Photography thrives on storytelling, and my recent photoshoot with Fern is a prime example of blending narrative and artistry. This two-part photo shoot offered an exciting mix of avant-garde fashion and cosplay, with a focus on unique concepts that blur the boundaries between creativity and self-expression. Split between the woodland setting of Tunstall and my studio, the project showcases Fern’s imaginative take on themes inspired by Magic: The Gathering, paired with products from the talented artisans at Goblin Workshop.
Part 1: Woodland Wonders at Tunstall
The Concept
The first part of our shoot took place in the serene, natural setting of Tunstall Woods. Fern wanted to create a cosplay-inspired look referencing the aesthetic of Magic: The Gathering. However, rather than focusing on a specific character, the aim was to craft a broader fantasy-driven look with an elegant fashion twist. The costume combined a vibrant, paisley-patterned dress with rugged leather armour, creating a bold contrast that felt both whimsical and grounded.
Bringing the Concept to Life
Photographing in the woods offered the perfect backdrop for this fantastical theme. The soft, diffused natural light filtered through the trees, adding an ethereal quality to the images. The fallen branches and layers of leaves underfoot added texture and dimension, enhancing the fantasy vibe.
To keep the setting dynamic, I experimented with a mix of close-ups and full-length shots. Close-ups emphasised Fern’s confident expressions and the intricate details of her outfit, while the full-length shots captured her in the vastness of the woods, exuding an adventurous, heroine-like aura.
Part 2: Studio Elegance with a Fashion Edge
Transitioning Indoors
The second half of the session shifted focus to a controlled studio environment. While the woodland scenes brought out an adventurous and organic feel, the studio shots allowed us to refine the narrative with clean, crisp lighting. Here, the fashion aspect took centre stage. With a dark brown backdrop, the costume’s vivid colours and rich textures stood out beautifully, offering a striking contrast.
Details Matter
A key feature of the studio shoot was the chance to highlight some handcrafted pieces by Goblin Workshop. Fern modelled two leather poachers designed with both form and function in mind. Their vintage-inspired patterns and meticulous craftsmanship brought an extra layer of storytelling to the images. By including close-up shots of these items, I ensured their fine details, such as embossed floral motifs and contrasting fabric linings, received the attention they deserved.
The studio also offered a chance to experiment with lighting setups, from soft key lights to dramatic low-key effects. This helped create a variety of moods, ranging from intimate and focused to bold and dramatic.
Working with Fern: Creativity at Its Best
Collaborating with Fern is always a rewarding experience. She brings a wealth of creative ideas to every session, ensuring the shoot remains engaging and innovative. For this project, her vision and knowledge of Magic: The Gathering helped shape the overall aesthetic. Fern also has a natural ability to adapt to different settings, switching effortlessly between the adventurous vibe of the woodland shoot and the more polished style of the studio.
Her openness to experimenting with poses and props made the shoot even more dynamic. Whether wielding a prop sword with intensity or striking a serene pose amidst the forest, Fern brought her character to life in every frame.
The Goblin Workshop Collaboration
Highlighting Artisan Craftsmanship
The inclusion of products from Goblin Workshop was a deliberate choice to add depth and authenticity to the shoot. These leather poachers, with their mix of functionality and artistic design, complemented Fern’s costume perfectly. Each piece felt like a natural extension of the fantasy-inspired wardrobe.
Capturing the Details
One of the standout moments in the studio shoot involved capturing the interior of one poacher. Its colourful fabric lining, featuring intricate patterns, provided a beautiful contrast to the rugged leather exterior. This attention to detail is what makes Goblin Workshop’s creations so special and worth showcasing in a photoshoot of this calibre.
Technical Considerations and Challenges
Lighting in the Woods
Shooting outdoors always comes with its challenges, and the unpredictable light in Tunstall Woods was no exception. To ensure consistent results, I used a portable softbox to balance the natural light and reduce harsh shadows. This allowed me to highlight the textures in Fern’s outfit without losing the natural feel of the environment.
Managing Props and Costumes
Another challenge was ensuring the costumes and props remained functional and visually cohesive across both locations. The leather armour and accessories required regular adjustments to maintain their shape and positioning, especially during active poses.
Final Thoughts
This two-part photoshoot with Fern exemplifies the beauty of creative collaboration. From the enchanting woodland scenes to the refined studio shots, the project successfully blended elements of fantasy, fashion, and artistry. Fern’s ability to bring imaginative concepts to life, paired with the craftsmanship of Goblin Workshop, resulted in a truly unique set of images that tell a compelling story.
Photography is about capturing moments that resonate, and this shoot provided plenty of those. I hope the final images inspire others to embrace their creativity, explore new ideas, and celebrate the artistry that goes into every detail. Whether it’s through cosplay, fashion, or artisan products, there’s always a story worth telling, and I’m here to help capture it.