A photograph may be a captured moment, or it may be a subtly crafted piece of theatre that works on the eye and the imagination to create an experience that cannot be had in any other way. Perhaps we can show you how this works by taking you on a guided tour of a Wasteland photo shoot.

In order to help contain and focus the creative energy, preparation and planning for the shoot was kept secret. Skye O'Donovan (Editor of Sssh) researched the desired period look, then designed and created the outfits over a period of several months.

It started with a long prop list, a lot of time on the web collecting info and ordering just the right things: a necklace, earrings and elbow length gloves, just to name a few. There was a trip for the photographer to collect a chair, a fainting couch, the perfect drapes. There was the lighting design and then a test shoot.

For a shoot like this there were a ton of extra details to keep track of. The props and wardrobe were in boxes, bags and even a suitcase. There were lots of shoes and boots to keep track of, not to mention cameras, lights and all the gear needed. We made a list of what we wanted to do and the order that we thought might make the most sense. For the most part we were fine, except we forgot to take into account the marks the corset would leave on the model's skin. Luckily we had a comprehensive cosmetics kit!

With the results of the test in hand, we went looking for a team and found two talented Canadians to work with. The photographer, Richard, and a make up artist, Tanya, could create any look that was asked for and make it seem effortless. They were backed up by a great group of helpers, and I was privileged to be able to join them - a sort of photographic roadie.

It was very instructive to be a part of this and not be behind the camera for once. As a result of being able to take a broader perspective I got to see a whole side of things that I never noticed with my nose pressed against the back of the camera. I gained a real appreciation for the work that goes into a production shoot, and it was a big deal.