Louise

Louise had approached me a few months back, looking to shoot in February. An accountant by profession, she was looking to build the boudoir/lingerie components of her port-folio.  

She is very new to modeling but communicated well, and had a very clear idea of what she wanted to achieve from our two hours, which is always helpful. 

Shooting at a model’s home can be the best or worst of scenarios. However, when it comes to boudoir/lingerie (and especially new models) the sense of familiarity means the model is immediately more relaxed.  

Though well-versed in studio environments, I prefer natural light, when it comes to boudoir. Provided windows are sufficiently large, the softer light provides an additional element of intimacy. Talking of which, a respectful distance is equally important, hence these were taken with my favourite 50mm 1.8 and 60mm 2.8 prime lenses. A dual-sided (silver/gold) reflector being my only additional source of lighting.     

Suzie Marie

Suzie approached me in the context of a port-folio refresher session. She had modeled when she was much younger but children and other responsibilities meant it took a back seat. She was also wanting to regain her confidence.  

A hairdresser by trade, I wasn’t surprised to find her presentation and preparation bang on. There are definitely parallels between social photography and hairdressing. Both are very personal services requiring empathy and rapid rapport.  

Despite a bitterly cold wind, we managed to achieve some very pleasing results. Regular breaks to warm up and review progress also encouraged wardrobe changes.  It was quickly apparent she had modeled before and was very self-aware, which meant she posed very naturally and took direction equally well.   Key reasons why I enjoy working with those returning to the profession.  

  

  

Winter Fashion in The Woods with Emma

Emma reached out to me in the context of a winter fashion shoot. She had plenty of ideas and having thrashed out the finer details, I knew just the location. This was mutually convenient, and according to forecasts, conditions were favourable. Cloudy and 11 degrees. In practice, it was decidedly overcast and felt closer to 7/8 degrees, when windchill was factored into the equation.  

This meant we reviewed our work, from the relative comfort of my car and in between clothing changes. I went for 50mm 1.8 and 60mm 2.8 lenses, Sony A65 and A7 bodies respectively. I also packed my hand-held “Light sabre” LED light, in case we needed a tune able light source, to compliment the reflector.

  

However, a few test shots confirmed this would be unnecessary. Umbrellas were also packed, just in case the weather turned. They’d also double as useful props.  

Standing 5’9 Emma’s height and build favours editorial and fashion commissions. She can also apply makeup to a flattering standard and is very self-ware. The latter helps in the context of posing, although, like all good models, she readily accepts direction.  

Relative seclusion meant we could work, and she could change, without interruption, or unwelcome introspection. Two and a half hours later, pleased with the in camera results, we concluded our shoot and I went home to post-process.