George of A Images Achieves a Milestone – 501 OMP Showcases

Showcases are a unique feature of One Model Place, and every model and member has at one point coveted one of the special tags on their photos to signify exceptional artistry, creativity, or technical prowess.

While it still remains a mystery how exactly OMP Showcases are awarded, one photographer seems to have cracked the code -- George (OMP Member #4921) of A Images.

George has shot images over 20 years on a casual basis, but got more involved in photography a decade ago. Since joining the site in 2001, George has consistently uploaded incredible imagery and has been rewarded for it. As of this week, he has reached a plateau that few if any have attained – George has 501 Showcases out of 501 images. Looking at the Showcase section on his page is like visiting an art gallery filled with provocative, evocative nude portraits and compelling close-ups.

His interest in the photographic arts came from an unlikely source. “Many years ago, I was chatting with my girlfriend’s father, and we discussed his passion for photography. He noticed I had an interest, so he proceeded to retrieve his favorite camera, a Nikon F. He showed me all the settings, told me what to consider when shooting, and provided sample images. He then gave me an old rangefinder camera -- I think it was a 35mm Petri -- and I was forever hooked! I started to shoot everything: friends, buildings, sports events. My girlfriend was my first female shoot – I hope she never reads this!”

Subsequently, school and varies jobs occupied his time, but George continued to shoot, and effortlessly making the transition from shooting friends to professional models.”

He first discovered and signed up for One Model Place back in 2001. “I had just completed a shoot and while looking through the images, I was told I should consider posting some of my photos on some of the popular model websites. She thought my images looked good, and said it would be fun and that I would receive some valuable comments. When I asked which site to join, she recommended One Model Place. Initially, I was hesitant, but I decided to post some shots, and ever since I stayed with OMP. “

While George still considers photography more of a hobby than a career, he feels that OMP has given him the opportunity to meet some wonderful models and photographers. “The models, in particular, have helped me improve my photo skills and shape my image style. Actually, my image success is due solely to their creative talents and supportive efforts.”

He recalls getting his first Showcase image and his record-breaking 501st. “In the beginning, I just posted some basis fine art photos on One Model Place, and one day I noticed the Showcase designation next to one of my images. I really paid no attention to it until, while surfing the site, a photographer or model commented on the Showcase concept. So I again checked out my page and saw the designation. I was pleased, and thought it was real cool! In fact, it was a shot of the model who had suggested I post on OMP.

George wanted to full circle when selecting which image to upload for his potential portfolio-topping 501st photo. “Regarding my last Showcase image, I posted another image of the same model. I thought I would be nice to start and close with her images, but the OMP folks did not go for it. I then decided to do something a little different (I usually shoot fine art nudes/glamour) using available light in a shower. I was lucky because the model I wanted to shoot was available. She was perfect. I really had nothing to do with the shot, she did it all -- the pose, movement, emotion. I just stood there, pointed the camera, and shot. The result was Showcase number 501.”

Choosing which OMP models he has enjoyed working with the most proves to be difficult for George, who has had so many amazing muses over the years. “Answering this question is difficult. Each model contributes something different and meaningful, and I try to enhance the effect by showing the beauty/mood/emotion the model projects. Probably my OMP profile speaks for itself. There are many images posted for just a handful of models. Obviously, those images tell the story. If you view the profile you can readily see which models have impacted my image style the most. In fact, I have enjoyed working with all of the OMP models posted in my profile.

“But I will mention one, Dorothy (OMP Model# 2720). I have been shooting with her continually over 7 years, and every time the results are outstanding -- mainly due to her efforts. Not only is she a great model, she is also a wonderful person who brings something very special to the process. She has also introduced me to several other wonderful models who have contributed immensely to my imagery. Honestly, I could not have reached the 501 mark without her assistance.”

He offers some insightful words of advice for photographers who are just starting out. “Carefully study the beauty surrounding us all. Examine various lighting situations. Listen to what your models have to say -- I find letting them express themselves works best. Try not to compromise your objectives. Listen to constructive criticism and adjust accordingly. Practice, practice, practice. And most importantly be professional…or else you will never work with quality models.”

The Staten Island-based photographer admits that even he does not know the secret formula to getting a Showcase image on OMP. “I haven’t a clue! I guess, it is the one image which, when viewed, causes nearly everyone to reflect and think ‘Damn, I wish I took that shot!’”

George wants to express his gratitude to the staff and administrators of One Model Place for supporting and encouraging both him and his work over the years. But now that his portfolio is completely filled, he is trying to figure out what his next step is. “I would like to thank OMP for giving me the forum to display my images and enabling me to interact with some really great photographers/models. However, I am not sure as to what to do now!”

Image by George of A Images

The Skinny (and No-So-Skinny) on Models' Weight

One Model Place has always been an industry leader when it comes to accepting models of all shapes and sizes. However, the rest of the industry is not so forgiving. Here are two stories about famous models and how their weight has affected their careers recently.

Miranda Kerr has been under fire recently for appearing to look unhealthy during a recent photo shoot:

Miranda Kerr article



Meanwhile, Gemma Ward is quitting modeling because of public obsession with her weight gain:

Gemma Ward article



Top images by Flynet Pictures; botton photos from Karl Prouse, Catwalking/Geddy Images -- Bauer-Griffin

Have a Holly Wi-Fi Christmas!

Models and photographers who want to stay connected this holiday season are in luck! Walletpop.com reports that Google is teaming up with Boingo Wireless to provide free WiFi at 47 airports across the U.S. until January 15.

In addition, the article relates that Google is also working with GoGo, an in-flight WiFi provider, to provide free Internet access on Virgin America flights for the holidays.

The list of participating airports include:

Austin (AUS)
Baltimore (BWI)
Billings (BIL)
Boston (BOS)
Bozeman (BZN)
Buffalo (BUF)
Burbank (BUR)
Central Wisconsin (CWA)
Charlotte (CLT)
Des Moines (DSM)
El Paso (ELP)
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
Fort Myers/SW (RSW)
Greensboro (GSO)
Houston (HOU)
Houston Bush (IAH)
Indianapolis (IND)
Jacksonville (JAX)
Kalamazoo (AZO)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Louisville (SDF)
Madison (MSN)
Memphis (MEM)
Miami (MIA)
Milwaukee (MKE)
Monterey (MRY)
Nashville (BNA)
Newport News (PHF)
Norfolk (ORF)
Oklahoma City (OKC)
Omaha (OMA)
Orlando (MCO)
Panama City (PFN)
Pittsburgh (PIT)
Portland (PWM)
Sacramento (SMF)
San Antonio (SAT)
San Diego (SAN)
San Jose (SJC)
Seattle (SEA) *
South Bend (SBN)
Spokane (GEG)
St. Louis (STL)
State College (SCE)
Toledo (TOL)
Traverse City (TVC)
West Palm Beach (PBI)

Combined, these 47 airports provide service to 500 million travelers a year. Also, Burbank and Seattle airports will continue the free WiFi indefinitely.

The article states, "You don't need a Google account or any other credentials to use the free wireless at participating airports. The only thing Google asks in return is that you consider donating to one of the following charities; Engineers Without Borders, the One Economy Corporation or the Climate Savers Computing. After connecting to the free service, you will be presented with an option to donate and have your gift matched by Google up to $250,000. The airport that brings in the most donations will also receive $15,000 to donate to a local charity of its choice."

See the full article at:

http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2009/11/11/google-gives-away-free-wifi-at-airports-for-the-holidays/

Cali Photographer Tim Jahns Brings Beauty Into Focus

Tim Jahns (OMP Member #4467) has, in his own estimation, been a photographer for "a long time — let's say over 25 years!" But he admits his work has gone through different stages and changes over that time. One thing is certain -- his eye for beauty has remained consistent throughout.

He got his start in photography through a friend in Santa Barbara who was a serious amateur photographer. "My friend had a good 35 mm camera, and I ended up buying the same kind of camera and playing around with it, learning to see the world through the lens. In that early stage, I was shooting a lot of black-and-white film, processing and printing it myself in a darkroom. I took a couple of classes at the city college, but also had a darkroom I shared with two other guys in the converted cellar of a house."

While he appreciates a variety of photographic styles, Tim's favorite images to shoot are what he calls "abstract fine art photography" and a hybrid style of "fashion/fine art/glamour" that he has been perfecting in recent years. Speaking of perfection, his imagery of his main muse Elyssa (Model #18537) has been so successful that he turned it into a book project -- check out the online preview at www.Elyssabook.com. "My big personal project over the last year or so is my book concept built around images with Elyssa. It's a project that's been very rewarding for me. I'm done with most of the shooting I wanted to do for the book, so I'm concentrating on editing and finalizing the images I want to use in the book, and working with a company that will help with the preparation of it to get to publishers in a more final, print-ready form. I'm finding that I have more I want to do than I originally thought in the way of post-production. That includes some manipulation or enhancement that is fun but takes more time after the shooting itself."

Working with one model has helped the photographer develop a strong creative collaboration. "Elyssa has such a unique look and presence, with such an amazing long body and incredible legs, that it's always inspiring to work with her. I want to find the most interesting locations, wardrobe and styling opportunities to use with her, something I started to expand more in the book project. She's the only real "muse" I've had in that sense, so I feed off of her physical qualities and her energy. I tend to look for locations where I can place her and know she'll make the scene by being in it. She takes direction well but can also come through with some creative choices in her poses, angles and that sort of thing."

Before any shoot, Tim prefers to cover a lot of details. "If it's a glamour or fashion shoot, I go over wardrobe, hair and fingernails, location plans, and the kind of images I plan to shoot. I try to find out what ideas they might have and what they're comfortable with. I also make clear how long the shoot will be, so they know the commitment they have in time and energy. During the shoot, I work with the model to find the best wardrobe choices and describe what I'm trying to achieve. It's always a combination of setting the stage, placing the model and giving general directions, then hoping the model will go with it. It's best if the model will start to move spontaneously and expressively, playing off the mood of the location and the styling. Finding the most interesting location areas to work with, and placing strobes or working with available light are also crucial. If it's a kind of standard or formula lighting set-up, that's routine. But if it's more experimental or free-flowing, that's even more interesting for me to develop the lighting and mood. That helps me present the model looking her best and creating a stronger image."

Another photographer initially recommended One Model Place, and before long, he was a habitual user of the site. He relates, "OMP is definitely habit-forming in the early stages. It's obviously helpful to have a representative portfolio in a major clearinghouse of models and photographers, and access to a huge talent pool like OMP. I work with many established professional models who I find in various sources including agencies, but I count on OMP for discovery of both emerging talent and some undiscovered models who are out there but not always working the mainstream."

In addition to his book project, Tim's been teaching workshops lately for places like Samy's Camera and Calumet, with a focus on glamour. And he continues to work on his "bread and butter" projects including calendars, web productions, stock, and other markets. "I'm trying to expand both the markets and the styles of work, and trying to reach back to my fine art roots a bit more. I'm starting to pursue more gallery exhibitions and magazine publications again and go after markets that feature more of that type of work."

While he thinks that quality equipment is important, Time feels that sometimes it gets over-emphasized. "The camera I use most these days is the Canon 5-D, which is fine for most of what I do, but occasionally I'll rent something for more specialized projects. I'm big on zoom lenses, even with the inevitable compromise you usually have to make in optical quality at certain points. I have a bunch of Calumet Travelite monolights for most of the strobe lighting, plus a ring flash and a couple of special lights or modifiers. My computer is a mid-period iMac, and I have a host of external drives for all the storage and back-up. Of course, Photoshop and Lightroom are extremely important software tools."

Tim doesn't travel nearly as much for work as he used to or as much as he'd like. "Being in the LA area, I have a pretty good pool of talent for models, makeup artists, assistants and all the equipment needs. I do have a lot of models coming in from other parts of the country, so the talent usually comes to me."

He offers some practical advice do you have for photographers just starting out. "Learn the craft first, and network like crazy. Have fun with photography before you have to think too much about making a living from it or other things that can stifle your creativity. Develop a style of your own without trying to mimic what others do, unless it's just to educate yourself about lighting and other elements before you find your own vision."

And one thing he himself could use some advice on is undiscovered L.A. locations. "It's become more challenging to find great locations to shoot, especially upscale homes and other interesting spots with a stylish quality that don't want a fortune for the location fee. So if you're in Southern California and have an idea for a good location, I'd be happy to hear."

Image of Elyssa OMP Model #18537 by Tim Jahns OMP Member #4467

Australian Model Christine Captures Our Attention

Christine (OMP Model #418756) may be new to One Model Place, but she instantly caught our attention with her amazing images. She quickly moved up the list to become OMP's Hot Model of the Week! Check her portfolio often to watch this Aussie model's progress...

Image of Christine OMP Model #418756 courtesy of Ben Heys

"Hot Babes in Toyland" Coming to a City Near You!

The holiday season is still weeks away, but why not get into the spirit early by checking out a new NYC stage production about fashion models taking over Santa's workshop in "Hot Babes in Toyland"?

This holiday sex comedy is written by One Model Place News Editor Elias Stimac and is being produced at The Players Theatre Loft, 115 MacDougal Street, New York, NY, 10012.

TO RSVP: http://www.theatermania.com/new-york/shows/hot-babes-in-toyland_160452/

Dates are Nov. 5, 12, 19, 20, 21, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 8pm. Tickets are $20.

If you are not in the New York area, you can also see the production in Seattle, Fort Lauderdale and L.A.
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"HOT BABES IN TOYLAND" OPENING THURSDAY, NOV. 5

Elias Stimac, News Editor at One Model Place News, wants to invite you to his latest stage play, "Hot Babes in Toyland." If you are a model, photographer, or anyone in the fashion industry, you will love this sexy theatre comedy, opening Thursday Nov. 5 in New York, Dec. 3 in Seattle, Dec. 17 in Fort Lauderdale, and TBA in L.A.

"Hot Babes in Toyland" is the world's first sex comedy that centers around the holiday season. Narrated by an inappropriate, inebriated Rudolph, this twisted tale centers on Santa's decision to fire all the elves at the Workshop and replace them with supermodels. This turn of events is not popular with the North Polesters -- Mrs. Claus, a modern-day businesswoman who will not stand for her husband's sexual shenanigans; Elfis, a comically confused toymaker who goes on strike; and Sprinkles, a boyish-looking female elf who has conflicting emotions regarding Ol' St. Nick. With Dec. 25 still weeks away, Santa is definitely rowdy, restless, and looking to score, and can barely contain himself when big-city fashion models Heavenique and Serendip arrive for a casting call. It will take a Christmas miracle for this motley crew to survive the holidays together!

Look for more Hot Babes in Seattle, Fort Lauderdale and L.A.!

SEATTLE RSVPs http://www.BrownPaperTickets.com (not available yet)
Dates are Dec. 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19 and 20 at 8pm.
Tickets $10 online, $12 at door

FORT LAUDERDALE RSVPs Send payment via Paypal with name, phone, #tickets, show date & time to allstarmodels@aol.com
Dates are Dec. 17, 18 and 19 at 8pm, and Dec. 20 at 3pm and 7pm.
Tickets are $20.

LOS ANGELES RSVPs - TBA

READ THE "HOT BABES" ARTICLE ON NEW YORK COOL AT:
http://www.newyorkcool.com/archives/2009/November/new-york-city-theatre-elias_stimac.htm

Jolie is a Midwest Marvel on the Rise

Check out new model Jolie (OMP #422747), who is set to take the fashion world by storm. This Midwest native is quickly becoming a favorite of all the photographers in the area. Visit her portfolio on One Model Place for all her latest pics.

Image of Jolie OMP Model #422747 courtesy of Mark Niemi of CIMM OMP Member #8742