Behind the scenes at a SHE fashion shoot

Francesca Moser gives us the inside track on a recent SHE fashion trip to St Lucia. See the end results in the SHE summer issues in June, July and August

After eight hours on a plane the SHE fashion team prepare for touchdown on the island of St Lucia. We're here to shoot our high summer fashion stories - 'Holiday Wardrobe' for the June issue, and our summer looks for July and August. Oh yes, and just to pack it all in - we're also shooting two beauty features for the coming months.

 

As we descend through the clouds, over crystal clear waters, we are met with a tropically luscious landscape of forests and white sandy beaches.  It's a bit overcast but we're assured the Caribbean sun will be shining through soon - average temperature on the island is between 25-30ºC with the rainy season from June to November.

 

The team is staying at the Jalousie Plantation resort for six nights, which is located on the west of St Lucia in the Valley of the Piton.  The Valley of the Piton lies between the twin peaks of Gros Piton and the Petit Piton Peak, creating a breathtaking landscape for the resort. Nestled in 192 acres of magnificent rainforest, the Plantation accommodation is exquisite with panoramic ocean views and gently swaying palm trees. Privacy is treasured; we have our own private sun terrace and plunge pool, secluded among blossoming foliage and lush green trees.

 

Mealtimes are a treat and we're spoilt for choice. There's the option of dining at the Bayside Grill, with its grilled Caribbean specialities, or gourmet dinners at the Plantation Room - a chance for us to put on our finest frocks and enjoy a treat; international Caribbean fusion cuisine using fresh organic produce.

 

But of course we're here to work! Though it's hard not to feel a pang of envy when we see the other residents setting off for a day of diving and snorkelling; or watch staff prepare windsurf boards and kayaks for the beach activities. All activities are offered free to resort guests. We've also heard about the cocktail waiter service that delivers ice cold drinks to your sunbed - I'm sure we can make time for just one!

 

By the pool

 

We get to hang out by the hotel pool today - but no lounging on sunbeds for us! Today we're shooting swimwear; Julie is busy retouching model Patricia's make-up while fashion director Karen fixes her accessories in place.

 

Directing the shoot

 

Photographer Howard gives Patricia a few helpful guidelines for the shoot. And though you can't see them in the shot, we attracted huge amounts of attention from the other hotel guests around the pool, who were very intrigued by our presence.

 

Taking it easy

 

At least someone gets to lie down! Photographer Howard snaps away furiously while our digital operator Odi checks the images as they come through on his computer.

 

Who mentioned rain?

 

Oops, hope the rainy season isn't coming early this year. Our photographer's assistant Simon saves the day by gallantly covering model Tatyana during this unexpected shower. Luckily we thought to shoot her wearing a hat ....

 

On the beach

 

On the beach and the sunset is breathtaking. We're shooting our beauty story this evening and the team gathers round to check the images on Howard's camera.

 

Setting up

 

Today we're back indoors, where Odi and photographer's assistant Simon set up the first shot, under the watchful eyes of Patricia and Julie.

 

On location Jade Mountain

 

Later that day we travel to one of the best hotels in the world, the stunning Jade Mountain. Our shoot takes place in one of their incredible sanctuaries - a real treat for us all! Model Tatyana gets ready to strike a pose for the guys while hair and makeup artist Julie puts the finishing touches to her look. Karen and Howard scrutinise the scene carefully to make sure we haven't overlooked any detail.

 

Balen Bouche

 

Another day, another location. Today we're off to a beautiful colonial retreat called Balen Bouche. It's a great place for a holistic break to experience the ultimate in relaxation. The estate is lush and green and the guys are very excited about this stunning backdrop as they set up for the first shot of the day. For more information on Balen Bouche, visit www.balenbouche.com

 

 

Our biggest fan

 

Our lovely driver Isidore chills out with a copy of his favourite magazine as the shoot at Balen Bouche continues. Well he said it was his favourite magazine .... And who are we to doubt him!

 

Almost time for home

 

But you'll be glad to know that we do find some time for relaxation - and the occasional beer. Our final photo is this great shot of the whole group in front of a spectacular tree trunk. From left: Julie, Francesca, Karen, Simon, Patricia and behind from right Howard and Odi.

 

Later we chill out at the Rainforest Oasis Spa, which offers holistic treatments - both inside and in the great outdoors with breathtaking views. Signature treatments include Cabana and Hot Rocks massages, body wraps and salt scrubs.

 

Back at the Jalousie Plantation it's time to say goodbye and a big thank you to Molly and all the staff who made our stay so special. St Lucia is a breathtaking island, suitable for couples, families - and of course the perfect backdrop for amazing photos!

 

See the finished shoots in SHE magazine, issues June, July and August. To subscribe to SHE, click here.

 

More information

 

For information on the resort visit www.thejalousieplatation.com; read more about St Lucia at www.stlucia.org.

 

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