Empire of Absence

Persephone is a daughter of Zeus and Demeter, she was taken by Hades the God king of the underworld and taken as his majestic queen, as the goddess of death, no one must speak her name. She once lived far away, living with nature, many Gods fell in love and tried to capture her heart. But in the end Hades rapes and steals her away and takes her to the darkest depths of the underworld.

In the end Hades is forced to let her go, Hermes retrieves her, but Hades had got her to eat some pomegranate seeds and because she had tasted the food of the underworld she was required to stay there for the winter months and only return to her mother for 2 thirds of the year.

This shoot has been a dream for a long time. I first stepped foot in this manor house over 2 and a half years ago. I had actually put this shoot together many many months ago but just as the date approached to do it, the house became unable to visit.

For so long I dreamt about this scene, my heart torn apart that I would never be able to make it a reality. But then one day while talking to a friend, I was made aware that it was possible, it wouldnt be easy, but that has never stopped me before.

I was lucky to have an amazing model, Jessica Nicole Griffiths recently arrived in London from Melbourne. She was so up for it, it made me the happiest person alive and with the help of amazing Matthew Adams and Richie Gowen we had made it into the house in pitch darkness, arms full of beautiful gowns made my The Couture Company

During the mission to get inside, Richie had already faceplanted a shallow river as he slipped on the log across it. Poor Rich was freezing cold as we slept in this beautiful abandoned manor house.

Sleeping in such a decaying building, with the bitter cold coming through the windows and dust coating the floor, it was a test of endurance, but worth it when the sun finally came up and revealed the beautiful house ready for us to get these photos.

I'm so happy I made this a reality finally. I hope you enjoy the photos

Photographer: Rebecca Litchfield
Model: Jessica
Dresses: The Couture Company Designer
Acccessories: Natasha Jane
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