Sometimes concept shoots have a theme, or they are things I want to do to explore some technique or idea. And sometimes they are borne out of a cooperative effort between multiple people. This particular shoot was just that.
I had worked with Cindy Alderton a few times, on weddings, shoots, and collaborations of various ideas we had. The graveyard shoot was one such concept shoot. Her approach in that shoot was more intense than mine, but we achieved mutual results that were quite usable.
This time was considerably different. Cindy designed and created the Amazing Black Dress, and we collaborated on the design of the hair, although Cindy ended up doing the updo work. The design concept for the shoot was mostly mine, although the shooting angle and developmental approaches differed after the shoot.
I welcome collaborations with other artists. We only grow through diversity. Cooperation outweighs solitude by at least a hundred-fold.
This first image comes from the idea that something is attempting to take the young woman away, a “something” that is scary and has her wrapped up in its way with the red sheer fabric. It’s all quite open to interpretation, really. I was going for the lighting concept more than anything else.
Now trapped, the young woman must plead for her safety. What is at stake is not quite known, but it could get dire.
As punishment for her pleas, she is banished to the cold and to a less beautiful surrounding. The model here, Veronica, made it look easier than it actually was. With temps in the upper 30s, we spent brief periods of planned shots and lighting while she remained wrapped in a coat, and then unwrapped her, took the photos and wrapped her back up.
Sometimes you just have to make the best of a bad situation, and accept that the cold is not your worst enemy. Perhaps your mind is. The outside portion of this shoot took less than 30 minutes. Cindy also did the model’s makeup… she’s sort of universally talented like that.
Finally, there is hope. The potential of a rescue, a hero… perhaps a knight in shining armor? Whatever it may be, at this point she’s hoping that it happens soon.
Blissful in rescue, our heroine rests knowing that soon there will be warmth and peace.
Finally back in the comforts, she wraps up and rests. No more monsters for her.
Thanks for indulging the commentary. The Amazing Black Dress shoot was a collaborative effort that had many facets of wardrobe, makeup, lighting, and image-making.
We like collaborating with other photographers, designers, makeup artists and more. Please contact us to begin creating a new concept!
This is one bride whose wedding I was very much looking forward to because we have known each other for over 15 years. As a dancer, she was precocious and full of life. And as a dance instructor, she keeps the happy in the dance.
Starting at the beautiful McFarland House in Martinsburg, WV, the wedding preparation was done in their now infamous “bride room.” Lots of laughter and plenty of smiles, along with those awkward moments that are only shared by sisters and best friends when trying to make sure that the clothing “fits.” We took a few photos in there, and elsewhere within the McFarland House.
A short trolley ride, courtesy of our friends at Detailed Destinations, and the ceremony was on at the eras-old St. John’s Lutheran Church. After a few more photos there, we headed back to the McFarland House, but this time the bride and groom rode back via horse and buggy.
Then the real party began!
The happy couple spent the day enjoying their family and friends, the wonderful food and the delicious cake. There was plenty more shenanigans (see the cake pictures), and lots more laughter. It was my idea of the “perfect wedding.”
Congratulations to Kayla and Cody. It was a lovely wedding. And only a couple of weeks after this lovely wedding, we did a Trash the Dress session the very dress she wore to her wedding.
Many of my students over the last couple of years have asked “would you give me some criticism on a photo I took recently?” My answer is that I’m happy to do so. But a proper review is more than just a passing glance and a “yes, no or maybe” type of answer. 30 years of experience has given me the opportunity to learn and to teach that kind of experience. My hope over the years has been to convey at least some of my adventures over the years to others.
So, I’ll make everyone an offer. You can submit one photo, privately if you wish (via email), and I’ll provide a detailed review of the image and offer constructive criticism that will help you make the image better. Let me just warn you in advance, though. If you’ve added HDR to your image, or some kind of overblown special effect, I’m already not going to like it. Let’s see some real images, with your style attached.
I strongly dislike criticisms that don’t include a “here’s what I would do to make it better.” I’ll include it with each one. But please, for now, just one. If you like what I do for you, I’m happy to help you with others. There are most likely a lot of images that you’ve thought “hey, I really like this picture” but you weren’t sure if it was because you got some “Likes” on Facebook or because it has good photographic value.
Note: It’s important that you are as serious about your photography as I am about mine. Please don’t send snapshots and family pictures from vacation. Your best images from real sessions and weddings only, please. Let’s see your best work!
If you know me on Facebook, feel free to contact me there as well. If you want a non-private review, I can do that on Facebook for you.
