RENAISSANCE

Sands of time

Gown: Jovani; Necklace: Dries Van Noten; Bracelet: Givenchy; Ring: Swarovski Swan; Shoes: Azura

Dress: Simone Rocha; Necklace: J. Crew; Earrings: Christian Dior; Shoes: Auguazzura

How do you choose models for the shoots? What's the most important?

When I am casting for a Fashion editorial Ifirst look for a model who exemplifies thevibe that the team is trying to capture inthe story. Next I focus on models who canemote and express a mood or emotion thatadds to the story. Finally, I look for poise - bythat I mean a model that is aware of whereand how the body is positioned relative tothe camera.

How do you express your ideas during the shoots?

When I shoot fashion editorials we start witha mood board which is shared with all teammembers. Then we begin to script a story- who is this person?; why are they here?What are they doing? Why are they doing it?When we shoot a story - we are shooting afantasy, but that fantasy has to be rooted insome sort of believability. Some stories workbetter than others but the more I do this themore I have come to believe in the importance of story development ( I think it’s as importantas the shoot itself). While there is alot of planning that goes into every projectI am careful to allow for improvisation andspontaneity, and I am always open to inputfrom the team.

Do you think a model is a muse?

I completely believe in the idea of a modelas a muse. It is very important to developtrust and a relationship with a model duringa shoot. Unfortunately time can be anobstacle - you may only spend a few minuteswith a model before they come on set.I do have a model that I consider a muse- we come from wildly different points ofview and backgrounds - however, when weare both on set it’s not about her or me it’sabout creating something that impacts the viewer, or creates a reaction, or evokes emotionand she trusts me that I won’t ever showan image that isn’t flattering of her. Trust isvery important. Recently her career took herto LA so we don’t see each other much now(Kimber London I miss you)..

What do you love more? Shooting fashion or adding fine art photography in the fashion shoots? What's more important to you?

Most of my work is fashion editorial so I havethe best of both worlds, I can focus on artisticcomponents while ensuring the clothingis presented in a flattering and compellingmanner. I love shooting clothing and I reallylove shooting fashion editorial. It’s aboutthe story and the clothes, and when donecorrectly it is art.

Where you you see yourself in 5 years? WHat's your goal?

I am the absolutely worst person there isat predicting the future. I have been veryfortunate (I would say blessed) in nearlyeverything I have done. For now it’s enoughto focus on improving my technique andmy process and putting together the bestteams I possibly can when a project comesmy way.