It was quite a moment’s notice to be shooting this pre-wedding photography session for Jocelyn & Wilson but I was not about to let this pass despite lack of preparation. In fact, it was a good opportunity to exercise some creative muscles as to how best to photograph this lovely young couple.
The pre-wedding photography session was held at my boutique studio at Petaling Jaya. I had in mind before hand, two different “looks”or theme for lack of a better word. The first was simply against a white background (turned grey due to light fall-off), and the next was down at my studio’s black timber deck court yard. The former would employ one single soft lighting boomed over the subject while the latter would go for a more gritty and harsher look with side lighting.
I thought Wilson’s grey suit blended well with the backdrop as the resulting contrast from the couple’s skin tone stood out well against an otherwise dull background. After getting some general shots, I proceeded to feature some detail and intimate shots, not before I first kicked off with two shots I pre-visualised much earlier, both of which happened to be one of my few favourites (Jo’s full length & herself on a step ladder chairĀ individual portraits).
Jocelyn was a wonder to work with. I guessed she was just very natural in front of the camera especially when she lightens up into a broad pleasant smile. Wilson on the other hand needed a little more coaxing. It wasn’t long before we both settled into our comfort zones and find the right definitive moment to capture.
I wrapped up the white backdrop session with more individual takes.
The above two shots were taken against the white curtains separating the primary studio area from the court yard below.
The following shots in the second part of the 2-hours shoot took place at the court yard. They are crafted with a film noir style in mind, a look further enhanced by the couple’s black apparel, flower piece, tux and bow tie against a dark brown irregularly textured wall; all things black!
All the shots were basically high pass filtered and mode blended with the Screen and Hard Light options in photoshop. The former gives it an atmospheric airy feel while the latter, a grim outlook for the film noir flavour. I was quite pleased with the results but frankly, they could have been better.
Here’s to wishing Jocelyn & Wilson a blissful wedded union and an exciting life’s journey ahead!