The world of award show portrait photography is a fascinating and high-pressure realm, as revealed by photographer Sane Seven in this insightful article. Seven, a renowned London-based portrait photographer, delves into the inner workings of the BAFTA Awards portrait studio, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the intense and chaotic process that goes into capturing these iconic images.
Seven and her creative director, Marius Seven, crafted a unique set design for the BAFTA TV Awards, incorporating large bent mirrors to create a distorted and fragmented reflection. This design choice was inspired by the television actors' dynamic between their public identity, private self, character, and performance. However, the mirrors presented a challenge, as they revealed unwanted elements like crew, stands, and cables, requiring a meticulous set design that could adapt to various body types, heights, clothing, and group sizes.
The portrait studio operates under strict time constraints, with photographers having as little as a minute to capture the perfect shot. The pressure is intense, with subjects arriving in quick succession, each with their own unique personality and emotional state. Seven emphasizes the importance of fast decision-making and the ability to adapt on the spot, as the famous saying goes, 'You can't make an omelet without breaking eggs.'
One of the critical aspects of this process is understanding that even the most famous individuals need direction. Seven highlights the misconception that status equates to confidence, as some experienced individuals still ask for guidance. The photographer's role is to provide simple, physical direction, avoiding complicated language and over-directing, as this can kill the moment. The set design itself becomes a crucial part of the directing process, with sculptural boxes used to create levels and add visual interest to group portraits.
Seven shares a memorable moment with actor Stephen Graham, who won the lead actor BAFTA. Initially, they aimed for a calm and controlled portrait, but Graham's spontaneous outburst, exclaiming, 'I’ve just won a f* cup! It’s too civilised!' added an unexpected and authentic element to the image. This highlights the photographer's role in capturing raw and genuine expressions, even in high-pressure situations.
The technical side of the photography is equally crucial, requiring photographers to be technically proficient and adaptable. Seven stresses the importance of absorbing technical uncertainty before the room goes live, ensuring that the focus remains on capturing the subject's behavior and expression. The first test frame is vital, as it changes the dynamic and encourages collaboration, even in vulnerable situations.
In conclusion, the BAFTA Awards portrait studio is a chaotic, technical, and psychological environment where photographers must make split-second decisions. It's a challenging yet rewarding process, as the best frames often arrive unexpectedly, and the technical side becomes almost invisible in the pursuit of capturing genuine and powerful images. Seven's work showcases the art of capturing these moments, leaving viewers with a deeper appreciation for the intricate process behind these iconic award show portraits.
