Severine 061

This fine portrait of beautiful Severine in antique pince-nez marks the end of this brief but interesting photo shoot. Severine is the 67th Lady behind Crystal Veil.

The first word of thanks is for my life partner Nel for her gentle kick in the butt after Christmas, urging me to go on a short trip abroad and do a series of new photo shoots. Since mid October, most of my plans were put on hold because of the life threatening illness of my daughter Daphne. Nel's laptop was open 24 hours a day in my hotel room during the 68 hours in Paris. Thank you, my love!

A word of thanks goes to the staff of restaurant Les Vinaigriers, Rue des Vinaigriers, Paris for their kind permission to use the premises for a part of the photo shoot, before opening hours. Likewise a word of thanks is due to the staff of Thai Bistrot Mme Shawn, Rue des Récollets, Paris.

Before posting a casting call for January 22th, I had a good look at the over 500 Paris based models on Model Mayhem. With due respect for all other ladies, there was one lady with a portfolio that made me sit in awe. Her name was Severine and to me she was like a lady from outer space. Never seen a red dress look so fabulous on anyone, and the en profil capture of her face was beyond words. But above all, her port can best be described as "filled with electricity in the air". In short, I said to myself, dream on, boy and cherish whatever reactions you may receive. But right after the casting call was posted, applications came streaming in and the quality of them was simply amazing. And to make it even better, Severine was among the first who reacted.

In retrospect, I feel sorry that logistics forced me to offer Severine the evening of my arrival. My last visit to Paris was on my honeymoon, 36 years ago. After landing in the hotel, there was half an hour available to check the vicinity of the hotel for at least somewhat suitable locations. In other words, Severine and I had to work with the barest of facilities. This was known to both of us beforehand, but still I wish that conditions had been better. However, we made the best of it, each in our own way.

Severine, thank you so much for the experience of working with you!