Film Noir Photography Workshop.

Wow! What an inspiring 2 days being part of the ‘Passion’ photographic experience, a lighting workshop run by top photographer and lighting expert Damien Lovegrove. Held in the stunning location Pipewell Hall, Northamptonshire, day 1 was all about ‘Film Noir’, how to create classic cinematography, Hollywood lighting styles.  Starring the beautiful model Chloe-Jasmine Whichello, who created the perfect femme fatale.

1940’s Makeup

Makeup in the 1940’s was minimal and rationed after the war.  But glamour on the big screen didn’t stop as all you needed was the signature matt red tones lipstick (more orange/redwood tones in those days) and a flicked top eyeliner. To help me enter the film noir era, I also took inspiration from Damien’s mood boards, the clothes and props supplied, including a Walther PPK hand gun! Whilst Chloe’s hair was set in heated rollers, to give body and movement, I began the make-up.

For this black & white era, it was important to keep all make-up matt, soft and a shine free complexion.  First, I applied MAC Painterly paint pot on eyelid. Defined the eye shape using a blend of MAC eyeshadows Haux, Brun and Wedge; with the specific lighting effect this would create more definition and shading in the right places.  A thin line across the top of eye line, using MAC  gel liner and flicked out over eye edge. Strong defined brows using INGLOT # 568. A white kohl pencil on the water line is great for opening the eye.

by Etoile one of the photographers on the workshop

Finished off applying a set of Eylure, false lashes.  MAC blusher, one of my favourites, Tenderling, dusted over the cheeks. Finally applied MAC matt, true red  Ruby Woo lipstick for Chloe’s killer lips. This classic look still features strongly in trends today.

What I also loved about this shoot at Pipewell Hall, apart from being served delicious homemade food, was the scope of rooms to use and meeting new people.  Damien’s lighting setup for each scene created so much drama. His motivation, knowledge and enthusiasm kept everyone gripped. Whilst photographers clicked away (I even had a go on my humble htc), I felt I was in a game of Cluedo, as we moved from the cellar, the library, grand hall, bedrooms and stairways. Luckily for all there were no fatalities.  Great experience working with top pros.

Who did it…?

   If you would like to know more about filters, lights, camera kit used, as I haven’t a clue, click on link to Damien Lovegrove‘s blog: http://t.co/9k4bhhi

Damien’s Film Noir was also  eatured in Photo Professional – Pro Academy section, fabulous!