In a studio only 18 ft x 28 ft, about thirty people were staged within an area 12 ft x 12 ft, supplemented by a number of polystyrene cutouts at the black ( see SPACE MAKERS ). Remembering names was a problem because everyone was so made up they were virtually unrecognizable from their picture ( see ORCHESTRATING ORGIES ). The model Caroline Cossey ( also known as Tula ) was first choice for the leading lady as she is so beautiful, statuesque and professional of mouvement, yet everyone had to be well controlled because of the flames, daggers and swordq. If someone moved an inch or two they could hide the person behind or reveal an inappropriate tattoo, as happened in this shot. In order to be sure of a picture in which everybody, looked lively and spontaneous, more than 100 frames were shot. A diffuser over the lens helped play down the differences in skin tones and soften people's outlines. A megaphone or PA system in essential when controlling a crowd scene, and having music playing between takes heps people enjoy the experience.
This was Michael's first "orgy" — a lively Tiddlywinks shoot for Whitbread. Even with their sizable budgets, cost considerations were key, so an advertisement was placed in the Evening Standard seeking participants. Over 500 people responded, and 25 students were selected, each paid £25 for the day.Michael was thrilled with the result—playful, spontaneous, and brimming …
