References for Shaun Solent

Carmen V

Another truly amazing shoot with Carl!!! Pre-shoot comms were excellent as always. We shot a wide variety of sets over two days, taking some truly stunning images. We shot everything from erotica/fet to fashion & aerials. I absolutely love working with Carl - he works tirelessly for perfection, with one idea after another and always incorporates my ideas into the sets. The studio is one of my favorites, equipped with every aerial rig and a great model makeup space. Carl is a master of lighting, and his light setups are genius. Carl is always very professional and great fun to work with on set.

I cannot recommend working with Carl enough! Definitely be sure to work with him!

I am looking forward to working with him again, both here in the UK and abroad!!! Thanks for everything Carl - you're an absolute star xx

Aya

Endless creative ideas!!!

I had another brilliant shoot with this genius creative photographer at his well equipped studio.

Every time I work with Carl, time flies and this time our shoot started at 11am and we were really surprised when we realised it was already 3pm.... Carl Grim's enthusiastic creative world is another world with no clock, no tiredness and no boredom and I am very lucky to be invited into this world.

Beautiful lighting, perfect composition, creativity, intellect, clever use of tools plus Carl's passion....nothing else created but awesome images.

Some shoots are already booked for 2019....and I can not wait to create more art with Carl. Thank you very much to Carl for working with me.

Highly highly highly recommended!!!!!

Female Art Nudes

What can I say about Carl that hasn't already been written? Very little, probably...

I was fortunate enough to be able to book Carl for a one-to-one lighting tuition workshop "Lighting the Nude" in Carl's studio at his home in Fareham. Right from the start, Carl was more than willing to embrace one or two possibly unusual requests I had - the model I had booked was interested in improving her photography and so wanted to participate in the learning. Carl was more than happy to embrace this request, it was simply going to mean the workshop would be of a longer duration and I might have to model for her (albeit it, only topless!). So then I asked if we could start earlier, as I was going to have to drive back to Scotland and didn't want to finish too late. Carl was happy to start whenever I wanted. I was slightly hesitant in requesting a 7.30am start - I needn't have worried, I guess Carl must be an early riser, I didn't even detect an intake of breath before he agreed to this. Thanks, Carl :-)

Then, at the eleventh hour, the original model hurt her ankle and felt unable to attend the shoot. Fortunately, she contacted other models and found me someone who turned out to be a great replacement - Ziggy, from Edinburgh. I contacted Carl and told him of this last minute change, also telling him that Ziggy wouldn't be participating in the photographic learning. Carl is so enthusiastic about photography that his reaction was "Great - we'll have more shooting and learning time then!"

Carl offered for Ziggy to stay in his studio overnight, making it easy for her to be ready for our early start.

Carl is hugely enthusiastic and you cannot help but simply follow in the wake of this! He is also very conscious of levels. He will establish a model's levels by asking her directly right from the start what these are, clarify with her exactly what this means to her, then he guarantees that she will only be asked to pose in ways which are entirely consistent with this. I observed this at first hand and was very impressed!

Many others have used the phrase "Master of Light" when talking about Carl. To me, this suggests that he can do things with light that others cannot. I would perhaps prefer to word this slightly differently. Carl points out that light "obeys the laws of physics" and, as such, always behaves in the same manner. The trick, if there is one, is to learn how light behaves so that you can use this knowledge to place the light (and sometimes more importantly the shadows), together with the model, where you would want them to be when you make your photograph. I would suggest, therefore, that rather than being a "Master of Light", instead Carl is someone who has a thorough understanding, built up over years and years of experience, of how light behaves. Because he has this understanding, he knows instinctively how to control and modify both the light and the contrast, to create ideal lighting to light the nude. As such, he is a "Master" not of light, but of lighting technique and, to date, I have met no one better.

Carl seems to have the ability to instantly detect your level of knowledge and instinctively adapts his explanations to you personally, explaining things in ways which are very easy to understand. Ask him questions and you receive easy-to-understand answers, followed by practical demonstration as appropriate.

So, a great workshop adapted to my personal needs, in a great studio (it's fantastic!) from a Master of Lighting Technique.

Thanks so much, Carl. Once I've practised and practised and practised, I'd love to return and extend my learning!

ziggy

I had the the amazing opportunity arise to work with this dream of a photographer on his 1-to-1 tuition “lighting the nude” workshop when a model had hurt her ankle and asked if I could fill in for her.

Although it was short Notice where this would be the first time Carl would meet and work with me he treated me with the outmost respect and as I was travelling from Edinburgh and it was decided at such last minute notice, Carl was so kind to let me stay at his studio so I had ease to get up and ready for our early 7:30 start, where he would be mentoring photographer David p McCarthy.

Carl was proffesional, approachable and so kind to cater my needs whilst at his out of this world studio in Fareham providing me with all the facilities I needed & nutritious breakfast and plenty of teas/coffee for our long day ahead! A true gentke man n lem with respect,

Carl had amazing communication skills getting a clear example of my levels to create the best images from the day with his insanse skills on how to use light when lighting nude. Although I had some experience in art nude, Carl instantly knew what would be the best way to use every part of my body. he taught me so much on posing, how to get the best use of my body in certain lighting, shapes and how to pop like no other! Tips and tricks on angles, that where a treat and Also with Carl being known as the “master of light” I Basically learned how to make myself look BLOODY SUPERB and I loved every minute of it, although my body ached so much after I was so impressed with his direction and way of teaching, allowing me to take away all this spectacular knowledge

We had extra time to shoot which gave me the time to pose freely and having looked at his incredibke portfolio I was so keen to impress & I was over the moon when he praised my poses and how I worked over the day. Call me crazy but I absolutely loved using the water feature and getting the rainstorm effect at the end of our shoot!

I want to say a massive thank you for making me came out a better model mentally and physically with a mountain of ideas and confidence on how to improve myself but also reassurance that I can live Up too expectations such short notice!

Feeling blessed and a masssive thank you again for everything, I really did enjoy every minute of this experience and I’m more than ecstatic and looking forward to working and creating with you in the near future!

I would highly reccomend Carl in a heartbeat and thank you again for everything!

Best

Ziggy

Aya

Just shot my first g/g shoot with the awesome Carl Grim.

As always Carl enhances the best qualities of his models by posing them to produce beautiful shapes and therefore outstanding images. This combined with his complete command of light is awesome. Carl had loads of brilliant ideas, a comprehensive mood board and constant inspiration. The shoot went very quickly and was super enjoyable.

PS : Carl is an amazing photographer for solo shoots, Carl is awesome for male/female duo shoots, Carl is stupendous for female/female duo shoots and now I am really looking forward to a female/female/female shoot with Carl soon which I am sure will be extraordinary!!! Carl's talent makes all shoots outstanding!!!!!

Thank you Carl for another excellent shoot and I am really looking forward to the next one.

JR69

Had my second shoot with Carl on Saturday but this time it was my first female/female shoot with the gorgeous Aya.

Carls pre-comms as always were excellent replying to any questions i had leading up to our shoot.

Carls ideas,creativity and professionalism is outstanding.He managed to create amazing shapes using mine and Aya bodies.Carl is very charming and funny which made myself and Aya giggle. We did 6 hours and in that time we did various styles and themes. Sadly the 6 hours flew by so quick and our shoot had to come to an end. Really looking forward now to our shoot in March which we will be doing a female/female/female shoot.This will be one epic shoot.

Very Highly recommended

Thank you again Carl for an amazing duo shoot

Jackie x

Jenni JJ

A year ago I worked with Carl as one of my very firsts shoots. I was totally new, had no clue what I was doing nor what Carl was doing. We had a brilliant time and I loved the images. Returning a year later with some experience and knowledge behind me I could really see the true genius that Carl brings to a shoot and how brilliant and talented he is.

He's amazing to work with. He gives you enough direction to perfect a shot and I learnt so much with him.

He's also lovely, funny, charming and so much fun to be around. I lost track of time, thought we'd been shooting for about 2 hours but couldn't work out why I felt so weak and hungry. Checking the time we'd been working for over four hours. Never had time shot by so fast, but when you work with Carl you'll understand why. It's impossible to work with him without giving your absolute all as he is doing the same. It was a wonderful partnership.

I know the images will be amazing... They always are. He has the very unique ability to bring the absolute best out of anyone he works with.

Thank you Carl, until next time,

Jenni xxx

siggy

Carl is just AWESOME

Another fun day shooting with Carl.

His ideas, creativity, personality, professionalism - WOW.

Thank you so much for another amazing shoot :)

Look forward to next one

Highly recommended!!!!!!

Tattooed-Muscle

This was my first shoot with Carl and he's such a great guy and an Incredible Photographer, I'm overwhelmed with the shots he got with Aya and I

I very much look forward to working with Carl again

Highly Recommended

Aya

Brilliant, talented photographer who is never satisfied with his achievements and keeps improving his skills and techniques....but is always friendly, thoughtful and takes care of his models...therefore I cannot respect Carl enough!!!

Lucky me!!! I have just had my 15th and 16th shoots at his studio for 2 days in a row.

Carl tried some new techniques for the solo shoot on the first day and the results were absolutely gorgeous. I fell in love with this effect instantly. His intelligence, enthusiasm and aspirations keep improving his skills and talent to higher and higher levels. We shot from 12 until just after 7pm, but time just flew by and I thoroughly enjoyed the shoot.

My 16th shoot was a duo shoot with Tattooed Muscle. Carl's photographer's eye, beautiful lighting and directions combined with Tattooed Muscle's great body encouraged me to work harder and harder and we had awesome shoot!

Carl always gives me nice cups of coffee during shoots with a nice warm smile, he took me out for a lovely dinner and provided me with nice warm accommodation.

I just love seeing my body which I consider has a number of flaws, looking really beautiful in his gorgeous creative art images, in the magical world he creates!!!

Big big big thanks to Carl for the brilliant shoots!!!

Carmen V

After months of planning, I finally got to shoot with the amazing Carl Grim! Flawless communication and always professional, we had a fabulous shoot. Carl was welcoming and accommodating at his massively well-equipped studio. We ran out of time before we ran out of ideas!

He is a brilliant photographer and a true master of lighting. We shot a wide range of looks, including several aerial sets. Even with the challenge of shooting a spinning aerialist, Carl took some stellar images – all meticulously lit. Carl is both funny and lovely to work with. I am very much looking forward to working with him again. Carl has an endless drive to create awesome images.

Be sure to book in with this incredible photographer - you will definitely want his pics on your port! Carl has one of my highest recommendations.

Thanks for an amazing shoot, Carl and I look forward to shooting with you again soon!

b3autiful_d3struction

Well what can I say about my shoot with Carl...firstly, we had this date in our diaries for 5 months but it was so bloody worth it! Carl's studio is unbelievable and definitely the best I have seen. I was greeted with a warm welcome and tea (Carl made the best tea which is important haha). Pre comms had been excellent so we already knew what we were going to be shooting however Carl even printed out a plan for the day which was so organised. There was so much creativity, energy and enthusiasm throughout the shoot which made for some stunning photos I am so proud of! Carl was extremely professional throughout and we had some laughter along the way. The one thing I love is when a photographer understands that we cannot see what is on your screen so if we pose and for any reason an arm or leg etc needs to be adjusted we need to be told as it makes for a stronger image. Carl does just that where it's needed which is fantastic and he really is the king of lighting! Anyway could go on forever but super happy and would quite clearly highly recommend Carl to any model wanting to work with him :D here's to our next shoot!

Elle Beth

THE BEST not just on this site but really one of the top nude photographers world wide, Carl of course as you can see, knows exactly what he is doing when it comes to lighting and this isn't just what makes his photographs special, the direction he gives is spot on! Carl lets you flow from pose to pose but knows exactly what needs to be tweaked when needed, which creates these wonderful shots!

Carl is also very respectful, a great host, he will work you hard but only to get the best from you :)

If you get a chance to work with Carl you must take it! You will have a lot of fun, great conversation and one of your best creative photographic sessions.

After shooting annually with Carl now for possible 6 or 7 years I can Recommend him without hesitation!

Elle x

Elesha Eden

I had a very short shoot arranged with Carl in the late evening

Carl was shooting another model who unfortunately was poorly, so we made the most of me jumping around and doing my thing to the best I could in the cold!!

and made sure I was warm enough in the cold air by providing heaters and blankets)

I really love working with him, a true perfectionist and lighter master so passionate and just loves to achieve the perfect image.

Thankyou once again Carl, I do hope you have you back in the future

a total legend

Highly recommend to all

if you get onto his want to work with ..bite his hand off

Thankyou again Carl

Elesha

x

David51

Wow! Wow! Wow! Just come back from a week's holiday in Menorca with Aya and the King of Light and his lovely wife, Rita! Rita's presence made the week into a brilliant holiday, with her excellent restaurant choices (tough on models trying to keep on diet), walks to lovely beaches and supportive presence.

Carl showed again and again, why he gets the best out of models with his continuous detailed preparation, for example during a walk with Rita through the beautiful city of Ciutadella for a shoot the following night, his complete command of light, even outdoors, his genius for composition and his masterly direction; all topped up with his boundless enthusiasm and care for his models. He is constantly adapting to try to hide a models weaknesses (hard work with me) while trying to accentuate a model's strengths. He is honest about these weaknesses, while giving you short and long term ways to reduce them. The net result is excellent images leaving you wondering; is that really me?

I also learnt a lot in my role as part time photographer's assistant.

But to me most important is he really cares about his models well-being; best illustrated by his 1.5 km swim beside Aya to make sure she did not cramp and so finished the swim safely as we escaped a massive thunderstorm of cold rain on a rocky beach with nowhere to shelter (previously the furthest Aya had swum was 300 m).

Great time, great shoots; under the water, on the rocks, beach, beautiful city, ruins, villa, etc. absolutely wonderful holiday which I wish could have gone on forever. Thank you Rita and Carl, best wishes and regards to you both. Highly, highly recommended.

Aya

Fantastic 12th shoot with Carl in Menorca!!!

I just came back from an 8 day shoot holiday with Carl, his wonderful wife Rita and David51. Working with Carl makes me over the moon enough, but working with him continuously for a week was heaven for me as a model. Various locations, different lights, diverse ambiences, highlighted his massive talent for achieving the best possible images in all circumstances from sunrise through sunset to midnight.

David51 has already referenced a lot about how Carl cares for his models but I really would like to add massive thanks to Carl for keeping me safe all the time and particularly during my very first 1.5km swim by his constant encouragement. I can still hear his voice saying "RELAX, RELAX, RELAX" which he told me hundreds of times while swimming. Thank you very much!!!

I already respected him hugely as a photographer but now I know him better (for example, thanks to Rita for telling me why Carl drinks black coffee and Carl's obvious love of his children), I massively respect him as a human being through spending time with Rita and Carl together. 'Naijyo no kou' is a saying in Japanese which means 'his wife's support contributed to his success' and I think this applies to Rita and Carl.

Thank you very much for the brilliant holiday and awesome shoots to Rita and Carl!!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and I am looking forward to the next one!!!

Madame Cerise

I have had my first shoot with Carl after it being in our diaries for 5 months! Worth the wait and it is understandable why he has a waiting list. I contacted Carl to work with him as i noticed how classy his imagery was and how it stands out from other supposed erotic photography. We ended up booking in the shoot with the aim to create erotic images without showing any private bits at all (i don't do nude). Fast forward those 5 months and how refreshing it was to have a photographer know EXACTLY what they want from a shoot. We had a shoot planned to the finest detail and it was great to not have to supply all ideas myself, i just expanded on the ideas Carl had. Pre-comms have been faultless. On the day of the shoot, i was in fact nude bar a sheet, as underwear would not have worked. This is not something i have ever done or had planned to do, but we discussed very clearly what i was happy to show and what was absolutely out of the question. I was able to stick to my rule of having no "tits and bits" on show. Carl reassured me that we would not see a thing that i didn't want anyone to and so i put my faith in his hands and we progressed on. Indeed, i was shown the images throughout and you can't see anything but a load of booty! In between shots, Carl looked away as so to allow me to rearrange clothing (cloths) and protect modesty. The last set involved a whole load of water, Carl remembered from my port that i love water (paying attention to my port notes is always a good step!) The water was heated to perfection so i wasn't cold at all, that's really quite a luxury when working with water on photo shoots! I was handed a towel and robe (whilst looking away) in between looking and reviewing the images. Carl then dropped me at the station. Overall the shoot was incredibly fast-pased, efficient and fun. Carl is hardworking, enthusiastic very talented. Direction given is maticulous i cannot fault it and again it is something i appreciate on shoots. Afterall, the photographer sees what the lens is seeing! I recommend Carl to models with experience and confidence who want to add some seriously sexy photos to their port. I can't wait to show off the work we have achieved which i believe is my best to-date. Anyone wishing to shoot wity Carl should not hesitate! Understandably in demand!

Elesha Eden

My 1st shoot with Carl and another already lined up, that's says it all

a total professional in every aspect of his work, just look at his images

A lighting perfectionist and as I am a dance perfectionist I know what it is like to want get it correct

Carl is an utter professional, easy to work with

he gave amazing direction but also let me do my thing and wow I hve seen the images

thankyou Carl for a fab few hrs

as you said some special ones for sure :)

Highly recommend

Elesha

x

Blue Smoothy

I love shooting with Carl. I turn up with a suitcase of clothes and we use a few garments. Shooting with his old Jag, underwater, in high key lighting and with the awesome Siggy...it was a productive three days with lots of coffee and an early morning sail along The Solent. He reminds me why I do this job and I can't wait to see the images.

Looking forward to the next one!

Thank you :D

siggy

Another amazing shoot with Carl.

For the first time I had a chance to do underwater shoot which is something I wanted to do for a very long time plus sailing which was new experience as well.

I will say it again but Carl is such amazing person, professional and always look after his models.

It was couple unforgettable days with duo shoot with wonderful Elaine Blue, shoot in his studio and I had chance to pose next to very cool car :)

Carl, thank you so much for new experience and great time

I can not wait to work together again

Highly recommended