The Dark Garden
Surrender has it’s own rewards
Through an agent I’ve worked with many times, I received a request to organise a private shoot in a mansion in Vienna. A massive mansion in the heart of Vienna's historic textile district with several floors that the owner uses as both his office, home, and more interesting a very private BDSM club.
At first I was intrigued by his request to do a private BDSM themed shoot in his mansion. As a photographer, it is not uncommon for me to encounter unique and unconventional requests from clients. But as a spoke to owner and the planning progressed, I found myself completely immersed in this world of BDSM elegance that he had created.
To ensure he best possible outcome and results I partnered up with my favorite muse and friend Brigitte.
The mansion and club itself was a sight to behold – lavish chandeliers hung from the ceiling, velvet curtains draped on every wall and soft lighting giving off an alluring ambience. The whole space exuded sophistication and luxury; you wouldn't even guess it was a BDSM club at first glance.
As we entered deeper into the club, we were greeted by the head mistress, also the owners wife – let's call her Mistress J. She was impeccably dressed in leather and lace, with perfect hair and makeup to match. My initial hesitation about doing a BDSM shoot quickly vanished as she welcomed us warmly with a charming smile.
Mistress J gave us a brief tour of the place before introducing us to some of their regular patrons – affluent businessmen, renowned artists and influential personalities who all shared one common interest: indulging in their deepest darkest desires through power exchange dynamics within this exclusive club setting.
I couldn't help but feel fascinated by how elegant everything felt despite its association with such taboo practices. It challenged my preconceived notions about BDSM – that it is purely sexual or violent - when in fact it can also be sophisticated and sensual.
What struck me most during our photo session was how well everyone involved communicated and respected each other's boundaries. BDSM, at its core, is about trust and consent between partners. The patrons of this club were no exception, constantly checking in with one another and making sure all parties felt safe and comfortable.
Mistress J explained that a lot of people are drawn to BDSM for the sense of control it gives them. In everyday life, we often feel like we have little control over our surroundings or situations. But in a BDSM context, the roles are clearly defined – dominant/submissive - creating a sense of security and liberation for both parties.
As I continued to capture photos from different angles, I couldn't help but admire the confidence exuding from my client as she embodied her role as a submissive. It was clear that this was more than just a game or fantasy for her; it was an opportunity to explore her desires and empower herself.
My experience at this elegant BDSM club challenged my own biases towards alternative lifestyles. Being surrounded by sophisticated individuals indulging in their passions without fear or judgment made me realise that there is beauty in embracing your true self – no matter how unconventional it may seem to others.
I spoke with the owner and Mistress J after our photo shoot ended and asked her what inspired them to create such an elegant space for BDSM exploration. She shared that she had always been interested in power dynamics within relationships but never found a satisfactory way to express it until she discovered the world of BDSM and like minded individuals.
The pictures from this shoot will remain private, for obvious reasons, but Brigitte and I did get a chance to create some amazing hot & sexy pictures in the loft apartment that they had made available for us during our stay in Vienna. Having been indulging in these luxurious BDSM vibes during our stay, Brigitte and I found ourselves creating a collection of sizzling and alluring images in the privacy of our loft apartment. The combination of sensuality and elegance in our surroundings might have sparked a bit of playful extravagance, fun and sex ... just a little 😏✨
This is a massive album, more then 100 pictures ... admittedly I got a bit carried away ... and available to all you lovely gold level people 🫶😘
