This intimate photography project captures my father's dedication as he nears the completion of his Mini, a labor of love spanning many years. My aim was to visually articulate the meticulous, demanding, and often protracted nature of the final detailing stages in a car restoration. Throughout the process, I remained a discreet observer, allowing each step to unfold naturally. His explanations of techniques, such as the careful application of chrome trim, provided invaluable context, enabling me to photograph each stage with informed intention.

The series begins with the unveiling – the dust cover being drawn back from the cherished Mini nestled in his garage. Subsequent images document the methodical preparation, as he gathers essential tools from his cabinet. The focus then shifts to the precise fitting of the chrome, particularly on the lower sections of the car. One image highlights the crucial role of the heat gun, used to carefully mold the chrome around the tight curves, a task that proved especially challenging near the front wheel. Following the chrome work, the perspective changes, revealing my father underneath the vehicle, diligently inspecting the repair of a petrol leak addressed the previous day. The final image offers a sense of closure, with the bonnet being lowered, signaling the end of another day dedicated to this enduring project.