Elle: Tall & Tattooed

 

I discovered Elle while having a wander around the portfolio hosting and networking sites. January, as most of us know can be a long, slow month, so I relish the opportunity to get creative. Alternative is one of those words, rather like Bohemian that has arguably been used to the point of losing its meaning.  

In a modelling context it refers to characteristics or features that arguably wouldn’t be of interest to high fashion and traditional model agencies. However, some highly experienced models can and do transition from the world of bridal and traditional modelling.  

Elle stands 5’10 tall, which certainly falls into the beautiful end sought by fashion houses and publications. She’d been modelling for a decade both here in the UK and Italy. We discussed themes and locations- neither of us shoot from our homes and for mutually appreciated reasons. Privacy and personal security being high up the list.  

Elle secured a hotel for our first meeting. We’d discussed some themes- bold and adventurous but without crossing into gratuitous nudity.  I was also keen to capture who Elle was and moreover, a comfortable model always produces better images. I always start a shoot with the emphasis upon clothed and then transitining slowly to nudity.  

Aside from establishing happy, comfortable rapport between both model and photographer, it allows me to see how someone stands, moves and evaluate how to pose them. I also make a point of letting the model lead, especially an experienced model such as Elle who knows her body and how to create flattering angles. During this phase ideas tend to flow seamlessly. Sometimes this translates beautifully in the final images, sometimes not but that’s all part of the creative process. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.  

These were shot using natural light, alternating between 25mm and 50mm prime lenses.  

A Laid Back Shoot with Lynn

 Lynn approached me in the context of a fetish-themed shoot. I fancied something a little different, so after some back n’ forth regarding ideas, styles and ultimately, dates, we shot in natural light, from her remote home. As with many models, returning to the profession, she had some astonishing, sometimes hilarious and occasionally terrifying stories.  

S Is For Shibari

Shibari, translated literally, means “To tie” but, in western popular culture, a word synonymous with bondage/BDSM and similar fetishism.

There are connotations, which I am slightly uncomfortable with.

Specifically, undertones of sexualised violence, towards women. That said; life is about questioning and exploring. With this and other “non touch” protocols in mind, the tying was performed by a highly qualified third party.

The shoot started with a fetish theme-our old friend PVC; and became progressively more provocative. Rules are made to be broken, but model comfort and safety (not forgetting my own) must remain intact.

Thankfully, Lauren seemed at ease throughout and I think this shows in the images. Not something I would entertain with an inexperienced model, or without a wealth of clearly established safeguards.

Given the temperamental compatibility between Sony A (Minolta) mount cameras and studio remote triggers, I took the A58 workhorse and 50mm 1.8 prime as a standby. These were shot using my A6000 and 60mm 2.8. prime. F14, 1/125 and ISO 100, in case you were curious...

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.