The Concept: A Bruised Female Boxer Clenches Her Fists
A portrait of a bruised female boxer clenching her fists. I created this portrait in collaboration with makeup artist Lidia de Tena. For a while I had the idea of photographing a model interpreting a female boxer. My goal was to create a series of conceptual portraits using realistic makeup to create bruises and blood. However, I didn’t just want the boxing gear (gloves, clothes, bandages, etc.), I wanted to create a more realistic illusion.
For the makeup work I contacted Lidia, an Amsterdam-based make-up artist. I had seen her work before and I thought she would be perfect for the project. I told her about the idea, we discussed the details and developed a plan for it. The model for this project was a friend of mine, Myriam.
Setting Up the Scene
To light this dramatic portrait of a bruised female boxer I used a softbox mounted on a strobe. I used a relatively large softbox to create soft shadows. I placed the key light in front of the model, slightly above the eye level. This is lighting setup is usually referred to as paramount lighting. In addition to the main light, I used a second light to simulate ambient light streaming from the side. My intention was to create a subtle haze-like effect. This second light was a studio flash positioned slightly behind the model and to her left-hand side.
To set the mood I asked the model to look straight at the camera and clench her fists. I wanted her to impart a sense of toughness and readiness.
Model: Myriam
Browse other photos in this series: Female Boxer in Boxing Stance, Strong Woman Keeps On Fighting and, Female Boxer with Bruised Face