Rain, Camera, Action: My Unforgettable Photoshoot Adventure in Bali

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Introduction: The Prelude to a Memorable Journey

As a photographer I've had my fair share of remarkable experiences. But nothing really comes close to the adventure I had in Bali, organising and capturing a retreat's big closing event. This wasn't just any photoshoot; it was a symphony of culture, nature, and human connection, all brought together by 27 incredible women.

With over six years in event planning and running my own catering business, I've learned the art of creating special events. This expertise led to a unique opportunity: I had the privilege to be invited by Eclectica to organise and coordinate the final event of their Bali retreat. This role went beyond my usual photography work, allowing me to dive into every aspect of event planning.

Eclectica is an institution and growing sisterhood from Melbourne, Australia that is passionate about the reclamation of raw feminine power. Their mission is to guide women and womb bearers back home to themselves, their bodies, and their fullest expression. Reclaiming wombhood through practices that are rooted in ritual, embodiment, dance, full-bodied expression, and performance art.

I was truly honoured when they asked me to organise their Bali retreat closing event. The request made me feel incredibly privileged, as it reflected the trust they had in my abilities. Through Zoom calls with the wonderful owners of Eclectica, we collaborated on the vision for the event.

For the centerpiece of the bamboo shala, I curated a blend of red roses, green ruscus, bamboo lanterns, and an array of 50 candles to form a captivating altar. To enhance the atmosphere, I adorned the bamboo structure with carefully arranged fairy lights, creating a dreamy and mysterious mood.

To elevate the experience, we enlisted the talents of a renowned ecstatic dance DJ from Bali, known for his expertise in the field. The event commenced with a captivating performance by the retreat participants, with 27 students flawlessly executing a choreographed routine within the retreat's timeframe. The audience's enthusiastic support heightened the energy of the performance.

Following the mesmerising performance, the ecstatic dance DJ took charge, initiating a lively dance session that had everyone moving freely. It was a joy to witness the retreat participants revelling in the moment, taking pride in both their performance and the transformative journey they underwent during the retreat. The entire event was a beautiful celebration of connection, expression, and shared experiences.

The Day of the Grand Photoshoot

The next day was super exciting - it was time for the biggest photoshoot I've ever done, with 27 awesome women. Each of them had their own unique story, and we were about to mix all that with Bali's incredible scenery.

A Test of Patience:

Rain in Uluwatu

The sky just decided to let loose and it started bucketing down, really making us wonder about our plans. The journey from Ubud to Uluwatu, usually a scenic drive, became a test of patience, it took us almost 4 hours and when we arrived the rain just got stronger, showing no sign of stopping. In Bali when it rains it can rain for 24 hours relentlessly. But you know what? The crew's unbreakable spirit turned it all around. Instead of a setback, we turned it into a chance to get to know each other better. We found a beachside restaurant, where we ended up sharing loads of laughs and great stories.

The Magic After the Rain

When the rain calmed down, everyone was buzzing with excitement. We hit the beach, and that’s where the real magic began. The post-rain ambiance of the beach was surreal – the fresh scent of rain, the soft, diffused light, and the calm sea created a perfect stage. The women, full of energy and grace, posed on Bali's stunning beach, creating a harmonious blend of human spirit and natural beauty. As the women posed, each frame I captured told a story of strength, beauty, and resilience.

The Special Light of Bali

I've seen a lot of places, but Bali's light is something else. Especially that day, right after the rain, it was downright magical. The way the light played with the scenery and the women was captivating, giving every photo a kind of dreamy, mystical vibe.

What made this photoshoot extraordinary was not just the location or the weather, but the people. Each woman brought her own energy, her own story. The camaraderie among the participants was palpable. It was as if Bali’s spiritual vibe had infused into the group, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. As I moved among them, capturing their expressions and interactions, I felt more like a storyteller than a photographer.

Overcoming Challenges

The challenges of this photoshoot taught me valuable lessons. The unpredictability of weather, the dealing with a big group and the pressure of delivering quality photographs under less-than-ideal conditions make me believe and realise that great photography is not just about technical skills but also about adaptability, patience, and the ability to see beauty in imperfection.

Bali – My Photographic Home

I lived in Indonesia for 20 years, and Bali was my home during that time. I go back to Bali several times every year. Every trip shows me something new and inspiring. Bali, with its unique culture, different kinds of landscapes, and amazing light, is a perfect place for my photography. It feels like home, and each time I visit, I find new stories to capture with my camera

My journey with Bali is ongoing, and I extend an invitation to anyone who wishes to be part of this adventure. Whether you’re seeking a personal photoshoot or looking to capture the essence of your own Bali experience, I'm here to bring that vision to life. Visit my website to explore my work and to plan your own unforgettable Bali photoshoot.

Conclusion : Beyond the Lens

This photoshoot adventure in Bali was more than a professional assignment; it was a journey of discovery of self, art, and the unspoken bonds that connect us. It reinforced my love for photography and the power it has to tell stories, capture emotions, and preserve moments. Bali, with its unpredictable weather, ethereal light, and vibrant culture, remains an endless source of inspiration. As I continue my journey, both as a photographer and a storyteller, I look forward to the many more adventures that await in this magical island.

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