An Agent Provocateur lingerie shoot with Hettie Heartache.

One of the most rewarding – but also most nerve-wracking – parts of being a photographer for me is being commissioned to take photos of other photographers! When I’ve discussed my style of photography in the past, I’ve mentioned that I shoot in the style of photography I would love to be photographed in myself. I consider it a great honour when another photographer chooses me to work with on their portraits.

In August of this year, I was so excited to be asked by burlesque performer Hettie Heartache to come up to Edinburgh and create a series of boudoir inspired images together. When she’s not gracing the stage, Hettie channels her creativity into her fantastic wedding, commercial and portrait photography. I definitely felt the pressure to make sure the images met not only my high standards, but hers as well!

Hettie’s shoot took place in her stunning boudoir, complete with original wooden floorboards and collection of beautiful vintage furniture. Due to baggage restrictions on the flight, I’d packed a very light bag. Just one camera body and a couple of lenses. The unpredictable British weather was on our side, allowing us to take advantage of the stunning natural light which floods into the room during the early afternoon.

Curating a selection of outfits from Hettie’s Agent Provocateur collection and a couple of key vintage pieces from her wardrobe, Hettie did her own hair and make up before slipping into outfit one to be shot on the bed. There was a small patch of light on the corner of the bed that illuminated Hettie perfectly. It accentuated the highlighter on Hettie’s cheeks, providing a soft, flattering light source to work with. Following this light source as it moved throughout the afternoon, it gave us an opportunity to make the most of the space.

What makes this shoot even more special for me is the comment Hettie posted when she shared the first image below on her Facebook page…

“Half way through my Invisalign and loving my new smile. Proper progress photo soon but here is the first smiling photo of me I’ve ever been happy with.”

Knowing how special this photo is to Hettie has made this one of my favourite shoots to date. Thank you for letting me share your images for everyone to see – and I’m loving that smile too!

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Inspired? Book your own boudoir shoot with me today – check out my boudoir photography packages here and then drop me an email with your preferred date. I can’t wait to hear from you!

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