As part of East Coast Creatives, I take part in a tradition I always look forward to: an end-of-month collaborative photoshoot. These sessions push our creativity and bring the group closer together. Our most recent one was at Somerleyton Hall in Suffolk, a day that was as enjoyable as it was useful.
Somerleyton Hall is a fine English manor set in Suffolk countryside, with grand architecture, well-kept gardens and plenty of greenery. It makes a superb backdrop, and we gathered there on a very sunny day, ready to shoot.
The bright sunshine brought its own challenge. Harsh, direct light creates strong shadows that are tricky to work with. The Hall’s varied grounds and shaded spots gave us plenty of ways to work around it.
The models’ outfits were a big part of the day. The attention to detail in each one was excellent, and against the backdrop of Somerleyton Hall they made for some striking images. Working with light and shadow, texture and tone, I found the whole thing satisfying.
The real highlight for me was the chance to work alongside other photographers. Every conversation and shared idea added to the day. Learning from other people and seeing different approaches is something I value.
By the end, everyone had clearly enjoyed themselves. The weather was hot and the challenges were many, but the collaboration carried us through. We left with strong photographs and a real sense of camaraderie.
Collaboration is not just about working together, it is about improving together. Our monthly photoshoots are as much about that as they are about the images. Here is to many more at places like Somerleyton Hall.