Stephen Walton Photography Workshops

If you’ve followed any of my work online then you’ll know I prefer to add an element of theatre or style to my photography. Why? Well, why not.

I guess there is an aspect of a photographer’s personality goes into their shots so read into that what you want.

Either way, I’ve taken some new portraits recently with my long-standing muse, Natasha. I’ve worked with her for over a decade now and every project we go out on, which sometimes is over a year apart, is just seamless.

Shooting on Location at Errdig

Errdig is a fantastic location to shoot for a range of different photography – architecture, floral, landscapes, still life and portraits. The open spaces allow you time and peace to concentrate on your composition – especially when visiting mid-week.

I approached the shoot with Natasha with a natural, chilled-out autumnal vibe. Natasha has a penchant for the mystic and creative so there is always a retro vibe to her clothing which is always beautiful to capture.

Creating a Style in Portraits

When it comes to capturing that ‘look’ in my shots then I’m always looking for a contrasting background. Knowing that my subject is wearing light or colourful outfits then my editing style suits a darker or at least muted background tone.

Understanding how you want your photograph to look in the end will make it so much easier to set it up in camera.

First, design your own style takes a whole lot of experimenting. I would recommend taking tonnes of photos and trying lots of different editing approaches.

High key, low key, black and white, high dynamics, colour overlays, cross processing etc, there are so many options, just try them all and see what appeals to you consistently.

I know I’m not one for vivid colour in my photography. I find a charm in keeping a vintage baronial feel to my shots – an old school film looks you could say.

My approach to editing has certainly changed over the years. Back when I first came to Chester, I spent more time editing than photographing and my images showed that over-processed, over-worked look. Some of it, I still really like, but it was a good reflection of me at the time and age.

I think I’m starting to digress a little from what I started writing about. I just wanted to share some of my favourite shots from this recent project with Natasha.

Please go and check out Natasha if you have the chance too. Not only a brilliant model, but a talented wordsmith too.