This story brought to you by Ryan Jiannis

This post is dedicated to Steve, Ryan’s dog who passed away on the week of this shoot

Welcome to a visual journey that not only showcases this beautifully aged classic car but also tells a tale of unexpected companionship and artistic endeavor. Our latest photoshoot, featuring a vintage '56/'57 Chevrolet Belair, is a testament to the timeless allure of automotive design and the hidden beauty waiting to be captured.

Setting the Scene: A Rural Treasure Trove

Our adventure began with a scenic drive to a rural property, the home of the Belair and the backdrop for our shoot. Upon arrival, the expanse unfolded like a scene from a classic movie, complete with an airfield-like hangar that whispered stories of yesteryear. It was here, amidst the sprawling fields and the rustic charm of old treasures scattered around, that we found our perfect setting.

The property was not just a location but a character in its own right, enhancing the visual narrative with its quaint and charming elements. These surroundings mirrored the essence of our subject—the Belair—each with a story weathered by time yet vibrant in spirit.

An Unexpected Assistant

As we set up for the shoot, I was greeted by a delightful surprise—a friendly little dog, eager to assist (or perhaps more curious about our equipment). This furry helper quickly became my assistant, adding a joyful and lively element to our day.

There’s something serenely beautiful about the companionship of a dog, especially in the creative solitude of a photoshoot. Her presence brought an added warmth that seemed to animate the scene even more.

Embracing the Patina

Approaching the shoot, I was struck by the Belair’s dignified aging, marked by a patina that told of its long history and loving use. Rather than masking these imperfections, I chose to highlight them.

The rich, earthy reds of the ground harmoniously complemented the splatters of rust on the car, while the deep, blue sky provided a striking contrast to the cherry red roof and wheels.

The decision to use a warm, vintage color grade was intuitive. This approach not only enhanced the nostalgic feel but also drew out the vibrant yet rustic charm of the Belair.

It was important to me that the images not only showcase the car but also evoke a feeling—a reminiscence of days gone by, a snapshot of history in the modern day.

The Art of Composition

One of the most exhilarating aspects of this shoot was the abundance of intriguing objects around the property that I could use in my framing. Each composition was a new discovery, a new angle from which to tell the story of the Belair.

The challenge lay not in finding beauty, for it was all around us, but in choosing which elements best complemented the car in each frame.

The Belair itself was naturally photogenic, which made my task both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling. Its sleek lines and distinctive features, like the iconic tailfins and rounded headlights, were a pleasure to capture.

Each shot was an opportunity to explore the interplay of light, shadow, and color, creating images that not only documented but also interpreted.

A Fusion of Histories

This photoshoot was more than just a day of capturing images; it was a fusion of histories, a celebration of the enduring beauty of the Belair, and an embrace of the rustic charm of its surroundings. With each click of the camera, we not only preserved a piece of automotive history but also captured the spirit of a bygone era.

As we wrapped up and bid farewell to our rural retreat (and our canine friend), I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. This collection of photographs not only depicts the aesthetic grace of the Belair but also encapsulates a day filled with discovery, companionship, and artistic expression.

We invite you to view the gallery below, where each image stands as a tribute to the timeless elegance of classic cars and the stories they carry within them.

Join us in celebrating the hidden beauty that surrounds us, often waiting just a lens's focus away.