Photoshoot with Harry Christophers

I was commissioned by the BBC Music magazine to photograph the conductor Harry Christophers at his home in Kent. The portrait is often used as a full page bleed without any copy. So always a great opportunity to get full bleed image.

I arrived at his lovely home and had a look around for an opportunity to use a room backdrop to create a interesting and engaging image. Unfortunately the rooms were not as I had hoped and I was struggling to come up with an idea that would make a dynamic shot.

I first set up in the conservatory to shoot some interview shots and while waiting I opted into the garden to see if there was an opportunity outside. When I looked back at the house I noticed the large kitchen window which was formed with only 1 pane of glass. On closer inspection the reflection was amazing and thought about how I can make best use of this space.

My only problem was shooting from an angle that didn't show my reflection. I also needed to light from the inside making sure there wasn't too much spill from my Bowens lights to light too much of the kitchen as this would spoil the reflection of his garden.

I first shot Harry infant of the window as this would be a good way of hiding myself from the window.

Although the subject was clear and I could light him without too much bother by angling the lights from either side of the window taking care not to show the reflected lights.

but when I moved him behind the glass the portrait started to take on a feel that gave an extra lift to the portrait. At this point my excitement for the shoot rises and I started to move around always careful not to see buy own reflection. (shooting from somewhat below)

My only reservation in the portrait was that the kitchen cupboards and doors were showing too much and I wished I brought my black sheets.