Hey all...just interested in hearing what you found to be the best idea for making skin look wet on a model? Have heard of multiple ideas but with so many allergies out there now, I just wondered what you have safely used?
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SimonL which kind of oil? Johnson's Baby Oil is one I've specifically had models tell me they're allergic to.
I've used Baby Oil and a water spray, obviously, you need to ask the model if they are okay with it.
Edited by Simon Pole
Not sure if you mean with droplets of water? If so, as per above. I have a supply of Baby Oil, which, while not being hypoallergenic is (hopefully) the mildest around. Then a warm water spray. Doesn't stay warm but at least it doesn't give a shock.
If you've not used oil before it's worth taking a couple of test shots, it's very easy for the model to (a) miss a patch, or (b) leave a big streak of thick oil on the edge of where she's spread it. Also things like baby oil is designed to be absorbed, so it is! Which means that it can quite quickly make the outer layer of the skin less hydrophobic, so the water doesn't bead so much for so long.
I'm guessing a good dollop of molten lard would last a while.... (insert puking emoji here)
If you're after droplets, 1 Part Glycerine with 3 Parts Water in a spray bottle works very well.
I've used this a couple of times. Mix or olive oil and coconut oil. Has a lovely smell and lasted well. Then a plant spray full of warm water.
Or indeed Coconut Oil, solid at room temp, +/- olive oil out of the kitchen.
I usually throw the model in a nearby river or lake, and take photos once they've climbed back out. If I'm lucky I'll get one or two shots in before running.
https://amzn.eu/d/35fcaX0
It is oily - so beware getting it on sensitive fabrics - but has a nice sheen and lasts well without being too slick. It’s much nicer to use than baby oil. And models really seem to like it :)
Edited by Simon Carter
I usually throw the model in a nearby river or lake, and take photos once they've climbed back out. If I'm lucky I'll get one or two shots in before running.
Brilliant Idea! Will try this on my next ballgown shoot... Haha!
The usual method for wet look skin is to spray onto oiled skin which helps the water to stay as droplets or run if more water is applied, eg a shower, to get a water running off look.
If being cautious about allergies most models will have a body oil/conditioner they have arrived at which is safe/non allergic for them, then spraying I use- ( or have the model use if more appropriate!) an indoor plant atomiser spray bottle, a 20% addition of food grade glycerin helps to achieve and prolong the droplets, the direction and quality of the lighting, harder more directional with fill as necessary shows the water better.
I think what most have said here the baby oiled skin and water spray but also some post processing to make the skin glow as well
Light spray of Olive oil, massage it into the skin and then water mist... Size of droplets depends on what look you are trying to achieve.
