Elegant Exposures: Classical Portraits Inspired by Art History

This series is part of my ongoing Elegant Exposures project, where I explore how classical art can inform modern portrait photography. Each image begins with a reference point from art history, then moves into a contemporary interpretation shaped by light, colour, and character. I worked closely with stylist Sue Hardy, whose attention to detail brings the styling to life, and with Sophia, whose presence in front of the camera is thoughtful and expressive. The full post on my main photography site can be found here: https://foyers.photography/elegant-exposures-classical-portraits-inspired-by-art-history/

The Milkmaid. After Vermeer

This portrait builds on the familiar domestic quiet of Vermeer’s The Milkmaid. I wanted the light to feel gentle and directional, so it falls across the hands and face in a soft arc. The set includes bread, flowers, pottery, and a single lit candle to echo the measured stillness seen in Dutch interiors. The muted backdrop and warm tones in the clothing help create a calm mood, rooted in routine and concentration. The orange shawl adds warmth and introduces a subtle contrast that feels true to Vermeer’s palette. The styling includes a rust coloured dress, an apron, and a simple cap to complete the scene.

Jeanne. Spring. After Manet

This image takes its cue from Manet’s Jeanne (Spring). In that painting, the model is poised and bright, with a direct gaze softened by a bouquet of fresh flowers. I wanted to carry over that same mix of freshness and restraint. Sophia wears a straw hat and a warm orange top that sits comfortably within the botanical theme. The brown lace shawl adds texture and frames the flowers in a natural way. The lighting is clean and frontal to keep the portrait crisp and luminous, which helps maintain the straightforward simplicity that defines Manet’s work. The outfit includes a rust dress, a tiered brown skirt, a lace shawl, and the classic boater hat.

Girl with a Pearl Earring. After Vermeer

This interpretation echoes one of the most recognisable portraits in art. The pose is simple and controlled, with the face turned toward the light and the eyes steady and calm. I wanted the lighting to shape the portrait in a sculptural way, using a single soft key light to build gentle shadows along the cheek and neck. This keeps the mood quiet and intimate, much like the original painting. The styling brings together a blue velvet shawl, a blue lace gown, and a single pearl earring. These elements provide a nod to Vermeer’s love of texture, colour, and refined detail.

Modern Muse. Inspired by Coco Chanel and Man Ray

The final section of the series moves forward in time to the early twentieth century. Here, the styling shifts into the influence of Coco Chanel, whose work redefined elegance through simplicity, structure, and confidence. The layers of pearls, the clean lines of black fabric, and the refined pose all speak to Chanel’s vision. At the same time, the lighting approach reflects the sculptural quality found in Man Ray’s portraits. A soft frontal setup helps the pearls stand out while carving shape into the face. The dark background allows the details to stand clear without distraction. In one of the images, a modern detail appears in the form of a Coca Cola can. This small addition brings together two cultures of style: the luxury of early twentieth century Paris and a piece of contemporary global branding. The contrast between these worlds adds a playful comment on how fashion and identity shift over time.