This type of photography is striving for a look that is natural, and even has a look that it has not been posed for at all. Comfort is essential not just physical comfort though that is important, but mental comfort, model must be able to understand concept behind what you are trying to do so that she can co-operate. You have to take time to explain techniques of flattering compositions, but equally model has to work on being fluid and graceful in these motions.

A good relationship with your model built on confidence is essential when you come to evaluate and criticise work. Your first session will create tone for future work, but that is when a model will be her most nervous, a way of getting over this barrier might be to ask her to come accompanied, and that may make for a lighter more relaxed session.

Working with same model over a number of sessions builds up a rapport, and helps model learn what works in images, and what doesn't. She has to be able to see completed image, before this is really possible. As model becomes more familiar with how you work and experiences crucial processes of making an image, model becomes better at generating poses which work for you, and on whole, number of successful images increases.

The locations for this type of photography is not important in terms of finished image, but it needs to be a little circumspect, or you have to take along a person who watches for stray wanderers if it is outdoors. Lighting normally seems to be better if it is natural, but a single candle can be effective particularly with use of an older model.

It is important to think ahead before this type of assignment and instruct a model to wear loose clothing and possibly no underwear as strap marks into skin can take a long time to subside and will ruin final shots.

Once you have managed to break into this type of work there are many stock libraries that specialise in this type of work.

Hanging Small Plates:

Grouping smaller plates together in one area can add interest and keep them from getting “lost”. Use a common theme like, color, pattern or style to pull them together. Hang a single smaller piece low on wall and as close to furniture as possible, otherwise it will seem to be floating.

Grouping Plates:

The key to grouping pieces together is to space them properly. Each item should be spaced about 3 inches away from items on either side. Try positioning them on floor or a table to get a pleasing arrangement before placing nails and measure carefully before making any holes.

Height:

Plates should be hung with center of plate at eye level. That means center should be about 60 to 66 inches from floor. If you've visited a gallery you will see that frames are not lined up by their top or bottom edges but that pictures are all centered at same height.

If platter or plates will be viewed from a sitting position – like from dining table, you should hang at eye level of sitter.

If you are hanging it behind dry sink or server, make sure it is no more than 10” above back.

Using these tips you can transform your bare kitchen walls into a designer showcase with a unique focus on antique plates!