Enchanted Forests & Freezing Promenades

Despite the wind chill dragging the air temperature down to 2 degrees, Krystal approached me in the context of a forest shoot. I wasn’t expecting her to model a line of lingerie (!) but she posed effortlessly and without complaint. Though these conditions ran the cold gauntlet, they greatly reduced the probability of encountering (not to mention, offending) dog walkers and other passers-by.

We shot about 20 frames, in twenty minutes before deciding it was time to move on. I had intended to bring a large blanket with me, so Krystal could (a) Remain warm (b) Preserve her modesty, in the event of someone showing up.

However, she’d already brought a sizeable winter coat, leggings and dealer boots. Garments that could be quickly donned/dispensed with, as need arose.

We concluded the forest looked uniformly bland, given the time of year. Krystal took this opportunity, to change into her second outfit. I’d spotted some agricultural equipment, along an adjacent farm track, so we employed these, as our second backdrop.

I had also noticed a partially cannibalised Land Rover…Being as it was languishing on private property, I was not prepared to pitch up and start shooting. Professionalism aside, trespass is one of those things, which can take a darker turn.

Though signage may say “Trespassers will be prosecuted”; chances are, not for the crime of trespass, rather the more serious charge of criminal damage. I attempted to contact the landowner, but no-one was home, so we shot a few final frames, against these logs.

Three days later, KA with fresh MOT certificate, I was gifted some unexpectedly free time. Bracing coastal winds meant plucking my cowhide pilots’ jacket, gloves and thermal skull cap from hibernation. I headed out to Walton on the Naze and Revved up Tea Hut. Warm welcome, good ambience and a new range, of cold beating beanies and hoodies…If you were stuck for stocking fillers.  

Lipstick, Powder & Paint...Collaborating with Ellie Thurgood MUA

There’s no shortage of people, claiming to be makeup artists. Unemployed talent show hopefuls, dripping in disastrously ill matched foundation, being cases in point.

Qualified makeup artists (the sort delivering commercially credible results) are highly trained and skilled.

I was approached by Ellie Thurgood https://purpleport.com/portfolio/elliethurgoodmua/ , a part time MUA, who’d attained her NVQ level 2 funded by, and alongside another role. Ellie was talking in terms of moody portraiture. Despite a lack of references, she communicated her ideas coherently, came across as focused, reliable and professional. Gut instinct paid off.

With light and climate becoming unreliable, we agreed on an indoor location. I left model selection in Ellie’s court. She’d know the attributes required and I didn’t want the shoot scuppered by an unknown (and potentially unreliable) candidate.

I headed to the East Midlands, on another mission. Ellie quickly recruited Jerri Eliza https://purpleport.com/portfolio/jerrieliza/  Location, timing and suggestions flowed between us, via networking sites and other, digital platforms. Ellie was bringing her portable ring light, I opted to keep things simple. Flashguns, Sony Alpha SLR, Samsung NX CSC, batteries, portable LED “wand” and reflector.

Oh, and of course, sustenance for all parties. Miserable models, or (more likely) surly photographer could prove a real creativity killer during a four-hour shoot. We’d all agreed Monday evening-7pm.

I arrived on set at 6.45, Ellie 5 minutes later. Jerri was already there. Real world introductions done, we unpacked and set up. I’d gone for a 50mm 1.8 prime, set the flashgun and fired a few shots, then tweaked the settings to suit.

With a relaxed, yet purposeful mood, talk turned to our backgrounds. Something of a sociable loner (contradiction in terms, anyone) I am fascinated by people, which probably explains my transition to social photography.

Jerri happened to mention her family were of Irish origin, which explained her very pale “Celtic” complexion (although they had been in London’s East End for several generations).

She’s grown up in Newham (Custom House and later, East Ham). I’d lived in the central park area of E6. A stable and relatively, safe district 20 odd years back. However, inner city districts are always transitioning to some extent and once the creatives enter, developers aren’t far behind…

On best behaviour, I managed to subdue any urges to lament the area’s loss of derelict buildings/backdrops. She’d also worked in animal welfare, with an impressive understanding of dog breeds and their foibles.

My lighting calculations were accurate. Alternating between silver and bronze reflectors also achieved some positive contrasts. I have a resistance (rather than aversion) to golden hues but it appeared complimentary to Jerri’s tones and hair colour.        

Two striking looks (and variations) and good rapport saw time literally evaporate- We said our goodbyes, and I headed home to begin post-processing.

Don’t Take Our Decay Away

There’s a lot to say for studio shooting, when the mercury slides into single figures. However, Krystal and I weren’t deterred by November’s chill, so went in search of something quite dramatic.

Beacon Hill Fort has been a fort since Tudor times. It was subsequently upgraded to meet the needs of both World Wars. The fort was finally decommissioned I 1956, and had been steadily reclaimed by Mother Nature, Graffiti artists and transient visitors, in the decades since.

It has been purchased by Barry Sharp and Paul Valentine. Not for redevelopment, but rather restoration. The roads, buildings and structures are being cleared of 20^th/21^st century rubbish. Anything that remained at decommission, will be retained. Trees, ivy and other foliage damaging the structures, is being removed and any unsafe areas fenced off.

The vision is to reconnect services, electricity and telephones to appropriate buildings, restoring them to their decommissioned state. Their intention is that Beacon hill will be re-opened and managed, for the benefit of the local community.

Serendipity is a recurrent theme of my location shoots…Having found the site, we began shooting at outbuildings and sea defences, accessible from the roadside. 90 minutes later, we were feeling the cold. Back to the relative comfort of my MK1 KA’s heater and some refreshment.  

Ten minutes hence, curiosity got the better of us. So, we walked to the main gate and I contacted Barry Sharp, on the off-chance we might be permitted access. In principle, he had no problems with my request. He graciously invited us to speak with Paul, who was already on site. 

Within a few minutes. Paul arrived at the gates and graciously invited us inside. We were given a map detailing access points and agreed to the “Own risk” proviso.  My experience in industrial contexts and indeed, previous professions means I risk assess very carefully, and understand the potential dangers presented. Although Krystal was rather perturbed at finding herself stood in a pentagon, while posing in the observation tower’s upper floor!  

By 2.45, light was at a premium. However, we worked quickly and achieved the desired results.

A big "thank you" to Barry and Paul, for being such generous and accommodating hosts.

https://www.beaconhillfort.org.uk/

Reliability & Referencing

Recently I’ve had two zero-notice cancellations and a no-show. The reasons vary. From models citing sudden academic deadlines, to more serious, health issues.

I don’t employ a blanket policy for these situations, since it can often depend on personal circumstances. Sickness doesn’t work to a schedule, the most reliable, properly maintained cars, or indeed childcare can let us down. I’ve been there!

However, unless there are mitigating circumstances (that I have been made aware of), two cancelations, or a no-show and there’s no way back with me. This is particularly acute, in a commercial shoot context, where an experienced, professional model is being paid.

A lot of planning goes into shoots. From the choice of location, appropriate equipment, snacks/drinks to maintain sustenance, pre-empting potential problems and their solutions etc.

I was recently approached by a model, who suddenly went cold, cited a whole heap of pressing engagements. She has subsequently been wanting to shoot. Intuition tells me she’ll cancel again. From my perspective, there are plenty of reliable, committed models to choose from... 

Thankfully, my pre-shoot screening process weeds out most potentially/ unreliable candidates. Being out of pocket and there’s little redress, other than a negative reference, which will only induce another, by retort. 

Another model, seemingly keen to work with me, postponed one week. Fair enough, I hadn’t booked a studio, or got in my car… Being self-employed, there’s always something needing my attention.

The shoot was rearranged-same time, this week. I got in touch, 48hours beforehand (not to mention, the morning of said shoot), checking she was still able to attend.

She confirmed and so I headed out... 

Upon arriving at our agreed meeting point, I received a text advising she was unable to attend, for seemingly genuine reasons. Could we move the shoot to 1pm instead, or move to another day??

I was already irritated but seeing as I was already there (1 hour away from base), agreed to the later slot. Light would still be good, and chances are, the weather would’ve also cheered up a bit.

Ultimately, she didn’t show but I got a real sense of her vulnerability, from talking with her father. Our focus shifted to locating her and ensuring she was safe. Thankfully, she was. I’m a compassionate person, so suggested she inform people of her conditions beforehand, allowing understanding and, informed choice.  

I also suggested she could concentrate on finding the right support, getting stronger before resuming modelling. She has the makings of a very capable model, so it would be a real shame if she bowed out.   

Blocking

To date, I have only blocked one model. She was based in Bedfordshire, a 90minute drive from me. This coincided with a trip to the Midlands, so theoretically, a great fit. After some formative discussions, she went cold. She refused to disclose the venue’s address, or supply her phone number, 24hrs before the scheduled shoot. I blocked her in preference to leaving a bad reference.

A Cambridgeshire-based model also approached this week...Then I noted 4 no-shows, out of 7 shoots. Not worth the risk. Let alone fuel, time and hassle.   

Models (and indeed, photographers) can “Ghost” (fall silent on a project). However, so much easier to act professionally. Say you’ve had a change of heart; or if arrangements have been made, give notice. Ideally at least 72hours.

The Flip Side

By the same token, I know of models who have been approached by photographers, seeking to shoot fashion, when their port-folio consists exclusively of erotic/adult images. 

Having gone through a phase of shooting fine art nudes, I can appreciate its easy to get typecast.

I’m happy (With the right models and appropriate safeguards in place) shooting this style. Nonetheless,  there are several other genres I’d prefer to be associated with.

The model in one instance, asked the photographer to detail the shoot specification, 48hours beforehand, or she would not attend. A request he declined. She refused to attend and subsequently received a negative “no-show” reference.

Double Trouble?

Duo shoots are something I do infrequently. Much boils down to disinterest in the projects, and specification presented to me. I’m not talking about couple portraiture, which I find candid and endearing. Rather, cheap pseudo erotica, with little artistic, or commercial value. 

However, Krystal and Gena approached me, thus exception made.  

Being completely candid, I was going on trust and established rapport between the three of us, rather than the brief per se. Besides, while boundaries are important, there’s the need to challenge ourselves and indeed, our perceptions.

KA header tank being replaced, I commandeered an elderly but extremely well-maintained Nissan. Timely too, since Gena had ordered a canvas from me https://michael-stenning.format.com/store . Dimensions (100x100cm) that my otherwise Tardis-like KA couldn’t host. Upon arrival, it transpired Krystal had succumbed to a burst water pipe, hence soggy carpet and curious plumber. Undeterred, we began setting up and deliberated about backdrops.

Both models are strikingly different in terms of skin tone, hence it was imperative we chose a complementary colour. White, or grey was too tame, and I suspected would leave Krystal looking washed out. Confirmed during a few test shots. 

Warm pink was perfect.

The shoot commenced with Lingerie, with leads and soft domination theme running through. Then of course, some PVC and a smattering of solo shots, primarily for Gena’s port-folio.

Contrasting colours, sizes and heights proved a reciprocal mix and frame to frame, the energy was positive and fun. I opted for a combination of 50mm 1.8 prime lens, Godox flashgun and natural light, streaming in from two large windows.

Several outfit changes and three hours later, our shoot concluded. I transferred the canvas to Gena’s car, then headed home, to commence post-production work.

Deadlines allowing and assuming it’s a daytime session, I aim to get a selection of retouched images to model(s), that evening. This also applies, for commercial and domestic customers.

Continuing the duo theme, I also shot this couple shortly afterward, at Juice Photography Studio https://www.facebook.com/Juice-Photographic-Studio-1736661156638282/  One I’ve used on several occasions, this year.

Spacious and well-equipped, Simon and Brian are equally welcoming, and straightforward in their approach. Suffice to say I’ll continue to put business their way, and have no hesitation, recommending them to other photographers/models/MUAs/ similar creatives.

Pin Up! Vintage Fun With Patricia

Patricia approached me, in the context of a 1940s/50’s pin up theme. Knowing how methodical and hardworking she is, I wasn’t fazed by the relatively short notice.

True to form, she was punctual and meticulous. Hair, makeup and dress were flawless. However, for absolute authenticity, she’d sought the services of a professional stylist.

Saturday 26th October marked the start, of a much-hyped cold snap. Though the air temperature wasn’t wildly unseasonal, wind chill was cutting. We started our shoot in a relatively secluded, private car park. Patricia came prepared with a hoodie and quilted jacket, to retain warmth between shooting.

Though it is widely accepted, that model and photographer need to arrive, equipped for changing conditions, I am very conscious of model comfort.

Therefore, fast shooting and more frequent breaks were imperative. Despite the bracing wind, Patricia posed seamlessly and remained stoical throughout. After 45 minutes, or so, we sook shelter (not to mention heating) in my mighty MK1 KA.

As we thawed out, reviewed the images and chatted about modelling/related matters, a flash of inspiration struck. We decided to ask Yaxley hair and beauty, if they would mind us shooting the final frames, in their salon. http://www.yaxleyhairandbeauty.com/

We were taking a gamble, given it was a Saturday morning. However, Phillipa, http://www.yaxleyhairandbeauty.com/the-team graciously agreed. In common with Paul at Revved Up https://stenningphotographic.blogspot.com/2018/10/all-revved-up.html   , she was also incredibly accommodating, clearing space/equipment-without request, or prompting.

Fifteen minutes later, we were finished. Patricia had another shoot, and admin demanded my attention.

Sincerest thanks go to all the team, at Yaxley Hair & Beauty, for accommodating us at such a busy period, and on spec.

    

All Revved Up

Krystal fancied doing something different and I suggested shooting at Revved Up. A biker’s café’/Tea bar spotted on a recent, weekend outing to Walton on the Naze.

This was one of our “on-spec” missions, which usually turn out favourably. I parked nearby, fed the meter and gathered our respective kit. Two minutes later, we were at Revved up’s counter and ordering some warm beverages. I wasted no time introducing ourselves, and explaining we’d like to use the café,’ as our centrepiece for a biker themed shoot.

Paul, the proprietor, paused for a moment, then graciously invited us to shoot wherever we liked. Within a few moments, the air thronged with the familiar rumble of V twin engines.

Krystal was invited to change in their back room, while I checked lenses and camera settings. In keeping with similar businesses, retail is a significant, second tier for Paul. Aside from a motorcycle frame and other biker iconography, there are rails of leathers, lids, boots, T shirts and other, reasonably priced motorcycle related apparel. I wasted no time thumbing through Paul's range of waistcoats.   

Biker’s haunts are traditionally very chatty, welcoming and informal. Word rapidly spread of our presence, prompting riders to approach us. Knowing the economic and sentimental value their machines hold, Krystal initially posed, tentatively against them. However, she was beckoned, positively urged aboard.

Frankly, I was deeply touched by how accommodating everyone was. Owners and customers were incredibly forthcoming- literally couldn’t do enough to assist.  After two hours of shooting, good humoured rapport and beverage slurping, we bid everyone a fond farewell.  ‘Till the next time. 

A selection of shots, printed on high quality canvases are available to purchase on my store:  https://michael-stenning.format.com/all-revved-up

Sincerest thanks go to Paul, and his customers at Revved up 133 High St, Walton on the Naze CO14 8AT