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.  

Sophia

Sophia approached me wanting to update her portfolio, to reflect her new, much shorter hair and to experiment a little. I’d worked with her previously, in 2018 so was pleasantly surprised she remembered me. We decided to shoot down by the Orwell Bridge and thankfully, the weather and lighting were conducive to this. Images were taken using Sony A6000, A6400, Viltrox 50mm 1.8 and 1.4mm prime lenses.  

Ayla

 

I’d been wanting to work with Ayla for some time but opportunity, not to mention the pandemic had frustrated this.  A chance conversation in October led to us working through a shoot plan, and ultimately shooting at her home.  

Good pre-shoot communications are paramount, but rapport and trust between photographer and model usually take time to develop. For this reason and regardless of experience, I prefer models to set the pace. 

We warmed up with some flirty fashion, slowly progressing through lingerie, boudoir and art nude. I also brought some props and Ayla unleashed her creativity. Conversation flowed naturally and the two hours proved incredibly productive.  

Most of this set was taken using natural light, Viltrox 23mm 1.4 prime lens and Sony A6000 body, although I used a 50mm 1.8 counterpart and Sony A7.   

* All images copyright Stenning photographic *

Catching up With Krystal: Boho Dresses & Borrowed Bicycles

 It had been a good while since Krystal, and I worked together. She had retired from modeling, wanting to concentrate on mentoring new models and the fashion/clothing side of the business.   

Out of the blue she emailed, saying she wanted to shoot with some dresses and a traditional “roadster” bicycle complete with panniers, dynamo and basket.  Given COVID is still very prevalent, I am being very careful about who and where I will work. Presently, studios are off but I’m agreeable to open, sparsely populated locations, theme allowing. 

We met at the location and enjoyed a very relaxed shoot, much of our conversation revolving around the business, and comparing notes regarding new models we had worked with. The good, the bad, and the downright bizarre. One common narrative was their desire (and expectation) for instant recognition.  

Some aspiring models have expected to be snapped up and agency represented within a week. Constructive tempering of expectations is met with defensive disgust and quite often, tirades on social media. However, we also discussed some very good debutants who were personable, willing to learn and looking toward building a solid career. I was also touched to learn she recommends me to new models she feels show promise.   

Long story short, it was lovely to work and catch up with Krystal again and I'm pleased she was happy with the results.