Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone: Shooting a Male Model and Actor Portfolio and Fashion Story in Fort Lauderdale
As a portrait photographer, I’m usually drawn to capturing the essence of a person in a single frame. But recently, an exciting opportunity landed in my lap: a chance to shoot a portfolio and fashion story for Trent Baldeo, a talented male model and actor. While it was new territory for me, my love for fashion and a “why not?” attitude propelled me forward.
The setting? Trent’s apartment building in Fort Lauderdale. This might not sound glamorous, but here’s the beauty of working with a skilled team: the location became a canvas. We had a talented makeup artist and stylist on board, and together, we scouted Trent’s building, finding hidden gems of light and texture. The spacious balcony, bathed in sunlight, transformed into a stylish backdrop for Trent’s swimsuit shots.
Directing Trent’s poses became a creative dance. Using my portraiture experience, I guided him into flattering positions that showcased his physique and confidence. We also captured movement and energy by the pool, experimenting with bolder gestures for a more dynamic feel.
Natural light was our key collaborator. Throughout the day, we chased the sun, using its golden hues to add depth and dimension to our shots on the balcony and by the pool. This reliance on natural light forced a kind of mindfulness, requiring us to adapt to the ever-changing conditions. It was exhilarating!
The final result? A portfolio bursting with versatility and a fashion story that oozed confidence.
This experience has been a game-changer. It’s a reminder that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to some of your most rewarding work. It’s also a testament to the power of collaboration. Working with a talented team – model, makeup artist, stylist – pushed me creatively and allowed us to achieve something truly special.
This has definitely ignited a spark in me to create more with artists and models. The world of fashion photography is vast and exciting, and I can’t wait to explore it further, one frame at a time.
