I recently put the Fujifilm X-Pro2’s high-speed shooting mode to the test while creating promotional images for self-producing multi-instrumentalist Michael Mormecha, ahead of the launch of his debut solo album, LOFi LiFE (released 9th May 2016 on Swallow Song Records).
Michael’s music, shaped by influences such as Nine Inch Nails, Sia, Ariel Pink, Conan Mocasin, and Micachu & The Shapes—provided the perfect creative backdrop for an energetic, experimental shoot. The aim was to visually echo the album’s contemporary, genre-blurring sound, particularly the understated cool of lead single Family.
When not fronting Belfast alternative rock favourites Mojo Fury, Michael spends much of his time at his home farmhouse studio, Milbank, blending textures, sounds, and styles. That hands-on, DIY approach to music directly informed the aesthetic of the shoot: raw, expressive, and slightly unpredictable.
Michael Mormecha – Lofi Life Process
To capture the moment, I pushed the X-Pro2 into high-speed continuous shooting. As anyone who’s tried this kind of setup will know, it’s almost impossible not to blink when something is being thrown directly at your face. For that reason, the final image is a composite of two frames.
- Frame one: Michael standing still, eyes open, looking directly toward the source of the paint
- Frame two: The strongest image from a burst of eight, capturing the paint at its most dynamic
In post-production, the paint frame was layered over the static portrait, with careful masking used to reveal the open eyes beneath. The result is a single image that feels spontaneous and explosive, while still retaining clarity and control.
This shoot was a great example of how the X-Pro2’s speed and reliability allow you to experiment without losing precision. High-speed capture, combined with thoughtful post-production, made it possible to freeze a split second of chaos and turn it into a cohesive final image.
Links
Michael Mormecha
Celebrating the Fujifilm X-Pro2
FlixelPix Music Photography
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