AOP part 2: The Location and the Shoot

The location was a disused factory in the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham. I have used the location several times for workshops.

more...

AOP part 1: The first shot

This was my first image of Maja. I was completely blown away. I remember jumping up and down exclaiming, "Oh my God, that's perfect!

more...

AOP part 65: How to photograph a model suspended from the ceiling.

Depending on the pose Maja has a greater or lesser control of her position. The silks can wrap, deliberately or as part of their own accord.

more...

How to select simple but effective props - free book excerpt

Remember the black infinity scarf? Well this is its red version. I've added red tights from my collection of props to make a real splash of colour.

more...

AOP part 63: How to pose and frame your shot to maximise the impact of the outfit

To really show of the intricacy of the halter top we really need to get a close up image. If I had not done this you would never see the detail of how the individual straps weave in and out of each other.

more...

AOP part 62: Outfit Determines the Shot

When looking at fashion photography you need to work out what is crucial about the outfit and how you will present it.

more...

AOP part 61: Shape and Careful Clarity on the Horns

The issues I discussed earlier about shadows merging on the black suit also applied to the headpiece.

more...

AOP part 60: Maleficent

As you can see, Maja and I are working a series of shots, building elements as we go along. This is a planned process.

more...

AOP part 59: Full on Alien

This make-up style was really striking me as something from a sci-fi movie, so of course the next step was to go full alien!

more...

AOP part 58: Not an Airbrush

This look I blissfully stole from the movie "Blade Runner". In the film the character Tris, played by Darryl Hannah, applies this herself using an airbrush in one sweep.

more...

Model of the Day: 31/08/2025 - Franka

Ivory Flame and a Flaming Dress

How NOT to Enter Competitions (video)

Painted Image of the Day: 31/05/2018