Stephen Rafferty: The Lens Behind

Evocative Narratives – by Barion McQueen

Stephen Rafferty, a seasoned multimedia specialist with a dynamic 13-year career in the arts and entertainment sector, began his journey in photography just four years ago. After a decade of video production, Rafferty discovered his passion for the art of creating still images, seeing it as another opportunity to refine his skills and adapt his creativity

Known for his realistic creativity, Rafferty's photography stands out in its ability to narrate a story Inspired by his background in videography, he adopts a similar approach to his still images, aiming to encapsulate the beauty of the moment, the situation, and the story at hand. His combination of technical precision and creative storytelling offers a unique perspective that separates him from his peers

Rafferty's career highlight came when he had the opportunity to shoot fashion and professional runway photos for major events such as Fort Lauderdale Fashion Week and Miami Swim Week Despite not initially envisioning such a path, Rafferty cites these experiences as significant milestones, celebrating the growth and progression of his career.

According to Rafferty, key elements that make a photograph stand out are the subject, the environment, and the situation He aims to capture these elements in his work, whether it's portrait photography, event coverage, or behind-the-scenes snaps

Collaboration with other creatives is integral to Rafferty's work, and he emphasizes the importance of comfortability and trust in these professional relationships Ensuring a comfortable environment not only helps produce better results but also fosters long-lasting professional connections.

Rafferty's photography skills have notably evolved over the years, from gaining a greater understanding of technical skills to becoming more methodical and deliberate in his shooting style Keeping up with the latest trends and shifts in the industry, particularly those brought about by social media and innovative technologies, is a key part of Rafferty's strategy to remain relevant

His ability to handle challenges was put to the test during a shoot for a candle company, where he discovered a crack in his lens during post-production. Instead of succumbing to frustration, Rafferty saw it as an opportunity to enhance his editing skills, delivering the best possible results for his client despite the hurdle

In terms of shooting locations, Rafferty fondly recalls a historic house in Opa-Locka, where he collaborated with Save The Creatives Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports creative professionals The diverse rooms and historical pieces provided an enriching backdrop for his creative process

For aspiring photographers, Rafferty advises getting started by shooting in various locations and working with different talents to build a name in the industry However, clear communication and professionalism are equally important in cultivating a successful

Career

Rafferty acknowledges the impact of fellow photographers Angel Martinez, Barion McQueen, and Vivian Vo on his work From gaining technical skills and learning to shoot runway photos to understanding the business side of photography, each has contributed significantly to his growth

Rafferty aspires to be remembered as a photographer who, despite not having a formal background, was able to create lasting memories through his creative and memorable shoots. His primary goal is to highlight the beauty of his subjects and make them feel special - a legacy he strives to leave in the world of photography

Inspired by the captivating aura of Karl Lagerfeld's Haute Couture Spring/Summer show in 1992, Gabriel Caro weaves a magnificent photoshoot concept that seeks to encapsulate the timeless elegance of Chanel with a unique twist. The iconic imagery of Christy Turlington in a black cocktail dress and gold jewelry sparked his creative fire, leading him to craft a similar, but distinctly his own concept.

The setting chosen for this photoshoot is as vital as the fashion inspiration itself. Breaking away from the expected indoor elegance of the original scene, Gabriel ventures to bring the haute couture to the natural landscape, deciding on a beach location. This not only amplifies the contrast between the high-fashion attire and the untamed beauty of the outdoors but also injects a sense of liberation and tranquility into the sophisticated aesthetic.

As much as the setting and the outfit, the selection of the model is a pivotal part of Gabriel’s creative process. He doesn’t simply look for a mannequin to display the clothes; the model is the life and soul of the shoot. When choosing a model, he searches for specific attributes – height, hair color, and length that align with his vision. However, the decision transcends the superficial; the model must embody the mood he envisions, becoming a real-life version of the character in his head. Should the ideal model be unavailable, Gabriel would prefer to postpone the shoot, such is the importance of this match.

The collaboration involved in these shoots cannot be understated. This photoshoot concept is not merely about creating beautiful images, it is about weaving a story, a feeling, an atmosphere, where all elements come together in a harmonious dialogue. It’s about elevating everyone's portfolio involved, pushing boundaries, and producing something distinctive and inspiring.

This photoshoot concept, with its unique mix of haute couture glamour, natural setting, and a carefully chosen model, stands as a testament to Gabriel Caro's innovative vision and a tribute to the timeless appeal of Karl Lagerfeld's Chanel.