Fashion and Beauty shoots with Monique

While going through the images I've made with different models, I compiled this small retrospective of my shoots with one redhead, Monique Kathleen.
I'm finding it interesting recalling the work and great times we had creating the diverse range and variety we can see here. Although some were planned, the ones that are most satisfying turn out to be the ones born of opportunities that the gods threw at me. Because I see changes to plans as just that, opportunities.

One that springs to mind is a denim story we were in the middle of, and I saw behind my back a fast approaching storm. So do we race to change outfit, or race to another location close by to be ready for those raging clouds. I'm pleased with my choice to stay with what Monique was wearing, because as it turned out, there was no way to get back to the car, change, then get back.
 
Part of that denim story can be seen above, along with my fav storm shot at the top of this compilation. At times I think we might have made it to the car and changed into a gown, but I know that would not have happened.
Remember that old saying.."Man plans, God laughs "  But in this case, I was tempted, but I made the right decision and we were rewarded with some powerfull images.
All in all an awesome afternoon's work, and it was a long drive back, because I couldn't wait to get amongst my images.   Some of these images can be seen in older blogs, take a look.

                                                     Another great day at the Office.
   

Texture was the feature of this Seaside Fashion shoot with Alexis

When styling this shoot I was looking to contrast Alexis's gorgeously smooth skin with some texture both with what she would be wearing, as well as the accessories.
My favourite of which is the wicker basket bag that I had scored in my hunt for things that lived and breathed natural colours and textures.
Alexis's strong connection with the camera brings an intimacy that I believe helps make contact with the viewer, and I must admit I think is an important component of an image's ability to stand out from the mass of photographs that fill our day.

Just Add Water…..Swimwear Shoot by a Waterfall created by stormy weather.

I was shooting with a new African model, Mary, and had loaded up with all our planned clothing and accessories, when I drove past a favourite location, just to check out conditions. We had plans to drive on, until this rush of water, a mini waterfall, enticed me to change plans.
The old proverb "That Man plans, and God laughs" does not often apply to me, because I'm always ready to seize upon a fresh idea when the God's throw potentially great stuff my way.

I know that these days, many young models like to shoot something they have seen before and like to do, but I'm open to see what comes my way, while on the way, to whatever. After all the original plan is still doable on another day, so all is good.

To say that it was a cold day is an understatement, but Mary had both the courage to give it a go, and the foresight to see it would be worth the effort.
After all haven't we all heard the old adage-"no pain, no gain". And then comes the satisfaction that you did well and turned a cold grey day around and into great images.

Mary was rewarded with just enough soft sunlight that made her already great skin, glow.

Makeup by Monique from Fab Faces

Fashion Parade of African designs from two Gold Coast creatives

Two new Fashion Designers have started taking their creations around Australia with a series of Collections inspired by different cultures. This parade in Sydney was inspired by Egypt, and featured African models strutting down the runway. Iman Deng and Suzie Mayom came together to form D&M.
D&M's inspirations were created with Silk and Other exquisite fabrics, with some Tie-Dyed to produce a great visual mix of patterns, to compliment the delicious texture of the material itself.

Portfolio shoot for Julia gets of to a great start

A location portfolio shoot is always dependent on the weather, and even though the wind came out to play, the resulting images look great. Maybe even because the wind come to join in on the fun. The sun did put in an appearance, just when needed. As I had asked the weather gods for some late afternoon light, it all came together, to brighten even more Julia's great smile.

 

Modelling Portfolio Update shot on location

Portfolio shoots need to target the model's strengths and clearly show what she or he brings to the table. Just coming up with interesting images might please you, the model, but is it going to cut it, if your looking to get booked by those that are calling the shots.
Portfolio shots need to give information, how you can move and body shots need to give a good idea of your body shape etc. As well as creating a mood or portray an emotion that catches the attention of talent bookers. Folio images need to stand out and give clients - Agents, Photographers, Art Directors and Editors more than just your great looks, after all just relying on your pretty face doesn't count for much when beauty is an entry requirement shared by all at each casting. As they say in advertising...you need to sell the sizzle, not just the steak!

Wardrobe styling by Florinda-WIT Productions, retouching by Gilbert Rossi.

 

Urban fashion lingerie story shot on location in Sydney

Location fashion shoots can be a little demanding when you need to deal with the weather's blustery moods, as well as the crowds of city workers trampling through your frame. On this day we had the usual groupies that have never seen a woman before and felt the need to make up for lost time, as well as a few that thought you needed their invaluable opinion. But in the end we came away with some strong images that made up for the demanding conditions, just another day at the office.