Name: Brian Rolfe

Explanation: With this shoot we really wanted to capture something dark and sensual but with an air of mystery and movement. Our model, Kayt was transformed with wig and hairpieces to give a bohemian gypsy look that has a Sophia Loren feel from a movie I still cannot recall but it’s in my head!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I normally steer away from choosing beauty shots because I really wanted to credit photographer’s who shoot fashion well. But this shot really stood out this week for me. Brian wanted to capture something dark and sensual…and he did! The shot is beautiful. I love the expression on the model’s face, it’s very beautiful and sensual. And I like that Brian shared that there were wigs and hairpieces added, because that often times is the case: we embellish all the time to get the effect we’re after. Love the black and white as well in this shot. Great capture, Brian. And don’t worry….I can’t recall half the movies I’ve seen over the years that have inspired me!

Name: Raymond Woods

Explanation: Inspired By black and white photography that has a dramatic meaning and overall purpose in the story. This model in the photograph look confident and strong but yet i feel like she is striving for acceptance trust in the forbidden woods. I named it “No church in the Wild” Inspired by the early 1900s of African Americans with a modern twist .

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This is such a well executed photograph. The composition is really well done. So is the styling, the casting of the model ( I love this girl! ), the mood. And of course, the black and white. It reminds me of a shoot Lindberg did with Naomi Campbell in Paris about 10 years ago. It was an epic editorial and this shot is in that same vain. I love this photo, Raymond. Excellent job!

Name: Ted Emmons

Explanation: I wanted to portray a sense of the love for the ocean and being out in nature even on a cold stormy day. I also have 5 more shots from this story if you are interested in using them.

Thanks

Ted Emmons

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I like the use of the two images set in a horizontal (DPS) format. It tells a nice story. I love the mood and styling on these shots. And the choice of model was a really good one. This is a really good example of an excellent editorial with a theme and continuity. Great job, Ted!

Name: Pat Bombard

Explanation: This image was inspired by stress. The viewer can relate to the model. We all have one of those days.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This is a great example of capturing a moment with photography. I saw this image a few weeks ago, kept going back to it and now I’ve chosen it as the SOTW. It’s really beautiful. I love the lighting and the styling. And the model, too. Pat was able to capture the model’s emotion, which is so important for fashion photography. Great shot, Pat! Would love to see more of your work!

Name: Barry Williams

Explanation: I love black and white photography for its classic look and timelessness. The model was wearing a gown where the fabric around her shoulders and bust looked like an extension of her neck and I wanted to capture that in black and white to add drama to the seeming simplicity of the photo. Added to that the model has a very androgynous look that itself lends a fine art feel to what was initially intended to be a fashion photograph.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This shot was actually submitted a few weeks ago. And I saw it last week but chose another shot. But I kept thinking about this shot. I love it……it’s so dynamic. I love the lines, the pose and the angles. The model has a great look. Her jaw line and the way her hands are posed on her hips make this a really powerful shot. I also love black and white and I feel Barry did a perfect job in capturing it.  The photograph reminds me of an era where black and white was heroic, and the great photographers like George Hurrell and even Cecil Beaton ruled supreme. I like that this photographed isn’t grossly retouched. It shows an authenticity to it that I miss. Great job!

Name: Vaiva Hawkins

Explanation: I really wanted to do something dark, but cozy at the same time. So I thought i’ll put a huge and soft scarf and dress model in a really comfy sweater and do the shot somewhere in the woods. And I think it totally worked!
Model – Alisa Feist @Pearl Model Management.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This shot is just simply beautiful. I love the emotion emanating from the model. I could stare at it for a long time, it had that much impact on me. And for me, that makes a great photograph. It reminded of a classic portrait, it’s maybe not so high end fashion. But I want to promote Vaiva’s vision and to tell her to keep shooting because I think she has an eye and she should keep exploring that. I love the black and white as well. I love photographing in the woods. They’re just something magickal about being in them and shooting in them. Great job, Vaiva!!

Name: Hugh Chaloner

Explanation: Inspired by Italian Vogue and the model’s natural beauty

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: The lighting on this shot is really beautiful. And interesting too. I love the styling as well, it’s a very strong fashion photograph. The model is perfectly cast and the make up artist did a great job as well. I like the model’s pose and her emotion. All together this shot is very well executed and stands out! Great job, Hugh!!

Name: Alex Pott

Explanation: This image is the result of light-painting the model. We had access to some genuine old armor which we combined with some contemporary fashion. To add to this we wanted the photography to also feel somewhat more old-school and ditched the strobes. Once the model posed in complete darkness we painted her with a torch. She was an absolute trooper to hold still for us – especially with this 25 pound chestplate.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I LOVE this shot! I would’ve ditched the strobes as well, and have on many occasions because the shot dictated that direction. The lighting is beautiful on this shot! Great job, Alex. I love how you went in and painted the model with light. And she is a trooper standing still with that chestplate. I love the clothing, the armor piece is awesome and the model is perfect for the mood. She’s emoting and Alex captured her perfectly. Kudos to the hair and make up artists as well. Great Great Shot!!

Name: Kyna Marie

Explanation: I wanted to try to create a golden backdrop reminiscent of romantic paintings; soft and whimsical.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I am inspired by paintings, especially from the romance period. So I really liked this shot. I love the mood and the model’s demeanor. There’s not much fashion to it, although the collar is fabulous!  This shot is more about mood and lighting which I think was executed very nicely. Good job, Kyna!

Name: Jo Perez

Explanation: I was inspired by the 1930′s haircut style. I wanted to stay in a soft light atmosphere with a mixture of external and internal.

Model: Adriana Bude

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I love this shot. It’s moody, sexy, it’s full of emotion. I love the ’30′s hair style as well. I’m a fan of “The Lover”, the book by Marquerite Duras, and the shutters in this shot remind me of her lush descriptions in the book. The lighting is really good, not too dark so we can’t see detail in the black clothing or too bright, overtaking the intended sexiness of the shot.  I feel like I want to be there, or that I can “feel” what it’s like to be there and to me that’s a well executed photograph. Thanks, Jo. Keep submitting your work!

Name: Justyna L.  Bien

Explanation: I was inspired by darkness BUT in opposite way:) This is a photo from new collection of Yvesher corsets and they are very dark, and sharp.
So, I wanted to have a contrast by adding light but still a little scary background.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I am also inspired by darkness so this shot stood out to me right away. I think Justyna’s lighting is really good. So is the hair and make up for this shoot. The model is emoting well and her pose works well. Overall, it’s a nice capture of a sultry, dark, sexy moment but it’s also showcasing the corset, thus making it a good advertising shot. Well done, Justyna!!

Name: Gabriele Di Mola

Explanation: This picture comes from a pitcures series called Twin sisters i’ve done in FLorence, a story between those two girls so similar so different so near so distance from each other, I Particulary love this picture of the series the contast between the rich location and the grungy mood that represent also the different personality of the tween sisters.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This shot came in a few weeks ago and I didn’t pick it last time but after reviewing the latest entries, I kept going back to this shot by Gabriele. It’s haunting. The reason I didn’t pick it the first time was because I didn’t think it was strong enough in saying “fashion”. But the location, the staging of the models, the light…..it’s all so epic that I couldn’t resist picking it for the SOTW this time. But I would love to see Gabriele go back to this location and shoot some incredible clothes! I really appreciate Gabriele’s use of composition and her eye for filmic beauty. Great job, keep it up!

Name: David Olkarny

Explanation: I study moviemaking.
I wanted something cinematic, catchy and colorful.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critque: I think this shot has a very cinematic feel and I love  the soft, romantic light as well. I just kept going back to this shot, I think it’s well composed and lit and the model also has a very pretty, approachable look to her. Great job, David. Keep up the good work!

Name: Christian Michael Melvin

Explanation: I wanted to create a image that was soft and ethereal with a light and airy feel. This particular photograph definitely holds a special place in my heart.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I love this photograph. It is definitely ethereal and it works! I love the colors and the model’s pose. It has a special feeling to it. I have to admit I’m sort of “over” underwater pictures, but this one where the model is on the water’s surface is really strong! Great job, Christian! I hope to see more of your work in my inbox!

Name: Onasoglou Eleni

Explanation: I was shooting this in my beautiful island Syros in my vacations, It was October and the weather was very cold

Model: Nikoletta Onasoglou

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This is one of those shots that looks carefree and casual but actually is a wonderful moment caught by photographer Onasoglou who obviously knows what he (or she, I’m sorry I don’t know your gender!) is doing! First of all, the moment is real, the girl has a wonderful ease and happiness about her but at the end of the day, Onasoglou did what us fashion photographer’s are asked to do: sell the clothing! The swimsuit looks fabulous and it pops right out! There’s no escaping that the suit is the star and it looks like nice material and it would be something even I would like to see in person, try on and maybe buy. And THAT is what makes for a successful fashion photograph! I can’t say the hair and make up are amazing because there’s relatively none to speak of but this shot and the shoot itself doesn’t have to have hair and make up that screams! It’s subtle and soft and just perfect. I really love this shot. Big shout out to Onasolglou and the team, model included!

Name: franklin thompson

Explanation: I was never a fan of shooting men… until I met this model. He was awesome to shoot. Fun, easy spontaneous. I look forward to shooting more men’s stories.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Well, I am a fan of shooting men and this is a really nice shot, especially since Franklin indicates he hasn’t shot much men before, or shooting men hadn’t really clicked with him. It all goes to show that having the right model can make all the difference in the world. The lighting is beautiful and so is the model, I might add. Simple, clean styling and the edgier hair make for a powerful shot. I really like this photograph and I am excited to see more men shot by Franklin!

Name: Paul Ferradas

Explanation: The inspiration was taken from old renaissance. My makeup artist had a white wig laying around and we built the theme around that.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This is obviously a make up artists dream shoot. I might add that he/she did a really great job on the make up! I will also add that this shot wouldn’t have had nearly the impact without such a great face! So the model was really key in making this shot stand out. But of course, that was all executed by Paul because the ultimately the photographer is the director, hiring the right model, hair/make up artists, etc. So Paul did a great job putting all the pieces together for this shoot. Nice lighting, very subtle retouching, beautiful mood. Overall I really like this shot!

Name: Vendula Pribylova

Explanation: This is a photo from my last shoot. There is a series of images in bright colors in opposition to the BW images with a bit of colorcast. I had a amazing team of people with me that day:
Stylist: Ricky James Flynn
Assistant: Nathan Watkins
MUA and Hair stylist: Jacinta D’Angelo
Model: Rebecca Harding from Scene, Melbourne, AU

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: There’s really not much to say about this shot except it’s really beautiful and stunning in a very quiet, subtle way. And that’s what I love about it. I love the desaturated tone or effect and it works very well with the soft and muted lighting. Gorgeous model and the MUA/Hair stylist did a great job. And stylist too, I might add. I just think this is a very well executed photograph because there’s so much mystery and beauty in it. Great job, Vendula. Where do you live, BTW? Melbourne?

Name: Jackie Puwalski

Explanation: This shoot was centered around the beauty of traditional Día de los Muertos makeup. We were shooting at an old farm house and found some fantastic furniture pieces. We created an outdoor scene and surprisingly the home owner let us light it on fire! The effect was terrifying yet somehow regal.

Wardrobe Stylist: Cynthia August
Makeup Artist: Rose Fortuna
Hair Stylist: Justin Robey
Model: Christine Keenan (Maggie Inc)
Photographic Assistant: Elizabeth Woodward

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This is a fantastic image! It stood out straight away when I first glanced at the thumbnail. I adore the atmosphere, the props, the trees, the whole environment. I like how Jackie found the location and then just worked her magic by asking the owner to “borrow” the pieces left outside and then LIGHT them on FIRE! Excellent!! It’s these moments of mishap, of unknown possibilities that create such fantastic imagery. I’d love to see this in a series without the Dia de los Muertos make up but indeed the make up adds to the idea of the Day of the Dead, as does the sepia tone of the photograph and of course, the location and feel. I’m proud to say that Jackie attended one of my workshops, and perhaps has learned something to take forward in her career! Good job, Jackie! Keep up the great work!

Name: Daniel Muhindi

Explanation: I was shooting this in the gardens of a Swiss Cottage mansion in London in the early summer. We were originally shooting with the house in the background, but after noticing two blossom trees by the wall, I thought I’d give the trees a shake and capture the blossom falling to add an ethereal element to the composition

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: There is just something really beautiful about this image. Capturing the falling cherry blossoms really created a special “moment” in the photograph. It’s trouble shooting things like this that can really enhance a photograph or a shoot. I like the styling, very summery and sexy. Great models and poses. Obviously they were well directed by Daniel. The lighting informs the mood, it looks like a shoot for a summer ad or editorial. Great job at capturing a very nice moment, Daniel.

Name: Fenia Labropoulou

Explanation: I have recently found this abandoned ready to collapse building, by chance, only a 10 minutes drive from my place. It was the perfect location, it was exactly what I had in mind when Anna Bekiri asked me to shoot her wedding dresses campaign for 2011. Romantic and haunted. Scary but calm. Like a long forgotten fairytale.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Wow I wish I had a location like this 10 minutes from my house! Gorgeous image for the Anna Bekiri campaign. I’m sure Fenia’s client was very happy! Love the model, the mood, the styling, the hair and make up. I really think this shot was very well executed from everything to the lighting, use of location, the choice of model and the styling details. Fantastic job, Fenia!

Name: Ernie Passwaters

Explanation: It all started with a plain black posture collar. I got with a hair stylist, Monica Spendlove, and asked for her to add hair to the collar. This shot is the result of our collaboration.

Hair and Collar Design: Monica Spendlove
Makeup Artist: Ashley Eisenlohr
Model: Jenny Witham

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: The styling is so strong on this shot, I love it! Collaborating with your team is an important part of the creative process for a fashion photographer so I am happy to read that Ernie is doing just that! The added hair is fantastic! And everything else in this image as well. The hair and make up are REALLY good, the model is great, the pose is lovely. I even love the what Ernie did in post-production with the scratches or whatever that effect is. It’s not overdone and doesn’t take away from the image. It’s subtlety is really nice! Outstanding job, Ernie!!

Name: Jason Inman

Explanation: I was trying to create a late 60′s feel… inspired by the television show “Mad Men”

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: In trying to recreate a  1960′s/”Mad Men” feel, I think Jason Inman pretty much nailed it! At least with the styling and hair + make up. And casting too! I’m pretty much liking the lighting as well, the subtle fall off on the curtains in the background, actually…the over all set lighting all in all is so good it takes the viewer to that very place. I love the girl, she’s got a bit of the Angelina thing going for her. And who doesn’t appreciate a sexy smoking shot?? Great job, Jason!

Name: Mudita Aeron

Explanation: This was my first shoot with a male model and I wanted very boyish shots but with allot of attitude..I loved the body language of the model and thought this was the best jump amongst all!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: There were a lot of great submissions this past week but the feel of this shot stood out for me. There is a lot of energy in this shot….the jump is really good, the model is relaxed but emoting for the camera. I love the black and white, too. Styling is good, and the hair is excellent! The male model has a great look which is pretty easy to capture, but still an interesting choice for Mudita to go with. Casting is such a big part of fashion photography! Love the shot, Mudita, and for being your first time working with a male model, I say, shoot more of them!!

Name: Kristy Furg

Explanation: The model, Stephen from Next Models really inspired this shoot. He is such a modern day James Dean. I couldn’t resist the urge to make him a starving artist in the shoot.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I like how natural the model appears in the photograph. It does have a very modern James Dean feel and I’m all about shooting men recently as we haven’t been really promoting or talking about male models of late. The model seems relaxed with the photographer which reads for a good shot. Good job, Kristy! Keep it up!

Name: Ricardo Gonçalves

Explanation: I wanted to give the look of an high fashion pose, mixed with my personal dark taste.

A beautiful evil look.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I thought this shot was really well executed making for a very strong fashion image. I love the use of black and white and the vignette effect bringing the viewer’s attention to the center of frame. I think the model is strong enough to pull off the dramatic look, the high fashion and the dark mood. And after reading Ricardo’s explanation of wanting to blend high fashion with his personal dark aesthetic, I believe he pulled it off. Very good styling and hair and make up, Ricardo. The hair styling is very good, so my compliments to the artist.  This shot reminds me of Joel Peter Witkin’s work. He was one of my favorite photographers when I was growing up. I think you did a great job on this shoot, Ricardo!

Name: Wayne Johns

Explanation: Beauty shoot based on ‘Marie Antoinette’ style entitled ‘Aristocracy’

Subtle but strong….

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Subtle but strong indeed! I love this shot. The model is great, the make up is really nice! Give a shout out to your make up artist. The hair is great too. And the styling works. Wayne’s lighting is superb for beauty. And this shot caught my attention immediately. So great job, Wayne!

Name: Mark Morgan

Explanation: I ran into a gentleman on the Supai Reservation in AZ with this ’73 Cadillac “art-car” that he was willing let me use.

The pretty girls are my Presa Canario studio dogs, Dolce’ & Bella…and, oh yeah.. I also brought in a model.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Mark Morgan wins the SOTW two times in a row. Guess there’s something about his work that I really like. Or maybe Mark knows I’m a dog lover because the two dogs in the photo  are what first caught my attention! However, the model and the styling are great otherwise the dogs alone wouldn’t have sold the picture, even though, yes, they’re adorable! But the model has smoking hot looks (Mark, you have a good eye for casting) and the styling is really nice. I would’ve liked to have seen more of the vintage car that you were lucky to have in the photograph, but maybe you chose not to show all of it. Any way, it’s an interesting photograph and I like the lighting and the pose. Good job, Mark! Big hugs to the dogs ; )

Name: Mark Morgan

Explanation: I had discovered this model on her first shoot…fine bone-straight hair…perfect natural look with almost no makeup. My stylist, lisa forster, and I wanted to try an entirely different treatment on her. …with one simple light. I was probably listening to a lot of old Roxy Music at the time

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: There were so many good submissions for SOTW this past week that I was having a hard time choosing but when I came upon Mark’s shot it stood out for me instantly.  And sometimes art moves us but we can’t explain exactly why.  When I started really analyzing this shot I thought to myself: “hmm, I would’ve loved to see her eyes” but then I realized that not seeing them added to the mystery of the shot. I love the hair, actually I love the model. I think I respond more to submissions when the model is strong and that’s just from having years of experience in casting models for shoots and knowing that a good model is really necessary to tell our stories as photographers. Yeah, I love this girl. I like how the curly hair emulates the circles and round shapes in the necklace. I love the black and white. I love the mood. And of course I love the lighting. One light! Doesn’t really have to get more complicated than that, does it? Mark pulled out something very unique in this girl, she’s emoting and I feel it! I laughed out loud when I read the Roxy Music part. Roxy Music was a great band, one of my favorite all time bands. No wonder I responded so strongly! ; )

Name: Chantal Storrs-Barbor

Explanation: I had driven past this litte airport in Surrey, UK many time on my way to the studio and slowly developed a story I wanted to shoot.

The day of the shoot was crazy, with the heaviest rain and wind, but in the end I worked with it and used the mood to create film-like images.

A few issues like no rain cover for the lights and camera, a creased skirt (memo: shoot stylist!) but I love the overall impact of the image, I learned a few lessons and now I’m on to my next crazy idea!!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critque: I had to read the explanation before I chose this shot because I wondered for a split second if the location was dropped in in post. It didn’t look terribly photoshopped, but the location is so dramatic with the clouds I thought that maybe it had be retouched. When I found out that this was a location that Chantal had wanted to shoot at for awhile, I chose it immediately. And Chantal handled the elements well with the heavy rain and wind! In fact, she made it work in her favor. The model choice seems fine, can’t really see the girl but she’s got attitude and the clothes look good on her. Yeah…the stylist……but Chantal has admitted that she learned some lessons on this shoot which is what it’s all about! I’d love to see more images from this shoot if you can send them to my email.Congratulations on a shoot well done!

Name: Steve Bell

Explanation: I’ve had the idea for this shoot in my head for quite awhile and finally got the opportunity to make it happen. I built the set myself and really worked at getting all the elements of the shot to work together (styling, hair & make-up, lighting…). And the model was fabulous!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I think if Steve was shooting for a client, this shot would be a success. For one, the detail on the garment stands out, which is so important. I also like the background with the horizontal lines, to me it adds interest to the garment with the vertical lines without overshadowing it. I love the make up and hair. The make up works because her head is turned away so you see the splash of color but it’s not overtaking the image because the model’s head is turned. And the hair is well done, keeping it off the back and showing off the garment. I think this shot is well executed and lit. It’s understated yet it has many points of interest. And it’s a nice blend of editorial and advertising. Good job, Steve! ; )

Name: Wayne Johns

Explanation: My theme was ‘Birds of summer’ – The designers collection was all black, so I wanted the shoot and models expression to be a little moody and for the rich blacks to pull through. Almost a bit like a Tim Burton movie…

I had the hair piece especially designed to my specification to suit the shoo, and the texture of the clothing just finished it off beautifully.

The ‘summer’ part of my theme is only the violet colours of the make up, which was a strong colour from SS10 catwalks.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: How can I pass this shot up?? The fact that Wayne had the hair piece especially designed just for this shoot really shows that he has a great eye and he is very determined to execute a stellar shoot. I absolutely agree with the Tim Burton reference, which is one of my all time favorites as well.

Wayne also did a great job in lighting the coarse black fabrics, kudos to you, Wayne! I had to laugh when I read the “summer” theme part….violet colours in the make up! Summer is probably my least favorite season to shoot for, I’ll have to remember that one for the next editorial I have with a summer theme! Great shot, overall. It just stood out to me, and I love the lighting and the designer. Who is it by the way?

Name: Jacqueline Kent

Explanation: My daughters just had there braces off and we wanted to do a shoot with them smiling. We got a few but this was one of our favorites! (not smiling)

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: The beauty lighting on this shot is really well done! I love how Jacqueline posed the model, who also happens to be her daughter. I like the clean styling, directing our attention to the strength of the look on the face and making for a very strong beauty shot! Well done, Jacqueline! And isn’t that the way it always go….we go after something in our minds before we shoot and we end up being surprised by something totally different!

Name: Laura Johnston

Explanation: I’ve been going back to basics lately. Simple lighting, simple makeup, natural models in normal clothes with minimal retouching. On this shoot I just wanted to create a shot that was raw and beautiful and real.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I don’t know, I just keep going back to this shot. I know it’s not a fashion shot but I just love it. I can feel the emotion coming from the model, her expression is so powerful to me. Her eyes pull me in. I think it’s a really good capture of a person, a great portrait and sometimes portraits tell enough of a story if they’re powerful enough. I adore the simplicity, I love the fact that Laura went for simple and kept out any heavy retouching. Great job, Laura. I can tell you that your portrait work is great, your models/subjects feel comfortable with you and you are able to capture a moment with them that is timeless!

Name: Indi L

Explanation: I wanted to recreate the mood of an old club the woman on the picture is the owner of this private club that exists in Paris for decades

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This picture stood out. For a number of reasons. I love the way Indi captured the environment. The pattern on the wall piece behind the model is so interesting and the way the light is hitting it really adds interest to the image. I love the vintage feel without being forced or too played out. The model has a great body for lingerie and the pose is nice, relaxed and sensual. I also love the white shoes, it makes my eye wander around the image because of the carefully placed light objects against a dark environment. I like the sepia tone to the image. I also like the lighting, I think it lends itself to the era that Indi was trying to convey. It’s just a really interesting image. Great job,  Indi.

Name: Oliver Prout

Explanation: The Make up artist i work with (jonas Oliver) wanted to create a set of images about temptation,
For Adam to be Eves temptation, but still making the girl the focus of the fashion shoot. I had never shot male nudes before, and now i had 10. At first i was apprehensive In the end it was a lot of fun.

Melissa Rodwell’s critique: Love this shot! There’s just so much energy, it pulled me into the photo! And I know from experience that handling this many models on a shoot is not an easy feat! But Oliver did a great job making all of them look beautiful! Love the girl and the styling, her attitude is fun and it’s believable! And of course, I love the men…they all look fantastic! Great job on lighting, directing, styling! Overall, Oliver nailed it on this shot and it was an easy choice for SOTW!

Name: David Vincent Wolf

Explanation: I am just getting back into photography after a 12-year hiatus. This is one of the images from my second test since starting to shoot again. It’s painful to think I spent over a decade sitting behind a desk, when I could (should?) have been out shooting instead.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Well, honestly, I was first taken with the picture and then when I went back and read David’s explanation, I was moved by the story. Without saying much more, I can relate. I like the shot, though. I like the model a lot and the styling is pretty sweet. The make up and hair are very well done. The lighting is great, though, and what I like best about the photograph. It’s a pretty good execution of lighting in a space like this. I feel the space and get a sense of having “been there” before, which for me, when I look at a photograph, always makes it stand out to me. Welcome back, David. I believe you should be out shooting and not sitting behind a desk.

Name: Gonzalo Corrado

Explanation: I tend to make a conscious and detailed preparation for every shooting I make. I go through styling, hair, makeup, poses, I have the hole picture in my head.
This time was different, the stylists invited me to make the shooting as they thought it would be perfect for me, I didn´t chose neither the model or location.
Suddenly everything was in it´s place, we wanted a natural look, so I used natural lightning most of all, and we simply let it flow.
And we all loved the result.
Model: Florencia Salvioni
Styling: Carolina Rosello / Maria Abelardo

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I really love the natural ease of this shot. The model’s relaxed smile and the soft and sensual emotion that Gonzalo captured with her is wonderful. I also am a huge fan of using natural light, it gives such a beautiful quality to the image. I like how Gonzalo worked with what he was given, sometimes that happens where you have this whole idea before you shoot of exactly how you want it to look but half way through the shoot, that idea goes out the window and you have a completely different shoot as your result! I like how he nailed that. The model is great, she obviously knows how to emote and most important: the fabric is gorgeous! Gonzalo did a great job shooting the fabric with natural light. I also love that this shot was not overly retouched! It’s so nice to see a fashion photograph that has that precise moment quality to it. Great job, Gonzalo!

Name: Bagrad Badalian

Explanation: I tried to create a dark, film look for this shoot. The way to achieve that was working with film light and no flashes. You control your lighting more precisely.

Photography : me
Styling : Geoffrey Masure
For “Together Magazine”

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Well, I guess it’s pretty obvious that I really like Bagrad’s work. I think he’s won a few times before. Honestly, though, I felt like this was the strongest shot submitted. I absolutely love the lighting. Always a fan of “less is more”, the mood captured is so seductive. I love the color as well in this shot. The model’s hair and make up is great, as is the styling. I like how the pattern on the dress emulates the pattern of light on the wall behind her. The picture does indeed have a film essence to it, and I always am inspired myself by films. Bagrad, you keep knocking ‘em out! Great work!

Name: Karim Parris

Explanation: I wanted to step away from studio lighting and do a fashion shoot using just available light. To challenge myself to do a more fluid fashion shoot I made the shoot as simple as possible by only focusing on the shirt, accessories and light. The lamp created the right ambiance while still managing to show off the fabric pattern properly. I thought this was one of the better composed shots from the set.
Model: Cassidy Barker
Camera: Nikon D700
Lens: Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8
Lighting: Tungsten lamp on floor

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This shot stood out for me. I really LOVE that Karim took a chance and stepped out of his usual norm of studio lighting to incorporate available light. To me, the magic in photography happens when we do something that we’re not used to doing, or see something in a different way that at first might feel uncomfortable but the results are beautiful! The fabric in the shirt is shot beautifully and yes, Karim’s use of the light is the direct result of this. Less is more, that’s my motto, and Karim created mood and emotion by using less blaring obvious light and incorporating soft, ambient light, placed on the floor. Excellent job at going against the norm, Karim. Keep it up!!

Name: Michelle Moore

Explanation: I was very excited when Portland, OR makeup artist Amy Gillespie contacted me last minute saying she would be in Seattle the following weekend. We have been trying to work together for a few years, and I jumped at the chance. We put together a beauty concept in less than a week. I wanted there to be a blue background, and the makeup to cover beige’s and magenta’s for Spring 2010. We used fog and lighting to emulate a soft spring look and I’m thrilled with the final result!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I never read the explanation before I look at the image and the first thing I noticed with Michelle’s shot is that she obviously has been keeping up with the current trends in fashion because of the nail color she used. She is right: she used colors that we are seeing for the Spring 2010 editorials and campaigns. I love the use of fog and lighting to create the soft spring look. The model is beautiful, she has a very sensual look and knows how to emote it. I also love the wardrobe Michelle chose for this shot, it works with the girl, the lighting and the concept. Michelle should be thrilled with the final result! It’s a stunning shot!

Name: polina osherov

Explanation: My inspiration often comes from locations and this old commercial basement had the kinds of textures, colors and mood that I knew would compliment the dark, punk-goth feel of some of the clothing pieces created by young local designer Misty Dodson. My original inspiration was that W spread with Bruce Willis and his model wife.

Stylist: Nikki Sutton
Make-up: Kiralee Hubbard for Eyemax Make-up
Hair: Irina Green
Model: Natalie Gibson
Fashion: Apgar Designs

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I love the location used for this shot. Polina is right….the textures and colors are fabulous and make for a very dramatic location that compliments the punk-goth feel of the styling. I like Polina’s lighting, it’s well executed and I commend Polina for actually shooting at the location as oppose to photoshopping the location into the shot. Styling is well done and the choice of model works for this photograph. I took a look at Polina’s website and she has some very good work on there. Overall, the shot works for me. Great job, Polina!

Name: Ross James

Explanation: Other than showing the designer’s clothes, I wanted to
contrast a darker mood with a child-like innocence. And there is an image that I once saw of Eugenio Recuenco’s that stuck with me where the model was standing in the background looking towards herself in the foreground which became an inspiration for this shot.

Designer: Heilyke
Model: Jennifer Vandiver
Hair: Heather Nichols
Makeup: Autumn Moore

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I think this shot is stunning! I love the styling. I also think Ross did a great job at creating a mood with the environment and accomplished a great shot from his original inspiration of a Recuenco piece. Make up and hair are perfect for this shot and his lighting is spot on. Great job, Ross. I hope to see more of your work in the future.

Name: Kate Drennan

Explanation: Inspired by the Gucci Winter/ Fall 09 campaign. I loved the colours, styling and setting of the campaign.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I like how Kate was inspired by an existing campaign and went about to create her version of it. I also know how challenging it can be to dress and pose 4 models in the same shot! So I applaud her efforts and I think she did a great job! The models work for the image, I especially like the male models she casted for this shoot. I think they really work. The styling is really nice and the pose works with all of them. Overall, it has a nice mood and feel, using the outdoors with lighting creates a very strong and moody feeling. Great job, Kate!

Name: Nadia Cheema

Explanation: We decided to work on a creative with a fairy tale theme. Stories were Snow White, Rapunzel and Red Riding Hood. This shot is from the Snow White set. It was a long day and everyone did a great job. Even my assistant who ended up eating most of the apples! Still working on the rest of the stories and hoping to get them done soon.

Model: Asha Di Paola
MUA: Rhia Amio
Hair: Fabio Persico
Wardrobe: Cisya Paramita
Assistant: Lorena Lorenzo

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: What a beautiful shot! Nadia’s lighting is superb! Terrific casting, I love the model. Make up and hair are outstanding as well as the styling and the choice of what shes’ wearing. I love the fairy tale aspect of it as well, and got it immediately when I opened the shot up to look at it before I read the explanation. Which to me signifies a successful image. I like the effect of the apples too, placed around the model. I think the retouch artist did a great job. Overall, I’m impressed with the photograph and think Nadia did an outstanding job!

Name: Bagrad Badalian

Explanation: I wanted the picture to look fantastic, almost like a Tim Burton movie. I tried to bring an atmosphere to the forest.

Clothes design : Melissa Vitanza
Model : Aurore Morisse.
MU : Bart Colpaert

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I think that Bagrad’s attempt to recreate a Tim Burton feel in his shoot was very well accomplished! I love the smokey forest and the model fits the atmosphere very well. Good choice of model, indeed! The styling is good and so is the hair and make up. I think overall it’s a strong fashion shot and very well executed. Good job, Bagrad, for once again winning the Shot of the Week!

Name: Luke Copping

Explanation: We wanted to create a beauty image the juxtaposed a the glossiness of her eye application with and the clean sweep and gloss of her hair with the perceived foulness that is often associated with an animal like a rat. We wanted to make sure that the rat did not overly dominate the frame and that her styling was still center stage.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: How wild! I woke up this morning and thought, “I’d love to do a beauty shoot with a rat! ” and then I went online to pick a shot of the week and here’s Luke’s shot of a gorgeous girl with a rat! I love synchronicity! First of all, I love the model. she’s a perfect choice for this type of shot (although my idea is vastly different!). I love the Weimar feel to her. Hair and make up are fantastic! The retouching is a tad heavy handed for my taste, but then again, look at the Snow White shot and I don’t have much ground to stand on…even though that was the client’s decision. Styling is “there” enough to not detract from the beauty shot but of course the black onyx plays with the whole rat/dark/Weimar feel. Good job, Luke! I tried to go to your site and the link didn’t work. I hope if you do indeed exist you jump on here and give us all a link to where we can see more of your work. I’d hate to be picking a ghost! ; )

Name: Daniel Archer

Explanation: A while ago I had my image win the “shot of the week”. I was told It was a good image but I needed to work on the styling. This inspired me to work harder on my next shoots. This is one my favorites from the day.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Before I even looked at Daniel’s explanation, I thought, “the styling is really tight on this shot”. And it is! I’m impressed how Daniel took my advice and followed through. I adore the detail that I see in the sweater and the pleats. The model is sweet for this type of clothing, very soft and demure. Daniel used his lighting to bring out the details in the clothes and to set the mood for the shot. Awesome job, Daniel!

Name: Lena Erysheva

Explanation: Credits:
Designer – Karina Galstyan
Model – Olga Shumkevich
MUA – Mariya Mashutina
Hair – Alekssandra Kaputskaya

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Lena had submitted another image from the same shoot about a week ago and I almost picked that one but actually I like this one a lot more! The styling is wonderful and the hair and make up work really well with the mood created by Lena. I like the mystery in the model’s pose, makes the viewer use their imagination. Lighting is soft and nice…it’s just overall a really sweet fashion shot. Congrats, Lena. Thanks for submitting again!

Name: Harry Fayt

Explanation: This an image I did for a T-shirt designer here in Belgium. it was a last minutes concept I proposed to make an underwater shoot at the last minute. I wanted to make humor about the girls fishing (chat up). there is an other subtle reason but it’s about french words on the tee-shirt and not that easy to explain quickly.’

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I just think that Harry did a great job showing off a T-shirt. I love the humorous twist to it and the girl is perfect for the shot. Good lighting, I know lighting underwater can be challenging. Harry executed a old idea and gave it a fresh, young, friendly feel. Good job, Harry!

Name: Helen Tran

Explanation: This is part of an editorial series that is currently being submitted to several magazines for consideration. The idea of the editorial; we took one couture dress and gave it different accessories, creating three entirely different looks and personalities.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I like the other worldly feel with Helen’s shot. I also love the garment the model is wearing. I feel like Helen chose the right model for the shot, her cool blonde look goes well with the environment. I wish I could’ve seen more of the model’s face but the shot stands well as it is. The horizontal crop adds to the ethereal effect. Overall, great job, Helen!

Name: Andriy Zolotoiy

Explanation: We tried to create vintage styled series by combining beautiful gowns with hair/makeup of that era. Dramatic subtle light was finishing touch to achieve the effect.

Model: Devon Kiley @ICON
Clothing Designer: wanotrix collection
Makeup Artist: Olivia Ha
Hair Stylist: Stanley Choy

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Andriy Zolotoiy nails it again in this shot he submitted! The lighting is gorgeous and definitely rings authentic from the vintage era that Andriy was trying to replicate. The styling is fabulous, I especially love the bracelets and how the model’s hand is gesturing to show them off! Great pose, very dramatic and strong! I love the folds in the gown, leading us back up to the white fur wrap. The objects in the background tell just enough of a story without interfering with the model and the clothes! Great job, once again, Andriy!!

Name: Wieslaw Olejniczak

Explanation: Fashion shoot for Chile High fashion designes Pato Moreno inspired on his new collection and looking for antique-paint kind of image. Was made for Boda Magazine Chile and publish on Sept.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: The shot was really well executed, especially using 4 models. I love the muted background because it helps the models in white really stand out. The styling is great on this….Kudos to your stylist! The models are amazing as well, they all work well together. I love the placement and the poses, your direction was spot on. Make up looks well done as well. Love this, Wieslaw! You did a great job!

Name: Jason Mitchell

Explanation: We had an opportunity to work with a great hair stylist Andreas Hinteregger passing through town. To match his long spirals of hair, Stacey Ransom put together a Giger / Burton inspired set. We booked 15-year-old Sara Jane from Ford and called in Eirik Aswang to clothe her and Ashley Joy-Beck to make her up. This shot was part of the first look and came from later in the session when we were starting to have some fun. We affectionately dubbed it “Cousin It Has a Posse.”

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I had a ton of submissions over the past week and so many of the shots submitted were great that it was difficult to choose but this one from Jason Mitchell really stood out. First of all, I think the lighting is great on both the model and the feathers. I like how you can see a peak of the detail of the dress, giving us an idea of what the garmet is but still leaving a bit to the imagination. The pose is striking, it’s just a very nice shot. Congrats on this one, Jason!

Name: Carli Adby

Explanation: I wanted to do an editorial in this beautiful location that featured a run down barn which held old children’s toys, boats, an old car and most interesting – an 8ft fiberglass candle and skeleton sculpture. It made me think of childhood and having tea with my gran, but it also reminded me of those moments in childhood when you are lonely and somewhat abandoned. I tried to portray this with the non communication between the models.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This shot is lovely. The clothes are well photographed and the mood is really exquisite. I get the loneliness and detached feeling that Carli described she was going for in her explanation. The make up and hair is extremely well done. I like how one model is looking in the camera while the other girl has her eyes closed. It has a very “Picnic at Hanging Rock” feeling and I’m a big fan of that style. The model’s arms create a circular movement which caught my eye and forced it to move throughout the image which is always a very well thought out design element in a photograph. Good job, Carli! Keep ‘em coming!

Name: Vonsk

Explanation: From an editorial series. The images were based on a stylised 1950s look. Here I tried to capture the essence of an ‘Alfred Hitchock’ film noir, with his focus on ice-cold blondes, intensity and mystery. The composition also reflects an older fashion photography style which emphasized geometric shape and line.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: ‘Alfred Hitchock’ film noir, with his focus on ice-cold blondes, I totally believe he got what he was going after. The blonde and her attitude against the cold, almost Escher like background, totally work! The styling is nice, the draping over the one shoulder works for her pose and her hair. I love the black and white and the drama. The “cold” architectural background lends itself as well to the “cold blonde”. Great!

Name: Jeremiah Hull

Explanation: This images is from a series done for an editorial shoot. The concept for the shoot was to have everything be sleek and strong and powerful. I felt this image displayed all those concepts in contrast, pose, and composition. I had a really talented team of people to work with on this shoot and I think it shows.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Again, Jeremiah sort of blew this one out of the ball park for me. I’ve always been a huge fan of Helmut Newton, and this shot really reminded me of his work. I love the model, the styling, the hair! It all really works, and ties together in this industrial setting. Great pose too! You’ve got a great team there, Jeremiah. Keep shooting! I love the results!

Name: Michelle Moore

Explanation: This was an image we worked on as a submission for a magazine. Unfortunately it didn’t get picked up, but it is still one of my favorite shoots! Our team came together harmoniously to create this ethereal image. Rosie the stylist created our background with Christmas lights, and Jenny the MUA hand-crafted the crowns to go with the hair done by Meghann. I love the soft magical lighting, and bright dowey expression of the model. Everything came together even better than we envisioned!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: First of all, Michelle’s choice of model and how to shoot her was really spot on! I love the background effects with the Christmas lights and the chandelier, I like how the gold in the chandelier picks up the gold on the glitter boy shorts and the crown. It all ties together forming a nice circle that forces the eye to move around the image. Great make up job as well! Kudos to Michelle and her team for a beautiful photograph!

Name: Jason Mitchell

Explanation: We had a wonderful set of curved willow my partner Stacey created (a whole story in itself) that we paired up with these dramatic hand-made gowns by Cory Tran. We brought in Dawn Tunnell to do hair and make up on the stunning Soo Joo.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Beautiful capture! I love the dress, and I like how Jason worked with his crew on choices for the hair and make up that worked with the fashion. Brilliant! Soo Joo is indeed stunning. I like the straight on shot with the subtle smile. Works well with the mysterious woodsy background! Lovely shot, Jason! It all works well. Including the lighting!!

Name: Andrew Chan

Explanation: I wanted to create a classic and moody fashion image with a twist of vintage sprinkled in. This is what I came up with!

Model: Alexandra
Makeup: Rocio
Wardrobe: Nha Khanh

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Very moody and sensual shot. I like the vintage surroundings, I think it adds to the mood of course. I like how Andrew handled the lighting on the wall sconces as well, not blowing them out and letting them add allure as well. Overall it’s just a strong and interesting image. Andrew’s choice of model was excellent as well. Good job, Andrew!

Name: Jeremiah Hull

Explanation: This image comes from a series which combines my love of music and fashion. This particular beauty shot shows a fusion of music and hair using guitar strings and picks as a design element. The combination of strong lighting and strong pose created a mood of power and beauty.

Explanation: This beauty photograph could easily be seen as an advertisement for a hair product or it could be part of an editorial. I love the microphone cord, the way it wraps around the models neck, forcing the eye to follow it’s twists and turns right back to the brightest part of the photograph and in essence, the very thing that the photograph is “selling”: the hair. Make up is well done and understated, again, making the hair the “Star” of the shot. And the hair is pretty much perfect!! Choice of model is spot on as well. She carries the intricate hair style with her long neck and flawless profile. Well done, Jeremy! And Averil Hull who did the hair!

Name: Wolfgang Parker

Explanation: The challenge of making a fishnet bodysuit look elegant should be fairly self-exploratory. However, the pattern of net brought out the musculature of the model’s body and the overall aesthetic was exactly what I had been shooting for.

Model & Stylist: Chandra Lekha
Retouching: Jelena Pav

Explanation: I thought Wolfgang captured the look and feel of how one would photograph fishnet very tastefully. Love the contrast in the black and white, love the model’s confidence and pose.

There’s a bit of androgyny going on, not sure if that was intended or not, but I love it. Hair and make up are superb. Just love the shot. Well done, Wolfgang.

Name: Stef King

Explanation: Summer colour and the models incredible flawless skin.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Beautiful beauty shot! The model DOES have flawless skin, which is so imperative when shooting beauty, so kudos on the model selection. Also, your make up artist did a stellar job on the make up. I love the flower and how the colors play off each other. Great job, Stef, on this Spring beauty shot. You totally nailed the concept!

Name: Franklin Thompson

Explanation: I love Russian military, cold war fashion. I thought I’d put a spin on it (using the name of my fav drink…. ‘Black Russian’).
I shot a full 7 page story with this ‘Black Russian’ theme. It never ran but it’s still one of my favorites. This was supposed to be the opening shot.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I love Russian Military fashion as well! Actually, I love all kinds of military fashion; it’s very strong and sexy, which Franklin’s photograph definitely is all about: Strong and Sexy! Perfect model, really, for the shot. She’s got the confidence to pull off the military uniform, love how the eyes match the fabric, which by the way looks great! The make up artist did a great job! Just a strong shot, over all. Kudos, Franklin. And sorry the story didn’t run. It definitely should have!

Name: Sazeli Jalal

Explanation: I did this campaign shoot for my client brand ELOHIM for their A/W09 collection. The concept of her garments was inspired by the idea of a women in control, “a Control Freak”. I took the original design concept and turn into a “slave and master” story set in an apartment where the model is in control of the situation surrounded by her loyal mannequins slaves.

Photography and art direction : Sazeli Jalal
Hair and makeup : Hazreen Shah
Set design : Sazeli Jalal
Model : Emma (Upfront Models)

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Very interesting and innovative fashion shot. I first noticed the blue tones used and thought it was very effective overall, especially with the black outfit the model is wearing. I got the bondage part that you I later read in your explanation and for the theme I thought Sazeli’s use of the androgynous model was perfect. Would love to see this big! Think it needs a big canvas size to show the many different elements in the photograph! Good job with styling, hair and make up as well. Congrats, Sazeli.

Name: Karim Parris

Explanation: I attempted to capture an image that would not just draw attention to the dress but the jewelry as well. This was a shoot for a jewelry catalog where I also did some shots for our portfolios. I will add the set to my online gallery when my site relaunches in a month since this helped inspire me to do a lot more shooting. There were 3 lights used. The main was a beauty dish above the model. There was a 48″ soft box at camera right and another light with barn doors camera left behind the model.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This fashion shot is very well executed. And Karim, your attempt to draw attention to the jewelry as well really worked. I never read the explanation until after I’ve looked at the photograph. As I was looking through the shot I noticed how elegant the bracelets looked and how the model was doing a great job at showing them off. Your lighting really worked (and I’ll admit, I use that lighting set up a lot so of course I liked it! ) Your choice of model really worked, her hair and make up are nice and I love how you lit the hair with the backlight. This is a really beautiful shot and congratulations on it!

Name: Gonzalo Corrado

Explanation: We were asked to work on the cover of the winter issue of a fashion magazine.
Our idea was to relate the cold weather with the chocoalte. We chose a beautiful model, with very sensual mouth and eyes, and we decorated her with melted chocolate, to seduce the readers.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Gonzalo did a great job as far as the beauty lighting and the styling. Love the little collar and tie edge to the cropped beauty. Great job with make up. And not sure if the chocolate was added in post, but it was nicely done. Especially the post on the skin…wasn’t too over done. Great job for a magazine cover to entice their readers to open the magazine and take a look at what’s inside!

Name: Amanda Lim

Explanation: I was inspired by the use of movement and wind to create a mood. I felt a feeling during the period commencing this shoot, a need for redemption and I felt that to cope in such situations you need to remain standing strong despite all calamity. I used extra fabric caught by the wind to convey the emotions I felt.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Amanda Lim really did a great job in lighting this dress! The way the fabric sweeps around also adds so much drama to the image. I would have liked to see the model move a bit more, a nice dancer stance would’ve added a lot to the image. And the background distracts me, but the lighitng is so dead on for the dress and the fabric that I  can’t keep my eyes off that sweep of silk that moves around the frame. Good job Amanda!

Name: Manoj Jadhav

Explanation: This image is shot for a friend of mine who is a gorgeous model.We wanted to shoot something magical and crazy in black and white.First i shot this image with beautiful contrast lighting and added some interesting element in the post to create that magical moment.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I just love the movement in this shot! The angle of the model’s body with her arms loosely wrapped around her chest and the fabric around her head loosely wrapped around her face. It makes my eye constantly move around the image. The sexy grin on the girls face pulls me in as well. It’s obvious that Manoj has a good rapport with the model and was able to pull that sexy confidence from her. While it’s doesn’t scream fashion, it does sell the jeans. And it’s just beautifully lit and executed. I don’t even mind the post, which I think compliments all the other elements in the shot. Great job, Manoj!

Name: Katrin Kirojood

Explanation: I was working on this series for a textile designer. The dresses are meant to be primarily light sculptures rather than being worn. I still wanted to work with them on the human body – because I was very interested in seeing the shapes and shadings they make. I tried give it a little futuristic touch.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: The use of the lighting on the fabric is impeccable. I like the choice of model as well and the hair and make-up really added to the overall shot. Great job Katrin!

Name: Don Ungaro

Explanation: Actually I was brain storming with my girlfriend, who is actually the model, and in that come and go, we came up with the idea of the balloons and the girl floating etc.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: First of all, I think the styling on this shot really works! And what I loved most was the way the round balloons were repeatedly mimicked throughout the shot as we see in the ferris wheel. It made my eye move around and back again to the model. I know a lot of work went into this shot and I think Don mastered that part very well. I would’ve liked to have seen less distraction on the ground behind the model but overall the shot was so good it didn’t bother me. Great concept and collaboration between photographer and “Muse”.

Name: Amber Mortensen

Explanation: I love vintage fashion and wanted to create an image that encompassed the many different eras represented by the clothes, but also have a fantasy feel. I used ethereal lighting and made the colors look a bit aged. I love lens flares the way they are used in 70′s fashion photography so I took inspiration from that as well.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: There were a lot of submissions this week and a lot of them were excellent! It was hard to choose, but I went with this shot for a couple of different reasons. For one, the photographer’s explanation of using vintage clothes and wanting to get that vintage look was spot on. I believe Amber Mortensen captured that feel in this shot. Also, I know first hand how difficult it is to work with animals and the horse/pony is really beautiful and “posing” just right, which is not an easy accomplishment. I like the models’ attitude; their poses play off each other and the horse. I also like how the natural light is blowing out some of the detail, giving it that very vintage “film” quality but Amber also kept the detail in the garment which is tantamount in fashion photography. Great shot, Amber!

Name: Reno Ranger

Explanation: The picture is part of a series called ‘Gone’ which reflects some thoughts about love and what remains when love ends.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I saw this shot a couple of weeks ago and I keep going back to it. It’s a beautiful shot. I like the way that Reno used the model’s pose to show the garment and it’s unusual sleeve. Her look is perfect for this shot. And of course, I love black and white. The shot really stands out to me. I like the simplicity of the lines, her short hair, the mysterious look in her eyes. Great job, Reno.

Name: Martin Bielecki

Explanation: I was inspired by a quote from Victor Hugo: “to love beauty is to see light”. I wanted the light to take a bigger role than in most beauty shots. I also wanted the styling to reinforce the idea of lightness, so the model’s hair has an airy feel.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Very interesting beauty shot. Great choice in model and the use of hair with the backlighting is a great idea! Love the side light too! Overall just really dig the lighting. Great job, Martin!

Name: Anthony Luke

Explanation: I love the way light reflects and raps around the subject in certain photographs in a almost ethereal in a way. I wanted to shoot an image where the light envelopes the model and draws one into the image.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I love the way Anthony Luke used the lighting to bring about an ethereal mood. The model is nice! Very good make up and hair, and we definitely still see the detail on the garment’s neckline while using the strong back light. I think this is a very good fashion shot! Congrats, Anthony!

Name: Ryuuzaki+Julio

Explanation: My work is usually dark, somehow there is something always behind a shoot and hidden and I like to express it with darkness, its a dreamy mood, where the model is looking at the moon, my ex-wife was cancer and its ruled by the moon, so that model represents me looking at the moon. The title of this shoot is “Fear of the Dark” representing the fear of being without her shine in my life.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I chose this shot because it’s a really good fashion photograph. The styling really works, Ryuuzaki chose a good model who made the jeans look great, his choice in using a simple top that leads your eye back to the jeans, even with the little string that falls down takes your eye constantly back to the main piece: the jeans! The gold shoes are a nice accent as well. Overall mood is sexy, hot, and the lighting on the denim shows the details of the jeans, the pockets, the wash. Great job, Ryuuzaki.

Name: Bagrad Badalian

Explanation: I wanted something colorful and mysterious, the make-up and lighting did great on the whole mystery part.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique:  I think Bagrad nailed the mystery that he was going after, especially with his lighting. The shot really caught my eye, it’s a really beautiful beauty photograph. I also liked the way he accessorized with the fabric around the models face. Stunning picture, Bagrad!

Name: Matjaz

Explanation: I was inspired by very photogenic monumental wind turbines, power of the wind, Eugenio Recuenco panoramic photography, Don Quixote…

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Excellent Styling! Love the use of the panoramic view and the wide angle.  Great use of the naturally dramatic sky and light. Flawless Shape and Form!  It’s a great fashion Moment Captured! Congrats, Matjaz! Great job!

Name: Liz Garza Williams

Explanation: I grew up on the south side of San Antonio Texas, when I was a kid, I would go to the public swimming pool every summer day, across the street from the park was a power plant that I always wondered about. Shooting fashion for a local magazine I’m always on the lookout for locations, I decided to go back to my old stomping grounds for inspiration and wound up at the power plant and asked permission to shoot their. The said yes! Never be afraid to ask for what you want! Insurance helps to!

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Drama! I love the lighting and the blue smoke effect! Great make up job too, give your make up artist a thumbs up from me! Overall it’s a great use of the location. I’ve always been inspired by power plants as well. I would’ve liked to have seen the model standing, but it’s a great fashion shot none the less. Excellent job, Liz!

Name: Nadia Cheema

Explanation: I wanted to show a contrast not just in the environment, but in the colours. It was windy that day, cloudy and very cold. Therefore, it gave the overall photo a nice gray hue whilst still allowing the red to pop out. Natural lighting used.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique:  I like the overall fashion feel to this shot. Nadia understands that styling is really important in fashion photography and this shot depicts that. Love the red umbrella…great idea. Nice shot Nadia!

Name: Daniel Archer

Explanation: The use of natural light has always seemed to amaze me. I have used it in the picture to help curb the models features and bring attention to her amazing body.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique:  I love the feeling and lighting in this shot! The pose is interesting, as well. Daniel’s amazement with natural light shines through with his use of it. Styling could’ve been a bit stronger but I’d like to see him continue his use of available light on his models and go further with it in his fashion shoots! Great shot and feeling overall.

Name: Andriy Zolotoiy

Explanation: This experimental skirt screamed for ballerina-like shot. B&W treatment very obvious choice as well to show just the form without any distraction of color.

Clothing designer: Heidi Ackerman
Model: Tina Timebalm
Makeup artist: Julienne Spencer

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: Well, Andriy nailed the lighting on this shot! Great back lighting to show the transparency of the material on the skirt. Great pose as well, which draws your eye back to the skirt. Excellent all around feel and mood in this shot. Great job, Andriy!

Name: Denny Lee

Explanation: Seeing the model’s natural beauty, I was inspired to capture this without distraction.. I felt that the fur would frame her face perfectly as well as provide a textural contrast with her flawless skin.

model Rebecca (NEXT Models Toronto)
stylist Alanna Anderson
mua Victoria Fedosoff
photo Denny Lee

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: This is an outstanding beauty shot! The lighting Denny chose to light the model’s face and the fur is right on the mark! I love the texture of the girl’s face and the fur. Denny didn’t go overboard in photoshop, keeping the skin texture luminous and real. He also lit white fur really well, which is a challenge. His choice of the make up artist and the model show his ability to find and also work with quality talent. They did a great job. This looks like it could run as a beauty campaign! Great job to him and his team!

Name: Marta Lamovsek

Explanation: Inspiration for this shoot came within the story of a widow who lives in her the past full of memorys of her huseband – a truck driver. This futuristic woman feels nostalgic and My style of photography is very influenced by David Lynch’s vision – and it all started back then with the Twin Peaks. It had such a big impact on me, and I still nurture it in my style of photography that I have.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: I like Marta’s use of the enviroment on this shot. The textures are great, the rusted train behind the model add to that David Lynch decrepit feel. I am always inspired by films and it was interesting to know that this shoot was inspired by one. I like the styling here as well. Keeping the detail in the blacks is very important and it was done well on this shot. Choice of model works, make up and hair are fab. Overall, it’s an interesting fashion shot. Very editorial and edgy. Love it.

Name: Nicky Watts

Explanation: I’m doing a whole series based off casting models with plaster cast, building a sculpture on the cast with Recycle Paper, and then photographing the model wearing it. This is the first from the series. Its called Wear Recycle.

Melissa Rodwell’s Critique: The reason why I chose this shot was because Nicky Watts nailed the idea of what a fashion photograph is! Her use of lighting to light a white hat was right on. She didn’t blow out the whites, she showed the detail in the texture of the hat while using great beauty lighting on the model’s face. The make up and hair are impeccable, a must on a fashion/beauty photograph. Her choice of model was good and I like how she posed the model with her hand gesturing to the hat, forcing the viewer’s eye to return to the hat, the main product of this fashion photograph. Remember, fashion photography is the business of photographing and selling fashion! This is a great example of that. Congrats, Nicky, on a job well done!

Name: (Your Name Here)

Explanation: Your Personal Photo Explanation Here!