SAINT
 LORETTO

Working with artists often brings a unique blend of creativity, experimentation, and fun, and my recent shoot with Austin, Texas musician Saint Loretto was no exception. It was a session that combined a compelling personality, an eye-catching location, and the kind of artistic synergy that makes photography a true joy.  I also have a special place in my heart for musicians, as I got my start in music photography. It's like going back to my roots, and having had also been in a band, it's just a blast to channel that energy again.

 

Here’s a detailed look into the process, the story of Saint Loretto, and the experience of shooting the album cover and press photos.

 

The Vision

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I said it before, I'll say it again, this shoot was the full package for me. From the beginning, Saint Loretto was incredibly open to experimenting and playing around with different ideas. As an Austin-based musician with a unique sound and style, he brought along a stellar wardrobe and a natural modeling ability that made every shot compelling. And my job easier.

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We decided to take advantage of an abandoned baseball backstop near my house in South Austin—a spot I walk by often and had dreamed of using it for a shoot. The structure’s rustic, slightly decayed aesthetic provided a perfect contrast to Saint Loretto’s vibrant personality and contemporary style.

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The Location

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The baseball backstop in South Austin has always intrigued me. It stands as a relic of bygone days, with its rusted metal and overgrown surroundings creating a visually striking backdrop. I knew it would be perfect for capturing the eclectic and innovative spirit of Saint Loretto. The mix of natural decay and urban grit provided an ideal canvas for our artistic exploration.

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The Shoot

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Saint Loretto arrived with a variety of outfits, each one reflecting a different facet of his personality and musical style. His willingness to try new poses and experiment with different looks, including a rumpled piece of paper, made the shoot dynamic and fluid. We moved through the location, utilizing every part of the backstop and surrounding areas to create a series of diverse and visually engaging images.

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His music played in the background, adding an additional layer of inspiration to the shoot. The melodies and rhythms seemed to influence his movements, making each shot feel like a natural extension of his artistry. The synergy between his music and the visual aesthetic we were creating was palpable, and it shows in the final images.

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Saint Loretto: The Musician

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Saint Loretto has made a name for himself in the Austin music scene with his innovative sound and compelling performances. Blending elements of indie rock, electronica, and pop, his music is both accessible and deeply personal. His lyrics often explore themes of love, loss, and existential reflection, resonating with a wide audience.

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He started his musical journey at a young age, influenced by a diverse range of artists from David Bowie to Radiohead. Over the years, he has honed his craft, developing a unique style that sets him apart in the crowded Austin music scene. His live performances are known for their energy and emotional intensity, creating an immersive experience for the audience.

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The Collaboration

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One of the most rewarding aspects of this shoot was the collaborative nature of our work. Saint Loretto’s openness to creative input and his own artistic vision combined to make this a truly joint effort. We discussed each shot, considering how it would fit into the overall narrative of his album and public image.

The final album cover and press photos reflect this collaboration. They capture the essence of Saint Loretto as an artist—his creativity, his passion, and his unique place in the music world. Each image tells a part of his story, from the vibrant energy of his performances to the introspective moments of his songwriting process.

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The Director’s Cut

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After the shoot, we reviewed hundreds of photos, selecting the ones that best captured the essence of Saint Loretto. The final selection for the album cover and press photos was challenging, as there were so many strong images. In the end, we chose those that not only looked great but also told a story.

Above is the director’s cut of our full album cover and press photo shoot with Saint Loretto. Each image was carefully selected to create a cohesive visual narrative that complements his music and personal brand.

 

Insights and Reflections

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This shoot was more than just a photography session; it was a creative journey. Working with Saint Loretto reminded me of the importance of collaboration and the magic that can happen when two artistic minds come together. The abandoned baseball backstop, which had intrigued me for so long, turned out to be the perfect setting for this exploration.

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Saint Loretto’s willingness to embrace new ideas and push creative boundaries made this shoot one of my most fulfilling projects. It’s a testament to his talent and the vibrant music scene in Austin.

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To learn more about Saint Loretto and his music, you can follow him on social media at @SaintLoretto. His journey as an artist is one to watch, and I’m grateful to have been part of this chapter.

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Conclusion

 

The shoot with Saint Loretto was a memorable experience that combined music, photography, and a shared creative vision. It stands as a reminder of why I love what I do—the opportunity to work with talented individuals and bring their artistic visions to life through photography. This project was the perfect blend of personal passion and professional collaboration, and I look forward to seeing where Saint Loretto’s musical journey takes him next.

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If you're a musician and need a photographer, reach out! Andrew Bennett Photo would love to shoot your album cover as well.