Naturally gorgeous portraits for women!
When I started my biz six months ago, I snapped just about every opportunity that came my way and it wasn't long until I realised that I love photographing women! (I also love couples and weddings but that's another post on it's own!) About two months ago, I jolted out of bed and thought, "Why don't I offer a collection just for women?" So the next day, I hopped onto Pinterest and started creating a moodboard of the type of images I wanted to shoot... the type of thing that's often in my head but probably a little too weird for family shoots!
Side Note: While photographing Micaela in the UK, she said to me, "You like taking pics of women, don't ya?" And I was like, "Yup, they're some of my faves!" And she was like, "Yeah, I can tell." Side, side note: Don't write 'like', like that.
The thing is, I've always had a soft spot for the weird and wonderful from heavy metal and bizarro documentaries to fairy tales and kooky fashion editorials. And I've always loved dress-up boxes with tulle skirts and sequin jackets! So with all this inspiration whirling around my head, I thought, "let's just shoot some stuff for fun and see what happens!" So I contacted a few of my buddies and set up some experimental portrait shoots (as you can see below, Max, killed it - so did Jess - her's is to follow soon!)
Another reason I wanted to shoot these sessions is because it feels dang good to be pampered! When I think back on my life, having my hair and make-up done for my matric dance and wedding day was such a fun experience, but it's not like we're all marrying and matriculating every five minutes. So I wanted to offer every women that experience without the corsage! Although bouquets we can definitely do if you're up for it! And while I don't think being dolled up necessarily = beautiful, it can be really good for the soul. Far too many of us focus on our flaws but I love being able to show a woman how gorgeous she really is. Often, during a shoot, I'll show a woman how she looks on the back of my screen, and she'll completely relax when she sees how great she looks. It's all about angles, people!
Now I'm not a studio-style girl so these sessions will be shot in whimsical places outdoors. (Truth bomb - this bougainvillaea below actually grows next to a Taxi Rank in Umgeni road which is why there aren't any wide angle shots - that's a BTS nugget for you!) For Maxine's shoot, I partnered up with Sabeha, an amazing hair and make-up artist who I met on another shoot. She's a whiz with a mascara wand! And ALL make-up magic. I sent Sabs my Pinterest mood board and she loved all the crazy ideas so I'm thrilled to have her on board as my go-to hair and make-up gal. While totally optional, the hair and make-up portion is totally worth it!
So yeah, these sessions are a wonderful way to spend an afternoon! I guarantee you will feel like a million bucks during and after. And I reckon, they'll also make for great gifts! If you have a friend who could do with a pick-me-up, this will be just the ticket. Heck, you could even book these if you want some creative head shots instead of something corporate-ish. If you opt for hair and make-up, Sabs will pamper you at her home studio (naturally gorgeous is the vibe we're going for!) and then we'll head to our location for ninety minutes of snapping. I'll also happily help you pick the perfect outfit and location! There's lots more info in my new Collection Guide so just shoot me an email if you'd like to take a peek.
Lastly, I hope you enjoy these pics of my gorgeous friend, Maxine. I've always wanted to photograph her because she is just exquisite. Thanks for a super Sunday, Max! x
Me please! Please send me your quote?
Ah, just saw this now for some strange reason! Thanks for reaching out on FB too x
Aw I’m dying! These are gorgeous. I’m daydreaming of doing a shoot like this with you. Saving all the moniiiiiies 🙂
We are gonna do it girl! Thanks for your kind words x
[…] written it out but we had a chuckle! Jess very kindly gave of her time so I could experiment with this portrait idea. The wind was howling but the overcast weather made for some moody vibes which was cool. Thank you […]