In the first of our ‘Photographers Exposed’ series, I’ve caught up with some interesting people and none more so than Holly Knowles. Holly is model turned tog and when a tog names their work Hollyrotica, my interest was instantly aroused (now now – not like that) but Holly isn’t your normal glamour photographer – she takes a subject and adds her little touches to it and makes it Hollyrotica. The results, the pics, and her subjects speak for themselves as these shots show what Holly does.

So Holly! Wow, love your work – god that sounds cheesy doesn’t it? (Laughs) How you doing?

I am fantastic thank you! Very excited about 2012 and all the things it will be bringing photography wise!

So Holly were you a model yourself? I’m going to say yes, what made you decide to dive behind the camera?

I am flattered you think I was a model but I have never been one!  Not to say I haven’t tried, In my teens I dabbled a bit in front of the camera but sadly It never satisfied me as much as actually creating and shooting the image myself.

How would you describe your style?

Vivid, maybe sometimes a little crass, provocative and empowering.

It’s quite unique – what got you to choose that flair?

It’s a style that grew out of being inspired by some of my favourite photographers – David Lachappelle, Guy Bourdin and Helmut Newton.

How much flexibility do you have – do you shoot as you’d like to see the pics or do you shoot how the model feels she’d like to look?

I always have a discussion with the model first and like to find out initially what she wants to get out of the shoot – image wise. Then I like to add my Holly spices to the mix and an idea is created. On shoot we come with the idea and theme in mind and just play- my shoots are always a giggle! Sometimes we come out with images that we planned that hit the nail on the head- sometimes we come out with surprises!

Are there any boundaries you’d really like to push with your work?

I always strive towards empowering women. With the images I create I want to make photographs that not only titillate men but images that women will enjoy looking at as well as posing for.

What advice would you give models when they are looking for a good photographer?

Without generalising the lower end of the glamour industry can be (at times) a seedy business so I would always advise models to bring an escort with you on photo shoots and stay safe. Also only work with photographers that will make you look good.

What do you think makes a good shot?

Originality – There are too many copycats out there.

Who would be your dream shoot subject?

Rihanna – I feel that she epitomises the Hollyrotica ethic! Also the Spice Girls in their heyday would be amazeballs!

What do think makes a good portfolio? What advice would you give models looking to create one?

Show how versatile and transforming you can be – meaning ten shots of you in lingerie with a white background isn’t going to excite anyone. Play with makeup, hair and fashion!

So who’s on your radar for 2012? Who’ve you got your eye on?

I’ve got my eyes on some gorgeous models I will be shooting this March; Laura Vinnicombe and Sarah Kawaii – watch this space!

Who are you going to get to do iCandy for me then?

Well Rihanna of course! I’m well connected

Holly, let’s find out a bit about you too. Are you single?

I am happily engaged!

What does your partner think about your work?

He’s almost indifferent to what I do, but very supportive.

The way to make me happy is… Cook me Spag Bol!

The way to make me cross is… Is to be late or let me down last minute.

The way to my heart is… Strike up a conversation with me about Birds (the feathered kind – I am a keen bird watcher too!)

Holly thanks for stopping by to showcase your work – what’s your message for everyone out there?

Times are really tough at the moment with the recession but if you have a passion for photography, modelling, art, and fashion – anything…stay creative, never give up on your dreams and stay strong!

Catch up With Holly on Twitter @Hollyrotica and via her site: www.hollyrotica.com

Tanja Baumgartner and others, modelled for top tog Manfred Baumann at the Bognor Steel plants in Wels and Vosendorf in Austria, to produce these amazing shots.

Combining art, sexiness and the rawness of the steelworks has produced amazing results!

“The cooperation with the Bogner steel company was really a lot of fun.

Especially the location was something completely new for me and inspired me to some really unique pictures and every one of them tells his own story.

The owners of the limited calendar will definitely have a lot of fun with it, in every month”, smiled Manfred Baumann

Sadly though, you won’t get one for your wall and we won’t be getting one for the iCandy office either as these amazing calendars; produced in a limited run of just 1000, will only be going to selected customers and partners of the Bogner High Grade Steel Co.

Enjoy these sneak peeks while you can, as unless you’re planning on building a ship in your back garden anytime soon – one of these calendars WON’T be dropping on your doormat.

Bogner 2 (1 von 3)

Bogner 2 (2 von 3)

Bogner 2 (3 von 3)

Bogner 2o (1 von 1)

Bogner Kalender (17 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (18 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (25 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (28 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (38 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (39 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (47 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (5 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (50 von 50)

Bogner Kalender (7 von 50)

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Manfred Baumann

bognershooting (1 von 1)

How did you get into photography?
Purely by chance. I used to attend car shows and took a compact camera at first. I then asked a friend who worked for a national newspaper at the time of what camera to get to shoot a bit more ‘professional’ . I then improved and developed my skills and have since shot FHM honey and Miss England Finalist Charlotte Thomson plus I’m working with major London Agency Girl Management.

What is it about glamour photography you prefer to any other form of photography?
I wouldn’t say I prefer it to any other form of photography, I just love taking pictures. Glamour is a popular subject for models and is an opportunity for me to syndicate the images, if i choose to, to magazines and online.

How do you concentrates around these beautiful, semi-naked women?
You need to be professional and at the end of the day you are there with a model who deserves respect and your trust to get the best.

If you could choose any 3 women to shoot, who would they be and why?
Amii Grove, Rosie Jones and Danica Thrall. Three models who are top of their game and I have ambitions to work with them.

For all our iCandy girls give me 3 things women should NOT do on a shoot?
Don’t have a bad attitude, turn up late and don’t put yourself down, you’re booked because you’re wanted, believe in yourself.

Who have you most enjoyed shooting?
I can’t pick out one model, plus it wouldn’t be fair. I enjoy shooting all the models I have worked with for different reasons and shooting with a creative team develops my skills and helps me the get the best images.

What’s it like working with one of iCandy favourites Rosie Roff?
I’m not going to lie, Rosie is an amazing looking woman, that said she truly is so much fun and she chats all the way through a shoot, giving feedback etc, she’s a dream to shoot!!

Any tips for people trying to break into photography?
Start on the manual feature on the camera, read lots of photography magazines and practice, review, practice… plus ask other photographers advice.

What’s your worst experience from a shoot?
Lateness. Even if its not the models fault, it puts everything back and the shoot is rushed more as you have only so much time. If anything, be early and plan your journey a few days before.

What makes a good photographer?
Someone who can see a good picture before they click the button. See what you want, envisage the end result and make it happen!

Wanna see more? go to www.dominicdeanphotography.co.uk or check out his Model Mayhem page.

Manfred Baumann invited USA Top model and dancer Zinn Star. The shooting took place in an old house nearby the Pacific Highway 1 in Malibu.

Get some tips and tricks from Manfred Baumann at one of his workshops which will be held this year. These are suitable for hobby, amateur, semi- as well as for professional photographers and will bring all participants some interesting facts.

For registration or more information please visit Manfred Baumann’s website.

Photography: Joby Rawlins

Styling: Tailia Santo and make-up Jodie Sparkle at creative expressions

Venue: www.amikalondon.com

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Anna Kelle

Probably the most stunning photographer we have seen in all of our days, Anna Kelle is the lady you need to visit if you want to get that Playboy/FHM photoshoot. With name like Katy Darcy, Sophie Cahill and Rosie Roff under her belt, this ex-glamour model certainly knows how to work a lens from both sides. Her colourful and playful images definitely set the tone for this iCandy special feature, the only problem we have is whether we should bring her back out of retirement for an iCandy shoot…? We will leave you to decide.

Your a female glamour photographer, how did you get into glamour photography?
I got in to glamour photography as I was a professional glamour model myself for 5 years. I had over 100 tear sheets, my work included, face of a national brand, clothing company, published in all leading mags, nuts/zoo/maxim/loaded, was in the top 100( maxim) sexiest women alongside top actresses/TV personalities and models, TV work etc… I retired in 2008, and have since started photography and built up the SimplyPout brand – being a female photographer and also an ex model, I can relate to girls, advise on the industry and also have a good giggle with them at shoot Since starting in 2008, I know work alongside one of the leading glamour agencies, I’ve had my work published in every UK magazine and also overseas, I’ve worked with some of the top UK models and TV personalities and I’ve so many exciting projects in the pipeline

As a photographer what features or characteristics do you look for in a model?
I shoot everyone – you don’t need to be a professional model to have a photo shoot with myself – any shape and size is welcome, as long as your good fun, like a giggle at a shoot and can smile/pout, then I’m happy As for the professional models, the ones that I enjoy working with, are the ones that don’t have the ” diva ways” – I love working with girls who just don’t know realise how beautiful they are.. Who are sweet, humble and enjoys creating new striking images I’ve been very fortunate with all the girls I’ve worked with, all have been incredible beautiful and have the most amazing personalities – that to me is a top model.

What has been you favourite shoot to date?
Hmmm, so many! I’ve had some funny shoots where myself/creative team and model have been outdoors shooting in an abandoned warehouse and have been chased by security – possibly one of the funniest shoots I’ve been at – think half naked model running in killer heels, makeup artist with all her kit and myself with camera trying our best to run without falling over and laughing hysterically the whole time! (and yes we did get away). My favorite shoot for photography reasons, I do enjoy working with Playboy models Kate Darcy and Sophia Cahill – both are extremely striking and due to working together so often, have built up a very good relationship and this seems to show in our images – always creative and gorgeous. I have a muse who I work with often, she is also my chief makeup artist – Victoria Fox , now her look is sexy and alternative- she is covered in divine ink work, has incredible eyes and whenever I have new ideas, she is there to model – so I get very excited when working with her.

Which 3 celebs would you like to shoot the most?
Angelina Jolie – I have so many ideas id like to try with Angelia, her facial features are so hot and she would look amazing in glamour photos.
Jodie Marsh – since all her ink work, I love love love her look and style – in fact, Jodie if your reading this, get in touch!
Katherine Jenkins – Katherine is one of the most beautiful girls I’ve ever seen, she is an opera singer and of course due to job, needs to remain very ” sweet and cute – I’d love to ” sex her up” for a very hot glamour shoot – I think she has so much sex appeal.

If models want to get shot by you how do they get in contact?
If any girls want to have a shoot with myself, then please visit my website www.simplypout.co.uk , my contact details are there , or search simplypout (Anna kelle) on facebook, and you should find me

Do you find being a female photographer gives you a slight edge over the males?
Yes I think being a female photographer does give myself a slight edge – reason being, women feel more comfortable doing nudity style images, they can relate to one another and I firmly believe that women and men both have different ideas to what ” sexy ” is….

You have shot many women, name so of the big names?
Some of the professional models I’ve worked with include playboy/TV personality Kate Darcy – regular in all the lads mags. Playboy/penthouse/actress/miss Wales – Sophia Cahill. New upcoming and stunning Rosie Roff - this model is going to be huge, I’ve had lots of tear sheets with this new model and more to come. Big Brother couple Rachel White and partner Nathan Dunn.

What do you think makes you stand out from other photographers?
My images tend to be very colourful, playful, sexy and have a very fresh look about them – girls seem to love my work for all these reasons.

Gives us 5 tips for up and models…

1. Don’t give up, if 1 agency turns you down, don’t quit… I got turned down twice and then got taken on by the leading agency.. so keep pursuing!
2. If you have a photoshoot, please don’t go out partying the night before, drives us photographers mad, when you arrive all blurry eyed, not focused and not ready to shoot, be professional at all times.
3. Please be careful of any model agency scams on facebook etc – if it seems to good to be true, then it normally is!
4. Loads of girls want to be models, and I’ve seen some quit there full time job to pursue their ” dream” – please don’t be hasty, modelling is hard work, loads of castings, lots of declines etc… please think long and hard before making the ” move” – have a back up.
5. Be nice! Being nice/smiley and having good manners does go a long way… people in the industry talk

And finally finish these sentences….

Women are the most… complicated, gorgeous yet slightly naughty with a devious side!

Men never seem to… appreciate how much effort women put it to keep themselves gorgeous for there men!

One day I will… get married to my partner (hint hint if your reading this!)

My work is… simply hot, fun and every girls needs to be SimplyPouted!

www.simplypout.co.uk

www.simplypout.co.uk

www.simplypout.co.uk

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www.simplypout.co.uk

Rob Jamieson

iCandy went on set with Glamour photographer Rob Jamieson to check out his work, gawk at the women and basically kick ourselves for not taken up photography as our career paths. If there is one thing better than we receive an email loaded with hot girls, it must be shooting them. This is what he has to say.

Your job is desirable to say the least, what made you get into glamour photography?
Having a lot of friends in the glamour industry, it seemed like a natural progression from everyday photography. Being only 24 I find it’s easier to meet lots of young aspiring glamour models in everyday life.

Name 3 celebs you would love to shoot?
Jedward because they’re the biggest pair of tits I know… haha, no seriously, I’d probably say Megan Fox, Hayley Williams and Kate Moss. Separately or at the same time, i’m not fussy.

Give us an example of a day on set on a glamour shoot.
After the model’s arrival, we have a discussion of what kind of direction we would like to take the shoot. I sit around for hours whilst their hair and make up is done (trying to look busy), and then we get shooting. I like to let the model show their skills and confidence with their poses first, and then I direct them with more variety. Tea and biscuits, done.

Whats the best part of being Rob Jamieson?
Being paid to take pictures of good looking women.

Whats the worst part of being Rob Jamieson?
Spending nights sat up until 3am editing all of the pictures, being quite OCD I need every blemish removed.

You work with a lot of beautiful women, how do you manage to keep everything professional?
Well, seeing as my studio assistant is my girlfriend… it’s pretty easy.

Have you ever fell head over heels for one of your models?
Yes, my girlfriend first came to me as an aspiring model and the rest is pretty much history.

Where can we see more of your work?
www.robjamiesonphotography.co.uk

And finally finish these sentences

If a model offered herself to me on a shoot I would… Charge them more…?

Life can be… impossible to sum up in one sentence.

One day I will… Replace Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear.

Men should always… Eat their greens.

Women are like… like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.

Photography is… the process, activity and art of creating still pictures by recording radiation on a radiation-sensitive medium, such as a photographic film, or electronic image sensors. (thanks wikipedia)

www.robjamiesonphotography.co.uk

www.robjamiesonphotography.co.uk

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www.robjamiesonphotography.co.uk

Photography by Joby Rawlins

Joby’s clients have included some well known companies such as Pineapple Dance Studios, Monster energy Drinks, Scarlet Magazine and Mansion Casino, cover and sixteen page spread in Zoo magazine and JLS.

Additionally he has worked with top names in the modelling world such as Lauren Pope, Jakki Degg, Maddsion Welch, Seren Gibson and Kellie Acreman to name but a few.

Joby Rawlins has a unique skill which revolves around creating a fusion of Fashion and Glamour shots. As a result, he is able to create vibrant and striking images.

Joby say ‘I enjoy working with agencies in the knowledge that I am giving new models a professional kick start in there careers. This is important to me, as a good shot could make the difference between a model being accepted or rejected from a job’.

Book Joby Now go to www.jobyrawlins.com for more info…

How did you get into photography?
I used to make fun of photographers! I took a photography class as an elective 9 years ago in college. At that time, I worked as a waiter, which was a terrific place to snag people for my homework assignments. I’ve always been fascinated with people, so most of my work centred on all kinds of folks who were kind enough to be my “model” for a day – get free photos out of it. Looking back, it was a miracle ANYONE wanted me to take their picture – but word of mouth spread and it wasn’t long before I was taking photos for friends of friends and so forth.

What is it about glamour photography you prefer to any other form of photography?
In my early teens, I was fascinated by the Victoria’s Secret catalogues my mother would get in the mail; the sets, lighting, colours, wardrobe, and of course the women. They were all so perfect, and this was the early 90s before advanced editing software, so we were seeing pure, raw perfection – both aesthetically and technically. I have always had a fascination with the process of creating a final product that mesmerizes. I love being on the other side of the fence; I am the man behind the curtain, pulling the levers to generate a final product that blows society away. Glamour photography in particular is designed to be larger than life – as the viewer, you want to look like that person, and you celebrate the art in its larger than life form.

Was it difficult at first to concentrate around these beautiful, semi-naked women?
At first it was, yes. In college, I took figure-drawing classes – it was the first time I had experienced complete strangers modelling nude for me, but I soon became more concerned with my art. The same can be said with photography; at first, I was nervous about having a gorgeous girl scantily clad in front of me. These are women with amazing looks – but my craft consumed me and, after only a couple of shoots, I was 100% concerned with making sure we got awesome shots. The business side takes over and I get to say phrases such as “pop the booty”, “arch that back”, “give me that sexy attitude” from a direction standpoint – pretty much everything guys wish they could just say to random gorgeous girls.

How do you prefer to work?
I enjoy a collaborative approach – letting the model feel her surroundings and take in the overall ambiance can yield terrific results. I will give some direction if the model is stumped on posing, expressions, or overall vibe. I also encourage my team of make-up artists, hairstylists, and wardrobe stylists to offer input. Some of my most successful shots have stemmed from everyone communicating ideas together as a unit.

How do you choose your locations?
Again, this stems from old school Victoria’s Secret catalogues. My absolute favourite places to shoot have that Victorian / Vintage look. Anything old-world is incredibly sexy to me. I do shoot in a lot of modern settings too, as they have their own unique visual quality, but the best locations have that old, romantic world-texture. I am constantly location-scouting as there are all kinds of goldmines just waiting to be discovered!

Who have you most enjoyed shooting?
That’s a tough call. There are attributes and qualities with each model I work with that I treasure and admire. Mercedes Terrell, Sabrina Maree, Summer Alexis, April Gutierrez, Kally Lloyd, Corinne D., and Nicole Vitelli are just a few of my favourite models that I’ve had the pleasure of working with, and have developed wonderful friendships as a result.

Any tips for people trying to break into photography?
Absolutely! Tenacity and dedication are a must if you want to succeed as a professional photographer. You have to spend money to make money. Invest in professional equipment, hiring well-known models, and rent out memorable locations – your name will begin to circulate and, as a result, you’ll develop a favourable reputation. Do not let anyone take your work for granted. Focus on your subject matter – figure out what about them is striking. Get passed the “wow she’s hot” and instead look deeper – figure out why she’s hot. If you see a photographer whose work is awesome, hire them for private lessons. I guarantee you will learn more tips and techniques from a pro in one week, than what you would learn on a college course in 3 months.

What’s your worst experience from a shoot?
About 4 years ago, I flew down to Beverly Hills to update my portfolio. I was shooting several models and had an expensive location, make-up artist and hairstylist for the day. Every model except one showed up. Naturally, her manager was mortified and called to find out where she was. She claimed they wouldn’t let her on the plane for some reason I don’t recall, so I gave her a pass. About 6 months later, she called me to apologize and wanted very much to shoot with me, so I planned another shoot. Once again, the model didn’t show – I wasted thousands of dollars on a bad investment. It was a valuable learning experience and motivated me to create contracts and policies to help safeguard myself. Needless to say, I will NEVER work with that model. Ever.

Who would you most like to photograph?
Adriana Lima. Maybe someday, I will be lucky enough!

What should the atmosphere be like on a shoot?
Like on my shoots: carefree, fun, full of laughter, professional, and SEXY!

What makes a good photographer?
To me, a good photographer is someone that always views themselves as a student of the craft. There is always something new to learn and having an open-minded approach will yield wonderful results.

To see more go to www.russellperkins.com

Follow icandy on twitter now: @icandymag

Interview by David (Girls and Gadgets) Jacskon follow him on twitter @david_icandy

Manfred Baumann

Starphotographer Manfred Baumann did build a new artwork. A photography which is similar to a painting. The titel “LIFE” chose the artist because of in this picture he build some storys from his own life. The location for the shooting was the new renovated Moulin Rouge in Vienna.

Manfred Baumann: “The Inspiration for my photographs I get from the life itself. A picture should tell even more you can see on the first view.” Also he photographed in Las Vegas his wife Nelly and a musician in Malibu. In every sujet you can find a story about Manfred Baumann and his life.

www.therockstarsofphotography.com

Julian Garcia aka Cover Shot Images

Born in Seattle, USA, Julian Garcia aka Cover Shot Images has been in photography for the past 6 years.  He’s best described as someone with a natural eye for glamour and a “go-getter” in the fashion scene. While appreciating the art of shooting models he does have a passion for photographing cars.  Julian studied photography at PCNW (Photographic Center Northwest) where he learned the basics of photography and lighting technique. After completing his photography courses he shadowed top notch photographers around his area  to refine his skills he needed to improve his craft.  From then on some of his clients have been Ducati of Seattle, Maxim,  J.Soriano Clothing, Angels Never Die and Slitz Magazine & Nike.

Like some famous photographers, Julian prides himself on being self-taught and catching up on the latest trends and gear. On his slow months, Julian enjoys kicking back while having a glass of wine and smoking a tasty cigar.  He also loves watching movies, experimenting with cooking and connecting with his fans on Facebook and Myspace.

You can find his profile(s) here:
www.facebook.com/covershotimages
www.myspace.com/covershotimages
www.modelmayhem.com/covershotimages

Scotty JX

Scotty was born in Michigan USA, however is now residing in the Los Angeles area.

His work has been published around the world from Magazines, Television to Movies, with names like FHM, HBO, Playboy, Bizarre, Showtime, Playboy TV, G4 Channel, Bravo, Royal Mag and of course Actiongirls.

Check out his work from Action girls Every Sunday Night on G4’s “The Sexy International Ladies TV Show”.

How did you get into working for action girls?
Well I actually own it HA Yep it’s my dream creation!!! I love all aspects of the start to finish. Actiongirls is my dream project it’s like being a kid for the rest of my life. When I was a kid I loved to play war, as you mature in your teens and develop an attraction to women I thought hmmmm….

It started one day in Prague in the Czech Republic., I thought of a dream about tanks, Flamethrowers and babes with guns but was afraid to ask because of the price and I said… cautiously what about a flamethrower and he said no problem when you want it? I was amazed… then I said what about tanks he said No problem, so the next week there I was with Veronika Zemanova and a flamethrower.

What advice can you give to prospective models?
Be tough work long hours and love photographers who love their work, I know you have the looks but personality counts and it’s not something you can fake.

You need to shoot with as many photographers as you can, as many times as you can and you must be open to learning.

PLEASE don’t become stuck up!!! On your way to the top watch out what you say because you will meet those on your way back down.

Say no to situations you feel uncomfortable with if you choose, but be polite and professional.

Compare yourself to the best; don’t be afraid to try something that may sound stupid to you or not appealing… people like personality. You are an entertainer!

Illustrate your most accomplished shoot to date?
Actiongirls “Soldiers of the Dead” the Movie. Over 90 days of shooting for a 1 hour 30 min feature. Wow it was hard a lot of fun at times but a lot of pain too.

Likes?
Movies, heavy metal

Dislikes?
Stuck up and lazy people

Where is your favourite location to shoot?
It must be Prague. A bit hard to narrow but I have to say it must be Prague, Czech Republic

What’s your next move?
A possible reality show we will see Um outside of that… I’m redesigning my site and doing some collaboration with artists right now some super talented Photoshop wizards taking actiongirls to a whole other level with digital effects. Also shooting a Water and Fitness series for the folks who don’t like the gun bashing babes and want a bit to relax to and just enjoy their beauty!! I’m not stupid the girls are what people want to see.

So watch out for an explosion from me with shooting an army of new models!!

Check the Action Girls here

It may have been growing up on the Hawaiian coast, watching sunsets and surfing throughout his childhood years, that gave Ray John Pila his creative muse…maybe it is the twenty years of schooling that is so inspiring, after deciding he wanted more out of life than ‘beaching it’… or maybe it is the so obviously apparent passion and devotion to his art that enriches his images with beauty and movement, not only capturing the essence of a single moment but of a sole emotion. Currently living in West Hollywood Ca, Ray John Pila’s photography is honest and sensual…here he tells iCandy about his inspiration, aspirations and why the best way to relax his models is by taking out his hose…!

http://pilaphotography.com/
http://www.modelmayhem.com/

What is it about photography that appeals most to you?
It’s so fast now! Back in the old days, one picture took about a week to process and develop, and cost so much on film and paper! Now it’s super easy, super fast and super cheap!! …and Photoshop rocks! I looovvve that!!!

How would you describe your photographic style?
I was on the 20 year plan in college, so my style involves a lot of theory. Art history, graphic design and love…I do like Edward Hopper and try to make each photograph a painting.

Where do you find inspiration for your shoots?
I like Bruce Webber, Calvin Klein, Abercrombie and Fitch……… it’s a really good style, and then I add my own twist to it. Mostly adding movement and motion and art theory! I hate pose-y, so you’ve got to make them move!

What is your most important consideration in a photograph?
Composition, contrast, repetition, alignment, proximity. I make the model fit all these elements then shoot…or getting the model wet is fun…shooting them with the hose! Pouring water over them, that gets them really pissed off, then they’re so relaxed they look their best. It makes a huge difference, really!

What do you believe makes a good photographer?
Having passion and love for the art. Not being in it just for the money but having a connection to the subject, like your making love to it.

Capturing the emotion and expression of each individual is clearly very important to you. How do you approach a photo shoot with a model?
I usually try to get in there pants right away… lol kidding! I usually just treat them like a guest in my own home. Be their friend, make them relaxed. I ask them their sign too and play off of that….it helps. I tell them what to do, move left or right, up or down, tell them to sit, move, smile, bend, etc. No matter what, most models take about an hour to loosen up, so squirting them with the hose fixes that right away!

What is the most important thing you look for in a model?
I shoot mostly male models, just because you roll around in dirt, get them wet and shoot them and then you’re done. Bam, bam, bam! No make-up or hair! I do like shooting girls too, but it takes 10 hours longer.

What’s next on the agenda?
I do a lot of graphic design, painting and piano but I really love photography the most. Capturing a moment in time is really great! I would like to do a book, or maybe shoot movie stars!!!

Words by Berni Christie

With a father a celebrated artist and his mother an international model, it was expected that Hugh would go into a creative field. He graduated from Chelsea College of Art and Design and once he managed to escape from the galleries, he started his relentless pursuit of photographing beautiful women. His work has appeared in Cosmo (advertising), Grazia (advertising), Vogue.com, Dazed Digital, and a bunch of other publications. He doesn’t bite, but is no stranger to barking…

Hugh O’Malley
http://www.somaphotos.com