Bella & Kristen

 Bella invited me to do another shoot and this time with her friend Kristen. I’ve only done a couple of duo shoots and I’m usually very cautious if I don’t know one, or indeed both parties. Having worked with Bella on two earlier occasions, I was confident she would choose someone who had a similarly professional attitude.  

They were eager to continue the lingerie theme of our last shoot but in a woodland setting. The window of opportunity was short, given the potential temperature and lighting constraints, so they wanted to shoot promptly. Thankfully, we had free time the following week, which was dry and more temperate. We’re talking high teens, which is still comfortable for lingerie and to a lesser extent glamour themes.  

Bella had chosen a location in Drayton, which was suitably secluded and at that time of day, had minimal footfall- the odd dog walker and mountain biker. In practice, this also included the odd teenager taking the scenic route home, but they kept a respectful, if slightly awkward distance. Kristen is new to modelling, which is significant since bad experiences mean I generally politely swerve aspiring models. However, there are (almost) always exceptions to any rule and in this instance, the gamble paid off.   

Bella is 5’7 (1m70) Kristen is slightly taller at 5’9 (1m80) both within what some suggest is the ideal height for a female model. This also made for a very compatible pairing, given the theme they wanted to explore.  I tend to break the ice and test settings by starting with portraits and headshots.  

A technique I’m told Kristen appreciated and helped establish a comfortable rapport. Two hours is generally my sweet spot for shooting, especially with newer models. It allows for rapport, changes in style/pace, and breaks to recap and recharge. This set was taken using my faithful A600/Viltrox 33mm (about 1.3 in) 1.4 and A6300 with 60mm (about 2.36 in) Sigma 2.8 (set to f.3.2). 

Emma

Emma is a full time Nanny who has recently dipped her toe in the murky, though sometimes magical waters of modelling. She approached me, in the context of a fashion/portraiture themed commission. At 5'9 and blessed with an hour glass figure, Emma has more options than shorter models.

Modelling demands stamina. Mental and physical discipline. Dancers tend to fare very well, in this respect, some enjoying successful careers, well into their 40's and 50's.  Emma practices Ariel hoops, alongside more generic gym work, which became quite evident as time progressed. 

Sadly, I wasn't surprised to learn she's had some very inappropriate, and downright distasteful approaches from some "photographers". I am of course referring to those predatory people with no interest in the profession, or creative ability. 

The sort who use a camera as frontage, a legitimate means of approaching young women, but with much darker intent. This has spawned a new market, referred to colloquially as GWT (Girl With Tits). Arguably a mirror image of the GWC (Guy With Camera), these are women offering to "model" naked for £40ph. I've been approached by a few, in the last couple of years. Graciously decline, block and move on. Mind you, fair play to them, if they can secure regular custom and stay safe!

Commuter towns tend to lack characterful landmarks but Emma knew of several suitable settings, so I followed her lead. 

A railway backdrop was arguably the best, even if we were photo-bombed by a seemingly endless procession of secondary school children. While we pondered the probability of a carefully engineered, mass bunk-off, most passed with a palpable sense of  sheepish deference. 

This set were taken with my A58 and 50mm 1.8 prime, although the A6000 and 35mm Sigma also saw some action. While not formally trained as a Make Up Artist, Emma shows genuine competence, which is another, definite plus. Her fair complexion and rich auburn hair contrast beautifully, so I prioritised colour, although converted a few to monochrome, which she also seems pleased with.