Elegant Exposures: A Poldark-Inspired Fashion Photography Project in Norfolk
In our recent Poldark-inspired photoshoot, we aimed to capture the evolution of Demelza’s character through carefully curated costumes and thoughtfully chosen locations. Our model, Sophia, embodied Demelza’s journey from a humble servant to a lady of status, with each outfit reflecting a distinct phase of her life.
Costume 1: The Servant Era
To depict Demelza’s early days as a servant, Sophia wore a white muslin blouse paired with a plain brown cotton skirt, complemented by a brown velvet jacket and brown boots. This ensemble symbolised her modest beginnings and the simplicity of her initial circumstances. The choice of muslin and cotton fabrics reflects the practical and unadorned clothing typical of the working class during the late 18th century. The brown palette further emphasises the earthy, unpretentious nature of her early life.
Costume 2: The Married and Prosperous Era
As Demelza’s life improved following her marriage to Ross Poldark, her attire became more refined. Sophia donned a cerise pink satin dress, accompanied by a formal black coat, a black hat, and black boots. This outfit represented her elevated social status and the newfound elegance in her life. The vibrant cerise pink satin signifies wealth and confidence, while the structured black coat and hat add a touch of formality, reflecting her adaptation to higher societal expectations.
Costume 3: Formal Elegance
Reflecting Demelza’s role as the wife of a Member of Parliament, the third ensemble featured a white blouse with a long black skirt, topped with a formal black coat and black boots. This attire conveyed a sense of dignity and sophistication appropriate for her position. The monochromatic scheme underscores her maturity and the gravitas associated with her husband’s political career. The long skirt and tailored coat are indicative of the fashion trends among the gentry during the period, highlighting her integration into the upper echelons of society.
Costume 4: A Modern Interpretation
Introducing a contemporary twist, Sophia wore a purple net skirt paired with a tweed riding jacket, accessorised with a black bowler hat and black riding boots. This look blended traditional elements with modern fashion, adding a unique flair to the shoot. The purple net skirt brings a pop of colour and a sense of playfulness, contrasting with the classic tweed jacket that nods to traditional British equestrian attire. The black bowler hat and riding boots complete the ensemble, merging historical and modern styles to create a distinctive and memorable look.
Locations
We selected two locations near Bungay to enhance the narrative:
1. Disused Quarry: The rugged terrain and natural textures of the quarry provided a dramatic backdrop, highlighting the contrast between Demelza’s humble beginnings and her subsequent rise. The exposed rock faces and uneven ground symbolise the challenges and hardships of her early life. The stark environment serves to accentuate the simplicity of the first costume, creating a visual representation of her initial struggles.
2. Country Lane: A serene country lane near the stables where Sophia’s pony, Jack, resides, offered a tranquil setting that complemented the elegance of the later costumes. The overhanging trees and dappled sunlight create a picturesque scene, reflecting the peace and stability of Demelza’s later life. This location’s natural beauty enhances the sophistication of the subsequent outfits, symbolising her growth and the harmony she finds in her new social standing.
Equine Companions
The inclusion of horses added authenticity and depth to the shoot:
• Gagman: A purebred Arabian with a notable racing history, Gagman brought a sense of grace and nobility to the images. His refined features and elegant posture align with the themes of transformation and ascension present in Demelza’s story. The Arabian breed’s historical significance and association with endurance and beauty further enrich the narrative, drawing parallels between the horse’s lineage and Demelza’s journey.
• Al Mutamarred (Mutley): Also a purebred Arabian, Mutley, despite his lack of racing experience, contributed his striking appearance and calm demeanour. His gentle nature and distinctive fleabitten grey coat add a layer of visual interest and contrast, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the shoot. Mutley’s presence underscores themes of potential and the idea that value is not solely determined by traditional measures of success, mirroring aspects of Demelza’s character development.
• Jack: Sophia’s 13-hand, 19-year-old Welsh Section C pony, Jack, added a personal touch, reflecting the close bond between horse and rider. His dun coat and compact stature provide a charming contrast to the taller Arabians, symbolising the diversity of experiences and relationships in Demelza’s life. Jack’s inclusion in the country lane setting reinforces the themes of home, companionship, and the simple joys that persist regardless of social status.
This project was a collaborative effort between myself and stylist Sue Hardy, aiming to blend fashion photography with historical storytelling. The combination of carefully selected costumes, thoughtfully chosen locations, and the inclusion of well-bred horses allowed us to create a visual narrative that honours the spirit of Poldark while adding our unique interpretation. Through this shoot, we sought to explore themes of transformation, resilience, and the interplay between environment and personal growth, all while paying homage to the rich tapestry of history and fashion.
