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There’s a very valuable nude photography tip in this shot. Trust me, I was there.

This picture was taken many years ago. In fact, it’s from one of the first three or four nude shoots I’d ever done. I’d like to tell you that I was in complete control of the shoot and impressed this particular model with my expertise. Unfortunately, that’s not what happened.

Like most new photographers, I was attempting to juggle all the variables that a nude photo shoot requires. However, unlike the models I’d photographed previously, Tara was very experienced and had little patience for my frequent confusion regarding what to do next.

During one of the many self-caused delays, I looked her way and and noticed that she was staring at me with a look of disdain that 19-year-old girls seem to do so well. But I couldn’t help myself. I quickly snapped off this shot.

In spite of the circumstances, I really like this picture. It’s not posed. It’s honest. It’s real.

Looking back, I wish I hadn’t added the extra grain and the purple tone; but it was during my early days with Photoshop and I couldn’t help myself. Unfortunately, I’ve since lost the original slide.

So what lesson can you learn from my experience?

Simply this:

If you’re new to taking nude pics, don’t worry about things going wrong during a shoot. Trust me, things are going to go wrong. Simply accept that fact and move on.

And don’t worry about being nervous before a nude photo shoot. That’s to be expected.

But here’s the good news: Not only can I guarantee you’ll survive the shoot, I also guarantee you’ll learn a lot in the process.

And before you know it, you’ll be the one with the experience.

Do you have any similar experiences that have shaped your photography work? Share it with us with a comment.