When Becky, a hairstylist and makeup artist I’ve worked with many times, suggested a butterfly-themed shoot, I was keen to get started. Her creativity and skill lift a shoot, and working with a makeup artist does more than improve the final images; it gives the model real confidence too. Whether we’re after a natural look or something bold and vibrant, the results are consistently strong.
Bringing a makeup artist and hairstylist into a portrait session is always worth it. Beyond the technical side, the collaboration sparks ideas. Becky and I bounce thoughts off each other, which adds another layer of creativity in the studio. These themed shoots give models and makeup artists a way to build their portfolios and have a bit of fun in the process.
The model and the look
Poppy was a perfect fit for what we had in mind. Her natural looks, combined with Becky’s makeup and hairstyling, let the butterfly theme stand out. We kept her outfit simple and focused on her face and the butterflies, so we could get straight into the shoot without worrying about costume changes.
A shoot like this takes a fair bit of pre-planning, so the model and makeup artist know what we’re aiming for. It pays to stay flexible, though. Some of the best ideas turn up on the day, and being open to them leads to results you didn’t plan for.
The process of a studio portrait session
A studio portrait session usually runs two to three hours, but I never set a strict limit. Creativity shouldn’t be rushed. I want everyone relaxed and free to try ideas without watching the clock, which is when the most natural images tend to come.
If you’re thinking about a similar shoot, whether you’re a model building a portfolio or you simply fancy a themed session, do get in touch. You can see more of my portrait work in the Portraits section of my website. It’s a good way to get a sense of what we can do together.
Behind the scenes and further inspiration
If you’re curious about how a shoot runs, I’ve a behind-the-scenes video on my website that gives a real sense of the studio and how we work together. And if you want to see more of Becky’s work, have a look at her portfolio.
A good team around you makes all the difference. A skilled makeup artist, a willing model and a photographer with a plan can produce something special. Butterfly theme or not, it comes down to collaboration, flexibility and a shared interest in making good images.
Why choose a themed photoshoot?
A themed shoot lets you explore ideas you might not otherwise try. It’s a way to step out of the ordinary and make images that tell a story or set a mood. For models, it adds range to a portfolio; for makeup artists and hairstylists, it’s a chance to test new techniques.
Beyond that, themed shoots are simply good fun. Everyone gets to be creative in a relaxed, supportive setting, and the results tend to speak for themselves, whether that’s subtle and natural or bold and dramatic.
So if a themed shoot appeals, butterflies or otherwise, get in touch and we’ll plan something.
For more detail or to talk through your ideas, feel free to contact me.
And do take a look at Becky’s portfolio for more inspiration, and to see how her work could add to your next shoot.
This shoot was a good example of how collaboration, creativity and a bit of spontaneity come together. Model, makeup artist, or someone after a distinctive portrait session, a themed shoot is a great way to create something personal.
You can explore more of my work and get in touch through the links above.
