BLOG #101

10/16/15

These images come from an underwater fashion shoot for Marie Claire in the United Kingdom.

Though the photo can seem simple in its beauty, almost lyrical by chance, a long list of important ingredients is necessary to achieve just the right result.  I will list a few this time and continue to build the list in future editions of the blog.

The two essential ingredients are the model’s beauty and the clothing itself. I have found over years of working in pools that the number of models who can work underwater who are also photogenic and graceful is far smaller than the number who can walk down a fashion show runway.

Extensive casting underwater is needed to find models who are not only beautiful but are “at one” with the water. This model, Kristina Vilimayte from Major Models, understood my directions and was readily able to move beautifully underwater while managing the voluminous gown. The unusual task of modeling underwater is very challenging and extraordinarily satisfying when it happens. This parachute dress by Norma Kamali made of nylon billowed beautifully – with a little help from an underwater assistant. The effect is natural looking, but unlike anything that could be achieved on the street or in the studio.

She made wonderful images during this shoot.

A few others:

The second essential, the clothing, has to contain the correct materials for successful interaction with water. Some materials such as cotton, which wrinkles underwater and wool, which shrinks, can’t be used, since those changes run counter to the fundamental purpose of fashion photography – to show the true look of a designer’s clothes. My talented stylist and fashion expert, Nikko Kefalas, who has been working with me for 15 years, found the perfect fashions and materials.