A few behind-the-scenes shots from my session with Robbie Melville and Zoe Knighton, where we photographed Zoe’s exquisite Rainer Beilharz cello and Robbie’s unique “Persephonie” guitar.

The cello shoot went wonderfully. The guitar, however, proved more challenging. Persephonie’s beautifully dark lacquered inner walls presented some unexpected difficulties, requiring adjustments to my technique. I’ll need to revisit that one.

The cello, on the other hand, was a revelation. Inside, I discovered stunning fabric panels lining the inner bouts—something I’d heard about but never photographed before. These panels allow the side walls to be made thinner while maintaining structural integrity, enabling the instrument to resonate more freely.

As an added surprise, the effect is visually striking. The fabric-lined interior gives the cello an almost architectural elegance—like something out of a Japanese tea house.

Prints of this glorious cello are available here.