Styled Shoot: Gothic Kingdom

In November, Enzoani UK once again teamed up with Pure Creations Photography on an exciting and unusual photoshoot.

Set deep underground in the National Showcaves Centre for Wales, the Dan Yr Ogof caves provided a mystical backdrop for the shoot. The cave system stretches 17 kilometres underground and is made up of a complex network of caves and passages. It's claimed to be the largest cave system in Europe, and according to the Radio Times' 2005 poll, it is the greatest natural wonder in Britain. Most of the cave system is a national nature reserve and is only open to bona-fide cavers, however the first section is open to the public. This section is where the scene was set for our unique photoshoot, which understandably came with its own challenges. The logistics of a photoshoot underground is certainly complicated, requiring the team to transport all the equipment, dresses and staff deep into the cave all on foot...but this was all worth it when you see the stunning images which came from it!

Come behind the scenes of one of our favourite photoshoots...

SCENE ONE

For the first look, the team went a more traditional route with the ivory (yes, ivory in a cave!) Ivana from the 2014 Enzoani Collection. The traditional styling and look provided a beautiful contrast to the unusual setting. The backdrop provided some very unique opportunities for capturing a magical image in this hidden location. 

Once in position, (which was tricky, to say the least), the end result is an image impossible to achieve anywhere else. The deep colours of the ancient rocks and the crystal clear glacier water created a mirror-like reflection. 

Getting these shots came with its obstacles for the models, photographer, and the poor couture dress. But once everyone saw the gorgeous images, we all knew why we went plugging into the ice cold water!

SCENE TWO

For the second look, the team went with a totally different aesthetic: a gothic look and feel. For this, there was only one dress we wanted to use. Gali from the 2012 Enzoani collection has the elegance of a stunning, couture gown, while the black colour and detailing provided all the right amounts of edginess and drama. Makeup artist Jenna Kelly and hairstylist Lucie Summerfield did a fantastic job transforming our models Nia and Tom into the perfect gothic couple who could have stepped straight out of any Tim Burton movie. Everyone loved this look, and was excited to see the results. The shoot kicked up a notch when photographer Rob Jones next decided to have everyone venture into the restricted area and jump the barriers onto the rocks! For Nia in a fishtail gown, this was unsurprisingly not easy, but luckily a number of strong crew members were at hand to help Nia get into place!

Once settled in position, the team watched in awe as Rob''s incredible waterfall vision came to life. Tracie Williams, UK Marketing Manager said, “This by far was my favourite photoshoot. The shot with the blue light waterfall is just amazing. The entire look and feel is so me! Everyone involved was excited about this shoot, and their enthusiasm showed in the images.”

The magic of the day was captured by filmmaking team Simon Hughes and Taylor Bowden-Parry from WeCreate, their behind-the-scenes video represents the day perfectly: 

Thank you to everyone involved in making this stunning endeavour happen. Without such an amazing, committed team, these shots would not have been possible!

CREDITS 

Photography | Pure Creations Photography

Videography | WeCreate

Menswear |  Dyfed Menswear

Models | Nia Marshalsay-Thomas & Tom Seacombe

Makeup | Jenna Kelly (To find out more about the makeup, read Jenna’s blog: Behind the Scenes at Dan-yr-Ogof)

Hair | Bridal Hair Design 

Jewellery | Seren Jewellery

Flowers | Francis Floral Designs

Location | Dan Yr Orgof Show Caves