More of my photography can be seen here (including some of the crazy things I've been doing in infrared, like the image above):
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nathan-So … 3419062085
See my most recent images on MM here:
http://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/114799/217456
At the moment, I'm particularly interested in shooting at the ends of the spectrum that are invisible to the human eye (infrared & ultraviolet). I'm still experimenting a bit, but here are some examples to show some of the differences (same model & wardrobe, but very dramatic differences in hair & fabric color, visibility of freckles, etc.):
If you'd like references, my "Top 12" are the MM models I've worked with most recently and/or frequently, or who know me best personally. Many of them have been unescorted each time we've worked together. I don't necessarily expect everyone to automatically have that level of trust, but it sure makes it easier to focus on the shoot.
I like shoots to be collaborative between myself and the model(s). I usually approach shoots without a fully developed concept - I typically just start with a location, the seed of an idea, and let the shoot unfold organically. I don't usually go into much detail about a shoot beforehand for this reason (and also because I've had models flake on me in the past, only to later see the ideas we'd discussed in their portfolios, but shot by another photographer). Since I do most of my work on-location, and since most of those locations are outdoors, I don't usually book shoots very far in advance. I like to have a sense of what the weather is expected to be, and select locations based at least partly on this. Please bear in mind that some of the locations I select can be time-sensitive, and their appearance and suitability can change dramatically in a matter of days (due to weather, plant growth, etc.).
I enjoy beauty of all kinds, but with my work I prefer depicting natural beauty. I am always seeking models brave enough to not hide behind makeup. Models also brave enough to not hide behind clothing are welcome as well. I like simplicity and timelessness. I like reality, but I also enjoy the surreal and the absurd. I try to stay open-minded. I don't usually like to define what I do, or box myself into (or out of) any particular kinds of work.
If you've seen my portfolio, you know that I shoot nudes, but ONLY with those who WANT to be photographed nude. If I contact you, then you can safely assume I've not only seen your portfolio, but I've also read your profile. If it says that you "don't shoot nudes, so don't even ask", then I already assume it will be a clothed shoot and I won't try to turn it into something else. None of the models I've worked with have ever been pressured by me to take their clothes off. I am respectful of boundaries, and I want anyone I work with to be safe, comfortable, and happy before, during, and after a shoot. I won't pressure a model to do anything they're not fully comfortable with, and as a general rule, I will not ask a model to do anything I wouldn't do myself.
I am based in Oshkosh, and get to the Twin Cities & St. Cloud several times a year. If I'm not already going there, I'm willing to travel outside of the immediate area if gas/airfare & lodging (if necessary) is paid for.
I'm always seeking opportunities to experiment and grow. I understand the need to build a quality portfolio, so I am open to mutually beneficial TF*, but paid work is given top priority. If there is anything you would like to try, a new dimension you would like to add to your portfolio, I am very open to hearing and implementing your ideas. I prefer working with existing light whenever possible. I want the resulting images to be more natural, timeless, raw, and gritty, more rooted in reality. I'm always looking for new people to work with, experienced or not. I enjoy collaborating with models and prefer to not limit the ideas they bring to the shoot, as some of my best images have come that way. I am also patient, respectful of boundaries, and want my models to be comfortable and happy above all else.
*To see more of my work, please see my list below: "My work in other MM portfolios", and please also check out the other work done by the wonderful models I've been fortunate to work with.*
I exhibit my work periodically, and prints of many of my images are available for sale in sizes up to 24x36. Prices vary, please inquire if you are interested. Thanks!
(this isn't necessarily set in stone, I reserve the right to make exceptions, but it's generally true for my shoots)