What would be the most ironic thing to see during a location shoot for swimwear? An Amish buggy, perhaps?!
This was my first time seeing a buggy during a shoot and to have one serendipitously trot by was quick thinking for model, Heather, and me to very quickly change angles and snap a picture. (Awesome job, Heather!) Quite ironic, as well, since most Amish are opposed to having their faces photographed as it's said to emphasize individuality and vanity, things their community is against. (I was careful to remain respectful and not show any faces.) Irony was added due to the colorful & skimpy outfit Heather was wearing, quite the contrary to the plain, dark & very conservative dress of the Amish.
There are nearly 300,000 Amish (or Pennsylvania Dutch) individuals in the U.S., and nearly 500 settlements, most of which are in the Midwest. They are a very interesting religion-based American subculture who migrated from Europe in the 18th & 19th century who use technology very sparingly —no cars, T.V. or the internet— who speak their own dialect of German and whose church & communities are of utmost importance. No frills. No bells & whistles. And certainly, no bikinis.
:) Those of you familiar with the Amish, please tell us what you know about the culture! :) Unfortunately, I don't think we'll be hearing it straight from the *ahem* horse's mouth.
On a side note, it was a quite chilly December day in Iowa that we did this shoot. Poor Heather is quite the trooper. Fortunately, I had the warm, vintage Roselein Rarities van and hot tea ready during breaks.