Leopard Love

Release your inner animal. Everyone's got it, which one's yours? 

For me, when i was younger i was in love with the black panther worth its sleek black and threatening appeal. I loved the color black even though i was told countless times to wear more color. The black panther then grew to become the leopard as i was infatuated with it for a grade school project i did. As i drew in the intricate patterns i realized there was so little difference between the look of the cheetah and the leopard but somehow the leopard i was more fond of. I think it's probably due to the feminine flower-like patterns on an animal so strong and fierce. Understandably, i grew up liking the mix of masculinity and femininity in one look. They provide the perfect balance. 

Reminiscing the above shots when i was working with LM, i wanted a modern day retro/vintage feel so i crossed the ties around my neck in a bow tie fashion around the front instead. This can accentuate the lines you want to achieve but also be so simple with the fabric already there. 

Find your mark by looking at some simple alterations. What animal will you set free today? 

CAPTURED

One of the most demanding things about photo shoots is the ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures without looking as if the environment has any impact on you at all.  I know it doesn't seem like much, since some of us choose to go outside with no coats or maybe forgot a jacket on a cold breezy day and may even love the heat during the summer time.   However, some shoots require extreme temperatures like the current issue of Sports Illustrated.  Alaska in a bikini?? 

 

On this particular shoot, the temperature was quite cold, although not in Alaska, I was at least able to cross my hands... luckily...

 

I especially love emotive and mood photography.  Unlike fashion photograph,y where lines can be exaggerated, dramatized and even surreal; photography capturing the moment, mood and emotion take on a different meaning.  Behind the lens, one has to make sure the audience receives the captured message and meaning.  The feeling must be portrayed even if there is fashion involved.  In reality, I think it's more so of the feeling you are experiencing, or feeling from the image itself, or maybe the moment you are currently experiencing.  Sometimes it's hard to put into words or even know how we really feel at any given moment. 

 

As we transition out of winter season, here are some of my favorite captured images that continue to inspire me regardless of season and temperature.

 

 

 

Simplistic and casually styled, these images go beyond just everyday feeling, emotion, and outward presentation.  How we carry ourselves and what we create through the arts are exceptional ways of making your own mark.  What will you do today? How will you feel? How will you carry and present yourself?  What will you leave behind?

 



Mee Photoshoot

I came across one of my latest photo shoots that inspired me.  I was fortunate to have been able to do a quick session in between the craziness and stress I was going through at the time.  Here's a behind-the-scenes look at Mee...

 

Fringes and pigtails.  I would never have thought I would come back to a pigtail style but... I like it with a boho, grunge, or even vintage-like concepts.  The emotion was there that day so hopefully it turned out well in pictures. 

Enjoy!

 

Ellen Von Unwerth - Classic Vintage Grunge





Model: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley



Out Magazine - Lady Gaga

Model: Ashley Smith for Vogue Turkey

Marilyn Monroe inspired shoot for Madam Figaro.  Model: Milla Jovovich

Guess Spring 2011 w/ Model: Elsa Hosk



 

Ellen von Unwerth: "Do Not Disturb" exhibit @ Michael Hoppen Gallery 



 

 

One of my favorite and inspirational photographers is Ellen von Unwerth.  The above images are what I find to be the varied styles in her photography pieces, depicting a type of classic, vintage grunge in my eyes.  What's most appealing is her keen ability to take any person and transform them into an image of this particular style.  I absolutely love this type of photography and use this inspiration for my own personal style.  These images are for further inspiration into not only the aesthetic appeal, but the edgy yet sensual and strong lifestyle that I personally look for.  I love how these images promote a soft edged outlook with a vintage spin created through the hues and lense.  Love, love, absolutely in LOVE!!!