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Shoot idea - Ethereal beach

  • Writer: Conrad Lee
    Conrad Lee
  • Dec 26, 2015
  • 3 min read

Updated: Dec 25, 2019


Recently, I've seen some real nice sunsets at low tide on hastings seafront and that got me inspired to do a shoot in this great setting. I think the soft warm coloured sky and dramatic clouds reflected by pools of water at low tide gives a lovely scene for a shoot.

So heres the idea thats been running in my head... you have to imagine a sunset at a low tide, soft orange, pink purple in the sky, with expressive white clouds rimmed by the orange glow of the sun. Then we have a model in white , looking into a distance out towards the sea, as if she was waiting and longing for someone to return. The reflection gently lighting up the dress. Muted soft look to emulate the sea breeze.

Okay, well now this can go in two ways, focus on the fashion or portrait? I think it can go both ways and I would love to include both in the shoot. If wardrobe allows, a selection of clothing for an editorial is perfect.

Model: I am battling a bit to decide whether dark or light hair colour is better for this shoot. Dark hair would stand out more in the light surrounding, and give it more edge. On the other hand, a model with blonde hair would perhaps give it more of an ethereal softer feel. ** I think long straight hair, light brown or blonde would fit better with the muted feel Im trying convey through the picture**. Biggish eyes, brown or blue.

Styling: Clothing i feel should be white / cream. (nutural colour) Spring or summer clothing depending when the shoot is. I love elegent clothing. lacey dress are always very visually appealing. I dont think the dress has to be very long (or long at all), in fact if it doesnt drag on the ground the less messy it would be. I'm not really look for a bridel look (thats for wedding photographers). Something wooly may also give a soft feel. Hat and lacey gloves, if we are going for a vintage feel. If the hat is white, then dark hair and make up works better. (the theme would become more elegance, rather than dreamy)

Make up: Baring in mind makeup / wardrobe changes take time, and golden hour is short, so perhaps only a slight change on makeup if really nessercary. I think make up is somewhat neutral (not the edgy beauty type). Dark eye liner does sharpen the eye, and enhance eye contact shots.

Props: Now this is the interesting one. But I really love the idea of having a vintage set of table / chairs on the low tide. Also in white to match the clothing. The reflections would just be gorgeous. The set would just give so much more for interesting composition and posing. So whats on the table? Probably not food.. as we are not dining. (although we can always have some food on the table after the shoot!?.. arr how romantic..) ok diverting away now. I think simple flowers in a jar might just add a little matching interest to the set. I love props but its not always feasible (or available), but we shall see. Perhaps some seagulls flying in the background would give a nice shot when pulled back (when the focus is on the whole scene rather than clothing)

Other stuff we need: camera (obviously), reflector, a few towels, big warm coats / blankets

so plan:

weather - shoot is very weather and tide dependent.

model - any level of experience. (ideally can bear a bit of cold)

clothing - vintage vs modern

MUA - neutral make up, dark eye liner

assistant

props - will look at local vintage furniture store.

If you like my idea, or want to add some suggestions, I would love to hear you out. If you are a model, MUA, stylist and want to collaborate for this shoot, again please drop me a line :)

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