Unveiling the Human Spirit: The Story Behind The Essence Sessions

The Inspiration Behind The Essence Sessions

The idea for 'The Essence Sessions' was born from a desire to connect with people on a deeper level through photography. As a portrait photographer, I've always been fascinated by the stories behind the faces. This project aims to go beyond traditional portraiture, capturing not just a person's image, but their spirit, experiences, and the essence of who they are.

The Photography Process: Capturing Authenticity

For each session, I created a relaxed, conversational environment where subjects felt comfortable sharing their stories. The lighting setup was carefully designed to enhance natural features while maintaining a soft, flattering look. I used an Elinchrom ELB 500 Dual light kit, setting up two strip softboxes placed on either side of the subject, angled towards them, with my camera positioned between the lights. This professional lighting setup allowed for even illumination and helped create depth in the portraits, while still maintaining a natural feel.

I shot with my Canon R5 paired with a Canon 100mm F2.8 Macro Lens, a combination that allowed for sharp, detailed images with beautiful bokeh. The portraits were captured directly into Capture One Pro, chosen for its excellent handling of skin tones.

Post-processing was minimal, with a filmic style applied to the digital images to add a touch of timeless elegance. Importantly, no retouching was done, staying true to the project's ethos of celebrating authentic beauty.

Additionally, I used my father's old Pentax SP1000 film camera loaded with Kodak Portra 400 film to add a layer of nostalgia and raw authenticity to the series. This dual approach - high-resolution digital and classic film - allowed me to capture each individual's essence in complementary ways.

Throughout the sessions, I focused on capturing candid moments that revealed each individual's true self, encouraging natural expressions and genuine emotions. This approach, combined with the professional technical setup, resulted in portraits that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant.

Stories That Touch the Heart: Highlights from The Essence Sessions

Throughout this project, I had the privilege of photographing individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Each person brought a unique perspective to the series, sharing stories of resilience, joy, personal growth, and profound life lessons. Here are some of the most touching highlights from The Essence Sessions:

Manui: A Surfer's Spirit in the Heart of Wellington

Manui, the charismatic owner of Crepes A Go Go, embodies the laid-back surfing lifestyle in the bustling city of Wellington. His story of finding joy in simple pleasures and the wisdom gained from a chance encounter with a fisherman on a remote island resonated deeply. Manui's infectious laughter and zest for life remind us to find happiness in our everyday experiences.

Emily: Sustainability and Education

Emily's commitment to sustainability and her passion for education paint a picture of a woman dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. Her minimalist lifestyle and joy in teaching others new skills highlight the fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with one's values.

Kimre: Navigating Life's Transitions

Kimre's story of self-rediscovery resonates with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their past self. Her journey through what she describes as a "dystopian minimalist film" phase of her life speaks to the courage it takes to navigate personal transitions and the strength found in embracing uncertainty.

Ruby: Finding Magic in the Everyday

Ruby's whimsical approach to life and her ability to find magic in the mundane serve as a delightful reminder to appreciate the small moments. Her memory of a chilly sunrise ocean dip with a childhood friend beautifully illustrates the joy of reconnecting with our roots and finding gratitude in simple experiences.

Liz: A Global Perspective

Liz's insights gained from her extensive travels around the world offer a unique perspective on human connection. Her realization that people are fundamentally the same at their core, despite surface differences, speaks to the universal experiences that bind us all.

Josh: The Joy of Fatherhood

Josh's transition from a challenging upbringing to finding joy in fatherhood is a powerful story of resilience and growth. His reflections on watching his son learn language remind us of the wonder that can be found in everyday moments of parenting.

Jono: Mentorship and Creative Energy

Jono's story revolves around his experience as a mentor in the Big Brother Big Sister programme. His account of a day spent exploring with his mentee, capturing moments through a disposable camera, beautifully illustrates the power of seeing the world through fresh eyes. Jono's reflection on enjoying the small things, being open to exploring, and seeing things through the lens of others, particularly young people, serves as a reminder of the incredible source of creative energy that comes from intergenerational connections.

Polly: Embracing the Fantastical

Polly's vision of her life as a fantasy world full of surprises and adventures captures the imagination. Her perspective of being an underdog who overcomes adversity with the help of reliable friends speaks to the power of resilience and community. Polly's optimistic outlook, encapsulated in her motto "everything is going to be alright," serves as an inspiring reminder to face life's challenges with hope and determination.

Cécile: An Adventure of Self-Discovery

Cécile's story of moving to New Zealand embodies the spirit of adventure and self-discovery. Her journey, filled with the excitement of new experiences and the challenges of being away from home, resonates with anyone who has ever taken a leap into the unknown. Cécile's curiosity and willingness to challenge herself remind us of the growth that comes from stepping out of our comfort zones.

Terri: Resilience and Independence

Terri's journey of moving from the US to New Zealand, facing divorce, and choosing to stay in Aotearoa is a powerful testament to resilience and self-reliance. Her story of proving to herself that she can make it on her own inspires us to face life's challenges head-on and find strength in independence. Terri's experience reminds us that sometimes the most difficult decisions lead to the most rewarding outcomes.

Anamika: Wisdom in Observation

Anamika's approach to life, centered on observing and learning from others, offers a unique perspective on personal growth. Her belief that some people come into our lives to be lessons, and her conscious effort to adapt good qualities while avoiding negative ones, speaks to the wisdom of mindful living. Anamika's story encourages us to be more observant and intentional in our interactions with others.

Kalib: Humor and Nostalgia

Kalib, a resident of Te Aro, brings a refreshing perspective to life with his laid-back attitude and self-deprecating humor. Describing his life as a "grandma comedy," Kalib humorously embraces his love for knitting and reading. His reflections on his late grandmother, who passed away just before his 21st birthday, add a poignant touch to his narrative. Kalib's story reminds us of the importance of authenticity, the lasting impact of familial bonds, and the healing power of humor in life's journey.

From Essence to Memory: The Birth of "Memories in Focus"

As 'The Essence Sessions' progressed, I found myself particularly moved by stories of personal history and legacy. This inspiration has led to my next project, "Memories in Focus," which will specifically work with individuals living with dementia. The aim is to capture and preserve their stories, celebrating their lives and the richness of their experiences.

Join the Journey: Be Part of The Essence Sessions

While this chapter of 'The Essence Sessions' has concluded, the spirit of the project lives on. I invite you to engage with these stories, share your own, and consider how you might capture the essence of those around you. Together, we can continue to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the human experience.

Get Involved

If you're interested in participating in future projects, including "Memories in Focus," or would like to share your story, please reach out. Your essence deserves to be celebrated.