Alicia is like a magician, with a flourish she draws on her lively personality to produce portraits that are engaging and her magic box of tricks bursts with experience and creativity. These portraits transport me straight to a timeless age where women are appreciated for their intelligence and confidence.
Created in my home studio in 2016 (yes, I had to go back and check) we aimed to create pictures that are strikingly modern and effortlessly natural. My idea was to try and reduce all distracting elements, so you have an immediate connection with the sitter. I wanted to see if it was possible to use my living room in our newly renovated house, now we know it is possible and my portraits are ubiquitous today.
It was a bold move to invite Alicia over to the Isle of Wight and I continue to be fascinated by her portraits: she radiates a warm gaze that feels alive. My photography has remained true to my mission statement – natural portraits that say something about your personality. Everyone who works with me has exactly the same warm smile and a similar stance – it’s a good balance between a professional headshot and a relaxed, easy-going portrait.
Alicia approved of my attention to detail, I try and make our sessions easy by drawing on my sense of humour whilst being very precise. I tend to really focus on people, light and space – just a few of the important ingredients in my magic box of tricks.
This is why I feel so lucky to have worked with Alicia and these portraits are the perfect meeting of three elements: good lighting, flattering posing and careful styling. I love exploring the possibilities when injecting a sense of spirit into women’s portraits and I’m particularly fond of working with women who start their conversation with, “I don’t take good photographs.” I often have repeat customers, surely the ultimate seal of approval.
Once the lockdown eases, I’m starting a new project with playful, free-spirited portraits in buttery-evening light and it’s time to bring back the spot light to a few of my favourite outdoor locations.
If you’d like to take part in one of these personal projects, drop me a line!
Amanda Herbert | Isle of Wight
Email: [email protected]
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