The story starts with me loading my car – in and out of the Birmingham studio with all the usual gear. Tripod, Lighting Kit, Spare Camera, Actual camera, Laptop etc.

Each time I went to my car I passed a young blonde and very striking lady who was sitting on a bench right next to my vehicle.

I imagined she was waiting for someone, in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham. She smiled – but did not speak.

I decided to be bold – compliment her for looking so lovely and give her my card should she ever fancy having a professional photo shoot.

My opening gambit, having seen the large amount of photography gear I was packing, was to say, “People are so disappointed if I just shoot them with my phone.”

“I bet!” she replied.

We engaged in conversation regarding just how many years I had been a professional photographer and why she was waiting around the area.

“Have you ever thought of having professional head shots, portraits or a modelling portfolio?”

“I have – and your not the first person to say that I should consider it.”

However – at the moment, she had financial priorities that superseded the commissioning of photography – however enjoyable the experience would be.

I gave her my card and asked that she keep in touch, and if she wished to take it further – then we could meet up for coffee and talk through her options and budget.

It was only three weeks later that she did indeed get back to me – she had entered a competition run by Rebel Nails – who were looking for “a non model – model”!

In other words – someone beautiful who was not signed on a Model Agencies’ books.

Her three photos and her bio and her location all helped her win the competition.

She was about to become The Face of Rebel Nails! Fabulous news.

One of the very first questions they asked her was, “I don’t suppose you know of a good photographer around the Birmingham area?”

Needless to say – she did! We all met up and discussed the ideas behind a fantastic fashion shoot that featured weird and wild make up that would mirror the crazy styles and colours available in their range of nail products.

I know one of the best MUAs in the area, and between the four of us we had the most fun, exciting and just Wow photoshoots I had done that year.

The lesson learned – be bold – ask questions – talk to people – you never know where it will lead.

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