There’s something captivating about the elegance of vintage fashion. The delicate lace, tailored suits, and sweeping silhouettes of the early 20th century continue to inspire modern aesthetics.
This bespoke photoshoot concept brings the timeless charm of Edwardian and Art Deco influences to life, adapted for today’s locations and tastes.
Step into vintage elegance with a bespoke photoshoot that’s uniquely yours. Whether you dream of soft, romantic portraits or bold, editorial imagery, I’ll work with you to create something extraordinary. Contact Matthew Cornell Photography today to start planning your timeless session.
As your photographer, I aim to craft imagery that feels luxurious, cinematic, and personal. Whether you’re seeking portraits, editorial-style images, or a brand campaign, this concept combines vintage inspiration with contemporary settings for a look that’s unique, bold, and memorable.
If you’re based internationally—or dreaming of creating this vision in a historic setting overseas—this could be your perfect opportunity. Together, we can create something extraordinary, wherever inspiration takes us.
Setting the Scene: Modern Locations, Timeless Style
While historic estates and grand ballrooms evoke vintage opulence, you don’t need antiques to create the look. This photoshoot is designed to adapt to a variety of modern, accessible spaces:
- Indoors: A home with large windows for natural light, a modern high-backed chair styled with vintage-inspired throws, or even a contemporary space with clean walls can provide the perfect understated backdrop.
- Outdoors: Imagine tree-lined pathways, manicured gardens, or softly lit parks. The natural textures of stone walls or wrought-iron fences add an air of sophistication without requiring period-specific settings.
It’s about capturing the essence of timeless elegance through thoughtful styling and composition, no matter where the shoot takes place.
Lighting: Soft and Cinematic
Lighting plays a key role in creating the romantic, vintage-inspired aesthetic. Here’s how I achieve it:
- Natural Light: Diffused daylight streaming through windows or dappled light in gardens creates a dreamy, ethereal quality.
- Studio Techniques: Warm, directional lighting paired with reflectors sculpts the subject while maintaining soft shadows, giving the images a painterly feel.
- Evening Glow: Candles, lanterns, or fairy lights provide subtle warmth and ambience for an evening-inspired shoot.
The goal is to evoke the softness and drama of vintage portraiture while ensuring the photos retain a contemporary edge.
The Wardrobe: Refined Sophistication
The wardrobe is the heart of this concept, inspired by the tailored and intricate styles of Edwardian and early 1920s fashion. While historically rooted, these outfits are reimagined for a modern audience:
- For Women: Fitted corset-style tops with draped or ruched fabrics, long flowing skirts, or wrap dresses with plunging necklines. Look for soft pastel shades, muted jewel tones, or metallic accents to evoke luxury. Accessories such as lace gloves, feathered hats, or delicate chokers add layers of sophistication.
- For Men: Slim-fit tailored suits with waistcoats, cravats, or pocket squares. Tweed, herringbone, or pinstripe patterns lend authenticity, while a classic top hat or leather shoes add an elevated touch.
The wardrobe can be further enhanced with carefully chosen jewellery, from strings of pearls to Art Deco brooches, completing the vintage-inspired look.
Posing: Dynamic and Story-Driven
Posing is key to evoking the grace and refinement of vintage portraits. Here are some ideas to bring the concept to life:
- Graceful Seated Poses: Capture subjects perched on chairs with soft, elegant hand placements, gazing naturally into the distance.
- In Motion: Flowing dresses or coattails photographed mid-step bring energy and a sense of storytelling.
- Candid Close-Ups: Highlight hands adjusting a glove, a thoughtful gaze beneath a hat, or intricate details of jewellery or fabric.
- Group or Couples Shots: Symmetrical arrangements and subtle interactions create a sense of intimacy and narrative.
I guide each subject to ensure the poses feel authentic, capturing their personality while embracing the vintage theme.
Why Choose Matthew Cornell Photography?
When you choose me as your photographer, you’re choosing a bespoke experience. I specialise in blending timeless elegance with a modern, personal touch.
My goal is to create imagery that reflects not just a concept but your story—whether that’s for a personal portrait, a family shoot, or a brand campaign.
I pride myself on creating a relaxed, collaborative environment where we can experiment with ideas, capture the best moments, and deliver images you’ll treasure forever.
Whether we’re working locally in Australia or jet-setting to an international destination, I bring the same dedication to artistry and detail to every project.