LAURA JANE VEST in International Photographer Competition

By Lisa JC


NORTH EAST based fashion and beauty photographer, LAURA JANE VEST, won second place in the Portrait Category of the prestigious Digital Photographer of The Year Awards, held by Digital Photographer Magazine.

Laura's entry features Tyne Tees Model, Abbey Bryce, in a stunning black and white portrait that was selected from thousands of entries worldwide.

Model: Abbey Bryce @ Tyne Tees Models

"We had three completely different set-ups on the shoot, one including an intricate set up involving water – difficult with all the electrical equipment. I took the portrait as a quick shot before packing up for the day as a gift to the shoot’s make-up artist, Kristina, who had done a fabulous job."

The effortless simplicity of this portrait wowed the judges proving that less is often more. Judge Antony Spencer said: "The portrait has fantastic use of light, which results in a fashion style portrait. The model's expression is perfect and I could see this image being used commercially anywhere!"

Laura has had many previous successes in her short photographic career, including being twice shortlisted for the title of Professional Photographer of The Year and having her photographs included in a Royal Photographic Society book alongside top photographers Terry O'Neill and Annie Leibovitz.

"I'm a strong believer in entering competitions. Being from Newcastle I've grown up with the Geordie phrase of 'Shy Bairns Get Nowt' which resonates strongly with me and sums up my willingness to just go for it."

Laura is now looking forward to presenting a new project in the form of her first solo photographic exhibition in May. She said: "I have exhibited my work in many galleries but have never had my own solo show, so I was thrilled when I was approached.

"It's an exciting prospect for me and a challenge I am eager to get started with. At this stage the theme is a bit of a secret, so I guess you will have to watch this space!"

www.laurajanevest.co.uk
Twitter: @LauraJaneVest

Credits
Photography: Laura Jane Vest
Hair: David Capewell
MUA: Kristina Foster of KF Makeup
Model: Abbey Bryce @ Tyne Tees Models
Shot in Gateshead @ The Shed Creative Studios
Shy Bairns Get Nowt – roughly translates to shy children get nothing. If you don't ask then you'll never get