Jack Laugher diving champion
For anyone who doesn’t follow diving closely, Jack’s not just another athlete—he’s one of the most successful British divers out there. Olympic gold medallist, multiple world and European titles, and someone who’s been at the top of the sport for years. So there’s a level of expectation going into a shoot like this—you want the images to match that standard.
We were up on the diving board for part of it, which adds its own level of “don’t mess this up.” Not loads of space, nowhere really safe to put gear, and you’re constantly aware you’re one bad step away from being in the pool with a set of strobes.
Kept the lighting tight. Two 6x1 strip boxes, one either side, just to shape things and pull out the lines in his body. Then a silver beauty dish with a grid as the key—harder light, a bit more punch, and contained enough that it’s not bouncing all over the place.
Pools are tricky. The humidity gets into everything—lenses fog, surfaces get slippery, and you can’t afford to hang around too long between sets. It forces you to work quicker and stay switched on.
End result is exactly what I wanted—strong shape, controlled highlights, and a clean frame without distractions. Nothing overcomplicated, just good light, used properly, in a space that doesn’t make it easy.
SPORTS PHTOGRAPHER PRESTON/UK