The last photoshoot of 2018

The last photoshoot of 2018. And it was really productive, as it always is with a good team. They both had clear ideas about what they wanted, and came well prepared. You always have to adapt a bit if you're not in a controlled environment like a studio. But I think that adds to the challenge.

The plan was for two looks; one a bit edgier than we had previously shot and the second more editorial.

Xandria's mum found the location, a good call considering the weather. It's so much nicer working in the warm.

 The first setup wasn't particularly well lit, a dim stairwell, with one window. I think it worked for the theme though. I used a speedlight to add a bit of punch to the lighting. It was attached to a remote trigger and placed in a softbox. I try to use off camera flash as much as possible, it gives more control and options.

The second setup was completely different; against some big windows. It still needed the softbox to balance the background exposure and to give some depth.

We have started a search for a location for the next shoot.

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What happened to 2017?

One of my favourite pictures. It's printed big and hanging on my office wall.

Cycling, photography and life have conspired to turn the past year into a blur. It's very easy to forget how far my photography has progressed.
I keep looking for that tipping point. The one that will lead to paid work as a photographer. The picture at the top of this blog is a particular favourite from this year.

All of the pictures in this blog show how I have improved. Be it creatively, technically or with forming a connection with the subject. Working with experienced models means less pressure to deliver. So I am glad I have worked with Janayah this year. It has seen us both improve. And then to produce pictures for a client has broadened my experience further.

I thought I would look back at the year.

The maga shoot back in April, three models, two locations, three different looks. Really enjoyable, but tiring.

I need to find more wall space.

Another of my favourite pictures. It's printed big and hanging on my office wall.

Another of my favourite pictures. It's printed big and hanging on my office wall.

I have worked with Janayah a lot.  We have gotten better together. From our first shoot in April. Through  May at Crystal Palace, Dulwich Park in July and finally the November collaboration with Alison the MUA in Battersea Park. The added bonus from this last shoot was how it boosted Alison's confidence. I was glad to be able to help Alison. It's been great. We have another shot planned for an evening along the Thames in January. The shoot has a lot to live up to, each one we have done so far has resulted in better pictures each time.

Sport inspired shoot

Crystal Palace

Dulwich Park

A couple from Battersea  Park

The cycling posts have had picture content. I am really liking the lone bicycle in the countryside theme. And it's a good way to record the passing seasons.

Working with Zara again at the Hacienda studio, I set myself a challenge to balance a beauty dish with the window light. I think I did a good job. Leave a comment at the bottom of this post with you thoughts.

Then there was producing pictures for an online clothes retailer, a bit of an eye opener. Making every session count and dealing with an unpredictable client.

I have already started planning 2018. I have organised January; a model and studio I haven't worked with before and a night shoot with Janayah. 

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Please checkout my website and facebook page. And leave a comment about this post. I would really appreciate your thoughts on this or any blog post.

For more of my work, go to my Facebook page.

and 

website