Capturing the Untamed Spirit of Gracie: A Portrait of Depth and Mystery

Photographing Gracie was unlike any other experience I’ve had behind the lens. She is a singer and songwriter whose dark, soulful lyrics echo the complexity of her character. From the moment I met her, I sensed she was someone I had always wanted to capture—someone whose presence commands attention without effort. The location I chose for the shoot, the Orme in North Wales, was equally compelling: wild, unpredictable, and full of secrets. Gracie belonged there, as if the landscape itself was part of her story.

The rugged coastline of the Orme in North Wales, where Gracie’s photoshoot took place

Finding the Perfect Setting

The idea to shoot Gracie on the Orme came from a friend of mine who I had worked with Briana Corrigan, the former lead vocalist of the Beautiful South. Briana’s album cover had a mysterious, raw vibe that inspired me to create something similar for Gracie. The Orme’s untamed cliffs and shifting weather offered a dramatic backdrop that matched the emotional depth of Gracie’s music.

This location was not just a setting but a character in itself. The wind, the uneven terrain, and the ever-changing light created moments that felt uncontrollable, yet perfectly suited to Gracie’s essence. It was a place where she could be herself without pretense.

Capturing Authenticity Without Control

Gracie admitted she was nervous before the shoot, but once we started, that nervousness vanished. She was professional and friendly, but what made her stand out was what she didn’t try to control. Unlike some subjects who pose or perform for the camera, Gracie simply existed in front of it. Her honesty and rawness shone through naturally.

She didn’t need to force anything. The camera caught her magic effortlessly. There was a quiet strength in her presence, a vulnerability that made every shot feel genuine. It reminded me of a Da Vinchi painting , Gracie’s beauty is not just skin deep; it radiates from within, and the camera sees that clearly.

Gracie standing confidently on the rocky outcrop of the Orme, embodying strength and mystery

The Power of Collaboration

Working with Gracie was a pleasure. Her openness allowed us to explore different moods and angles without pressure. We experimented with light and shadow, capturing moments that felt both intimate and expansive. The unpredictable weather added texture to the images, reinforcing the theme of mystery and depth.

This collaboration was more than just a photoshoot; it was a creative exchange. I hope to work with Gracie again to uncover more layers of her story. There is so much more to explore in this remarkable woman, and I’m excited about the possibilities.

Why Location and Subject Matter Matter

Choosing the right location can transform a photoshoot. The Orme was perfect because it reflected Gracie’s personality—wild, soulful, and a little mysterious. When the environment and subject align, the result is powerful storytelling through images.

Gracie’s music and lyrics are dark and soulful, and the photos needed to echo that mood. The natural elements—the wind, the rocks, the shifting light—became part of the narrative. This approach creates photos that feel alive and authentic, not staged or artificial.

Gracie walking along the rugged cliffs of the Orme, blending with the wild landscape