My love of London’s East End has
gone the way of its disused warehouses, derelict factories and other abandoned buildings.
Like a jaded old flame, all that remains is a history. Widespread redevelopment
and gentrification have also transformed its social geography.
Efi, a model originally from
Greece was my only business here. She wanted to do an autumn themed
fashion/lifestyle shoot. One that aligned with my desire, to make the very best
use of October’s rich colours, and receding daylight.
Having established the
specifics, through a series of succinct but well-crafted emails, I packed
cameras, spare batteries and reflectors. Despite many years riding and driving
through the capital, I didn’t want the hassle. So, train to Stratford and
underground to E11.
Despite the world’s fullest
bladder and other, network related delays I was “fashionably” (read
“characteristically” early. Some emailing, texting and people watching, filled
the slack twenty minutes. Not a pearly king, or queen in sight…
Heavily inebriated street
drinkers congregated around benches, reflecting on the days’ profits and losses,
supping super strength lagers.
A heady cocktail of soiled
clothing, stale urine and simmering rage permeated the air. Local traders busied themselves, affluent
couples and office workers passed by, quaffing flat whites. I pondered my good
fortune, and the dubious delights of root canal surgery.
I sent her a text advising I’d
arrived and where to find me lingering. Thankfully, I didn’t attract any
unwelcome attention. Keeping my distance, avoiding eye contact and candid
street photography, undoubtedly helped.
Efi arrived promptly and after
a brief introduction, we headed to our first location. I fired a few test
shots, gauging settings, while breaking the ice with some headshots.
Warm, witty and articulate,
she has a playful persona and a very clear idea of what she wanted to achieve.
Various locations and several outfit changes later, the three hours were up.
Even her long-haired feline wanted in on the action.
Efi has expressed a desire to
hire me for a fitness themed shoot. One I had no hesitation in agreeing to,
given the easy rapport, and mutual creative alignment.
