Frequently Asked Questions
The most popular question is:
How do you find nude models?
In the beginning, many of the nude figure and portrait models came directly from commercial shoots.
We would work together for a commercial client and the model would ask if I would help with her
portfolio. Soon, a barter system developed where I would provide prints or proofs in exchange for
some figure nude posing time.
All of the models appearing in the gallery and exhibitions either volunteered or paid for the
opportunity to become a nude piece of fine art. Some are professional nude figure models seeking
portfolio, web site content, and references. Most are artistically or creatively inclined and
simply desire the thrill of the exotic experience and the resulting professional images for
personal purposes. Their reasons are as varied and unique as their individual personalities.
Some potential nude figure models contact me following nearly every seminar, lecture and art
exhibition. Because they like my work, they are usually very creative participants. Currently,
most of my new artistic nude figure models come directly from the recommendation of friends and
other models.
Anyone can remove their clothes or disrobe, but very few understand the creative process.
Therefore, my policy is to avoid anybody that fails to understand the concept
of the nude human figure in history as well as the modern creative visual art process.
Inexperienced models are welcome and encouraged to collaborate on art projects. However, they
must display a willingness to learn about the nude in art and history.
Where is your favorite place to shoot nudes?
Generally, private location settings are more intense and exciting than studio work. Contending with
the challenges of existing light, wind and other elements are a lot more stimulating for my creativity
than the controlled environment of the studio.
Specifically, every few years I'm drawn back to the same remote stretch of water in the mountains of
Virginia. In the distance of less than one mile are a variety - in both size and qualtity - of rock
formations and waterfalls. The scenery is fabulous and changes with each visit. A photo session to
this area has often become a wonderful day-long adventure.
Some of my most creative work has been done at the Historic Moses Hughes Ranch, home of
musee-solomon and sculptor Al Solomon.
I also love the rocky coastlines of the US West Coast and southern Australia. There is character
and art in the surroundings that lend themselves to the subject, and in turn, to the depth of
creative images.
What type of equipment do you use?
Until 2001, my camera equipment consisted primarily of a selection of traditional Minolta cameras
and lenses. Since January 2001, I have worked exclusively with professional digital camera equipment,
primarily top-of-the-line Nikon cameras and lenses are an important part of my creative package.
For film, I have used nearly everything in 35mm format from Kodak, Fuji and Ilford. All of my
two-and-one-quarter images were created on Kodak film. My early nudes were usually done on Kodak
black-and-white film. More recent film images were created on either Fujicolor or Fujichrome.
Some of the special effects were created using Kodalith film in the darkroom. Now, I use
professional-grade electronic memory cards.
Studio lighting is supplied either by tungsten video lights or by professional electronic
studio strobes. A variety of attachments may be used. Studio backdrops are usually custom
hand-painted paper or muslin.
All of my PCs are loaded with Paint Shop Pro from JASC Software (not Corel) and Instant
Photo Effects by Streetwise Software.
Do you have a question?
Contact Allio with your question by e-mail.
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