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.
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.
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.