As a perfectionist, letting go and accepting that a photo is good enough to be posted on social media is never really easy. The advantage I have with the #SelfieProject, my self-portrait project where I take one photo a day throughout February, is that it imposes a framework: there are only 24 hours in a day. Sooner or later, I have to accept imperfection; time forces me to let go. I have to make decisions quickly, be consistent, disciplined, and use the right tools to move forward.
Nikon Z 6III + Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S
1/20e | f/7.1 | ISO 800
Over the years, intuition has taken precedence over perfectionism. Lack of time prevents me from overthinking things and forces me to trust my initial instincts. Once the photo is published, the public's gaze gives it its own identity, often different from my original intention. This constraint, which I used to see as pressure, has become downright liberating. I therefore prioritize a simple and efficient workflow to achieve my goals. Here's how I organize myself, step by step.
1. Preparation is key
This is where everything comes together. I prepare my concepts in advance and test new processes. When something doesn't work in a project, it's often because I wasn't sufficiently prepared. I write down my ideas, reflect on them, and visualize them. Which elements of the set need to be ready in advance, what is my character, what is the intention of the image, (...)
Nikon Z 6III + Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S
1/100s | f/1.3 | ISO 200
Since I work in my studio and everything is built from scratch, almost nothing is left to chance, right down to the color of my shoes. I also think about my lighting plan in advance. Since I mainly work with continuous lighting, I have a clear idea before I even start. I also think about the choice of lens: will it be a Nikon 35mm f/1.2 S or a 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S? Once February arrives, miracle! No more thinking, just acting.
2. Set the scene
When everything is ready, setup becomes quite simple. I place the elements in the right places and adjust as needed. Once the lighting is set up and the camera is in place, I can make a few last-minute adjustments before starting to shoot.
3. Photo equipment and lighting
I have been using the Nikon Z 8 for almost three years for this project, and it is an incredible tool. Since my works are sold in limited editions and I am looking for image quality that meets my expectations, this is the right tool with its 45.7 megapixels.
An essential part of my workflow also relies on a very precise mastery of the camera and its settings. It acts as an extension of my arm. And what can I say about the color quality, as someone who loves vibrancy!
I now sometimes add a 24-70mm f/2.8 S II to the Z 8, but lately I've been leaning towards the 35mm f/1.2 S or even the 14-30mm f/4 S. I really like the distortion; it adds an incredible editorial look. Plus, it's ideal for small spaces.
I now connect it directly to my computer with Capture One, which allows me to change settings without even touching the camera. Live view on the computer then becomes an essential tool for setting up lighting and placing the right lights in the right places to maximize the narrative of the image.
My lighting equipment is quite varied, but I mainly use Aputure gear for its simplicity, reliability, and connectivity .A few adjustments from my phone to find the right shade, whether with MC lights, T4c tubes or B7c bulbs from Aputure, and you're good to go.
I also sometimes use flashes, depending on the needs and movement.
4. The character(s)
I really enjoy creating characters. Over time, I've realized that I'm more of a “method actor.” I completely immerse myself in the character I'm playing, which can really transform the energy of a shoot. And honestly, it's a lot of fun.
Nikon Z 6III + Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S
1/100s | f/1.3 | ISO 200
It involves makeup, hairstyling, costumes, but above all, attitude. Once the character has been created, everything becomes more instinctive.
Nikon Z 8 + Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S
1/20s | f/6.3 | ISO 1250
5. Taking photos
This is the heart of the project. With the Z 8 on a tripod and the Nikon WR-R10 remote control in hand, I take “selfies.” Everything happens in that moment. I might take hundreds of shots for a single final image, but it all comes down to micro-adjustments. Sometimes in the pose, sometimes in the scene, sometimes in the lighting. And I have to say, that's the most fun part of the process.
Time is running out, but there's always that precise moment, after a few adjustments, when something happens. A click. I say to myself:
“Okay. That's the one. I'll publish it.”
Nikon Z 6III + Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S
1/100s | f/1.3 | ISO 200
I shut down the computer. Even though there are still some imperfections, I know this is the right one.
6. Retouching
Retouching is only used to remove distractions, never to alter the meaning of the image. I like a clean finish that supports the narrative, but I know that too much retouching, like too little, always ends up being detrimental. You have to know when to stop.
7. Posting
Daily publication creates a ritual with the audience, with behind-the-scenes footage, turning the project into a new kind of web performance. Unfiltered chaos! :)
Then I repeat it. 27 times.
Nikon Z8 + Nikon Z 35mm f/1.2 S
1/20s | f/6.3 | ISO 1250
Over time, I realized that an image is good enough when it is honest, not necessarily perfect. When it accurately reflects the state I was in when I created it. This discipline I have developed allows me to produce powerful images every day in February. It's Olympian, demanding, sometimes exhausting, but the impact of the project grows year after year. It's the evolution, in black and white, of my life over the past thirteen years. Imperfection naturally finds its place in the process, and ultimately, that's exactly what makes me human.
 | Véronique Duplain As a perfectionist, letting go and accepting that a photo is good enough to be posted on social media is never really easy. The advantage I have with the #SelfieProject, my self-portrait project where I take one photo a day throughout February, is that it imposes a framework: there are only 24 hours in a day. |
