Zdenka Povolen

I haven’t been a photographer for long, but I certainly love taking photos. I like creating atmosphere in my photographs and adding emotion. I think it’s important that a photo has substance. I predominantly photograph people, often in costumes, sometimes nudes, and photographic storytelling series. I value effective communication and a pleasant atmosphere in my photoshoot. I like to use practical effects such as smoke, fire, sparks, light, or movement of cloth and fabric. I know that I still have a lot to learn, but that will come with 20 years of experience under my belt. I believe in lifelong self-improvement.

The Art of Japanese Shibari

Shibari (Japanese for “bondage”) or Kinbaku (the name of the activity itself) is originally the Japanese art of bondage. These fascinating bondage techniques combine both sex and art. Consensual bondage is very visually stimulating and can be breathtaking, not only for the viewer. It is based on a close relationship between the binder and the bound—A relationship built on intimacy and complete trust. With such an intimate shoot, what role does the photographer play? 

Beautiful and Makeup-Free

Every woman is beautiful, even when she’s not wearing any makeup. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. In other words, the way one perceives beauty is unique to each individual. If we leave aside the philosophical issue of aesthetics, there is no blanket definition of what beauty is and isn’t. Societal standards of beauty are constantly changing. This applies not only to our perception of beauty but also to the way it is portrayed in our photography.

Ghost Photography Tutorial

Halloween goes hand-in-hand with fall photography. This means it’s time for spooky photoshoots filled with ghosts. We’ll show you a simple trick for creating your own spooky photo. It can even be a fun jumping-off point for a Halloween-themed family photoshoot.

Survey How Models Feel about Photoshoots

“Now look this way, please. Smile, put your hand here.“ A person is willing to go through quite a lot to get a nice picture of themselves. We were interested in what models think about the photography process. To find out, we did some research. Just like a customer satisfaction survey is part of the buying process, we reached out to several models and asked them about their recent experiences during photoshoots. We asked how they felt about it at the time and how they feel about it now. What they liked and didn’t like. The results of the survey surprised us, and unfortunately, not in a positive way.

Tips for Urbex-Style Portraits

Urbex, or Urban Exploration photography, is a very attractive genre, and not only for photographers. These urban settings present interesting and unique images. It is also a perfect opportunity for experimenting with portraits. What does Urbex photography entail? It can be exciting and sometimes a bit dangerous. It’s sure to give you an adrenaline rush. So be careful and watch every step you take.

Communicating with Your Models

How should photographers speak to their models? How should they set up a photoshoot with results that make everyone happy? Communication is the key to success and will help you have both great photos and happy clients. The two go hand in hand for a job well done.

How to Do Your First Studio Photoshoot

Shooting in the studio may seem much scarier than it actually is. If you don’t have a friend who’s a photographer to tell you how it’s done, or don’t have an upcoming class, we’ll share the basics of a studio photoshoot. What is a daylight lamp? What is a honeycomb or a snoot? Is any of it necessary? Learn the answers to these questions and more.

How to Give Constructive Criticism

Constructive criticism is a tool that can foster emerging talent or, it can completely discourage budding photographers. Very few people realize the power we wield when we can write a comment on practically anyone’s social media page. Let’s take a look at when constructive criticism is appropriate and when it’s best to keep your comments to yourself.

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