As part of my personal project, Elegant Exposures, I set out to capture the beauty of fashion in the scenic coastal town of Aldeburgh. Working alongside stylist Sue Hardy and model Sophia, we explored various locations in and around the town, creating a unique blend of vintage and modern fashion photography. This blog delves into the creative process, the outfits chosen for the shoot, and the stunning backdrops that Aldeburgh provided for this outdoor fashion photoshoot.
The Project: Elegant Exposures
The Elegant Exposures project was conceived as a way to blend classic elegance with modern sensibilities, using Aldeburgh’s diverse locations as a backdrop. Fashion photography in Suffolk often finds itself inspired by the county’s charming coastal towns, and Aldeburgh was the perfect setting. From its iconic shingle beaches to historic buildings and art galleries, Aldeburgh provided an array of visual opportunities for this high-fashion editorial photography.
The Model and Stylist
Sophia, our talented model, was instrumental in bringing the fashion vision to life. Her versatility and poise allowed us to explore a range of themes, from vintage-inspired elegance to boho chic. Sue Hardy, an experienced stylist, not only provided the outfits but also handled hair and make-up, ensuring each look was cohesive and complemented the setting. Sue’s creative input helped elevate the shoot, particularly with her selection of jewellery and accessories, which added a layer of sophistication to each outfit.
Fashion Photography on Location in Aldeburgh
Aldeburgh offers a unique canvas for fashion photography, combining its coastal charm with historical and artistic landmarks. Shooting fashion on location presents both challenges and opportunities. The natural light, often shifting due to coastal weather, requires an adaptable approach, while the textures of the town – from sandy beaches to stone steps – provide contrast and depth to each image.
1. Outfit One: Black & Pink Satin Ballgown
The first outfit was a striking black and pink satin ballgown, complete with a pink net petticoat. This ensemble set the tone for a high-end editorial photography shoot. The juxtaposition of this vintage-inspired gown against the urban backdrop of Aldeburgh’s High Street made for a dramatic fashion portraiture session.
We chose to shoot this gown on the path and stairs leading to the High Street, using architectural lines and rustic stonework to highlight the gown’s structure. This black and pink vintage gown photoshoot captures the essence of timeless elegance in an urban environment. The natural light filtering through the surrounding buildings gave the shots a soft, almost cinematic glow, enhancing the sophistication of the look.
2. Outfit Two: Boho & Blyth
In contrast to the formal ballgown, the second look was more relaxed, featuring boho-inspired fashion. Sophia wore tan cotton jeans paired with a leopard print blouse, topped with a tan wool tank top and a silky leopard print bomber jacket. The accessories, including a beige faux leather handbag, added to the casual yet stylish vibe of the outfit.
This outfit was shot in two distinct locations. First, the Ballroom Art Gallery in Aldeburgh provided a cultured, indoor backdrop with its neutral tones and elegant art pieces. The second location, Aldeburgh Beach, brought an outdoor element to the shoot. The natural textures of the pebbled beach contrasted with the detailed textures of the outfit, allowing for fashion photography with natural light session. The subtle, warm light of the coastal evening added depth to the outfit, giving it an earthy, grounded feel.
3. Outfit Three: Satin Blouse with Tulle Skirt and Leather Jacket
The third look blended feminine softness with a rebellious edge. Sophia wore a satin purple blouse paired with a lilac tulle skirt and a black leather jacket from Portabello East in Halesworth. The mix of delicate fabric with the toughness of leather created a dynamic contrast, perfect for a modern vintage fashion photography look.
This outfit was shot entirely on the beach, with the wind adding natural movement to the tulle skirt. The rugged landscape of the Suffolk coast, with its beached boats and pebbles, brought a sense of drama to the shoot. The setting sun provided a golden glow, perfect for capturing fashion photoshoot with dramatic lighting. The movement in Sophia’s hair and outfit gave the session an ethereal feel, capturing the energy and freedom of the coast.
4. Outfit Four: Grey Taffeta Ballgown
The final outfit was a breathtaking grey taffeta ballgown, supplied by Portabello East. The voluminous skirt and net petticoat added an element of grandeur to the shoot, perfect for couture-inspired fashion photography. We shot this look at the iconic Scallop sculpture on Aldeburgh Beach.
The sculpture, created by artist Maggi Hambling as a tribute to composer Benjamin Britten, provided a striking and iconic backdrop for fashion photography. Its steel structure contrasted with the softness of the taffeta, creating a powerful visual narrative. The geometric lines of the scallop’s form, paired with the flowing lines of the gown, made for a compelling fashion portrait by the sea. The interplay between the model and the sculpture added layers of meaning to the shoot, tying in themes of art, history, and fashion.
The Importance of Location in Fashion Photography
Aldeburgh’s unique landscape played a crucial role in the success of this outdoor fashion photoshoot. The textures, light, and historical significance of the locations added depth to each shot, transforming fashion photography into a storytelling experience. Coastal fashion photography allows for a range of moods, from serene to dramatic, and Aldeburgh’s ever-changing weather contributed to this dynamic.
Working with a model like Sophia, who could adapt to these shifting environments, was essential. The fashion model shoot on the Suffolk coast offered an opportunity to capture not only the outfits but also the essence of the place itself. The wind, sea, and sky all became characters in the story we told through these images.
The Elegant Exposures fashion shoot was a fusion of art, fashion, and location. Through careful planning, collaboration with a talented team, and an eye for the unique details that Aldeburgh offers, we were able to produce a collection of images that reflect the diverse nature of fashion photography. From the vintage ballgown on stone steps to the modern boho look on the beach, each shot tells a story, and every location added its own narrative.
If you’re ever considering a fashion shoot in Suffolk, I highly recommend exploring Aldeburgh for its variety of textures and its coastal charm. With the right combination of styling, natural light, and a keen eye for detail, scenic fashion photography in the UK can truly come to life.