One Location, Two Models

 

Some photographers seem to default to a set location, which to me can quickly become tired and doesn’t necessarily work with the model(s) concerned. I don’t but every so often, make exceptions. Mary wanted me to do some promotional portraiture and related business themed headshots. Krystal got in touch saying she would be in the area that week and essentially, asking if I was coming out to play...Spoiler alert, the answer was yes to both.  

On both occasions, I chose the Neptune quay area of Ipswich given the mix of peely paint porn, abandoned buildings, high quality murals and of course, the marina. Though I used some of the same locations for both, I deliberately avoided carbon copies. Krystal and I found a very obviously derelict looking building and steel door with obviously receding paint. She and I have worked together for years and enjoy the unbeaten path.  

Mary had only worked with me on one previous occasion, so I was wary of leading her away from the immediate area and where she felt most at ease. Often, it’s about making the best of your environment. Noting Mary had a faux leather “Brando” jacket, I posed her with this Kawasaki. Krystals very bold red dress saw us employ the phone box, the buoy while the tunnel and skate park made effect contrasts.  

There were some interesting alleys and features-suitably public but set back from potential, unwelcome intrusion.  This was another opportunity to use the full frame A7 and dedicated 50mm prime lens. Mary’s entire shoot was captured with the A7, Krystals a mix of the A7 and A6300 with wider angle lens.     

Back to the Boatyard. Work, Rest & Play with Krystal J

 I received a “Coming out to play” invite from Krystal. She hadn’t a location in mind, so I suggested the Pin Mill Boat Graveyard. She was very excited by the slightly eerie vibe. We share a mutual fascination for derelict and abandoned places and this wavelength certainly helps cement the creative harmony. Krystal is an experienced model. She started with bridal and transitioned toward the “alternative” genre via custom motorcycle publications, including Back Street Heroes.  

I’d prepared for most eventualities- towels, bucket, solvent cleaner, snacks, change of clothes, waterproof hiking boots and first aid kit. However, we were able to shoot uninterrupted, save for the odd friendly greeting from dog walkers negotiating the wooded trail above. An elderly couple were also capturing the wrecks with their SLRs, so we kept a respectful distance.  

 

I was earlier than originally planned and traffic was light, so the tide was also in our favour. The final set was taken as the tide was racing in, but we had a good 90 minutes prior to that. All were shot using my Sony A6000 and A6300 bodies with Viltrox 23mm 1.4 and Viltrox 33mm 1.4 prime lenses.