Lingerie Photoshoot during COVID-19 Pandemic
In the words of Hannibal, "Aut inveniam viam aut faciam", meaning: "I shall either find a way or make one" – this was the approach Becky Yee, a determined fashion photographer from New York City took as she organized a photoshoot during the COVID-19 pandemic. For weeks, Becky planned a lingerie photoshoot for the Lingerie Journal. However, plans were put on hold as the state of New York was in lockdown. With a strong sense of determination, Becky had to improvise her plan.
Working with Naoumie Ekiko (model from Q Models) and Luis Perez (hair and makeup artist from Motives Cosmetics), the three worked remotely by participating in a video conference call during the photography session. At the time of the photoshoot, Becky was in Jersey City, NJ, Luis Perez was in Allentown, PA, and Naoumie was in Brooklyn, NY. Becky instructed Naoumie on lighting and furniture set up, and Luis provided directions for Naoumie on hair and makeup. Naoumie became both model and photographer as she took photos of herself by using her iPhone.
The theme of the photoshoot is called Natural & Naughty as it featured brands that Becky met at Curve – a lingerie trade show which took place in New York in February. In this shoot, Naoumie wears VienneMilano, Studio Pia, Ame Nue Intimates, and The End Lingerie.
In light of COVID-19, many professionals from the media industry were unable to work. In fact, the approach Becky, Naoumie, and Luis took for their photography session was shared by nonother supermodel, Naomi Campbell, as she also took photos of herself for the cover of ESSENCE magazine to celebrate her 50th birthday.
Naomi Campbell writes:
"While it was a sad reminder for me of all the people in media and production who are not able to work due to the coronavirus, it also brought me hope and encouragement to know that our people and our infrastructures are resilient. We are rooted in knowledge and creativity and continue to take back full control of our narratives. We will come out of this stronger than ever."
Certainly, this is a perspective that we can all share.
