Flapper Girl

I’m reminded by this photograph, a twenties concept brought to life in the nineties, that it takes a team to create a good theatrical image.

The word “collaboration” in this context has perhaps become a bit of a cliché, but ideally the photographer plays only one part in this kind of shoot. In this case, I had worked with model Katie on several fashion jobs and immediately saw her as a ’20s flapper. As it happened, a suitable project presented itself and I assembled a team — hair, make-up, styling — and arranged a location: the foyer of a local hotel.

The photo above is an outtake, a sort of dress rehearsal made in my living room, before we set out for the location. Today, I recognize it as the most natural, therefore successful, image made that day.