Workshop with Troy Freyee from Freyee Photography for Lahana swimwear’s Summer 2020 collection
Location: Byron Bay
Date: 29th of July 2020
Being able to attend and assist Troy has shown me how a major fashion shoot works and how to cohesively work within a team.
I not only met professional models but also the three sisters that design, make and own the swimwear company Lahana, with over 500k Instagram followers they are fast becoming one of the biggest brands in Australia.
Watching a working shoot has shown me the importance of maintaining a manner of professionalism and organisation. Before the shoot had even begun, a contact sheet was provided with relative information about how the shoot was going to be run and the inspiration/storyboard content. I now understand the importance of pre-production consisting of the planning of talent, hair, make up, outfits and props as well as scouting of location and time of day (also wet weather plan). While observing I was taking notes on how best to interact with the creative director, the client, makeup artist and directing of the models. I hope to implement the many skills that I have learnt from todays workshop into my own business such as the organisation before and during the shoot.
Clear and concise communication between the client, stylist, hair and makeup and the talent.
When working on location it’s important to maintain a high level of attention to workplace health and safety. Troy does this by checking all areas are clear to work for himself, the talent, props and equipment. Main point Troy made was to keep equipment in an area where it is safe for people to pass but also where the equipment won’t be damaged.
Troy’s leadership and communication while shooting meant that all members onset knew where they should be and worked around Troy’s instructions.
Some images where to be taken in the pool, unfortunately it was a cold windy winters day.
Troy asked and got permission from the model to make sure she felt comfortable entering the water.
Troy’s understanding of the difficult experience meant he acted timely and once the shots were taken he made sure the model was greeted with a warm towel.
Having a caring and nurturing yet professional nature is what I believe has models/clients wanting to continue future business.
Troy’s equipment consisted of a Canon 5D mark ii, 85mm lens, 24-70mm lens, a foldable reflector and a step ladder.
Troy’s shooting technique was amazing to watch, he really would get down low and make sure that the swimwear and model’s physique was at the forefront of each image.
Although the location was picturesque just as is, Troy only used it to amplify each image not distract.
I’ve really enjoyed my experience learning from a successful working photographer and hope to continue from further assisting roles.
Networking can be a massive advantage for my business, working with multiple industry professionals, gaining their trust and learning their knowledge while I am still trying to gain experience can get me to where I want to be faster.
Also meeting and engaging with other industries such as, fashion designers, hair and makeup artists, any start-up companies wishing to get stock/product photographs would also hopefully get my name out on the Coast as word of mouth can be the biggest asset to any business.
The opportunities to further my career by attending industry events, meeting and interacting with other professionals and photographers including forums, workshops, tutorials is extremely valuable and ongoing.