A Classic Studio Shoot in Suffolk
Portrait photography thrives on simplicity, and this recent session with Korbyn was a perfect example of that. Inspired by Peaky Blinders, we set out to create striking, character-driven portraits that reflected the style of the show while making the shoot our own. My studio near Woodbridge, Suffolk, provided the ideal controlled environment to bring this vision to life.
Keeping It Simple, Keeping It Classic
Korbyn is new to modelling but approached the session with enthusiasm and confidence. His keen interest in exploring different looks made the process smooth and productive. The goal was to keep things simple, focusing on classic, timeless portraiture that highlighted his expression, posture, and attire.
The wardrobe reflected the signature Peaky Blinders aesthetic:
- Dark overcoat
- White dress shirt
- Black tie or bow tie
- Flat cap
- Pocket watch for an extra touch of vintage character
While Peaky Blinders inspired the shoot, we made deliberate choices to ensure the images were not just replicas of the show’s style but rather a respectful homage with a unique personal touch.
Lighting Setup: Rembrandt for Depth and Drama
Lighting is crucial in studio portraiture, particularly when aiming for a dramatic, cinematic feel. For this session, I primarily used Rembrandt lighting, a technique that creates a triangle of light on the shadowed side of the subject’s face. This style adds depth, texture, and a timeless quality to the portraits.
The setup consisted of:
- A single key light is placed at a 45-degree angle to one side, shaping the face with soft but directional lighting.
- A fill light is used subtly to maintain detail in the shadows without flattening the contrast.
- A dark backdrop reinforces the moody, vintage aesthetic reminiscent of the 1920s era.
A Confident and Productive Shoot
Korbyn’s natural presence in front of the camera was impressive. Despite being relatively new to modelling, he adapted quickly, took direction well, and brought a strong character to each pose. The outfit, combined with the lighting setup, enhanced the cinematic feel, resulting in a series of bold, expressive portraits.
We experimented with different postures and subtle hand placements, particularly using the pocket watch as a prop to add narrative to the images. Simple movements, adjusting the coat, tilting the cap, or fixing the tie, helped bring life to the shots.
Why This Style Works in Portrait Photography
Minimalistic yet impactful, this type of portrait session is an excellent way to create striking imagery without excessive styling or elaborate setups. The key factors that made this shoot successful included:
- A clear concept: Having a visual reference (Peaky Blinders) helped guide styling choices while allowing room for originality.
- Timeless wardrobe: Classic clothing works well for portraits as it doesn’t date the images.
- Strong lighting techniques: Rembrandt’s lighting added depth and an old-world charm.
- Simple direction: Allowing the model to ease into poses naturally helped create a confident and relaxed look.
Local Studio Photography Near Ipswich
This shoot highlights the power of simplicity in portrait photography. Working with local talent like Korbyn is always rewarding, especially when we can create visually strong imagery that tells a story. Whether you’re new to modelling or looking to update your portfolio, a straightforward studio session can produce outstanding results.
If you’re looking for professional studio portraits in Suffolk, my studio near Woodbridge provides a relaxed environment where we can tailor a shoot to match your style and vision. Feel free to get in touch to discuss your next portrait session.
