Summer skincare - on location beauty and product photography showcasing cosmetic textures

I recently had the pleasure of spending time in Crete — arguably the most stunning of the Greek islands. While the original intention was to unwind and take a proper break, it quickly became clear during my holiday research that I simply had to do a shoot while there.

The scenery was far too inspiring to resist.

Crete’s volcanic rock formations, pebbled beaches, and breathtaking natural light offered an irresistible contrast to the controlled environment of my studio, where I usually fine-tune every aspect of the light. Instead, I found myself swapping strobes and modifiers for the raw, sun-drenched backdrop of the Aegean coast. My vision was to capture something honest and unpolished — a series of authentic images that celebrated the textures of both nature and the human form in a relaxed, elemental setting.

Through Instagram, I connected with the beautiful model Antigoni, who kindly agreed to meet on a Tuesday afternoon. I knew from the outset that the timing wasn’t ideal; the midday sun is notoriously harsh, casting sharp shadows from directly overhead — something I typically avoid in studio work.

But in this context, that intensity brought a kind of raw realism that challenged me to adapt creatively and think on my feet.

We began in a shaded area where the light was soft and flattering (see first image below) — a setup I could have easily stayed with.

But this shoot was about stepping outside my comfort zone. I moved us into full sunlight, using a nearby rocky outcrop as a natural reflector to soften and shape the light where I could.

I’m genuinely pleased with the results.

These images are a testament to what can be achieved with just a camera, a model, minimal styling, and the power of natural surroundings. They capture not only texture and tone, but also a sense of freedom and spontaneity — a reminder that sometimes the most compelling work comes when we let go and let our creativity lead.