Header photo: Not so basic by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Zara_Lee is a hobbyist model based in Surrey, United Kingdom, with over 11 years of experience.  

After sharing her shoot (at Studio88 with photographer Straker) with the PurplePort community, Zara generously gave us her time for a quick interview, where she provided details behind the creation of these images, such as the inspirations for the shoot, how it was planned, the gear used, and more.

Plus, check out more fabulous images from the photoshoot below!

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

SHARE A SHOOT with model Zara_Lee

How did you come up with the concept? Did anything inspire you?

It was the first time Straker and I worked together on a shoot. He had admired my portfolio for a while and really liked my look, so he contacted me to arrange a shoot.

It was also our first time shooting at Studio88, so we were both open to improvising on the day. Sometimes an idea will come to me in the moment!

We worked really well together as creatives.

Zara_Lee by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

What did you do to plan the shoot?

We spoke over message on PurplePort.

Straker really liked my black hat, so I took that along. I took some clothes that I thought could work.

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

How did you arrange the shoot?

We wanted somewhere that was easy for us both to get to as Straker came from the Midlands, and I travelled from the Southern Counties.

I found Studio88, and we both liked what it had to offer, so we gave it a go.

Bathtime is my happy hour by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Sun not shining? I have sunglasses for that by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

What was it like shooting at that location?

Studio88 is really cool! It actually has two floors, but we shot on the 1st floor. It has lovely big windows; I don't think we used any extra light the entire shoot!

The studio also has a beautiful swing, a bed, and a bath that you can move around in, and I actually fit in!

Rob, the owner, showed us around and pointed out there were loads of props. I would definitely go back!

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Tell us about the gear you used.

Straker used a Canon R5 and natural light, and I provided my wonderful wardrobe!

Bonjour from Paris by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Image by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

What's your favourite image from the shoot?

It's hard to choose a favourite as I like so many!

I would have to say the bath shot below with the black hat, as it's quite different from my portfolio.

Not so basic by photographer Straker with model Zara_Lee taken at Studio88

Thank you, Zara_Lee, for sharing your creativity, experience and images with us. We loved learning all about your photoshoot with photographer Straker at Studio88!

We hope you all loved it, too. Don't forget to check out the links below to see more of Zara_Lee's work!

Here's where you can find more of Zara_Lee's work

PurplePort: Zara_Lee

Instagram: zara_lee_model

What is PurplePort

PurplePort is a modelling website that brings models, photographers and other creatives together with one fantastic service. We provide the tools and help you need to get together and create amazing photos.

Established in 2010, PurplePort has grown from strength to strength and now has 40,000+ active members worldwide. With features such as integrated messaging, calendar, shoot plans, image albums, references, credited photos, busy member forums, hundreds of articles, and dedicated full-time staff to help you, it's easy finding the perfect creatives you need for your next photography project. It's a fresh, fast, and feature-rich alternative to ModelMayhem.

Join the fastest growing, most feature-rich service of its kind and start making magical photos a reality!

Follow us on social media 

We regularly post beautiful, dynamic and inspiring images from our talented community on social media.

Check out our blog on PurplePort and our social channels below so you can stay inspired anytime:

Join now and start networking

Join the community and start your modelling or photography career now.