I was really excited when I received the email from SiP asking for some helping out on a creative project. And what a project. The
The comfort zone . ..
There were a few go-to outdoor spots that I had used before, but I decided that I needed to test myself and step out of my comfort zone to come up with something new. Something original. Since it was mid-September and heading into autumn, I immediately thought of the color palette that nature would supply at this time of year. Colors complementing the racing green of the classic Mini. Images of the car, speeding along a country lane with leaves falling all around under autumn’s golden sun, started to emerge. I was all ready.
Scouting …
A couple of days later and I was still raring to go, but no set. Anticipation growing. It was a beautiful autumn day so I headed out on my bike to scout some locations; this is my number one way to get around without missing out on off-road locations. I also took a few Lego minifigure companions along as test subjects. I found a beautiful tree-lined, cobblestoned lane that was the perfect setting for the Mini. Using a wide aperture would hopefully capture the essence of the location, but not distracting too much from the subject. I was ready.
Rain …
A couple of days later, the Mini arrived and after a relaxing evening building and applying stickers, I was eager to head out to my newly scouted locations. However, now a week later, I was still having to wait as the weather had taken a turn for the worse; grey skies and dreary rain awaited me every day.
The Golden Hour …
Eventually, one afternoon, the sun broke through the clouds. I rushed out with my camera and the Mini and I set to work. Over the next few days, I managed to get out and shoot in the evening golden hour and took plenty of shots with the sun behind the car. I also used a large reflector to fill and catch the natural colors rather than using a flash. Since it was autumn, I also had to face the challenge of leaf litter as if it was caught on camera, it would ruin the scale of the shot. This was a particular problem on very windy days.
Are you feeling ok ?
Ultimately, I had a great time trying to shoot this charming set. Lying flat on footpaths and roads to get those low angle shots presented the usual issues, with members of the general public often stopping and asking what I was up to, but always offering positive comments.
The Mini was a challenge that really got me thinking, excited to get out and shoot, and eager to make the most of the season’s natural beauty.
I can’t wait for the next.
Chris
