Earlier this year I spent two packed and fun days in London shooting Ridgeback's new 2012 catalogue and website images. As usual, we had a very large van packed with an assortment of bikes covering the gamut from cyclocross to singlespeed via commuter and flat bar road bike. Master of ceremonies was Toby Howes, who is effectively Mr. Ridgeback and the mastermind and inspiration behind the brand's image as well as the bikes' design.
Toby's knowledge of north and west London streets is right up there with the average cab driver's, although he views it from a cyclist's and designer's perspective. We had a list of possible locations, a timetable based on model availability and a shot list longer than both Toby's arms put together. But we got it done, had a lot of fun in the process and came up with some new images that help bring the catalogue and website to life.
One of the things I enjoy about the Ridgeback shoot is the sheer variety of techniques and kit I have to use. This year I used just about everything in the bag including the fisheye and Magic Arm, all shot on the D300 to keep things as discreet as possible. The hunt for new locations for 2013 is already on...
See that narrow sliver of sunlight under the canopy? That's serendipity, right there.
You don't need to mash the big ring to make it look fast. You just need a sloooow shutter speed.
The trouble with shooting people who are talking is you invariably grab awkward facial expressions. I had to ask the riders to just look adoringly at each other.
The simplist looking shots are often the hardest to get just right.
Working with children is equal parts pleasure and frustration, but the results make the effort worthwhile.
This is outside what has to be one of the best and most characterful bike shops in London. I would've loved to shoot inside, but there was barely room to swing a chain wrench.
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