Illumination

This image of actress Jolene Blalock was shot in London in 2002 for Arena Magazine in an old pub in Shoreditch. I had photographed Jolene a number of times over the years and always found her to be impressive in front of the camera. She had a very self-assured presence and a natural sensuality that few people possess.
Although classically trained in lighting, I often prefer to work with one or just a couple of lights so that the natural spontaneity of movement and collaboration isn’t restricted. At the time of this shoot, Jolene had just begun working on the hugely popular Star Trek series and was in high demand, with many photographers keen to work with her.