This was one of the last layouts we had on our shotlist for Rustan’s 2021 summer campaign. With the sun no longer providing that bright summer light, we had to rely on artificial assistance.

My Godox AD400 was set on the edge of the pool, with no light modifiers attached. In order to get that harsh flood of light, distance from the subject was key, as well as height. My apprentice JT stood by the light as we mounted it up around nine feet high; also to make sure that it wouldn’t topple over from the wind or from a random bystander.

With the help of hairstylist Francis Guintu, I stood on top of a barrier by the pool, while creative director Ricardo Preto instructed our model Miranda Castelli. The floater was partially resting on the edge of the infinity pool, to avoid her floating away as she did her poses. A silver reflector was placed in front of me to help lessen the shadows created by the Godox, by bouncing off the main light.

If it weren’t for the harsh light created by my Godox, the image would have come out very flat. Considering that this was a summer campaign, water=sun, always.