This was an EXCITING shoot for me! It was the first time I had been brought on board a project that involved multiple models for a particular theme where I wasn’t involved in the creative process.
In other words, I was asked to show up and shoot!
This is atypical for me because when clients book my services I am involved in every step of the process. I consult. I provide direction and assessment on wardrobe, location, even hair and makeup! I do my best to cultivate an atmosphere in which my clients can thrive, be comfortable and get the most out of their sessions.
In this instance, I hardly knew anything about who I was working with, what their background was and no expectations had been set on what to expect other than what had been established through the overall project. I was also sharing time and space with other established photographers!
Needless to say, I was NERVOUS!
Then I realized…
I’m still me!
DANIELLE
POONAM
Regardless of my lack of control in the project’s inception, I still still had control over the presentation, creative energy and hospitality I would bring to each set and model.
LILY
This was a stretching point for me to really stand by my vision and not be swayed by what was happening to the right or left of me.
DARCY
Once I reconnected with that mindset, things went exceedingly well! Each model I spoke with felt very comfortable, enjoyed my cooky directing style and felt they got exactly what they had hoped for from the shoot. I even heard from one of the Creative Directors that they felt my work produced the best output and positively highlighted each model’s frame, features and personality – offering a more diverse body of work.
DARCEY
In the end, I was very happy with the work I produced. More importantly, I was my models were happy. I also found it refreshing that as a female photographer, I was able to bring a sensibility to the session that some of the models felt was lacking with my male counterparts.
It helped me realize that my viewpoint is valid and even necessary – and that’s a reason to stand up proudly.
2 Comments
I love shooting with you, Rodnesha! I know I can trust you to get the most flattering shots as well as the shots that really make a statement. Essentially, I can trust you to make me look good. hehe You are tremendously talented and I look forward to working with you again in the future!
Luv it! Thx for the experience, everyone. Great team to work with and inspiring women for sure.