The Anonymous Nude

"There is nothing quite as erotic as a bare naked mystery..."  No clue who said it.  Hell, it may even have been me.  Regardless, welcome to my newest Fine Art Nude project, "The Anonymous Nude."  Here, I seek to collaborate with women - models and non-models alike - who revel in the allure of a Mystery...

Concept/Intentions/Goals

It's long been a theory of mine (and others, come to think of it) hat 'naked' is neither erotic, nor necessarily beautiful.  It's just naked.  For a Nude to be be both erotic and beautiful, I believe it must include an air of mystery.  In the case of The Anonymous Nude that mystery will be achieved by actively, jealously conspiring to hide each model's identity from the viewer.

I intend The Anonymous Nude to be an eclectic B&W collection of beautiful, alluring and yes, even erotic imagery celebrating the Allure of Mystery.  When completed, I will be publishing The Anonymous Nude.  Initially in book form, but also as gallery quality prints, posters and as a calendar.

Model Requirements

Models must be female of legal age (& provide proof) to contract in their own name;

Models must sign my release form allowing publication;

Models must pose nude.

There are no other requirements for participation in The Anonymous Nude.  All women (of legal age) are welcome.  You are not too old, too heavy, too pierced, too inked up, too thin, too pale, too dark, or “too anything else” to be part of this project.  You are Woman.  You are Beauty.  You are Mystery.  And most of all, you are welcome here.

Session Locations

Locations will vary by session.  Most will be shot in either rented motel rooms, models’ homes or the occasional photo studio.  I am open to using other locations as well, and am more than willing to entertain any suggestions you may offer.

Wardrobe / Exposure

This is a nude project.  Wardrobe is NOT a concern.  Models will be working in the nude, though there will be a few sessions in which ‘The Mystery’ will include Implied rather than Full nudity.  This will be discussed in full prior to shooting.

It is strongly recommended models bring a robe to slip into between shots and during breaks from shooting.

Compensation

I will be conducting The Anonymous Nude primarily as a Trade Shoot.  Those models willing to work with me on that basis will share in any profits derived from the sale of their images.  They will also receive their choice of 10 fully edited image files from our session in both full size printable and low resolution web display formats, to use as they see fit.

I do have a small budget from which I am willing to offer experienced nude models a fee for their time.  The fee amount available is dependent on a number of factors, including but not limited to time shooting, rental space fees and model's experience.

Escort Policy

I allow models a single escort/companion on set when shooting, providing I'm told ahead of time the escort will be present.  (I hate surprises.)  I expect and require all individuals present (myself included) to behave as adults at all times.  At the first indication of unnecessary drama the session will be terminated and all images captured to that point, if any, will be deleted.

Miscellaneous Concerns

I do not have my own studio.  All model shoots are conducted “on location.”  That location may be as public as Navy Pier or as private as a motel room, rented photo studio or the model’s own home. 

I do not employ studio lighting.  I do use “speed lights” with wireless triggers and a variety of light modifiers as well as shooting with available light. 

I conduct all model sessions on weekends and holidays only.  Photography does not, as yet, pay my bills, so my employer continues to have “dibs” on my time during the week.  My work schedule does change from time to time, so I can occasionally offer a weekday session.  Feel free to ask, but please understand it may not be possible. 

Got a question I didn’t cover here? Want to schedule your session? Please let me know…

Lilliputian Invasion...

Among photographers there are two schools of thought concerning image manipulation. 

Puritans to the craft look askance at anyone’s use of Photo Shop (and other editors) for anything beyond minor, basic tweaking.  They feel that a true photograph should be captured in camera.  Post work in the computer or dark room is cheating, and the results are NOT to be considered photography.  There is a certain justification to this viewpoint.  Most of those holding it have invested years of their lives learning the craft; first in school, followed by an apprenticeship of sorts with established photographers before moving on to make a name for themselves. 

The second school of thought, however, recognizes that progress in technology offers not only new methods for accomplishing specific tasks, but make possible entirely new viewpoints unavailable previously.  So it is with image manipulation software (PhotoShop, etc.) and digital imaging.  It’s possible to create images of bikini models hiking the Sea of Tranquility, cowboys riding wild rabbits, and to create a photo documentary of the Lilliputian Invasion…

Concept/Intentions/Goals

Ever wonder why Gulliver’s friends, The Lilliputians, never came to visit?  What if some of them did…

As you may have guessed from the intro above, my Lilliputian Invasion relies heavily on photo manipulation.  Simply put, I will be “shrinking” each model to “fit” in and around common items found in day to day life (a coffee cup, desktop computer keyboard & mouse, bathroom toiletries, etc.) with the goal of creating a “scene” that is humorous, unexpected and quite possibly though provoking.

While I do intend to eventually self-publish in Calendar and Book form, my main goal at the moment is to have fun.  And I would very much like to include you in that fun!

A partial list of some of my conceptualized scenes may be found below…

Model Requirements

Models must be living, the dead need not apply.

That’s pretty much the only requirement for participation.  Everyone is welcome, be they Male, Female, Child or Family Pet.  Models of legal age must sign my commercial release allowing publication.  In the case of minor children, a parent or legal guardian must sign the release on their behalf. 

Session Locations

I’m pretty much shameless when it comes to conducting model shoots.  I’ll shoot virtually anywhere at all.  In a public park, on the street, in the model’s home, in a rented motel room.  Location will vary by session & purpose.

Wardrobe / Exposure

Wardrobe will vary from session to session, but will always be “scene appropriate.”  If we’re shooting you portraying a Cowboy or an Auto Mechanic or a French Chef, you’ll be in attire a Cowboy, Mechanic or Chef would typically wear, which does not include Armani or Speedo. 

Some concept shoots (a lot of them actually) involving Female models will be of a Glamour/Pinup nature.  Not all, but a lot.  Attire will be both “scene appropriate” and discussed fully prior to shooting.  It makes life so much simpler if we’re all on the same page from the “gitgo” don’cha think? 

This is NOT a nude project, though some glamour sessions may require partial or implied nudity.  If Nudity has not been discussed prior to shooting, it is NOT expected during your session.

Compensation

Lilliputian Invasion  is being conducted as a Trade Shoot.  Collaborators will receive their choice of 10 fully edited, ready to print image files from our session, or, as an alternative, you may choose one (1) composited “Lilliputian” image file, also ready to print. 

Escort Policy

I allow models a single escort/companion on set when shooting, providing I'm told ahead of time the escort will be present.  (I hate surprises.)  I expect and require all individuals present (myself included) to behave as adults at all times.  At the first indication of unnecessary drama I will terminate the session & all images captured to that point, if any, will be deleted.

Miscellaneous Concerns

I do not have my own studio, nor do I employ studio lighting, per se.  All of my model shoots are “on location” sessions using available light, modified speed lights, or some combination.  If you are expecting a studio session, it most likely isn’t gonna happen here...    

All model sessions are conducted during weekends & holidays only.  Weekday sessions are occasionally possible, if not very likely.  It doesn’t hurt to inquire…

Got a question I didn’t cover here? Want to schedule your session? Please let me know…

A Partial List of Concept Scenes…

The Arrival – A collection of Lilliputian spelunkers climbing up out of the Holiday turkey…

The Spice Rack – Models in swimwear/lingerie complementing each spice in the rack…

Pencil Jungle – A Lilliputian “hiding” in a pencil holder…

Digital Skater – A Lilliputian skating on a CD…

The Tanning Bed – A Lilliputian “sunning” himself/herself on a CD under a desk lamp…

The Chess Board – A collection of Lilliputians posed in/around chess pieces…

The Checker Board – A collection of Lilliputian children playing ‘Leap Frog’ on a checker board…

Dark Light Portraiture Series

It may sound a bit simplistic, but photography is all about light.  Capturing light, taming the light, modifying the light, bending the light to your will – and then preserving that specific moment for eternity…

…or at least until you get the file to your image editor.

Welcome to my Dark Light portrait series…

Concept/Intentions

What I have in mind for this portrait series is a little difficult to explain, but I’ll give it my best shot.  If, when I’m done, you find yourself still confused about what in Hell I’ve been blathering on about, I suggest you check out the assorted sample images included in this post.

I recently began using wireless triggers in combination with multiple off camera strobes to add a bit of ‘savoir faire’ to some of my imagery.  So far, the results have fascinated me no end.  Now it’s time to start getting a bit more ‘scientific’ in my methodology and see what, and how many, specific results I can get with each lighting set up…

…and then start tailoring sessions around them.

Model Requirements

This project is open to males, females, children, cats, dogs and other family members – in short anyone may participate. 

Adults must be prepared to sign my commercial release and provide a copy of their state issued photo ID for my records. 

Children may participate in the project with parents/guardians present only.  Said parent or guardian must sign a release on the child’s behalf as well as provide a copy of their state photo ID for my records. 

The "N" Word:  Nudity

Nudity is most definitely NOT a requirement.  However (you knew there was going to be a ‘however’ coming, didn’t you?) I do intend to include some nude figure studies as part of the project.  Any sessions involving nudity will be discussed fully prior to scheduling a session – I hate surprises; from either side of the candle…

Compensation

I am conducting my Dark Light Portrait Series as a Trade Shoot.  Participants will receive their choice of 10 fully edited image files (in both full size printable & low resolution web display formats) to use as they see fit.

I do have a small budget from which I can pay experienced nude models for their assistance, though the amount available per shoot is dependent on a number of variables.  Again, we will discuss fully before scheduling.

Location

Location is a variable that will change from session to session.  Playgrounds, Parks, The Lakefront, a back alley, your living room, a motel room – it all depends on what specific “scene” we’re trying to capture. 

Miscellaneous

I shoot weekends almost exclusively, but depending on your location, we may be able to schedule a weekday session.  It doesn't hurt to inquire…

I am happy to shoot with experienced models interested in collaborating on the project, but I also welcome first-timers.  You may be assured I will work with you to capture the best possible images, no matter your level of experience, and I will endeavor to make the experience as fun as possible.

Escort Policy

Models are welcome to bring a companion/escort along for moral support, costuming assistance, protection (whatever) as long as I’m told in advance.  Surprise me with an unexpected guest and the session will be cancelled immediately.  I hate surprises…

Please note:  I have zero tolerance for high school drama on my shoots.  I go into each and every session with the full expectation that I am working with adults fully capable of discussing any and all issues that may arise.  Name calling, threats of violence and similar nonsense will result in the session's immediate termination and the deletion of all images taken to that point.  If necessary, I will call the police and press charges to the full extent allowable under the law.

Got a question I didn’t cover here? Want to schedule your session? Time to hit me with a message, ladies. I’m here, camera at the ready... Go!

Overlays

Updated Wednesday, April 17, 2013

I currently have 16 Detail Sheets posted herein.  Fourteen of those Detail Sheets represents active & current, ongoing photo project.  Though some have seen precious little activity of late, they do remain open and active, as well as standing in need of collaborators.  

Collaborators, no matter the project, are ALWAYS welcome and ALWAYS needed.  That’s a gentle hint, Friends.  And Future Friends.

Back to biz.   Each of these Projects has a unique focus all their own, there has been some “blurring” across Project lines from shoot to shoot.  I’ve included elements (and props) from one project while shooting another, unrelated project.  

For example, at left you see the results of an "American Postcards" pinup session combined with the Martini & Olives used earlier that day in a "Martini Life" session.  The net results of this particular bit of blurring still makes me smile...  

I call it an overlay.  The use of one concept, theme, prop or similar project specific used in a second, unrelated project photo.  Which brings me to this current Detail Sheet you're reading.  

I'd like to continue "blurring" the lines between projects.  Why?  Because I simply want to create images that continue making me smile...

Below are a few "Overlays" I think will work wonderfully well in a variety of my existing - and hopefully future - photo projects...

Multiplicity

I've been "toying" with the 'Multiplicity' concept for a number of years now.  At right you see my latest Multiplicity Composite using images from a recent "American Postcards" session.  I've titled this one "A Gather of Tiffany..." in honor of my model, Tiffany Danger.

I think the technique would work well with all my current projects.  Imagine, if you will, a collection of yourself in assorted Denim outfits window shopping at Macy's on State Street.  Or being not only the base runner in a Batter Up image, but also being the entire opposing team defending the bases.  So many awesome possibilities...

Masquerade

Part of the fun of model photography is crafting concepts in which real life “ain’t necessarily so…”  Enter the Masquerade, where the simple act of tying a kerchief about your lower face & donning a cowboy hat transforms you into a trail hand or bank robber from the Wild West.  Yes, this overlay is all about masks.  From as complexly beautiful as a bejeweled opera mask or as simple as a brown grocery bag with eyeholes cut into it, masks can add immeasurably to a scene or moment.  

Primary Colors

At left you see a shot from a long defunct fashion project of mine I titled "Splash."  The idea was to have my model attired in black or white with a single accessory being brightly colored.  The idea was a "Splash" of color would make really make the scene pop.

The "Primary Colors" overlay is much the same idea, minus the fashion component.  The idea is to use a single, high saturation prop, accessory, background - whatever - as a component in the image to make the image really pop and the subject stand out in juxtaposition to it.

Examples?  How about being a Lilliputian navigating your way across a pool tables green felt?  Or doing an "American Denim" set in front of a Fire Engine?  Again, there are so many possibilities...

Tools

I adore creating images that will make the viewer stop and think.  Something out of the ordinary that is completely unexpected.  Imagine a “Batter Up” pinup using a crowbar in place of a ball bat or an “American Postcard” wearing a carpenter’s tool belt.  Or one of my “After Dark” denizens attempting to dismantle a draw bridge w/an oversized screwdriver…

Musicality
I shot the image at left a few years ago with a young model who has since moved on to Dance as career.  While the focus of this particular session was supposed to be her shoes - we free styled a bit late in the session - this particular shot would work well for "American Denim" with a 'Musically Inclined' Overlay.

I would dearly love to expand all of my photo projects to include a Musical component.  Do you write Music?  How'd you like to be a Lilliputian dancing across one of your own musical scores?  Or lying across the score w/pencil in hand worrying over a section?

Or you could be a nude saxophonist, pianist, guitar player in a signature "American Postcard."  How do you feel about posing with a Boom Box or Harmonica for "American Denim?"

Balls

At right we see another "vintage" shot taken a few years ago as part of my 'Batter Up!' (non-nude) Pinup Project.  This is another one that makes me smile when I see it.

But, can you imagine Sammy fielding a football instead?  Or at bat ready to swing at the soccer ball the pitcher throws instead?  Maybe the Umpire makes her wear a ball gag?

Perhaps we can incorporate a basketball, soccer ball, dodge ball or even a baseball into an 'After Dark' session?  Or add a bit of athleticism to an 'Anonymous Nude' or "American Postcard?'  Maybe we go for a bit of whimsy and pose you wearing a basketball for 'Toppers.'  A 'Lilliputian' peering around from behind someone's prized autographed baseball where it sits on the mantle?  Mayhaps...

Where imagination is concerned, there is no limit to what we might do.

Each of these ‘notions’ can be made to work with any and all of my current photo projects and I think the blending, or “overlay” if you will, can add new dimension, depth & creativity to both my modeling sessions and the project imagery...

We shall see…

American Denim

Welcome to American Denim, a celebration of that uniquely American fashion statement, blue jeans…

Concept/Intentions

This project centers around a very simple thematic element:  blue jeans.  Including but not limited to Designer jeans, working man’s jeans, 501’s, jean jackets, jean vests, boot cut, straight legs, bell bottoms, cut offs, Daisy Dukes, stone washed, ripped jeans, stained jeans, brand new so stiff they stand alone jeans…

This is very much an evolving concept in progress, but in short, I want to capture images showcasing denim in every walk of American Life, from the workplace to a night on the town to just kicking back with friends and families. 

I want to shoot “characters” and “caricatures” both.  Urban cowboys/cowgirls.  Bikers.  Mechanics.  Carpenters.  Club goers.  Fashion Divas.  Glamour.  John Q. Public.  Singly and in groups. 

Depending on what I end up with, I suspect some of these shots may very well end up in a calendar; possibly part of a future book or gallery showing.  Publication formats, if any, are yet to be determined.

Model Requirements

This project is open to males, females, children, cats, dogs and other family members – in short anyone may participate.

Adults must be prepared to sign my commercial release and provide a copy of their state issued photo ID for my records. 

Children may participate in the project with parents/guardians present only.  Said parent or guardian must sign a release on the child’s behalf as well as provide a copy of their state photo ID for my records. 

The "N" Word:  Nudity

Some scenes captured for American Denim  will involve partial, implied nudity.  Please note I said “Some” and NOT “All” scenes.  Any scenes requiring nudity will be discussed fully prior to scheduling a session…

Compensation

American Denim is being conducted as a Trade Shoot:

Models will receive their choice of 10 fully edited image files (in full size printable and low resolution web display formats) to include in their portfolio and/or use for self promotion.

Non-models get the same deal, but may elect to schedule a family portrait session instead;

Location

Location is a variable that will change from session to session.  Playgrounds, Navy Pier, The Lakefront, a back alley, your living room, a motel room – it all depends on what specific “scene” we’re trying to capture. 

Miscellaneous

I am primarily an “Available Light” photographer, though I do occasionally use speed lights and assorted light modifiers from time to time. 

I shoot weekends almost exclusively, but depending on your location, we may be able to schedule a weekday session.  It doesn't hurt to inquire…

Experienced and first time models both are welcome to participate.  You may be assured I will work with you to capture the best possible images and make the experience as fun as possible. 

A Few Possible Scenarios:

The Mechanic:  Working on engine, grease stains, tools/parts laying about.

Texas Biz Casual:  Jeans, dress shirt, tie, sportcoat & 10 gallon hat

Lovers:  Couple shoot, walks along lake/river holding hands, jeans & T’s

Escort Policy

Models are welcome to bring a companion/escort along for moral support, costuming assistance, protection (whatever) as long as I’m told in advance.  Surprise me with an unexpected guest and the session will be cancelled immediately.  I hate surprises…

Please note:  I have zero tolerance for high school drama on my shoots.  I go into each and every session with the full expectation that I am working with adults fully capable of discussing any and all issues that may arise.  Name calling, threats of violence and similar nonsense will result in the session's immediate termination and the deletion of all images taken to that point.  If necessary, I will call the police and press charges to the full extent allowable under the law.

Got a question I didn’t cover here? Want to schedule your session? Hit me with a message.  I’m here, camera at the ready... Go!

The Monochromatic Edge Project

There was a time I considered B&W imagery to be too simplistic and limited a format. My world, after all, is a kaleidoscope filled with color in hues both rich and subtle with a seemingly endless variety of shades, tones, and intensities. Why would I ever want to ignore all that wondrous rich color of life’s great pageant to document it in boring old Black and White? Unthinkable…

I claim youthful ignorance. I had not yet outgrown the surety of youth. Happily – or perhaps sadly – I’m no longer young and considerably less sure than I used to be. I can lay claim to considerably more experience & rarely make blanket statements or assumptions. Hell, some days I can’t even remember to make sure my socks match.

Welcome to The Monochromatic Edge, the B&W project I swore I would never do…

Concept/Intentions
A couple years back I got the urge to embark on a rather ambitious undertaking. I wanted to create a grand collection of images that would reflect Life itself. I wanted to stretch my imagination and my skills in an attempt to create imagery that would convey not only a “vision of Life” to the viewer, but also invoke an emotional response in that viewer.

I intended that every image provoke an emotional response – joy, sorrow, grief, pain, despair, humor, something – in each and every viewer. The best way to do that, in my considered opinion, is to “dial back” the noise (the kaleidoscope of color) and concentrate on documenting the emotion of Life in the “simplistic and limited” tones of Black and White photography…

Towards that end, I wish to work with talented individuals (both in and out of the modeling community) to create specific “scenes” to document a typical scenario focusing on a specific message or emotion to capture…

I intend to publish The Monochromatic Edge Project initially in a variety of formats, including photo books, calendars, gallery quality prints, and even posters.

Model Requirements
This project is open to males, females, children, cats, dogs and other family members – in short anyone may participate.

Adults must be prepared to sign my commercial release and provide a copy of their state issued photo ID for my records.

Children may participate in the project with parents/guardians present only. Said parent or guardian must sign a release on the child’s behalf as well as provide a copy of their state photo ID for my records.

The "N" Word: Nudity
Some scenes captured for The Monochromatic Edge Project will require nudity. Please note I said “Some” and NOT “All” scenes. Any scenes requiring nudity will be discussed fully prior to scheduling a session…

Compensation
I am conducting The Monochromatic Edge Project primarily as a Trade Shoot:

I offer Models their choice of 10 fully edited image files (in both full size printable and low resolution web display formats) to use as they see fit;

Non-models get the same deal, but may elect to schedule a family portrait session instead;

I do have a small budget from which I can pay nude models for their assistance, though the amount available per shoot is dependent on other expenses.

Location
Location is a variable that will change from session to session. Playgrounds, Navy Pier, The Lakefront, a back alley, your living room, a motel room – it all depends on what specific “scene” we’re trying to capture.

Miscellaneous
I am primarily an “Available Light” photographer, though I do occasionally use speed lights and/or reflectors if the shot calls for it. I do not use studio lighting.

I shoot weekends almost exclusively, but depending on your location, we may be able to schedule a weekday session. It doesn't hurt to inquire…

I am happy to shoot with experienced models interested in collaborating on the project, but I also welcome first-timers. You may be assured I will work with you to capture the best possible images, no matter your level of experience, and I will endeavor to make the experience as fun as possible.

A Few Scene Titles (Contact me for details)
Family Oriented: Paying the Bills, Family Picnic, The BBQ Party
Issue Oriented: Street People, Days End, Jumper

Scenes completed so far:  The Morning After…, Serial Killer…, Bad Boy, Inc.

Escort Policy
Models are welcome to bring a companion/escort along for moral support, costuming assistance, protection (whatever) as long as I’m told in advance. Surprise me with an unexpected guest and the session will be cancelled immediately. I hate surprises…

Please note: I have zero tolerance for high school drama on my shoots. I go into each and every session with the full expectation that I am working with adults fully capable of discussing any and all issues that may arise. Name calling, threats of violence and similar nonsense will result in the session's immediate termination and the deletion of all images taken to that point. If necessary, I will call the police and press charges to the full extent allowable under the law.

Got a question I didn’t cover here? Want to schedule your session? Time to hit me with a message, ladies. I’m here, camera at the ready... Go!

An Open Invitation

Boyz and Girlz, Ladies and Gentles, Moms and Dads & all our ships at sea…

It doesn’t happen often, but on the 18th of this month I will be taking a motel room in Elk Grove Village for a special project session. The sessions for this particular project are usually very brief, and since I will have the motel room for a full day, I would very much like to make the most of the opportunity…

Therefore, I’m issuing an open invitation to anyone and everyone who’d like to model for me to come fill my available time slots. And did I mention the entire day will be TF (“Trade for CD/Prints/Food/Coffee/Whatever…”)?

I’m open to shooting anything you’d like, from Casual/Family Portraits to Pinup to Glam to Artistic/Editorial Nudes to whatever. Simply let me know what you’re in the mood for and we’ll make it happen.

February 18th Time Slots

1:30 to 3:30 PM Booked
4:00 to 5:30 PM Booked
5:30 to 7:00 PM Booked
7:00 to 8:30 PM Booked
8:30 to 10:00 PM

February 19 Time Slots

8:00 to 9:30 AM
10:00 to 11:30 AM

This offer is open to any of my Friends and LIKES. Simply leave a comment on the note and I’ll get in touch with you via PM to set up the particulars…

I look forward to hearing from you…