Lookbook format

Have had various paper samples and communications with printers re. our look book. The big challenge is finding someone to turn around a low number of prototypes as at this point a full scale run in not on.

Why getting in to a lido is challenging

Though doing a swimwear shoot poolside may be obvious, we really want this as its the idea of a mega-glamorous lady poolside at a council lido with tacky water toys, preferably weathered and as unchanged as possible. Its a bit similar to the idea behind my RSA.

All five of the above Lidos have issues around why they have been hard to get, ranging from high charges for filming to difficult opening hours to not picking up the phone. Also with some of the genuine council places, they require public liability insurance. Waiting on contacts at all five of these places to call me back!

Current favourite has to be Ealing... its private, which could be a blessing, and it is the genuine 1940s article, grade 3 listed and 100% untouched save the deck chairs and the chlorine.

Studio Shoots

Two studio shoots fast approaching next week. One is booked in the Chelsea studios on Friday and we have a professional studio at our disposal on the Saturday in Cambridge. Will be going largely for straight forward, clean product images, although we do have... bubble machine!

Vintage Suitcases

Just one prop idea for the 'old english lane' shoot so far, but I think this one may be best kept simple anyway as the product will be an under bust with clothing worn underneath.

Ideas for poolside shoot

Our next location photo shoot, for the swim wear, will take place in what we hope will be an empty lido. Sans water. Should be quite entertaining. A couple of ideas for props / themes here: picnic, over-sized sunglasses, giant beach ball.

Images for Thursday's presentation

Susie and I came up with this concept for the studio shoots involving mannequin parts and instruments. Guess who has already been there and got the t-shirt? Nice try. Time for some new ideas on that one.

Taster shot

Due to mounting peer pressure (and my realization that too much of a build up is detrimental!), here is a taster.

Two locations down, two to go

Witness the shear blood, sweat and tears involved in two days straight fashion shoots. Not long back at my desk now, so not been through the shots properly yet, but these are just a couple of snaps to give an idea of the process. Both shoots went extremely well and we have some great images. All will be revealed at our mini exhibit in the new term.

I loved doing this work but it mustn't be under estimated how much energy it takes! All members of the team - photographers, models, fashion designer and assistant were drained by our post-shoot drinks. Phew.