'With event or nature photography, you are trying to document what is already there, whereas in the studio you are responsible for every detail of your image. It's a lot more demanding than I expected. For all that it's been an interesting challenge.'
The quote from photographer Peter Rowen struck me as we went back and forth deciding on which of his shoots to feature next. Some of you might remember that the first time I feature Peter's work, (HERE:) it was images from a shoot with Brandon Connelly, a favorite model of mine to feature. Brandon had sent on a variety of images from a number of different photographers, but Peter's work really stood out.
The shots were taken in studio and I loved how skillfully and cleanly Peter captured Brandon, both in physique poses, and in addition with some beautiful portrait shots that I thought were some of the best head shots in Brandon's portfolio. When talking to Peter about his work, he shared that primarily he shoots outside, capturing mainly sporting events as well as event, and a nature photography.
Peter loves shooting outside, in fact the next couple of times that I featured his imagery, we went along with Peter as he captured Jake (HERE:) and Brent (HERE:) in the hills and forests above his home in Seattle. As much as Peter loves working outside, he is also loves exploring the differences and challenges with working in studio. Peter's also been focused on bringing his studio experiences to to nature photography in what he calls his 'nature portrait series.'
Although we discussed FH featuring another location shoot, I was glad Peter suggested we head back into the studio, particularly given the subject of the studio shoot was Talon. Some of you might remember Talon from my previous piece on his work with Michael Anthony Downs for AAG's Red Hot site. (HERE:) This shoot in fact, occurred in the morning on the same day that Talon flew to Florida for his AAG's shoot. I love Talon's look from his auburn hair, incredibly incredible body and his expressive face and eyes.
'Talon was extremely forward and eager to show off. As you may already know, he's a mixed martial-arts champion as well as a model, and you can see it a little in his photos. He has a few minor nicks and scars here and there. I tried to incorporate them because I love that he's a real person, and his gym body is not just for show.'
'Although he's a fighter, his personality is the opposite of what you'd expect: he's very warm and friendly, and just a real pleasure to work with. He can also be quite goofy and is something of a nerd; he does cosplay at our local comic-con. I'd love to do a character-themed shoot with him someday.'
I love that just as he did with Brandon, Peter captured so many unique poses showing off Talon's hot body, as well as some great portrait shots. I would also eagerly look forward to seeing those images if Peter ever gets the chance to shoot Talon in a cosplay themed shoot! Until then, Peter and Talon are planning a shoot for the nature portrait series out amidst the natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains.
