The #ProjectScouted team behind the camera – Caroline Burne

Caroline Burne’s photography is larger than life. Just take a look at her images of the Top 5 from the Phase Eleven shoot in Cycle 1 of #ProjectScouted. After having set up, the location resembled a Hollywood movie set and the Top 5 ladies were the starring heroines. Currently working as a principle studio and freelance photographer, Caroline discovered her passion and flair for photography rather recently but has made serious headway and rapid progress. This year, Caroline promises to give the Top 10 girls the experience of a lifetime with a shoot that they will never forget.

Lee Folkard Photography: How did you discover your passion for photography?

Caroline: I only got into photography in my late twenties. My boyfriend was photographing the scene at the time and I was instantly drawn to it.  I bought a Nikon D60 and started shooting social pics at night clubs. And then, only two months later I sold my little D60 and upgraded to a D300. I haven’t looked back or questioned my choice in this field since. Apart from learning about the industry and the technicalities of photography on my own, I also felt it was important that I learnt the fundamentals of the art in order to better equip myself. So I went to Vega School of Brand Leadership and completed a year of studies, after which I began working for a studio.

LFP: What do you love most about photographing people?

Caroline: The aspect that I love the most about photographing people is that moment when a client who insists they aren’t photogenic or is very shy comes out of their shell in front of the camera or sees themselves in a way they haven’t seen themselves before. In that moment, you can see a genuine happiness because you have shown them something about themselves that they may have been longing to see. They hold their heads a little higher and walk with more confidence than they did before.  That’s always a good moment for me as an artist.

LFP: Is there anyone that you dream of shooting?

Caroline: I would love to shoot Bjork! I’m a big dreamer! I just feel that she knows how to take risks and bring the dramatic to everything she does, which really appeals to me.

LFP: For you, what makes a beautiful photograph?

Caroline: I find it really hard to say what makes a photograph beautiful. But I think it’s just that feeling you get when you’re looking at an image, whether it’s the mystery of a black and white cityscape or the allure of a secret hidden in a subtle smile or just a soft glow emanating from the image. I think that a beautiful image is one that manages to evoke an emotion.

LFP: Having been a part of #ProjectScouted last year, what made you want to return to Cycle 2 this year?

Caroline: Last cycle I met some really amazing people with awesome skills and talents. I was fortunate enough to work with the beautiful Charelle McAllister and what Charelle can do with a make-up brush is nothing less than pure perfection. I love that the Project presents the opportunity to network with people who are experts in their fields and also the chance to work with them. When you get that opportunity to meet and work with new people, especially in this industry, you take it!

LFP: Any tips for the #ProjectScouted girls who you will be shooting?

Caroline: My advice to the girls would be that they should not just rely on being ‘a pretty face’. You need to bring character and personality to each one of your images because you never know which shot is going to be that perfect one. Practice your angles and posing before the shoot if you can – elongate your neck, always pose with tension, and don’t stay in the same pose. Always mix it up, keep moving, take chances, and be innovative!

LFP: It’s going to be difficult to better on your shoot from last year. Are you willing to share any info about the phase you are shooting?

Caroline: I’ll just say that this year it’s all about the glam!

This is the point in the Project when there is no room for complacency from the girls as we are down to our Top 10, with 11 having been eliminated after the Shoelaced Clothing fashion show last week. Inspired by the pioneer photographer, Ansel Adams and his words, “You don't make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, and the people you have loved,” Caroline brings depth and poignancy to her work. This phase is going to be the most demanding yet because we know that Caroline will be pulling out all the stops.

Phase Seven : Brief : #ProjectScouted

hey there, 

welcome to the brief...

This week is all about glam, personality and how well you work with your fellow project scouted models. 

Each group will get a set number of frames so be aware of lighting, your angles and working as a team. Goodluck!

Venue: Thompson Bay Beach, Ballito (meet at the tidal pool)

Call Time: 7:00am

Make-up: Golds, bronze, full fake lashe

Hair: wet and sleek or high buns

Accessories: thick gold chains, chunky bangels (anything you dont mind getting wet.

Outfits: long sleeve button down shirts with collar. Sheer/ prints or colour etc. i will be supplying a couple tops but bring if you have. 

Remember your clothes will be getting wet. I will also be supplying pasties (don't worry, nothing is going to show that shouldn't show) for  protective covering so we don't have strings and straps sticking out all over the place.  

bottoms are fine or something with a little more coverage as I don't doubt the water is going to be chilly. 

You won't be seen from the waists down, so don't worry too much. You might like to wear shoes or slops as the tidal pool floor can be a little rocky and this will help with when trying to balance. 

yours sincerely

Caroline

Project Scouted photographer profile: Caroline Burne

Lee Folkard Photography asked Caroline a few questions ahead of her photo session to get a little insight into who she is and what her photography process is like.

Lee Folkard Photography: What was your inspiration to begin photography and how did you start off in the business?

Caroline: I only got into photography in my late twenties. My boyfriend was photographing the scene at the time and I was instantly drawn to it. I bought a Nikon D60 and started taking photos socially at nightclubs. Two months later, I sold my little D60 and upgraded to a D300 and haven’t looked back since. I reached a point where I felt it was important that I learnt the fundamentals in order to move forward. So I went to Vega and completed a year of studies, after which I began working for a studio.

LFP: How did you become involved in Project Scouted and what motivated you to be a part of it?

Caroline: I met with Lee to talk about being a part of the Project. I really like what he is doing for Durban’s creative community.

LFP: When photographing people, what is your process? What's your favourite aspect to capture?

Caroline: I like trying to create something complex out of otherwise ordinary, simple elements. When you are able to evoke an emotion rather than just an expression, you’ve achieved your goals and I think it reflects in your work.

LFP: What inspires you artistically?

Caroline: The pioneer photographer, Ansel Adams said, “You don't make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved.”

LFP: Has Durban always been your home? What do you love most about Durban?

Caroline: I’m a born and raised Durban girl. It’s hard to say what I love the most. When you've lived in one city all your life, you form a love/hate relationship with it. One minute you pack your bags and get one foot out the door and the next you’re hugging your pillows promising you will never leave.

Caroline's passion for photography is clearly evident and she has the talent and drive to match. It’s always refreshing to see more photographers who bring depth and intellect to their work. Be sure to keep an eye on the Facebook page for her and the other featured photographer’s pics.

#ProjectScouted : Phase Eleven : Brief

In the words of the photographer:

Hola, welcome to the brief...

This round we will be taking the ladies to new heights.

Thursday 17th,

Hair and make-up will be done by the lovely Charelle and Kez, who have been briefed on the required looks. Charelle will be giving each of the models a time slot. 

Times start from 10:00am.

10:00AM - Lieche & Taliya

10:30AM - Toni & Sarah

11:00AM - Samantha 

Venue for hair and make-up will be Charelle's home. Address will be SMS'd to you. 

Since we are invading the private space of our make-up artist we are limiting attendance during the make-up and hair sessions to behind the scene, bloggers and those directly involved with project scouted. Please refrain from additional spectators - this is much appreciated. 

We leave to head to the location at 2:00pm sharp. The location is just past Collisheen in Ballito, but we can all drive in convoy from Charelle's place. If directions are needed don't hesitate to ask.

Models - please wear strapless nude bras (if needed) and dark leggings to cover your bottom half, the rest of the outfit will be provided. Strictly no heels or slops, sensible flats only - your feet wont be showing - this is to help with balance. Bring a gown or robe to wear before and after, nothing over the head please.

Please DO NOT wash your hair the night before and DO NOT put a straightening iron to hair. 

Jewellery - big bold chunky necklaces, layers, arm bands, bracelets, big is better.

 

I have attached some poses to inspire.  This round you need to think about shapes, gestures, intention and emotion. A serious "bored" look just aint going to cut it. Practice your posing on a high stool or on your bed. 

Balance is key.

Please no prima ballerinas.

Remember, this is all in the arms, hip and waist.

If there are any questions, please feel free to holla in my direction. 

Look forward to meeting everyone this thursday.

Cass

xoxo