It is highly generalized that the female form is more beautiful to look at than a males. The most common reasons cited for this opinion include the fact that a woman's body features curves while a man's body is more muscular. In addition, the male body is usually perceived as more 'functional'. If you combine these opinions with the fact that throughout history most artists have been male, you can plainly see the reason for female nude photography in art rather than male.
But what makes a good nude female photograph? There are three main principles.
1 - It should be an interesting photo to view
Nude photography is synonymous with that branch of photography known as fine art. Fine art photography can be defined as photography created for no other purpose than because it is interesting to look at. As such, nude female photography is about presenting the female form in a way that is interesting. In order to make an interesting image, nude female photography tends to favor black-and-white images that are full of light, shadow, shape, and contrast. They are usually carefully composed and lit in order to achieve this.
2 - It should be anonymous
Nude photography is not about the person in the photo. It is primarily about showcasing the female form. Therefore, in most nude photography the face is generally hidden. This is different from portrait photography as its main goal is to feature the person or display their personality. Nude photography utilizes the body as a general category, the category of "women's bodies."
3 - It should be non-sexual
Nude photography is an art form as it depicts the female form in interesting views for people to ponder upon the beauty of nature. There is a difference between nude photography and erotic photography with the latter having a purpose of titillating or arousing the viewer. While the difference between the two may be small, it is the intent of the photo that must be considered.
Given that what is non-sexual to one person might be sexual to another, it is of course impossible for a photographer to know whether their intent to produce a nude photograph rather than an erotic one will be recognized by the audience. For this reason, at least in Western countries, certain conventions (such as leaving the genital region in dark shadow) are followed to provide an indication of the intent behind the photograph. - 30452
But what makes a good nude female photograph? There are three main principles.
1 - It should be an interesting photo to view
Nude photography is synonymous with that branch of photography known as fine art. Fine art photography can be defined as photography created for no other purpose than because it is interesting to look at. As such, nude female photography is about presenting the female form in a way that is interesting. In order to make an interesting image, nude female photography tends to favor black-and-white images that are full of light, shadow, shape, and contrast. They are usually carefully composed and lit in order to achieve this.
2 - It should be anonymous
Nude photography is not about the person in the photo. It is primarily about showcasing the female form. Therefore, in most nude photography the face is generally hidden. This is different from portrait photography as its main goal is to feature the person or display their personality. Nude photography utilizes the body as a general category, the category of "women's bodies."
3 - It should be non-sexual
Nude photography is an art form as it depicts the female form in interesting views for people to ponder upon the beauty of nature. There is a difference between nude photography and erotic photography with the latter having a purpose of titillating or arousing the viewer. While the difference between the two may be small, it is the intent of the photo that must be considered.
Given that what is non-sexual to one person might be sexual to another, it is of course impossible for a photographer to know whether their intent to produce a nude photograph rather than an erotic one will be recognized by the audience. For this reason, at least in Western countries, certain conventions (such as leaving the genital region in dark shadow) are followed to provide an indication of the intent behind the photograph. - 30452
About the Author:
Tobias Sterling is life long fan of photography. An established and knowledable photographer, he loves to share and contribute his articles including Photography Techniques of David Hamilton and Posing Photography Models Examples to Clivir.com.
