A Bride, A Make-Up Artist and a Photographer

© Cecile Gambin Photography

I haven’t been this giddy about a wedding in a long time. It’s not that I didn’t like my own but this one was different. For starters, there was no groom. There wasn’t even a wedding. There was only one photographer, a make-up artist/hair stylist, a model and a wedding dress.

Desiree Ellis (make-up/hair stylist) and Sambrina Lawrence (model) met me for what turned out to be one of my most memorable photos sessions to date. Dressed in a wedding dress Sambrina bravely carried her train in her arms as she negotiated a steep, narrow rocky dirt path down to the waters edge.

After a small detour (I took a wrong turn) we settled on a nice rock and began shooting. The magic didn’t happen though until the party boats dropped by, and the liquid sunshine poured in.

I had been planning this session for a few months with Desiree and had originally thought about setting camp at Whyte Cliff Park. Checking with the marine forecast I realized my chosen spot was to be underwater for the time frame and date that had been selected. Re-booking the session was not an option so I worked around the tides and found another suitable location. The goal of the photo shoot was to highlight Desiree’s work.

My set-up was simple and appropriate – two lenses, a light, a voice controlled tripod and a reflector. I wanted a clean, energetic and bright shot that could be found in a haute-couture print ad that showcased Desiree’s make-up, and Sambrina’s refined look against deep blue-bird skies.

As we shot, on-lookers peered and party-boats danced and cheered on us from behind us. It was rather amusing and added to the excitement and buzz of a not-so-real wedding bridal shoot.  To say the least it was a festive and productive afternoon that put all 3 of us in a superb mood. Simply said it was fun!!!

I love working with people that allow me creative freedom. I also enjoy the challenges that come with working on a live set unscripted by walls. Thank you Desiree and Sambrina for your professionalism. I am beyond stoked with my photos and had an awesome time!!

© Cecile Gambin Photography

© Cecile Gambin Photography

CGP captures one sweet Pimped out Toyota Pick Up

© Cecile Gambin PhotographyI was recently asked to capture photos of this stunning pimped out blue Toyota Pick Up Truck and I jumped at the opportunity. This is my first car shoot and I can tell you it was a blast on so many different levels.

I am really happy at the way the photos turned out and did a lot of homework before the actual shoot. I wanted to incorporate my style blending fine art with my two or four wheeled friends. First up was the location. I wanted to find the proper background for this truck that suited both the owner, Kim, and her sleek low riser. Kim is not your typical ‘foo foo’ woman and is not afraid to get her nails dirty. I really wanted to find a location that suited both the edginess of the truck along with her personality. From drop down skirts, chrome mags to full on handcuffs this truck was tastefully done up.

Next up was researching what makes a good car photo. Lots of information out there – some good and some really bad stuff. So I took notes and learned. We decided on a day and I prayed to the weather Gods for weather that I wanted and they listened. Thank you!

© Cecile Gambin PhotographyI was stoked to find that the locations I chose worked perfectly. And luckily, I had chosen a few as we had to move from our first location to the second one.  I will admit that I thoroughly enjoyed taking photos like this. I really liked researching my ‘subject’ and working the car. Taking photos of this truck opened my photographic vision to a whole new ball park and I would love to have the opportunity to try it again. In an odd sort of way this photo shoot reminded me of people portraits. Although my subject didn’t move or frown it did have it’s own ‘quirkiness’ that I needed to adapt to. Both come with their own set of special challenges!

I would like to thank Kim and Alex for giving me this opportunity!! And I can say with certainty that I am looking forward to another car shoot in the future. Any takers?

© Cecile Gambin Photography

CGP Toyota-3

© Cecile Gambin Photography© Cecile Gambin Photography