After taking literally thousands of architectural and nature shots, in 2010 Philip Rugel turned his focus from plant forms to the male form and the Kalamazoo photographer hasn't looked back! Instantly hooked, Philip's passion is now firmly seeded in capturing beautiful male bodies and supporting models in expanding their portfolios by providing them with the best images, and moments, he can produce.
I first featured Philip's work back in December (Greatest Moments) and I can't think of a better representation of the male form, and a better model for a second feature spotlighting Philip's work, than Ben. (brben) The Michigan model is an all natural body builder and has worked very hard to achieve his spectacular physique. Ben knows how to use not only his spectacular body, but also his face, especially his expressive brown eyes. Big Ben, like his namesake, stands out from the crowd, visually drawing the viewers attention with his impressive strength and form.
Ben's impressive physique certainly peaked Philips attention when he first saw his images on ModelMayhem. Philip knew right away he wanted to work with him. They e-mailed back and forth for a few months trying to find a date that worked for both of them to get together to shoot.
Fast forward to the City Flats hotel in Grand Rapids Michigan. Philip, along with his assistant waited in the bar for Ben to arrive. Ben doesn't drink but when he arrived, he sat down, ordered a cup of coffee and model and artist began to get know one another. Philip shares that Ben, originally from Louisiana, spoke with a comfortable drawl and as they discussed the shoot, Ben's pleasant voice put him right at ease and confident they would work well together.
'We finished with our drinks we headed up to the room to commence with the shoot. Ever the professional. Ben ripped off his shirt and started doing push ups to pump up for the photos. Fully pumped and camera ready we began. Ben served in the Marines for a awhile... Probably where he got his incredible physique from. Suffice to say I really enjoyed working with Be'
