I was extremely privileged to be a part of an extremely well orchestrated fashion shoot, head up and shot by the commercial, fashion and portrait photographer Matt Bristow of Rubber Duck Does Photography.
Every part of the shoot was amazing.
First, and probably most importantly as it is a fashion shoot, is the stunning garments from Haute Couture Fashion Designer, Pierre Garroudi.
Each garment was intricate in the fine details, and intriguing the over all design!
Next was the locations, and we were genuinely spoiled. The first shoot took place at Pierre’s Southwark studio, this was a little treasure trove of dresses and shoes, as well as Pierre’s own runway. Certainly worth a look if you’re in the area!
The second leg of the shoot took us to a not particularly well known part of Dover, Drop Redoubt. Thanks to Paul Wells, who is not only an avid photographer but also one of the key people in the Dover Western Heights Preservation Society,we were granted exclusive access into the Napoleonic Fortress. Anita Irbe who is one of Pierre’s interns also traveled down from London to fill the role of stylist. Holly Hawkins also came along for the day to see what was going on, and quite often found herself being used to meter from!
On location, Emily Rose worked her magic doing the make up for the amazing models Amy Roberts, Alisha McKenna and Hayley White, with Vicki Lord creating masterpieces out of each of the girls hair. I’m sure Matt would agree with me, but with out the work of Emily and Vicky, the shoot would have not been the same!
Finally, Matt’s organizations skills were just insane. Matt was able to organize the whole time, the locations, the shoots, the set-ups, the garments, the stylist, the lot. This is one hell of a skill and I feel I’ve learned a lot from this! People don’t realize how much goes into a Fashion Shoot! It was extremely interesting for me, from a wedding and portrait background, as there is so much more to organize (which does give a lot more time and control on the day) but it’s still impressive how each shoot came together just seamlessly.
Actually I should also probably mention my Dad (Alan’s) work on the set, as he’s mentioned everyone else on our main website. I’m pretty sure that despite the banter which Matt put up with his help was pretty invaluable! it Also let Alan know what one of his lovely children or wife has to do when he ropes us in to assisting on a portrait session! You can see him below in his dusty jumper acting as a VAL (voice activated light stand)
These photos are just behind the scenes snaps from either me or my Dad, so don’t mistake them for the final images which should make their way into magazines soon!
For lots more behinds the scenes photo’s have a look here on Dover Design Photography. Also have a look at Matt’s blog post!
