now have a balancing scale on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder itself to help you balance the horizon. The cameras also have the option of using the grid which is quite helpful in shooting interiors and if you are shooting stuff like paintings and carpets where you need to align both verticals and horizontals. 

The Horizon occupies a very small portion of the Photograph but it's extremely important to keep it straight.

NO BLURRED or OUT OF FOCUS IMAGES

It's just not fine to shoot a blurred or an out of focus image. It simply can't be corrected at a later stage so it's very important to ensure that you shoot it right.

Make sure that you have selected the correct focusing point when shooting. The focusing point must overlap the main subject and not somewhere in the background.

If you are focusing too close make sure that your subject is at least as away as the minimum focusing distance of your lens.

And focus on the eyes, when shooting a portrait especially at a very close distance.

While the Aperture is quite open so as to get the Bokeh Effect, the eyes are where the focus is.

Both Tripod and Image stabilising modes help to avoid camera shake if you are not shooting at 1/60th of a second or higher.

The face is absolutely clear even though the rest of the body is blurred.

COMPOSITION is important and takes care of it for every image that you shoot.

It's not an easy skill to master and the rules are very relative at times from shot to shot. Follow the rules, till the time you have gained enough experience to understand the situations in which you can override the rules and the photographs still look great and in fact sometimes the photograph is good and unique because it does not follow a conventional rule.

abstracts

The composition is not restricted to a photograph with a number of elements. Even a simple macro shot requires the Photographer to use his compositional skills.

Trying to get PERFECT EXPOSURE is important but not at the cost of the actual shot!

Many beginners miss the shot because they are aiming at getting a perfect exposure right there in the camera. Once again, there is absolutely nothing wrong in getting the right exposure to begin with but it's also not a crime if you did not get it absolutely correct and you were a bit on the under or overexposure side.

It was often said that a self-respecting photographer while shooting on film would take out several test prints before deciding on the final print to get the right tones, colour and exposure.

Ideally, there should have been detail in the background grass as well but then that was not the Priority in this Photograph of a Model, shot in a monument. When one shoots modelling Portfolios, it's the model who is expected to get all the attention and the detail of the other areas is not really very relevant.. I am sure, unless this is pointed out, no one is going to notice it. 

Shooting on MANUAL mode does not make you a better photographer.

Shooting on APERTURE PRIORITY lets you take care of lot many other aspects of photography besides exposure. With exposure compensation, you still have all the control over perfection in situations where the camera's metering has the potential of going wrong.

Do not hesitate to shoot at a higher ISO on a good modern camera but do not let it be on a higher ISO when not even required at all.

The NOISE in good cameras these days is almost negligible and the higher ISO lets you shoot at a relatively higher shutter speed in low-lighting situations.

She was photographed next to the lights of the makeup mirror at ISO 1600. 

The Two girls on a Phuket Beach were photographed at ISO 3200

This candid image in Dubai was photographed at ISO 5000

Munish Khanna is a successful Commercial Photographer practicing various genres of Photography over the last two decades. he conducts regular Photography courses and workshops in Delhi, India. 

You may also like to check out some of the Youtube tutorials on Photography.

Most of the time, since our eye has the ability to see detail in both light and dark tones together, we are able to see the detail in shadows as well. In other words, our eyes, due to the involvement of the brain reduce the contrast that exists. The film or the sensor does not record the image in the same way. It records through one aperture and shutter speed combination and thus can register detail either in the lighter tones or the darker tones. With an improvement in technology and with larger sensors, the ability to record detail in varied tones is greater as compared to a crop sensor.

We all like dramatic photographs. The shadows and the darker tones make the photograph more interesting than a regular plain shot.

To make this Fashion editorial of Ogaan for Dubai based Magazine - "Friday", more interesting, I decided to let the shadow of the beauty dish rim be visible in the frame, right around the face. I love shooting with single light and love the play of shadows that it creates.

The objective of these shots for a Body Builder was to well define the tones on his body. Single-directional hard light and its shadow play the perfect role in achieving this. You may not always be looking for a good modelling portfolio for a career in modelling but may even go for a portfolio or a set of good photographs just for yourself after making all the efforts on your body. One may even go for a Boudoir session in case of women or couples. A lot of couples are opting for a Boudoir session as a change from a typical pre-wedding shoot. 

Shot for the jewellery for men, the overhead lighting threw the eyes in shadow but helped bring out the jewellery in a prominent manner.

Patterns make the photograph more interesting. It's not illuminated through blinds but a similar pattern created in the studio. A GOBO was used to create the pattern on the orange wall above.

While light defines the contours in fine art nude photography, it's the shadows that make it more artistic. It's sexier to conceal than to reveal. The subject has not been illuminated directly but through the large window creating a rim lighting.   view it large

Only what is relevant is important and not everything. In photography, do not illuminate the whole scene uniformly and that happens on stage as well. Expose for the right tones and let the other areas go into shadows. We look at the brightest part of the photograph or the scene as we look around as a common man. It's always better to let the shadows be deep without detail rather than having detail in the shadows with washed-out bright tones.

hare rama, hare krishna  

Both the Sadhus in this photograph I shot in Haridwar are silhouettes or I can say, in shadows. I released the shutter just before they crossed the path of each other, thus defining the shapes.

In Modelling and Glamour photography Shadows are generally avoided but for this modelling portfolio shot, the feel of candle lights could only be apparent if they were in darker shadows. In the following fashion, Glamour and modelling photographs, you will notice a significant role of shadows in highlighting the main subject.

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Shadows are not always limited to low-key photography but can be widely used even when the mood is very light.

Munish Khanna is a leading Advertising and Fashion Photographer based in Delhi, India

Not that I cannot handle multiple lights. For many commercial assignments, there are numerous lights with different modifiers around just to sometimes illuminate a very small setup. But all this lighting setup is not without a reason. There is a role being played by every piece of the light source added to create the overall ambience and the required light effect to achieve a particular mood in a photograph.

But most of the time, it's that single light source that is good enough for me, especially for the kind of photographs I shoot. I love to keep my photographs as natural as possible with the minimum amount of retouching for my personal work. 

A Single main light source can be modified in such a way that it either illuminates only one side of the face or the body or if it large enough it envelopes and wraps around the subject adding a sort of fill light on the other side of the main illumination.

A spotlight, placed close to the camera angle was used to illuminate the Model wearing a diamond pendant. 

It's perfectly fine to have shadows on the wall right behind the subject. As an amateur when you are taking the first steps in photography, you are usually guided to avoid the shadows on the wall behind the subject when illuminated with a flash fixed on the camera itself. 

fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india fashionFashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india

As these photographs are for men's jewellery, it's important to highlight that and let the subject be more in shadows.

Shot towards the late evening the natural light was almost non existant. Notice how the slight chnage in the position of the light and the camera angle has changed the appearance of the subject. Almost short or kind of backlighting to side lighting.

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A series of images shot in the same area with a single hard light can reveal interesting patterns and characteristics of the surrounding. 

Makeup and Hair- Roberta by Dilshad Ahmed and Yana bypoonam Rawat

It's a single Beauty dish creating the highlight on the background as well as revealing the texture on the white lingerie worn by the model.

Existing lamps around the makeup mirror can be a good illumination for a subject when shot with an opened aperture. 

Fashion Photography by Munish Khanna, new delhi, india

One light is the way to go when shooting creative Nudes. It greatly helps reveal shape and texture at the same time retaining the artistic feel of the image, even when it is in coloured and not black and white. A single light allows more control to selectively illuminate just the right areas.

A series of photographs were shot with an off-camera flash controlled by a trigger on the camera. This lets you control the light the way you wish to let the face and body be illuminated in the best possible manner.

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Modelling unlike many other careers is based on aesthetics and is an industry driven by Beauty and Glamor. Appearance matters a lot here especially if you are aiming to be a fashion model. Beauty is not restricted to just the face but your over all personality plays a vital role in fashion ? ramp modelling. How you put across your personality is very important. You do not have to be stunning or spotlessly beautiful but if you have that charm and charisma, it instantly puts you in a higher bracket of success.

vlcc spa On the other hand if you are aiming at being a successful advertising / commercial model or an actor, concentrate on your acting skills. You need to blend into the character you are playing and need to look natural rather than made up. Your beauty or figure does not matter in the conventional sense but matters a lot more because you are there for the shoot because of the way you look. Be yourself. Don't try to hide that extra fat. Because you were actually selected because of that. You feel your teeth don't look good but probably that's what made you fit in the character to begin with. Simply blend in. blabla_0609

The objective here in this advertising campaign for BlaBla cars was not about beauty or perfection but required the characters to look real life characters which general public, the prospective customers of this ride sharing service can relate to. 

On the other hand, as mentioned above, being a fashion model is all about playing a role model for someone. You need to be perfect and you need to maintain it that way. You can't afford to put on those extra kilos even in days when you are not shooting as you never know when you get a call for that assignment, you had always been dreaming about.

In fashion /ramp modelling, height and weight standards are much more rigid as compared to other genres of modelling. You can't change the body type you were born with but you can certainly stay fit. 

To the outside world, it may appear very glamorous. Not that it's not but there are strict rules to be followed and schedules to be maintained. If you need to report at 4am, it means 4 am no matter what. Unless you sleep early, you cant really manage that. You need to look your best, you can't afford to have puffy eyes or feel sleepy through out the tight schedule of the hectic day. be it a fashion show or a Fashion shoot, you need to look your best. 

Keeping yourself fit does not involve rocket science but following the very basics and following them very religiously. Regular workouts, controlled diet, no smoking and alcohol, priority to perfectly grooming yourself are some of the key element leading to being a super model.

Looking good and your best is only one of the tips to become a successful model and it's not a guarantee that your looks alone will make you a super model. It's always a win-win situation for models. You are anyways doing it for yourself. As early as you start concentrating on your looks, sooner you have the chances of making it big. So, don't get lazy about your appearance, get going and remember, you beauty and appearance is your most precious asset!

It may just be a close shot but since the model has maintained herself, you see the well chiseled cheek and collar bones, which will never really show with that extra fat.

As a Bikini / swimwear model, you you do not have the right figure, you will not be able to carry the outfits well and not amount of photoshop can do any justice to the photographs. 

munish khanna photography

Munish Khanna is a leading fashion photographer considered as one of the best and most versatile photographers in India. If you are looking forward to a career in modelling and acting, he is the right person to get in touch for guidance and your portfolio. You are at the right place, if you are planning to get your fashion collection photographed in a creative manner.

Diya Singh- Modeling Portfolio

How do I start off ? Its simple, first of all fix up an appointment to meet so that everything can be explained and discussed in length. Also, I do not use standard formulas to shoot every one alike. Only after seeing you, i can judge best as to evaluate the best looks for you. Meeting beforehand also helps evaluate your potential and guide you plan your portfolio in best possible manner. You may call up at 9871020341 (or whats app) anytime to fix an appointment. If you are not based in Delhi, send in your photos or fix a skype chat.

What are the payment terms ? You need to pay 50% in advance to confirm the date. Rest of the fees is to be paid on the day of the shoot. You may make the advance payment online or issue a cheque in favour of " Munish Khanna ". You may drop the cheque for the portfolio at the Studio or at any of the ICICI bank drop boxes / branches.

What are the Cancellation terms ? If cancelled 15 days before the date of the shoot 90% of the total fees will be refunded back immediately. No refund beyond 15 days. If postponed 7 days before the date of the shoot, no additional charges. If postponed within 7 days 10% of the total fees will be charged extra.

How long will my photo session take? A complete portfolio generally takes up the whole day. Time for hair and makeup done at the studio is included in the photo session. It is a good idea to start as early as possible, say around 8 am or 9am. The make up may take about an hour or so. the actual shot thus starts around 10 or 11am. Starting early helps to wind up in time and also take into account any delays due to unforeseen factors.

How early should I book ? Earlier, the better. This helps you also plan everything smoothly. However, if available I can schedule the shoot at a short notice as well.

I only want a few photographs. Can i pay less and get lesser photographs? You are not paying for the number of photographs or looks. In fact you are paying for the photographers skill and experience to bring out and show your very best in your portfolio. The  Art and effort involved is almost the same even if the number of looks or photographs is less. However, to make things a little economical for you some special prices have been worked out for a mini portfolio and also for an extended one.

Do you guide the model during the shoot ? yes of course. Complete guidance will be provided during the shoot and all assistance will be given for posing and expressions. As the shoot goes on you are shown your pictures on a camera or a large screen, and suggestions given how best to improve the shots. Modelling Portfolios - www.munishkhanna.com/portfoliosIf you are wanting to become a Model, Your search ends here.

Are my photographs retouched on the computer? Once the final pictures are selected, these will be retouched and finished to look the best. There are no additional charge for this. Usually it is done to the extent that the photographs look natural and do not look too artificial. However, you have both the options. You also have the option to add more photographs to your collection.

Do you promote models? It's always my effort to promote my models. Moreover I prefer shooting with models I know are good. Anyways my best efforts are towards making a great portfolio so that your pictures speak out for you. You are guided to the right people in the industry for your promotion.

How many number of pictures will you be shooting ? The whole shoot is now a days done on high end digital cameras. This helps in shooting unlimited pictures without bothering about added expenditure of film and processing. You do not have to worry about the number of frames or number of rolls used anymore. Just concentrate on your looks.

Do I have to bring my own clothes? If you have a good collection, do bring it. I do have a complete wardrobe but it is always better to have more options open. However, you will have to bring your own  jeans, shorts, shoes, sandals or any other stuff which requires a specific fitting / size not available here.  All this can be discussed before hand and in certain cases, you may not need to bring along anything.

Can I choose the outfits ? Yes, you can. Alternatively, let us decide what will work best for you, but you still have the final word.

Do I get to select my photographs ? yes, Since there are a lot of photographs i generally shortlist the photographs and among this set you can further choose the best ones you like. this makes your work much easier. At the end of the shoot as well as during the shoot, we’ll look at your photos on a computer screen and talk about which images / looks /expressions work best.

How many pictures will I finally get ? As many as you want. But it is always good to have only the best pictures in the portfolio which are very strong in every aspect and do not show any flaws at all. The images should show the model in his/her best. The presentation CD or website could have more images but the prints should be restricted to about 10. It's all a team work. any picture where the model or the make up artist or the photographer are not up to the mark does not make to the final selection.

How much do I have to expose ? Thats absolutely your choice. It is not necessary if you are not comfortable doing so. Keep in mind the kind of work you are looking for. Your portfolio should reflect the same. However, if you get any such images shot, its not necessary that you have to show everything to your prospective clients. pallavi_00248

I am not really slim, Is it possible to achieve that in Photoshop ? It is possible to do so in photoshop to some extend, however, its better not to manipulate the photographs in a manner which does not portray the real you. Small tweaking can be done but do not expect a drastic change. 

I do not have a good Body, Can I still become a model ?  It depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for character roles, a good physique may not always be needed. Meet me before hand and I can guide you better.

Should I join a Gym before getting a portfolio done ? Its good to have a good physique but you do not have to be a body builder. As long as you are fit, its perfectly all right, with or without a Gym. You are most welcome to meet up and discuss this aspect.

I am not tall, can I still become a model ? Yes, being tall is not the only criteria. Though it helps but its not a setback as there are so many options still open and your overall personality matters much more than just the height.

I am tall, and people say that I can become a model. As mentioned above, being tall is not the only criteria but yes, an added advantage. Have a good overall personality  certainly helps rather than just being tall. 

What are the different looks that are included ? Its not always necessary to do every different look. We can discuss and plan, what looks go best with your personality and what kind of work you intend to seek. some of the options are - Western casuals- jeans / shorts /tops etc , western formals / evening gown or a dress, Indian traditional - saree or a lehanga, closeups and beauty shots, Executive / Business look. Based on your fitness you may also go for sportswear or Lingerie / Bikini. 

Is modelling safe ? Its just as safe as any other profession. 

Can I bring along a friend or someone ? yes, certainly. However, bring along someone you are friendly with and not conscious of. Someone you are not uncomfortable posing in front of. Also, its fine to bring along one friend or at the most two but not a whole bunch !

Some people promise to promote ? what do you say ? One does not really need anyone to promote you as long as you have the talent. A good portfolio is your first step in the industry and decide the photographer on the basis of his/her work and do not link promotion with it. If you are good and if your portfolio is good, half the battle is already won. With the right guidance, you can promote yourself much better than anyone else.

Should I have my own website ? Its optional. You anyways get a page on my website " www.munishkhanna.com/yourname " For more visibility, you may go for a personal webpage with all details.

How will I know as to where all should I distribute my photographs ? You will get all the guidance and the details of the reputed modelling agencies and casting directors, both in Delhi and Mumbai. In case of any questions or doubts, you can directly get in touch with me any time later as well.

What are the steps I need to follow once I have the portfolio in hand.

Follow these steps once you have got your portfolio made. You portfolio in the form of Coffee table books

I just want to get the photographs for myself. Is it any different ? No not really. Its more or less the same except that you can get it done more in a manner you want it to be rather than what will work better in the industry. 

I am just getting it done for fun sake, Just to give it a try... Nothing works unless you give it your best. If you want to pursue modelling as a career, you need to be professional about it just as any other career. You need to put in your best effort towards your portfolio, to begin with as this is going to be your first impression in the industry.

Do you also do couple portfolios ? yes, you can plan out a couples portfolio and the prices are available here. This may be a post or pre wedding shoot or even years after you got married. well, or just as a couple even if you are not married. 

Wedding Photography requires a good team of Photographers, Cinematographers, Editors and album and film makers. As wedding photography was moving from more conventional ways of shooting to more interesting and candid styles of Photography, I decided to set up my own company of wedding photography to offer creative and modern photography to new and existing commercial clients. My own Photography students come from varied background and not all pursue photography as a career, many of them opting photography as a serious hobby along with their own professions. Picked up some of my own students who wanted to get into Wedding Photography and picked up a lot of new as well as well established free lance Photographers to work as a team. Besides freelancing for us, many of our photographers and Editors are now permanently employed with "Together We Rock".

our wedding photography company covers everything from the most basic but technically perfect traditional or conventional photography to the documentary style candid photography story telling of your wedding. The Cinematographers using one of the most advanced filming equipment, cover every fine detail of your wedding from outfits to decoration, from moments of fun to excitement both in a traditional as well as a cinematic manner. You not only get the full versions of your wedding but a crisp cinematic film as well. Do check out some of the wedding films shot by "Together We Rock" 

We cater to all kind of Budgets. Though we have a minimum starting price which we feel is very affordable for good wedding photography and filming that we offer, the package can be completely customised as per your budget and the talent added to the crew. Depending upon the venue size, number and flow of events, number of guests, location etc. we can advise you with the right options within your suggested budget.

Some of the frequently asked questions related to wedding photography 

How much does a pre wedding shoot cost?

Let's explore Pre-wedding shoots !

How to choose a Wedding Photographer !

What do you get in our wedding photography package?

Why should the same Photography team cover both sides.

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Together We Rock is one of the Best known wedding Photography companies based in Delhi which is directly managed by Munish Khanna. TWR specializes in covering weddings in Delhi as well as Destination weddings around the Globe. 

While how you shoot - The way you illuminate the subject, The angles you choose to bring out the best bone structure or the body contours, the tactics you use to bring out the best or in some cases, the relevant expressions, is important and the major part of making a good photograph, the equipment you use also plays a significant role.

Equipment alone cannot make a good photograph but yes it does aid and help in creating a good photograph.

You may choose to shoot in natural light or artificial, A full frame or a crop sensor camera, A DSLR or a Mirror less camera, Outdoors or in a studio or on location, with a zoom or a Prime lens...the list of decisions to be made before shooting a model, is endless.

With so much experience in shooting models for various magazines and fashion designers, I decide things mostly based on my Instinct.

The Camera - Unless, its a fashion or an advertising shoot, a medium format is not really required as the file sizes are too big and an aspiring model does not really need such large files. On the other hand, I do not like to use the crop sensor either. I always prefer shooting on canon 5d markIII which is working quite well for me and I have not really taken a step to change over. Many of my wedding Photographers at " Together We Rock", our wedding Photography company also use Nikon cameras besides Canon Cameras. With both the brands we get some great shots and it is more about the Photographer than the camera that matters more.

The Lenses - I use a mix of Zooms and Primes which shooting a model or a corporate profile. the selection of lenses also depends on the available space and what really is the objective. If I am looking for a nice Bokeh in the photograph, i may go for one of the lenses I have with an opened aperture. While it lets me shoot in low light situation, it helps balance the light even while shooting at twilight with mixed available lights and a flashlight. pallavi_01060

canon 50mm f 1.4

Miss Earth India 2016

Canon 24-105mm f4

Canon 70-200 F4 IS

Canon EOS 6D - 70-200 f4

On the personal front, I love to shoot with a 40mm pancake lens as it makes even a 5D Mark III quite portable and gives a bit more wider view as compared to a 50 mm prime.

Studio Lighting - As we also shoot automobiles and large interiors, we have a huge stock of Elinchrom lights with a whole lot of light modifiers. Though Broncolor and Profoto are great as well but have not really changed to any of these from Elinchrom.

Canon 5D Mark III - 70-200 f4 IS

On the other hand, while shooting Models and CEOs I generally do not use more than one light unless it's absolutely essential or I may use another light just as a fill.

These photographs have been shot with a single main light in the Studio.

Flash - While shooting outdoors I often add on a Subtle flash to fill in the shadows or the balance the light especially at twilight or for Bokeh at Night.

Canon 5D Mark III +50 mm f 1.4 with an off-camera external Flash

This interesting Composition of a Young couple for their Pre Wedding Shoot was clicked with 24-105 mm lens on a Canon 5D Mark III

The Bride was short lighted with external Speed light -RT 600 through remote trigger on Canon EOS 5D mark III with 24-105mm lens at f5. Flash works very well when not on top of the camera. With experience one can certainly understand the placement of Flash strobes and pre visualise the effect the light would have on the subject. Flash Lights are more portable as compared to the mains powered strobe lights. These are quite handy during weddings, be it during a formal setting for Bridal portraits or more on the go candid shots during the course of wedding events. 

Canon 5D Mark III  / 24-105 mm at 24 mm

It's not just the long telephoto lenses that bring out the subject by throwing the background out of focus but wide angle lenses can also be used in a very effective manner. The closer subject appears bigger in comparison to the background. Wide angle lenses do not always lead to distortion when used properly. 

What drew you to this field?

It’s a derivative of Fashion, Nude and Modeling. These all involve humans. Probably the artistic interest in shooting Humans in their nude forms and the Photography exhibitions which followed created the category of Boudoir Photography on my website. A lot of people wish to be photographed like a model. A lot of people like to flaunt their assets but just for themselves or their loved ones.

Did you have any apprehensions about its feasibility as a business?

Since I am involved in a whole variety of genres, it does not really matter to me if Boudoir as one of the options in my photography portfolio works or not. As a standalone business option, I don't think India is ready for it as yet. On the other hand, as it grows, I do have the lead and the experience to take it forward.

What lessons did you learn from early shoots?

Not really from early shoots but early inquiries, I would say. One has to be careful before the shoot and the terms and conditions should be very clear. The outfits need to be discussed and most importantly the objective needs to be discussed. I do not earn my bread and butter from this category so I turn down a lot of inquiries, where I do not have the right feeling of proceeding ahead.

One gets an idea. Some would say, a model release is important, but it is meaningless when no one is going to see the images. Or when the face can’t be identified at all.

Who are the sort of people who usually do these shoots and why?

It can be any sort of people who can afford to pay for the shoot. The main reason to do it is for themselves for their own memory. They may not have the same figure in years to come so basically would like to document the way they look today. Many are not perfect but do have the confidence. Aspiring models, may add such looks to aim for certain categories in Films and modelling. In that case the reason is more of a commercial aspect.

I usually avoid getting into the details of “why” beyond a point. You never know if you are being told the right reason. Mostly it is for oneself only.

Do the grooms often join in?

Let’s not mix it with a Pre-wedding shoot kind of a scenario. Most of the couples have a lot of reservations. It will take years in India for Boudoir photography to blend with a photography session before marriage.  We are still very conservative or at least pretend to be for the world. Sometimes women go for it as an experience and sometimes it’s a mutual decision between a couple after the marriage.

Are there any concerns often that need to be addressed, on your part or the client's?

It’s very important to understand what exactly the client is looking for. If the expectations are not artistic in nature, the shoot is declined. Unfortunately, in India, there are clients who are at the extreme ends. Very few who can understand, that exposure can be subtle or more but still artistic in nature. It can be sensual without being vulgar.

Some would ask if there would be a female Photographer! Or How many people would be there! So, one needs to explain the technical aspects and that it’s all very professional. You either do it or you don't do it. Psychologically, in general, Husbands are usually fine if the wife is wearing revealing outfits or posing erotically but in front of a camera with a woman behind it. However, when women take a decision, it’s based more on the talent of the Photographer irrespective of the gender. 

What do you use to convey a sense of sensuality or create the right mood?

Light and the absence of Light works for me to create the right mood in a Photograph. I do not take it up if the basic understanding on this aspect does not exist. I am more inclined towards lowkey photography and shadows play an important role especially in case of Implied Nudes or a pure form of Boudoir. Next to lighting, it’s the body language that plays a key role. Accessories are next.

How different is India's boudoir photography scene from other countries?

It’s one of the major segments abroad while it’s still coming up very slowly in India and most importantly it’s very private, confidential and Anonymous in India. One can say it’s still very much a taboo to go for a Boudoir Photography session. Trust and confidentiality are major issues and for many people, eyebrows can be raised at a slight hint of flesh. Most importantly and unfortunately the whole character in our country is decided by the kind of clothes one wears. So, Boudoir Photography session if one has gone through remains as a hidden part of one's life and personality. Something one does only for personal reasons and not to put across on the social media.

Looking for a Pre Wedding Shoot?  check out our wedding Photography website. TOGETHER WE ROCK

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It's all about drinks, dance and dark beautiful sexy outfits in self tones. Stylish Gowns with sexy cuts and silhouettes work out the best for any cocktail party. It can be a Gown with a sheer back or a deep-cut front. It could even be all together backless or it may simply flaunt a high cut slit on the side. It all depends on how confidently you carry your outfit!

Stitched Sarees are also very much in trend with designer sexy blouses to match. A saree sounds very traditional but it can look equally western and hot in its look with a lot of drapes on a shimmering fabric especially when coupled with a stylish blouse. Moreover, you can also mix and match the stitched sarees with different blouses to change the look altogether for different occasions.

Another option is to wear a Tripple layered Sharara with a crop top!  An exclusive hand-embroidered jacket having a lot of fur and tassels compliments it very well and is a perfect match. 

If you are looking for some beautiful outfits for your wedding trousseau or otherwise, do check out Shalini Khanna's collection of Designer garments at So Sassy! - An exclusive Boutique in the heart of Delhi. 

Besides wedding photography and film we are also into fashion Designing of exclusive wedding trousseau for brides to be and the whole family.

We, at SO SASSY, can customize beautiful wedding Lehngas, Stitched Sarees or Gowns as per the requirement of the Bride.

So Sassy is a professionally managed fashion Boutique based in Delhi. With over two decades of experience in Designing clothes, Shalini Khanna is a well-known name in the Fashion industry.

We can plan it all in such a way that it goes well with the jewelry, which you may have already bought or planning to buy.

If you have gone for Kundan and Polki sets, your choice of outfits depends on the way these jewels have been set. If the jewelry is more Indian, we recommend lehngas, Crop top skirts, Sharars and gararas. On the other hand, if the jewelry is more western in appearance, go for our Indo western draped gowns, stitched sarees and crop tops with shararas along with flowing jackets.

We recommend Gowns or other outfits with more western silhouettes as you carry around diamonds as part of your jewelry.

Check out So Sassy on Instagram

 

 

 

 

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Know your equipment well. Shooting weddings is a lot more like shooting on the street except that here you can mostly anticipate what is going to happen next. Not all the time though as many a times, there are unexpected twists in the way the events unfold. However, If you know your equipment well, you are faster at dealing with unexpected changes in the way you need to cover the events. 

Plan ahead. In weddings, you generally know how things would proceed ahead. It's a good idea to know and understand the rituals if you or your team has not photographed the weddings of a particular faith or religion. A Muslim wedding may not be same as a Sikh wedding. A Hindu or a christian wedding on the other hand have entirely different flow of rituals. It's important for the young couples about to get married or their parents to book good photographers early, well in time.

It's a teamwork. One photographer, however good he or she may be at shooting weddings can't possibly cover the whole wedding alone especially when the scale of the wedding is too large. There is too much going on at the same moment for one photographer to cover. Proper planning and a detailed discussion with your client helps here. One can plan the size of the Photography and videography team accordingly.

Coverage is as important as getting good shots. You are not there as a wedding photographer to get some good shots just to show off on social media or your own profile. It's also a responsibility to cover the even well. Take images of as many people as you can. It's the people who are the face of the wedding. If you cannot possibly cover everyone, make sure that you cover the key family and friends for sure. 

Strike the right balance between conventional and candid Photography. If you are a good wedding photographer with a good understanding of what is creative candid wedding photography, you can do justice to the task you have been entrusted with. Candid photography is not just about taking pictures of people not looking into the camera. It's more than that. It's all about looking at the whole scene with a creative eye and to release the shutter just at the right moment conveying the whole mood of the situation.

Shoot discreetly but do not miss the shots. You do not have to be too prominent while taking pictures but at the same time do not get lost as well. be there and be in command. Especially in Big fat Indian weddings, you may also need to play the role of the master of the ceremony at times when things get too chaotic.

Follow the Brief. understand what your client, be it the couple or the parents, are exactly looking for. remember, You are not shooting only for yourself. You need to do it the way they want it. You need to deliver the kind of results they are looking for. Ofcourse, you are on the same page as your client that's why they have hired you, but be very clear to understand their requirements. When you meet the very first time, you should be able to get an idea about their expectations from you. If your style of wedding photography does not fit their requirement, it's best not to go ahead with the project instead of not being able to deliver the right results. It does not mean that you are not a good photographer, but simply that your tastes do not match. 

Pre-wedding shoots are perfect opportunities for the couple to know each other better and of course for the Photographer to know the couple better. It lets the Photographer know the strength and weakness of the couple in terms of posing and expressions. Also, the couple gets more comfortable with the team of Photographers and videographers who are going to shoot them.

Paid locations can be a good option for pre-wedding shoots. Shot at Hobbiton Shooting location in Delhi, the couple is quite comfortable posing in front of the camera for their Pre-wedding shoot. Had this been an actual beach, it would have been too crowded to shoot.  

We at " Together we Rock " have our own well equipped studio, where one can put together complete Pre-wedding shoot without having to pay for a "Paid location" It's always better to shoot the couple before the ceremonies while they are fresh and excitedly looking forward to the event. If you have planned well, you can achieve excellent shots in very less time. make the best of the available situation if time is less rather than losing that time in shifting elsewhere. Same goes for shooting the Brides. During the Hindu or Muslim weddings, the couple comes together only much later during the wedding. It's a good idea to have two different teams of wedding photographers and videographers to be there with the Bride and the Groom who are at different locations.

Wedding films are another area where good clarity between the couple and the cinematographer is very important and plays a significant role in getting good results.      Clips from different Pre Wedding shootsTWR is one of the Best Known team of Wedding Photographers who specialise in Pre Wedding shoots as well besides complete candid and cinematic coverage of Weddings in Delhi and Aboad.

Cinematic wedding film by together we rock Wedding Highlight - Aman and Sonam Do check out more cinematic wedding videos.

Shooting Lingerie can be quite challenging especially when you are shooting an editorial or an advertisement and not simply for e-commerce. The follow photographs were shot in our photography studio itself on location. Due to the intricate workmanship in lingerie products, detailing is very important. Although the lighting is supplemented by artificial studio lights, it is kept as natural as possible.

Especially for modelling portfolios, we have set up various backdrops on the terrace of our studio. This is one of them with an old rusted cycle and tyres. It worked quite well with this Sports Bra.

The reflection at the bottom is on the windscreen of the car. 
Decided to go for a side profile here to show the fine detail on the side. It's always a good idea to highlight the most important part of lingerie in Advertising Photography.  Short lighting helps accentuate the lace. All thses images were shot on Medium format Mamiya with Phase one digital back. 

 Candid Photographs shot in between generally add to the profile. 

Munish Khanna is a Delhi based fashion photographer who regularly shoots lingerie as part of his fashion and Advertising photography projects.

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lonesome in shadowsnudes attitudenudes

In these nudes above the subject is mostly in dark rendered almost as a silhouette. the light is relatively much bright outside as compared to the interiors. 

Shot from outside the subject is in a relatively dark interior as compared to the broad daylight outside. The woman is positioned quite close to the glass, with the natural daylight exposing her along with the reflection of the outside environment on the glass. A Black sheet was strategically placed so as to selectively allow reflections on the glass.

This is a typical example of short lighting created by the natural light coming through the window. When the light illuminates the side of the body away from the camera it kind of gives a slimming effect, specifically highlighting the shape and roundness of the features. No external lights were used.

When shooting from this position, it best to keep the exposure that is right for the outside light. The light naturally warps around the subject creating short lighting. Depending on close the walls are in the rooms and the colour of the walls, the light reflects back on the subject filling the darker areas. If you notice, there is a white door right next to her which is working as an existing reflector.

As one moves away from the window and shoots from the opposite direction against the light, the subject is rendered as a complete silhouette allowing to reveal only the shape. Where and how you position the subject is very important as the image is all about shape and other characteristics are not visible at all.

It's always a delight to shoot in the warm Golden light. As the sun is close to set, the light becomes warm and golden. Rinsed through the mesh the golden light is falling on the Nude looking out of the west-facing window. Direction plays a very important role in window lighting. You cant expect this kind of lighting in the morning through a west-facing window. East-facing windows will work better in the first half of the day. Keeping the exposure a little under helps in getting deep and rich tones of the bare skin.

Open up the exposure in comparison to the one which your camera meter is suggesting based on the outside bright light and you have all the details on the subject. Notice how the outside light is spilling over and illuminating the front and the way the light is reflected back from the adjoining white door on her left.

Eye contact always works. A simple nude illuminated by natural light.

Shooting through a glass or a mesh adds an element of interest to the photograph. While the images above were created from the natural light with the subject standing next to a window the shots below were created in the studio with strobes.

Not so clearArtistic Nude photography by Munish Khanna

It's always debatable if the nudes should be black and white or colored. While striping off the colors and making the photographs is artier, I am always resistant to discarding the color. I simply love the natural warmth and richness created by the light which is evident in a color photograph as compared to a Black and white one which loses on revealing this aspect of the characteristic of the fine art nude photography. Even though these nude studies are colored, there are almost monochromatic with nothing to take away the attention from Shape, form and texture.

How to choose a good wedding Photographer ?

# Experience counts - There is nothing to beat experience in wedding photography and videography. However creative you may be, its absolutely a different thing all together performing consistently in challenging situations. An experienced and seasoned photographer can understand the fine nuances of an elaborate wedding. The team of Together We Rock is not only experienced but is also headed by a seasoned well established Commercial photographer, Munish Khanna, who knows Photography and cinematography extremely well.

# Every second person is a photographer - Today, with digital photography, every second person owns a DSLR and thinks he or she can shoot anything. Wedding Photography is quite challenging and you need to be creative under all circumstances. Taking snapshots is one thing and creative good photographs is another. Not everyone can handle weddings well as it needs more of a Journalistic approach in handling the event in a creative manner. Good knowledge and command of Photography equipment is important. We also involved in training photographers and run both online and Delhi based photography courses. We can judge the calibre of the photographers and include in our team only the ones who are good at what they do.

# You don't just need candid pictures, Documentation matters as well. Ensure that the team covering your wedding is capable of handling both styles of Photography. You may be paying more for Candid photography just because it's become so popular but documenting everything is just as important. "wedding photographers in delhi", "wedding photography in India","Destination weddings", "Best wedding photography and video in India"

# Good equipment counts only if the eye behind the camera is good as well - Ensure that you are checking out the Photographer's own work. Well established photographers would never ever call someone else's work as their own. So do not judge the photographer by just the equipment he is using but also understand his style of work. He may be using very good equipment but might be using it at very low quality settings as he may not be aware of the finer aspects of good equipment. Once again, experience counts. 

# Turn around times - How fast or slow do you get your Wedding photographs, the teaser, the Highlight and eventually the full version of your wedding film and of course the wedding albums. Check the commitments. Are they realistic ? It does take time to deliver good stuff. The High definition and 4K video data itself is huge and handling itself is time consuming. If you are getting the commitment of getting everything unrealistically too fast, either you may not get it as per schedule or you may not even be getting as per specifications. Check out the time line given by " Together We Rock " Wedding teaserA short synopsis of the wedding

# Be Realistic - Do not compare with very high end weddings if yours is not going to be like that. You may show references and expect the final outcome to be like that. But do not forget that you may be showing an elaborate big fat indian wedding but maybe yours in no where closer to that. The ambiance, the decoration and scale, everything adds to the video. Do not expect the same. Being creative also works when there is scope for it.

# Do not compare prices - If you like the previous work, go for it. You are paying for what you have liked. Don't say that the other photographer is charging so less and has even thrown in an album free of cost. A lot of variable are involved. If you like a Photographer's work and style, it's never a bad idea to pay a bit more as you are sure of good quality images in the end.

# Professionalism -Keep it professional both ways. Do not call the team too much in advance. Give proper addresses and schedules. Do not leave it all to the last minute. Keep all the payment terms clear as as per schedule. Do check if they have a website. A website is more professional than having just a Facebook page.

# Check the wedding albums - Good stuff cannot be just included - Wedding albums and coffee table books come in different sizes, shapes and with different price tags. So it's good to talk about it and pay for it separately rather including it as a part of the package and that too as a free or complimentary element. You can customise and get the album made to your taste and style. There are different options of wedding albums covers including the ones with different types of leather, cut out windows, hardbound full bleed photographs etc etc. Different paper types and thicknesses are also available.  

# Meet up - It will give an idea about the ease of difficulty with which you can work together. Discuss all plans in detail and get the idea from the photography team as to how they plan to approach it. Check out the wedding photography Album samples. Its good to see the Physical albums.

# Check the overall coverage. Check out an actual previous photography album to see the complete wedding was handled. However, different clients get it done differently. You may brief the photographer about your requirements.

# Discuss clearly what all is included and not a part of the package. Do not keep things very casual. Discuss everything in detail and give your requirements in writing and also take up the commitments and inclusions in writing. This avoids any misunderstanding later on. You may send in your requirements through a form like this.

# How Big is the team - It all depends on how big you want it to be. If your venue is quite big and good coverage is very important to you. Ask for more photographers in the team. These can be positioned accordingly to get better coverage of your wedding.

# Don' just go for recommendations - Seeing is believing. Meet and check out the website.

# Most important - Book well in advance Good photographers get booked as early as one year in advance. The Big Photography companies also hire a lot of freelancers besides their own staff. Sooner you book, sooner the Photography company or agency can fix assign the best photographers and videographers for your wedding ceremonies.

# Should be able to work and coordinate with both sides - yes this is a very important aspect. The team should be big enough to cater to both sides well.

# Same team for Photography and Videos helps in easier coordination. - It's always better to source the wedding Photographers and videographers from the same company as it becomes easier for you to coordinate everything at a single point rather than going around here and there.

# Go for a Pre wedding shoot - Book the same team to do your pre wedding shoot. This enables you to understand the approach of the team and also get an idea about the actual style. This interaction helps you understand how easy or difficult it may get to deal with the team during the wedding.

Pre wedding shoot 2/11/18 - 305

Otherwise, if you are doing a planned shoot, look for the time of the day when the light is appropriate and suitable in terms of your subject, mood and concept. If you are showing a particular situation that happens in the mornings, the afternoon light will not look appropriate. It will not look realistic but fake.

As a travel photographer or a photojournalist, you may not always get to shoot at the right time. You may have tight schedules and may have to get the best out of the available lighting and situation. If you know photography well, you will be able to handle any challenging situation and use it to your advantage.

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Autofocusing or Manual ?

They do get confused between manual and auto focusing. manual does not let you focus better. I almost always use auto focusing for all my shots as it lets me do other important things like framing etc. Unless required, i do not shift to manual focus.

which focusing Mode is right?

Yes, I do shift my focus points quite a lot to overlap the area or even a small portion, i would like to have sharp in my photographs. many a times, as i am shooting fast, I do focus and recompose my frame, when shifting the focusing point is time-consuming. Do remember that the exposure is linked to the focusing point which you choose. ideally for better exposure I change the focusing point instead of recomposing. and when time does not allow, I focus and recompose. with Digital Photography, exposure is not so much of an issue as it sued to be at the time of film. Advanced full frame cameras with high dynamic range allow a lot of control in exposure during post production.

Single or continuous shot modes?

I generally, avoid setting my focus at " continuous" even when my model is moving. I shoot a lot of fashion images as well as street photography where it's very demanding to shoot fast. Instead of keeping the focusing mode on " continuous " or full-screen mode I always keep it on "single shot" as well as "single point" but release the shutter quite fast just at the right moment. This may not work for wildlife or sports photography but does work quite well in case of fast posing models or random people on the streets.

It also depends a lot on your shooting style and what really works better for you. I personally prefer using the single shot mode even if the subject is approaching me but many photographers would actually prefer that the camera always keep track of the focus as the subject moves towards or away from them. Note that the focus does not really change if the subject moves sideways maintaining the same camera to subject distance.

Be extra careful when Shooting at wide opened apertures

We all love that shallow depth of field and are always tempted to shoot at really wide apertures like f 1.4 or f 2.8 but do remember that there are all the more chances of missing the focus at such shallow depth of fields. always focus on the yes while shooting portraits or otherwise focus at the most relevant part of the subject. You may choose to take a number of shots to ensure that you do not miss on the focus at the right spot.

Shutter speed matters as well. You need to be very steady and press the shutter release 

Every lens has a minimum focusing distance. shifting to the manual focus won't help if your subject is at less than the minimum focusing distance. step back to take the shot instead of moving to the manual focus. if your autofocus can't focus, you can't do it manually. 

Add distance between the subject and the background. Your objective is to achieve that shallow depth of field, which is why you open up the aperture all the way to the maximum aperture available on your camera. This leads to a very shallow depth of field, so shallow that the subject itself tends to get out of focus if you have not focused very carefully. Instead you can keep good enough distance between the subject and the backgroud and close down a bit. Instead of shooting at 1.4 you may choose to shoot at maybe 2.8 while increasing the distance between the subject and the background. 

Use Focus tracking.

many of the new advanced digital cameras now have this feature, which allows the camera to lock the focus on a particular person or the face. As the person moves, the camera tracks along the focus as well.

And most importantly the key to getting sharp photographs on your camera is to know the camera you are using very well. You should quickly be able to switch between modes and be able to shoot fast adapting your self and the camera to changing scenarios. 

Settings on your camera.

make sure that the settings on your camera are correct. If you have reduced the sharpness on the camera, obviously you'll not get sharp photographs.

Switch over to better lenses

If you are a canon user for example, opt for L series of lenses. These will give you best possible optics as compared to cheaper lenses from the same brand. Check out for reviews to understand which lenses are known for good sharpness. Amongst the good sharp lenses, you would need an eagles eye to distinguish but yes, an image from a sharp lens would certainly stand out from the cheap glass. If sharpness is your priority go for an expensive lens compared to an expensive camera body. That is if are on a budget and can spend more on only one. ideally go for a good lens and camera combination.

UV Filter

You do not need UV filters on digital cameras, yet they are good for protecting your expensive lens. Always put on the best UV filter from a reputed brand like Hoya. A cheaper UV filter will kill the sharpness of your superior sharp lens.

This fashion photograph shot late in the evening was supplemented with an artificial strobe light. This not only makes the photograph crisper but allows you to shoot at a relatively higher shutter speed even when the light is quite low. This was shot with Phase one P30+ medium format digital back.

Focus at what is important as you release the shutter to capture such spontaneous moments. While holding the camera steady is important, it's equally important to firmly press the shutter release button just at the peak moment of the action. this is when any fast-moving subject is at the most stationery position.

If you would like to learn more about Photography, do check out my online photography course or still better join the mentorship program / Photography course at delhi.

For example, Indian and western are two broad looks but you may also explore Indo western wear to strike the right balance between the traditional and modern look.  Further, you may showcase how versatile you are in terms of makeup and hairstyling. Costumes and makeup along with suitable backdrops and accessories can completely change your look and appearance.

Your prospective clients are always looking forward to see you in a look that is closest to the one related to their own brand. Having more looks or variations allows you to open up for more varried assignments provided these work well for you. 

You may have images in a saree but at the same time, you may also have some shots in a boudoir style. It totally depends on the kind of assignments you are looking forward to doing. If you do not relate yourself in the Indian traditional saree, you do not have to include this look in your portfolio. If you are never ever going to do a bold lingerie shoot, why even include it in your portfolio! 

It's after all a showcase of you. These photographs are going to give an idea of your personality to Art directors, film directors, photographers and clients. Your goal and potential should be very clear from your portfolio itself. 

Yes, Sometimes if you wish to explore a broader market for yourself, you may get the photographs done in different varied looks but share only the selected specific looks with your creative team so that they can visualize you better in terms of their concept and storyboard.

Many Photographers offer a short introduction video as a part of your modeling portfolio package to let you speak a few lines about yourself. This is quite convenient when you are aiming at acting and advertising TV commercials. 

In the following photographs of different models you will notice how outfits and makeup has changed the overall look of the models. 

_MUN2974 _MUN3097 _MUN3346 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Shipra Mallikshipra malik, top indian model photographed by Munish Khanna Pallavi

Dr harsh Vardhan_0023 Dr harsh Vardhan_0282  

Dr. Harsh Vardhan is the incumbent minister at Ministry of Science & Technology (India), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Ministry of Earth Sciences 

Dr. Kiran Bedi, photographed by Munish Khanna Dr. Kiran Bedi, photographed by Munish Khanna

Dr. Kiran Bedi is India's first woman to join Officers ranks of the Indian Police service. Currently She is the Governor of Pondicherry.

Dr. Kumar Vishwas was photographed for his TV show - Mahakavi on ABP news channel

One of the popular news readers of ABP News

Jeet Kalsi

Jeet kalsi is a famous Author who has written several Books

sangeet Bahl  is a successful entrepreneur and Image consultant. She has summited Mount Everest in 2018.

Ritu Dalmia is an Indian celebrity chef and restaurateur.  She was photographed for Society magazine.

Anshuman Mohta of Market cafe, specialising in Mexican and mediterranean cuisine.

campaign posters of Sarbananda Sonowal, Chief Minister of Assam. Agency - Ogily and mather

Director, DIC india Ltd., part of World's largest manufacturer of Printing inks and allied materials

Sarod maestros Amaan Ali Khan and Ayaan Ali Khan, sons of Amjad Ali Khan, photographed for Society Magazine

One of the key Directors at American Express

This is one question that is always there in the mind of an aspiring model who is planning to get into the world of modelling and is looking forward to get a modelling portfolio made. There are many good photographers out there but not everyone specialises in making a good Portfolio. It's an art as it involves bringing out the very best in you. While you do not know how to pose or express in front of the camera, the photographer is there to guide you and assist you get the right shots.

The Photographer is the one who runs the show.

The makeup artist and the stylist work along  as a team with him. The Modelling Photographer alone or Collectively with his team may decide and work out the best options for you. The options which go with your personality and not just for the sake of variety.

Many aspiring models end up searching for modelling jobs or agencies which can give them work. Look for the Photographers who make good modelling portfolios instead as the immediate concern is a good portfolio and getting the modelling assignments is the next step which is based on how good your portfolio as a model is. 

Check out the work of your modelling photographer on his business website.

There are a lot of budding photographers today, who are no doubt good as well but may not be experienced enough to work with a person who is just taking his or her first steps in the world of modelling. You will see a lot of good stuff on social websites like facebook instagram etc. but make sure that the photographer you are going for has a good track record of creating good photographs.You need someone with a creative and experience eye to hide your flaws and bring out your good assets.

An amateur or a hobbyist cannot always do justice to your modelling portfolio.

Will you get us work? This is another question many aspiring models are keen to know more than they are keen to understand the process of getting a modelling portfolio made. We all love shortcuts, but let me tell you there aren't any in modelling and acting. You have to have the talent and the right looks to make it in the world of films and glamour.

Its very important to meet the Photographer before you go for a modelling portfolio.

It helps understand everything better. You can check out the Photographer's work and have a look at the studio as well. The Photographer can guide you if you need to make any changes or you are not really ready for a portfolio as yet. This is not possible if you meet the Photographer just on the day of the shoot.

Ensure that your photographer understands, if you are targeting a specific Modelling contest or a Beauty pageant. These Beauty Pageants may have specific rules and guidelines so your portfolio must include the photographs on those lines.

Nothing can affect the mood of the photograph as can the face ! The expressions ! Even if the model is not really beautiful, it does not really matter as long as she is expressive enough to hold the attention of the viewer.

That's the difference between experienced and new models. Experienced Models know that how subtle changes in the expressions can change the overall look of the photograph besides changing it's entire meaning especially when you are shooting for a commercial advertisement. The expressions need to natural and spontaneous.

When you are a new model and shooting for your portfolio, it becomes even more important to express through your face besides ofcourse a good body language. Same expressions all through out make it very boring and give a clear signal of your inability to emote well. Be versatile. that's what the casting and Art Directors from film productions and Advertising agencies are looking for before they call you for an Audition or an interview.

It also depends a lot on the Photographer who is shooting you. While you are spontaneous, the Photographer needs to be quick and spontaneous as well so as to catch your candid expressions.

If the model or any of your subject is not comfortable in front of the camera it always shows and it's the responsibility of a good photographer to ensure that his/her models are at ease in front of the camera. Most of us are not used to cameras and lights. You need to explain to them and make them relaxed.

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Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. But eyes of the Beauty direct the beholder where all to look. Most expressions are conveyed through the eyes and the eye contact makes a lot of difference. It holds the attention if the eyes are expressive and captivating. On the other hand the model's line of sight can lead you to other areas in the photograph.

As you browse through photographs, you will notice the sparkle in the eyes and it's the expressions of the model which is making or breaking the photograph.

Facing a video camera can be quite challenging as you need to continue to emote as long as the camera is rolling. For Photographs, you may build up your emotions or change with every click. With Film, you need to build up under the direction of your director and move from one frame to another.

As the model got ready, I took the opportunity to shoot her right next to the makeup lights before she stepped in front of the studio lights.

  Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016 Miss Earth India 2016

Direct eye contact is important as it holds the attention of the viewer as long as the eyes are expressive. If the model is giving a blank look, it ofcourse is not going to appeal.

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The Expressions of the model are going well with what she is doing

Shipra Mallikshipra malik, top indian model photographed by Munish Khanna shipra malik, top indian model photographed by Munish Khanna shipra malik, top indian model photographed by Munish Khanna shipra malik, top indian model photographed by Munish Khanna

Munish Khanna is an Advertising and Fashion Photographer who has specially created one of the best online photography courses with a vast experience of teaching photography at his photography academy in Delhi. He has been running his Photography course in Delhi since 1993. Munish also specializes in helping young (or any age ) aspiring models to build up a career in the world of modelling and Acting. Do check out more details about the Modelling portfolios which he offers in Delhi. 

© munishkhanna.com

With changing times the wedding trends and especially the wedding photography trends and styles have also changed and changed for better. There is more awareness today and modern couples do not just end up meeting on the wedding day itself after their first formal arranged meeting. There is usually a courtship period when the couples can meet and interact for better understanding which helps build up a strong relationship as they get married. Getting a Pre Wedding shoot has picked up so much that it has become almost an additional wedding ceremony before the formal wedding. A lot of couples prefer a destination wedding in India or abroad. Both the Families and their relatives travel to a destination and the wedding takes place in an exotic resort, a Royal Palace or a beautiful beach. Reaching there a few days or a day earlier gives a good opportunity to do an extended pre wedding shoot on the new location with new backdrops of a fort or a beach.

The couple was photographed by "Together We Rock" at Tikli Bottom in Delhi NCR

A pre wedding shoot not only gives the couple a chance to interact with each other but they also get to know the Photographer and his or her team as well. This rapport with the team eventually helps during the actual wedding and everything goes smoothly as planned.

This is the time when you can freely discuss your ideas and concepts with the photographer. Once the photographer knows what is going on in your mind, he can suggest you the whole plan for the pre wedding shoot accordingly. You may go for a more elaborate shoot with a lot of costume changes in a Bollywood style along with a grand location or you may go for something more personal and intimate in a simple cozy and warm setting. Your pre wedding shoot can be more on the Fun side or more on the romantic side. Ofcourse it can be good combination of both.

However, creative or good your wedding photographer may be, it's always a good idea to discuss your viewpoint with him. After all he is shooting for you and not for himself. Discuss the kind of photographs you like and how you visualize yourself to be in your pre wedding shoot. You may want to go for what a lot of other couples have been going for or you may want to do it your own way. You may be more inclined towards Photography as compared to the video or vice versa.

You are not models, so the photographer can't dictate the poses and concepts to you. All these things must come naturally to you and a good Photographer will be able to pick up the best in you. It's more of an art and you should trust your wedding photographer for this. A good photographer should be able to make you both comfortable and help you get the right expressions and postures, which complement your own personality.

A lot of young couples love to add a pre wedding film as well. This may have Candid and spontaneous interviews or very well prepared speeches. Be natural. Candid is always better and you will relish it more in years to come.

The Pre wedding Film may revolve around the close chemistry of the couple. Or this may be choreographed around a famous Bollywood or Hollywood number of the couple's choice. This can be shot along with the photographs or on a separate day exclusively kept for the film. A lot of factors play a role here. How much time you have in hand. How much are you planning to spend? what exactly are you looking for? Discuss these points with your Photography and videography team and they should be able to guide you with all the details. Some of the common locations in Delhi for a Pre wedding shoot are Lodhi Garden, Hauz Khas Village, Humayun's tomb but these places certainly can be very crowded and generally not very comfortable for the couple. Since these can be very crowded especially on a weekend a lot of people prefer foreign locations in Europe or nearby Thailand. Quite a few specific locations have come up in Delhi NCR especially for Pre Wedding shoots. These can be hired for your pre wedding shoot and you get all the privacy needed to pose in front of the camera. Some of the well-known ones are Studio Future Forward, The Perfect Location, Tikli Bottom, Picture Destination, Love city. There are various sets available at these locations and one can shoot at any of these which the couple likes. The storyline, clothes and theme can be worked out around the sets which are available and these can be pre planned to save time on the day of the pre wedding shoot.

Humayun's tomb was the location for this pre wedding shoot.

The video above was shot at The picture Destination in Delhi NCR.

Together we Rock is a professionally managed photography company with a team of dedicated wedding photographers and cinematographers 

Are you Good enough to be a Model?

You do not need someone else, an expert to tell you that you are good enough to become a model. It has to come from within. If you have the confidence and carry yourself well, you can make a start. Today, with so much happening in fashion, Modelling, films, television and OTP platforms, there is a place for everyone as long as you are not restricting yourself to just the lead roles. be open to experiments and accept roles and positions which will go well with your personality. And yes, with parallel cinema in place, you have a lot of scope for unconventional looks as long as you have the confidence. Gone are the days when only being fair meant beautiful. If you are not perfectly fit but confident, there are a lot of unconventional options open for you.

If you are looking forward to being a successful Fashion model or actor you must explore the following aspects.

Be Fit. Before you even get your portfolio made, get into shape. It's important for both Boys and Girls. While women don't really always have to get skinny but tone down and get into proper shape as per their body type. Men do not have to get Bulky and muscular but more athletic and fit.

Be a good actor - You need to perform, be it modelling or acting. There are advertising campaigns that may just portray you as a beautiful subject with an aim to attract the audience. On the other hand, there are advertising campaigns and films which revolve around a story idea. here it is crucial to fit the role that you are playing, however short or long it may be.

Be versatile and expressive - A film revolves around a script with different shades of the same character. You get an opportunity to express your acting skills over a wide range of emotions. If you are versatile and have a good enough understanding of your character which you play in a film, the audience will relate with you better.

Prepare for your Audition - It important to understand that the one who is auditioning you may not always have the right skills to bring out the best in you. Also, when there are so many people auditioning for the same role, the cameraman may just be recording your audition with a very mechanical approach.

Be Punctual! Reach well on time - If you are late for an audition you may not get enough time to understand and grasp your lines. If you have arrived on time, not only you will be more comfortable with the environment and the people around, you will get enough time to rehearse and perform.

Don't be self-conscious at all - Understand the creative brief and the script as the case may be and simply perform. Once you are ready and settled with your looks, simply forget who you are and be the character you are playing. You do not always have to look beautiful but the way the character should look. You will look the best if you portray the character from the bottom of your heart.

Be natural and spontaneous - while modelling, be very spontaneous and go with the flow of the shoot based on your brief. Follow the instructions of the photographer who is shooting you and build it up to improve it further. The same goes with acting. 

Opt for roles that complement your personality - Not everyone can carry comic roles with ease. Know your strengths and opt for roles that highlight your strengths rather than weaknesses. Playing a character that you are unable to relate to will involve more efforts and it will show that you are acting. 

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