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 whilst being 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 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 — 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 me on a Tuesday lunch. 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 and definitely not recreate in my studio work.

But this 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 as 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.