Behind the Shot: Erin Fall Haskell | Rodeo Drive
Solitude is not the first word that comes to mind when we think of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. The grandeur and luxury of one of California’s most famous streets usually attracts throngs of sightseers, while clients shop in some of the most renowned stores inside.
This picture is not Photoshopped with all of those things taken out. Specific strategy, messaging and planning are what made this photo possible.
THE STRATEGY:
1) EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM
I have spent hours upon hours Photoshopping distractions out of my clients’ photos. Tourists, street signs, litter on the ground. I will always give my clients’ photos the care they need so that they are the focal point or that the picture tells a specific story.
In this case, Dr. Erin’s story meant that I was saved from half a day behind a computer screen. Erin is an early riser (how’s the tune of 4am sound?) with a daily routine of deep meditation before starting her day.
To be honest, I envy morning people. I absolutely love being up before everyone else, getting places to myself and hyping myself up for the beginning of a beautiful day. Unfortunately, my best creativity strikes at night and I am not able to regularly pull myself out of bed after a late operation of content creation. Unless I have a specific engagement, you can usually find me in bed still at 8am (or even later…)
That being said, the specific engagements that will happily get me out of bed early are sunrise and morning shoots to bask in the dawn and enjoy locations to ourselves without the inconvenience of everyone around.
Los Angeles on a Sunday morning was primetime for that purpose as most of the city enjoys sleeping in as I normally would. I did think there would be a few early morning lurkers but alas…we found ourselves the only ones strolling the streets.
The best light and best time to do photos is in the EARLY morning, no ifs, ands or buts.
2) The outfit
Light pink, white and gold are all Erin’s brand colors for Soulciete, the spiritual community she founded and is the CEO of. We incorporated that into as many of the photos as possible so that posting on social would be consistent with her brand.
The coat was something fun she brought along but it ended up playing a big part in creating an image that had a planned shelf life. We used it in July as a fun anecdote, but in the winter it becomes even more fitting and usable for social. When you’re creating a national or global community, including relatable elements is always a win.
3) The pose
Erin is a natural in front of the lens, which makes my job a whole lot easier. A straight back, popped knee and head turned to the side make anyone look tall and sleek. Adding heels will also always help posture, so if it’s part of your aesthetic, make sure to have a pair with you during your shoot. Pro tip: carry a pair of flats along if you’ll be hitting up multiple spots. Even if you’re a real-life Carrie Bradshaw, having something to be comfortable in in between shots will ensure better facial expressions later.
