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.  

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.     

Jane F

Jane is a professional, agency represented, mature model. She’s worked in commercial, fashion, editorial, catalogue and catwalk. Alongside this solid modelling career, she’d been a teacher for 28 years and has worked as an extra, in TV and film. She approached me in the context of portraiture and headshots.

She was very specific in her brief, and described herself as very critical. Not in a disparaging, or otherwise negative sense. Rather, she had high standards, and knew precisely what she wanted. These briefs may sound daunting but are often the easiest to fulfil.

There had been a lull in modelling commissions recently, although I have become increasingly particular regarding the models and commissions considered. I’ve had several approaches, but pre-shoot communications have ruled them out. 

Jane is based in Suffolk, so Walton On the Naze seemed a mutually convenient meeting point.  5 days beforehand, she emailed advising she’d been struck down with a heavy cold but hoped to have fully recovered by then. 

We agreed she’d confirm one way, or the other, 24hours beforehand. She did just that, I checked cameras and charged batteries. I knew of a few suitable backdrops along the town’s side streets. Public enough, from the perspective of personal safety but unlikely to attract unwelcome attention.

I was a little concerned that the school half-term holidays would present a few challenges. I’d been in Southend the weekend before and that was unusually busy. Several weeks of monsoon rains gave way to autumnal sun, bringing people out-myself included!

Wednesday’s conditions were dry and partly cloudy, which seemed ideal. However., a bracing coastal wind demanded efficiency. I plumped for primes. My 50mm 1.8 default and a 30mm 2.8 E mount Sigma.

I usually shoot between 11 am and 2, especially during autumn and winter. Ours shoot was between 2 and 4. Therefore, I hoped the light would hold out, at least until 3.30.  A 1.8 lens covers most bases and my preferred depth of field.

Pre-shoot communications are also a great way of establishing rapport, which helped in the speed stakes. Nonetheless, model and photographer need a little time to warm up. A set of weathered workshop doors proved the ideal backdrop for her first selection of clothes.

At Jane’s request, I shot a mix of headshots and ¾ length.  Having warmed up, we moved on to Walton’s pier, found some sheltered areas and after a quick change of clothing, continued shooting. This attracted a few onlookers, but everyone remained at a respectful distance.  90 minutes later, we retired to Revved Up Tea Bar  for coffee, shelter and a final review.