Model: Amber

Shot During the 3 Part Series Shoots

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Headshots (Aug)

Shot During the 3 Part Series Shoots

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In the Stillness

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Old Wooden House

One of the locations I want to shoot a big fashion dress with.... My other old house that were falling apart -- I recently drove out to see about shooting there-- They are nothing but a dirt field now! The owners must have finally tore them down. Life is short... you got to take the time when you have the moment! =)

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Model: Tat

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Dark Phoenix

Out of Focus for the 3 Part Series Project

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Essay Project: Models Responses (Amber H)

Providing Models a space to speak in their own words their experience modeling artistic nudes:

Model: Amber H

(Age: 35 , Regular Shoot: __ times,  Nude shoots: Never shot nudes before. )

I just recently did my first shoot with Howard.

(I will talk about my initial impression from the very beginning of first contact, on through to the end of the shoot). 

At first, I looked at his rather detailed description of what he had planned to shoot, along with the large # of link examples of his work and I appreciated the clear concept he presented, along with his detailed, laid-out approach. I was very pleased with his work in his portfolios. There were a number of images that drew me in. I also really liked that the shoot would go toward multiple artistic mediums. 

I have never done a full nudity shoot before. But with everything considered, felt like this was a project I would be willing to make this jump, or exception, for. 

I talked with Howard at length over the phone, a few days after our first email correspondence and appreciated his down-to-earth openness and his willingness to answer any questions or concerns I had. This made me feel even more comfortable about my decision. 

However, as the shoot date was approaching, in all honesty, I was starting to get a bit anxious. And by the day of the shoot, I started to panic a bit. All kinds of paranoid thoughts and scenarios about my safety, as well as where the photos might ultimately end up, were passing through my mind! I just couldn't seem to help it... 

There is always an amount of blind trust (on both sides) that is needed, going into a first-time shoot with someone. You can plan, be as careful as possible, etc., but at the end of the day, you are either going to do the shoot, or you're not. No amount of pre-planning is necessarily fool-proof. You've just got to decide. I know this...Lol. But with the added pressure of a first nude shoot, I was teeter-tottering. 

I almost cancelled. I HATE flaking on any shoot but I was close to it with this one. On the day of the shoot, I was about to call Howard, to talk everything over with him again and to express my concerns, when he actually called me first, instead. After talking with him for a while, I felt more at ease again and decided to trust my initial intuition about the project and trust my instinct about Howard, and meet with him.  (He laughingly suggested that I take a picture of his license plate and send it to a friend. I laughed but still ended up doing just that. I took a pic of his license plate, snuck a pic of Howard himself (hee) and texted the pics, along with any other pertinent info, to a friend with a timeframe that I would try to call them by...just in case...Lol). 

The first moment of taking off my clothing was a little odd and uncomfortable but that feeling went away pretty quickly, since I had already made up my mind to do the shoot. In other words, I didn't let those feelings bother me and just tried to throw myself into the shoot and what Howard was saying he was wanting in the photos and positioning. Ants unfortunately crawling on me, aside, it was a pleasant beginning to the shoot - Lol. 

This was a wilderness shoot. Partially on land and a large majority in water. It was a beautiful location and very calming (which was also added help for me to relax and go with it all). 

I am a pretty flexible, open person when it comes to shooting and I like to try odd, different or abstract things, (if I feel comfortable enough to do so with that person and comfortable enough to express my ideas).  And I was very happy to find that Howard was open to suggestion and to trying new things. But he also knew what he was looking for as well, which is important for direction. So it was a preferred blend of approach for me. 

In all, I had a wonderful time. Howard was very easy to work with and very easy to talk to as well. (Unfortunately though, I accidentally shot past my time-frame that I said I would check in with my friend and saw that I had missed a call and a text from them. Oops. Felt bad about that and texted them immediately while leaving. Lol...so all was fine). 

I had a good shooting experience and I am looking very forward to seeing the end results of the photos!  

~Amber H

 

EW Continued

Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Essay Project: Models Responses (Melodye Joy)

Providing Models a space to speak in their own words their experience modeling artistic nudes:

Model: Melodye Joy

(Age: 23 , Regular Shoot: 1 times,  Nude shoots: 1 time before our first shoot. Has shot with me multiple times since 2007. Has since done 60 shoots - 22 times published.)

Nude Modeling; Cutting Edge or Cutting Ties?

For those who are not familiar with nude or implied modeling, you assume a model that chooses such a personal aspect of modeling career is a “porn star”. Am I close? Thought so. That is one man’s perception that somehow crept out into the world as the standard ideal of a nude model. 

Ancient artists drew nude figures, painted nude women, and constructed nude statues to capture a natural beauty that is within us all. Scholars praise these historical craftsmen and students fawn over their work. In today’s society, nude modeling has unfortunately become a misconceived notion that is cone sides with the porn industry. This is both true and false, depending on how you personally perceive the craft. 

Nude models are women who have built their career and for some, began their career in an artistic element. This nude modeling does not involve physical self-exploration, but a spiritual exploration and finding of ones self. For me, personally, nude modeling was a jumping off point into beauty & fashion. Being a petite woman, I did not think I would ever succeed in modeling. Having scars since birth, freckles on my face, wearing glasses…these flaws were always an eye sore (or so I thought). When my friend suggested I try modeling, I thought she had officially lost her mind! Me? Model? I laughed. But, something pulled me to look into the idea days later. The idea of being a model was foreign to me, and to this day, I’m not sure if modeling or acting enhances my nerves more? I have been blessed but never claim to make any money or a paid career of this business, it was just another way to remain creative and artistic…because we all know I can’t draw to save my life and any recording of my singing have already been buried deep in the back yard! LOL. 

My first experience in modeling was a nude/implied shoot in Downtown LA, on a rooftop no less! I was nervous, yet excited to begin my journey.  The photographer walked me through the concept, using creative light source and sheer fabrics as props. His kind wife was the makeup & hair stylist, which made my first shoot even more comfortable. I was never left alone with the photographer, never physically touched by the photographer, and never asked to perform any inappropriate act. This was all about the art, the artist & his muse. Those images, in fact, gained viewers and inquiries from beauty artists, fashion photographers & gained me three opportunities to walk the runway (which is rare for a petite model). 

About my 3^rd experience in modeling, I came in contact with an artist/photographer, who enhanced the body in his nude pieces. The first time we shot, I traveled with my then boyfriend, who honestly, made the shoot more difficult and my focus less on the task. This of course, is something I later found out to be a deterring factor when someone inquires of collaborating with a model. However, in this case, the photographer enjoyed working with me and we worked on a few new projects together months later, this time without a personal distraction. He was patient while I prepared the first makeup and hairstyle and he had a separate room for changing or if on location, he had something to cover the area as I changed or undressed. I personally thought that was silly, seeing how I was going to be nude or implied nude anyway. But later, I understood. Even though our concepts were typically nude or implied nature, he remained professional. This of course, made the task not easier, but more calming. 

To date, peers and professionals alike have noticed our collaborative effort and we have each been recognized in print.  Aside from those accolades, I make use of what I have learned in nude modeling and pertain it to fashion, beauty and any creative concepts that may come along. Speaking of which…

Are the photos of myself nude or implied as such going to determine my career in modeling? Yes and no. Photographs that have been taken of me are in artistic form, accentuating my curves, my natural beauty. Photographers I have worked with in such a light have taken notes from those historical artists and used the body as a canvas, as a muse. Does that mean I should get every modeling gig, let alone TAKE every gig? No. I have been denied because of my portfolio, as much as I have been chosen for a particular concept because of that same portfolio. And just the same, I have declined work because some have assumed that because I did nude or implied modeling; I would do something of a sexual nature pertaining to say nudity. 

For some, this has become a lifestyle, which involves pornographic art, film, photography, & a closet of little clothing. And for them, that is okay. But we need to see that nude or implied modeling is NOT all pornographic. One could argue, why are we okay with a nude statue or painting but irked at a nude photograph or video? Is it because it is simply not human? After all, there had to have been a human in mind, wither physically posing for an artist or in ones mind as he chipped away the curves. I don’t agree with ALL nude modeling, nor do I agree that one need sacrifice their personal boundaries for a career in entertainment, fashion or modeling of any sort. I could go on and on, but I will simply end with this last few words….

I personally like all of the images I have taken that are of nude nature, however….

At the end of the day, modeling, like any art, is in the eye of the beholder. It is up to whom is viewing said art to determine its fate. 

By Melody Joy, petite model, actress, web designer & creative writer 

 HYPERLINK "http://melodyejoy.com" http://melodyejoy.com 

If you'd like to read more about the Essay Project and read other Models Responses Click Here! 

Do not copy or use any of the text here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Model: EW

From the 3 Part Series Project Shoots

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Model: Sa

Shot for the 3 Part Series Project.

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Loose Ends

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Essay Project: Models Responses (SW)

Providing Models a space to speak in their own words their experience modeling artistic nudes:

Model: SW

(Age: 19, Regular Shoot: XX times, Never shot nude before)

"When I first started modeling I was only 16 years old. From then until now, three years past at 19, I had many different experiences in modeling from glamor to advertisements in magazines, but never nude. When I was first contacted by Howard to shoot for the 3 Part Series Project, I was a bit skeptical about the motives and purposes of this type of shoot. I looked at the links he had attached of some previous work and I was completely blown away. The photos that were taken of these women were breathtakingly beautiful and there was a model of every age, ethnicity, shape, and size. I couldn't believe myself actually starting to consider doing a shoot like this. Because I had grown up with relatively conservative parents I was naturally still skeptical about everything so I gave him a call to get several of my questions answered. To my surprise he answered everything with such sweetness and patience that I instantly decided to give it a try. A month or so passed and I was finally ready to go through with it. Howard encouraged me to bring an escort of some type (friends, a boyfriend, or even my parents!) so that made me feel the most comforted. After I arrived at the meeting location I was overjoyed to see that it actually was him and he was exactly who he said he was. He matched the picture on his blog and his voice was the same. I followed Howard to the shooting location with my escort and we hiked up to a beautiful spot in nature. The whole time Howard was telling me what the plans were for the shoot and making sure I agreed every step of the way and I never felt any pressure from him to do something I felt unsure about. The time came to where we were all at the spot where we were going to start taking pictures and the big unavailing of my body was coming near. Howard politely turned around while I got undressed and waited until I told him I was ready. For the first few moments I was in disbelief that this was happening but right after the first photo was taken I felt 100% comfortable. It almost felt like I was modeling in a bikini or clothes! I couldn't believe it. Howard made me feel comfortable and always was extremely considerate. In each shot he would tell me things to make me look my best possible like "straighten out your back" or "suck in a little bit here" and I really appreciated that. Even though I am a fairly petite woman at 5'3", I am still a little curvier than most people my age so I appreciated his continuous effort to make me look the way I wanted to look. Throughout the shoot he was courteous and gave plenty of praise which always feels good, especially the first time taking nude photos! The shoot lasted 3-4 hours and at every point I loved it and really enjoyed myself. After it was over we continued to talk on the way back to our cars. I will definitely shoot again with Howard in the very near future and I believe his creative mind will always make his modeling look like a work of the finest art. If you have never do e nude modeling before, I know exactly how you feel. But no matter your age of body type, Howard will make you look stunning and make you feel as beautiful as you really are. Howard is the real deal ladies! If you are considering it still, talk it over with him for as long as you need. If hearing all the details and reading this blog does not help you decide then I do t know what will! It is an amazing experience and I would not have wanted it to be with any other photographer. I'm blessed to have met Howard and I hope that those of you considering nudes would go to him!" 

If you'd like to read more about the Essay Project and read other Models Responses Click Here! 

Do not copy or use any of the text here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

The Embrace

Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Essay Project: Models Response (Laura)

Providing Models a space to speak in their own words their experience modeling artistic nudes:

Model: Laura
(Age: 43, Mother of 2 kids, Regular Shoot: 3 times, Never shot nude before)

"My name is Laura Denise. I am fairly new to the modeling scene, I got into it a lot later than most. I am a 43 year old mom to 12 year old twins. I had a chance to model when I was younger but life happened and years passed but I am where I am now and grateful to have a second chance to live out my dream. When picking or accepting assignments I really look for projects that speak to my soul, projects that tap into my femininity and sexuality and showcase my body that I work hard at at my age to keep in shape. I had a chance when I was in college to shoot with Playboy and I really wish retrospectively I would have done it. I wish that I had some pictures when I was younger before having children. I highly encourage younger women to do this. The human body is a beautiful thing especially when portrayed in an artistic way which is what Howard does. I recently shot with Howard. I have never done nude or implied nude work before. I was apprehensive for a number of reasons. My friends all thought I was crazy at my age to even consider this!! Even though I am a fitness fanatic and in great shape, I have body concerns like all women do. I'm not gonna lie, exposing yourself in front of a complete stranger is kinda intimidating and downright scary! That being said, Howard made me feel comfortable every step of the way. Once I took my clothes off it really only took a few minutes to relax into the process. It was so liberating on so many levels and at one point, I forgot that I was nude! At the end of the day, I am SO glad that I did this shoot. I am glad that I didn't let fear get in the way of what ended up being a great experience. I am blown away at the images that Howard was able to capture. I had no idea I look the way I look. I am proud of the images, that is me captured forever on film from a moment in time out of my life...What an amazing gift to myself. I couldn't be happier. Thank you Howard, you are the best!" 

If you'd like to read more about the Essay Project and read other Models Responses Click Here! 

Do not copy or use any of the text here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Figure and Form

From the 3 Part Series Projects

Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Essay Project: Models Response (EW)

Providing Models a space to speak in their own words their experience modeling artistic nudes:

Model: EW

(Age: 36, Regular Shoots: 5 times, Nude Shoots: Never shot nude before)

"Although I have never done nude modeling, and did not have it listed on my Model Mayhem, when I was contacted by Howard Hill I was pleasantly surprised.  I remember looking through all of his accounts/websites looking for an image that I didn't love.  I actually couldn't get enough of his work, I wanted to see more.  I decided to move forward and give him a call because I just knew he would do something stunning for me.  Speaking to Howard on the phone was like getting in contact with a good friend I hadn't spoken to for years.  What was supposed to be just a quick conversation on the logistics of the shoot turned into a 2 hour conversation about our lives.  The more I spoke to Howard the more I knew he was supposed to photograph me and the more excited I became.  I, like all women, have body issues.  Once I spoke to Howard about these I let it all go and trusted that he knew what he was doing.  The day of the shoot I had absolutely NO hesitation because I trust his artistic eye and because I believed Howard would not have chosen me to be photographed if he did not think I would be great.  I couldn't wait to get naked and be shot in a beautiful/artistic way!  I was thinking of having the images when I am old and grey.  I was thinking that if I didn't shoot with Howard I would have regretted it in the end.  The day of the shoot was exciting.  I got ready and headed out to meet up.  Howard was super chill and casual.  His personality matched his phone demeanor.  I got undressed and walked around to different photo locations within the area and it all felt very natural.  Howard shot me with purpose and professionalism.  There was never a creepy vibe, joke, comment, or look.  Howard was a true professional.  Even though I was tired from shooting for 3 hours I didn't want the shoot to end.  I look forward to working with him again in the future if he will have me! "

If you'd like to read more about the Essay Project and read other Models Responses Click Here! 

Do not copy or use any of the text here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Bright Eyes

Shot during the 3 Part Series Shoots

Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

My Cousin is in a Mazda Commercial!

She is the first one of the models in a bikini running -- it's black and white.

Hi Cindy

Hey Cindy ~

       It was nice meeting you the other day! I was not suppose to be there at that time... so it was really once of those meant to meet kinda things. Anyway I just wanted to say I hope you give me a call - love to chat and see about shooting sometime - especially since your in the area! =) Hope to hear from you soon.

--me

My Focus on Out of Focus

Do not copy or use any of the images here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved 

Essay Project: Models Responses (part 1)

I'm starting a new essay project where I ask my models to tell my about their thoughts before and after shooting nudes (some for the first time.) Allowing them to share their experience -- in their own words. There is a link to the Essay Project Beginnings at the bottom of this post. Here are some of my beginning responses from a few models that I have shot in the past:

Model 2010:
(Age: 24,  Regular shoots: 5 times, Nude shoots: Never shot nude before)

"Shooting nudes sounds intimidating and scary, but once you experience it and see the results you'll feel like a Goddess and liberated at the same time!!"

Model 2012:

(Age: 18,  Regular shoots: 2 times, Nude shoots: Never shot nude before) 

"Shooting nude is not as scary as people make it seem. Do not get me wrong there are risk at factor, but there are signs and steps to prevent any thing going wrong (ask Howard LOL). If you feel afraid or uneasy tell your photographer about it.Shooting nude was something i thought i would never do, but you should at least try something at least once right?!(: i was self conscious about my thick body structure, i was unsure about doing nudity until i did it. And guess what ....... My confidence went through the roof, i had a wonderful time , I have learned a lot about my body and built a wonderful friendship with Howard, my photographer. If you are considering doing nudes .DO IT WITH HOWARD. You'll be in great hands (: "

Model 2013:

(Age: middle aged,  Mother of 2 kids, Regular shoots: 3 times, Nude shoots: Never shot nude before) 

" I had the pleasure of working with Howard recently. I am fairly new to the modeling scene and am by nature a bit of a skeptic. Howard approached me to do a shoot. I have never done any nude or implied nude work so I was a bit apprehensive up until the very second I had to take it all off, which I think is a very normal reaction. All of this said, Howard was completely professional and made me feel comfortable every step of the way. It only took a few minutes to relax into the process. I am thrilled that I decided to take on this project. The human body is such a beautiful thing especially when portrayed in an artistic way which is what Howard does. It was a great experience...very liberating on many levels...I highly recommend it and shooting with Howard!" 

If you'd like to read more about the Essay Project and read other Models Responses Click Here! 

Do not copy or use any of the text here or herein without written consent. © Copyright 2013 Howard Hill. All Rights Reserved