Photography is a long time interest which I have never done full time. As you can see by my low MM member number, I have been here since almost the beginning of this great site.
I'm expanding my portfolio and working on projects including specialized photosets that artists can draw or paint from. There are some examples inside of artwork created using my photos as reference. I wish I were talented in drawing and painting, but since I'm not, I leave that up to those who can do it the best.
Since I don't have a studio I'm considered a semi-pro photographer. Self-taught with inspiration from other photographers and artists and over 20 years experience in film and digital work. My style has been described as documentary, journalistic, natural, and realistic, somewhat different from traditional studio photography.
I like to create unique artistic images, sometimes in unusual ways. I use simple equipment, frequently in outdoor settings. I may rent an appropriate space such as a conference room in a hotel. I work on location, and also have portable backdrops. Sometimes another local photographer assists me, to gain more experience. She is very good, with an eye for artistic composition. On shoots which do not involve nudity, I may also work with one or more photography students who are building their portfolios.
I work with models of all sizes, shapes and ages. Beginners, tiny, average, plus size, BBW, and older models are all truly encouraged. The only requirements are to be over 18, able to take direction, and duplicate sample poses you are shown. You don't have to fit the common image of a model. I prefer those who are completely natural and look like real people regardless of age, size or shape, which can be very different from the needs of other artists and photographers.
My favorite images are classic artistic figure studies, and I specialize in pregnancy photos, but that is not all I do. I'm also interested in lifestyle work both indoor and out, graduation style, recreating classic fine art poses from the past, retro-style pinups, girl-next-door lingerie, bikini, or boudoir style, and many others. Many of these do not require nudity, or only implied nudity. I will also do classic fine art figure studies of unclothed male models, either individually or posed with a female model.
I am not interested in XXX type work, nor am I interested in working with models who show that type of images in their portfolios, or who work in any adult oriented field. I try to maintain a style that is documentary, natural, and realistic, frequently not in the traditional studio shot genre. I want my images to be similar to what one might see in a gallery display or an art book.
Note that my friends list consists of those whose work I admire, those who have sent messages commenting on my work, and those who I would be interested in working with. I see no point to random friend adds just to increase the number.
The above image of a beautifully pregnant model is typical of my style, shot next to a window with natural light, and not retouched.
A new project beginning 11-01-2009 ! That's Maureen, MM #56180 kicking off the Blue Sock Project, in which a variety of models will be posing wearing blue socks. It will be a lot of fun, with plenty of pose possibilities both indoors and outside. Everyone will have the opportunity to help choose exactly which poses they want to do within the loose guidelines I'm setting up for the project. Contact me here on MM via private message for further details if you are interested in participating and in the SE Michigan area.
My specialized sets of reference photos are specifically geared toward artists who draw or paint from them. They may be created around a concept requested by an artist, who may choose to be present and assist in directing the photoshoot to meet their requirements. Not all artists have readily available models to pose for them, and it's not always possible to complete a painting or drawing in the time available. My avatar is one example of work which has been done from my photosets.
I can also do pregnancy images or boudoir style work for those who want some artistic intimate photos for themselves or as a special surprise for spouse or significant person in their life. This can be done as part of a package including drawings/paintings of the model.
Trade of time for prints/CD/artwork may be possible for models willing to sign a release allowing use of images in portfolios of photographer and artists, as well as public display.
I am always looking for local models interested in doing these types of work. Occasionally I may consider traveling a short distance to work with a model who I feel is a good fit for one of my projects. I enjoy working with the creative ideas of models for a session that will be both fun and productive.
A
female chaperone will be required, with
NO exceptions on any shoot involving nudity, and I will always provide the chaperone on those days. She will also serve as my assistant during the photo session.
The older model in many of my portfolio shots is proudly mid-50's, and has many years experience. She frequently models for artists doing life drawing, and painting, as well as select photographers. She is available for paid work and some very selective TFP considered depending on assignment. If you are local (generally in the area from Ann Arbor to Toledo) and interested in working with her, contact me.
Seeking a very specific look for a figure study: This will be an ongoing project requiring multiple sessions. The model must be on the heavier side, totally natural with very full hips and legs, hip measurement at least several inches larger than bust. Preferably with small breasts, and only a few small or no tattoos. No facial piercings other than ears, but pierced navel and/or nipples OK, anything else must be removable. Her weight should be at least 150-160 pounds for a short model, and proportionally heavier based on height, probably clothing size would be 14-16 or larger. No upper limit on weight, 300 pounds is exceptionally beautiful too, and can be any height. Pale skin, very long hair, red hair, freckles, very small breasts, natural look are all a big plus for this project, but all who come close or meet most of the requirements will be considered.
Testimonials:
I did have a very enjoyable time yesterday. You and your assistant made me feel very comfortable and helped build my confidence as we went along. Thank you for both the opportunity and for being so easy to work with. I am looking forward to the next session. Rebecca August 2007
Thank you for the wonderful time I had doing photos yesterday! I really like the previews and I'm sure the prints will be great. Your directions were really appreciated. MsK. January 2008
I want to highly recommend Maureen, MM56180 if you need a very serious fine art figure model with a classic Rubenesque look. She is totally awesome and easy to work with. I have done three photo sessions with her so far and she is exceptionally talented.
