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Congratulations on your feature! How does it feel to be part of Paradise Girls Magazine?
Like paradise, of course.
What was your creative vision when capturing this group of models?
I wanted to show that Edgewater Beach, the gem of Cleveland’s North Coast, could be the perfect outdoor set for four of our best models. And how delicious is that golden-hour sun?
How do you bring out both individuality and unity in a group photo shoot?
Choose models for attitude and not just look. Each girl, as you can see, has her own approach but they also have the understanding and requisite patience of how to achieve beauty as a group—which is not easy to find. Also, it helps to bring snacks.
What was your favorite moment to capture during the event?
The shot with everyone at the end. It turns out jetties are a great posing block for a flash-lit, Victoria’s Secret-style moment.
How does shooting a live runway or group show compare to studio photography?
A lot less sand and sunburn, for one. But these are just different lessons in managing lighting and distraction: the sun over Edgewater Beach gives you a world of light and color that you wouldn’t find at the end of a runway.
What challenges did you encounter at this event,and how did you overcome them?
How to dodge Lake Erie waves, how to keep sand out of the lens and how to keep four girls—amidst lakeside wind and sandy knees—focused, friendly and on the same page before the sun went down.
What story do you hope your images tell about The North Coast Super Models showcase?
We have talented, creative people here in Cleveland. Full stop.
Who or what inspires your style as a photographer?
The photographers I’ve come to look up to: David LaChappelle, Guy Bourdin, Richard Kern and Helmut Newton.
What advice would you give to photographers who want to break into fashion and runway events?
Thoreau famously said all men live lives of quiet desperation. It’s the basis for my own philosophy: You want to do it, so just do it. But do it tastefully. Don’t just buy the gear, start the page, DM the models. Make sure you have a clear style and singular approach that says something more than, ‘Hey, I’ve shot this attractive person, so give me attention.’ Buy the photography books. Take the courses. Master your camera. Make honest connections. And, above all, treat people with respect and everyone will have fun in the process.
Any final thoughts you’d like to share about the models, the team, or the overall experience?
It was all a dream.
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Sandra Jones
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Sandra Jones
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