The forecasted overcast and grey skies that formed the core for my ideas were instead exchanged for some initial intermittent cloud and sun, to a constant and unforgiving harsh sunlight.
The forecasted strong onshore winds did materialise, however, with gusts upwards of 45 mph. An additional hindrance was stepping on boulders, some of which had moved in storm surges and would rotate just enough to unsettle your balance.
Given the unpredictability of forecasts and the weather itself, a contingency plan is always advisable.
All that aside, I, Mia, Callum, and Mike had the most enjoyable afternoon in this gorgeous location, which is south on the North Cornish coast.
Mia excelled as the model while Callum excelled at the difficult tasks of controlling the light during gusts. Holding a reflector at optimum angles while at times simultaneously applying blasts of wind via a leaf blower.
The amazing Elinchrom Three portable flash unit was used during some of the shoot to create a beautiful light by blending both light sources into one exposure.
You’ll see the wind in one of the background pictures bending the Strip Soft Box (elongated light modifier) quite considerably. I had brought a Beauty Dish with us (smaller circular dish) which has far less wind resistance, but its different quality of light wasn’t quite as favourable in that scenario.
This is an exciting and rewarding genre of Environmental Portraiture that I love indulging in and teaching. So please get in touch to add to or develop a portfolio from scratch.
Huge thank you to Mia, Callum, and my dear friend Mike for helping. (Background shots: Mike and Callum using film)
Bjorn.
