This wasn't just a branding shoot. It was also the first time Chris and I had seen each other in around thirty years. The plan was simple. Meet at the Civic, grab a coffee, create some fresh branding images and send Chris on his way with a gallery of photographs he'd actually enjoy using. Then Britain decided to have a heatwave. Our Tuesday morning session went to a Friday afternoon, and from there became a Thursday evening adventure instead - all because of the weather and the light.
30 Degrees!
There was no way I was making anyone stand in 30-degree heat in the middle of the afternoon. Even in the evening, it was still like stepping into a sauna, but there was a beautiful window of golden light around the Civic on Millgate that made the wait worthwhile. Chris admitted he was a little nervous about having his photograph taken. He didn't need to be. One of the nicest things about the evening was simply talking.
By the time we'd finished the shoot, we'd definitely earned a cold drink. So we headed to a nearby pub. Somewhere between chasing the perfect light and nearly melting, I discovered I'd left my purse at home. "I've forgotten my purse, so you'll have to buy". There wasn't even a hint of embarrassment. I was far too thirsty. Fortunately, Chris is a gentleman. So he bought me a lemonade with ice and a straw. I realise this isn't how 'client hospitality' is normally supposed to work. (Chris, I still owe you one.) We sat on a bench, put the world to rights and watched the evening fade. By the end of the evening, it felt less like a photoshoot and more like two old friends catching up.
Forgetting the camera is there
It struck me afterwards that although this wasn't technically a Coffee & Content session, it perfectly captured what I want those sessions to be. Not rushed. Not awkward. Just a relaxed conversation, beautiful natural photographs and, occasionally, a lemonade instead of a latte. Because the best branding photographs don't happen when someone is worrying about where to put their hands. They happen when they forget the camera is there. And if you're thinking about booking your own Coffee & Content session, I promise I'll bring my purse next time.
