This year has been a difficult production year. The insanity of the world has been a huge horrific distraction for creativity. Many times I’ve had to force myself to look away and come back to the art world.
Thankfully, another trip to Portugal helped me refocus. All of the intricate planning brought forth one of the best visits yet.
For the second week of my trip, I returned to Porto. There I connected with local model, Alex and a new model from Germany, Laurens. Original work schedules for both looked a bit sketchy. I didn’t know if either of them would be available.
At the last minute, everything seemed to fall into place and they both ended up working with me. They proved to be a terrific match!
You never know about the creative karma of two models together, especially if they’ve never met. But these two delightful men immediately struck a chord with one another. Their interactions instantly synched while the camera tried to keep up.
They engaged each location with a playful curiosity, intent on trying something new. And I loved how they wanted to keep shooting even as the daylight faded.
Suffice it to say, this relationship developed into a summer crush with amorous interactions. Distracted models can be troublesome. But these two were so comfortable with each other that they didn’t attempt to hide their passions.
I was astonished with their unabashed tenderness. Its such an ephemeral concept to capture; easy to mimic yet seldom genuine. Theirs was sincere.
I should mention that I provide little guidance for my models. I prefer them to act natural and not pretentious. This is why I like utilizing guys who are not professionals.
Because of this, I don’t know how the shoot may progress. It’s a quirky variable that I allow, making things more realistic and spontaneous.
This relationship created lasting memories for them and gorgeous captures for me. I feel privileged to have been part of this special time.
Once again, Europe has given me a wonderful perspective on life outside our country. Each time, I see a world that embraces diversity and appreciates people. I find this sentiment inspiring and hope it continues to influence my work.
Work from individual expedition models will be shared in future posts.
Special thanks to Alex and Laurens for their dedicated efforts and my two support/guides Ray and Samuel.
Alex is on Instagram @alexinhozinho and Laurens @model_laurens.