'One of those southern boys with eyes the color of Coca-Cola'
I love the quote from writer Andrew Holleran that photographer
Michal Boothe chose to describe Max's eyes. Coca-Cola not only expresses a color, but also a place, time and even a vibe. Today, most people just use 'Coke' when describing the dark cola beverage. Using Coca-Cola however, conjures up long hot summers from the past. Southern boys drinking tall, frosty, ice filled glasses full of cola to quench their thirst. Many of us grew up watching commercials with Coca-Cola being the only way and the only beverage, to really beat the heat.
When I think of 'Coke' I think of the vibrant red which is now used sell the product. When I think of Cola-Cola, I think of the rich golden brown color that used to fill my glass. Coca-Cola had a caramel shimmer, an almost magical sheen that made it seem extra special. Although we now know that sheen was chemically created, it didn't take away from how much most of us loved it when we were younger. Although I don't drink much soda these days,I remember when I was kid, a tall glass Coca-Cola meant a celebration, birthday or special occasion.
'Max is completely comfortable in front of a camera, I have shot with him several times and he has become one of my favorite models He has beautiful skin - the kind the seems to have no pores and to quote Andrew Holleran... 'he is one of those" southern boys with eyes the color of Coca Cola'.
With those few descriptive sentences, Michal said so much about his experience shooting Max. Not just about his eyes and skin, but also how he presented and the richness he captured during the shoot. Despite a difficult childhood, Max always pushed himself toward success. His first love is music, especially hip hop, and Max taught himself to play the piano and guitar.The 26 year old is also the founding partner in a local music production company.
I love Max's look, those golden brown eyes, his expressive face and hot lean body. I don't usually mention a model's penis, but Max does have.... an especially photogenic one. Given He mentioned it himself, (see below) I thought it it appropriate to note it's undeniable visual appeal. Michal reports that Max did being a page and profile for Model Mayhem, but sadly never finished it. Maybe, if his images are well received, Max may go back and finish. I think there are many photographers who would love to work with Max.
In order help get to know a bit about the men he shoots, Michal has begun asking them to fill out a questionnaire to get a little insight into the person inside the naked body we are viewing and enjoying. Like Vanity Fair's Proust Questionnaire, it is always fascinating to see how people perceive themselves, and given they're posing nude, how they feel about their body and their thoughts on how their images might be received. Below are some of Max's responses.
If asked, who are you, how you would answer or define yourself?
An artistic character with an eclectic style
How do you see yourself?
Beautiful, inside and out
Are you secure in your physical image
Yes
What is your favorite part of your body?
My abs and my penis
Being seen nudes make you think or feel...?
Great, nostalgic
Why do you think you feel comfortable nude?
I'm comfortable with my body and am a sensual person
What drives you
My visions and goals in life
How do you imagine your future?
Successful and fun
What is your definition of Beauty?
Someone who has a colorful soul
Do you fear the physical changes of getting older?
Of course!