Friday, November 9, 2018

Lake Powell 2018: Behind the Scenes

Mike at work by Gordon Nebeker

The process piece is always fascinating to me when it comes to artists and images that I love, no more so than with the Utah shoot.  Although the final images are the riveting final chapter, the trip and shooting experience are equally important pieces of the story.

Mike Tossy

'We've never had a group as comfortable in their own skin as this year... Some of the guys were essentially naked all the time... one of us might wake them up at first light to take a few quick shots as the sun came up, and from there they might as well continue the day in the nude (it helps that the days were in the upper 80's, and even the evenings were still in the mid-60's). I guess you could say they were photo ready any time!'


I guess after being with your fellow models naked all day, their aren’t many barriers or shyness left! In fact, by the end of the trip, most of the models were not bothering with any clothing at all even when we weren’t out on a shoot. Being on such an expansive lake (162 miles long) where one rarely saw other people certainly helps one feel free. Beautiful weather (daytime mid 80’s, sunny and no rain) was also an encouragement. It was a sad day when we motored back to the marina in our house boat and the guys had to put on some clothing!


'This crew was more comfortable being nude all the time then the previous groups. Previously, the models tended to change back into gym shorts or speedos when not being photographed. This time we hired a bunch of nudists. Which worked out great! I'm grateful that - again - there were no prima donnas amongst the guys. All were ready to pitch in doing anything that needed to be done.'

StudioMGphotograhy

'The best part of the shoot was getting up early and being able to sleep under the stars. Living in New York City, I’m used to a ritualized routine that was completely thrown asunder on this trip. It was so peaceful and calm when we woke up in the morning to shoot, I’ll never forget the complete silence of the canyons with the somewhat melodic “clicks” of Gordon, Mike, and Mark’s cameras. At night, the moon was shining so bright, it was really spectacular. I felt such a sense of serenity that I had never experienced before and the atmosphere of the fabulous Lake Powell was unforgettable.'


'The last night on the lake, we had a bon fire after dinner on the beach in front of our boat. By that point, no one was very concerned about watching what they ate so the s’mores were a big hit. We were also treated to a fire dance by Quinn Quire who has experience in circus performance. Quite spectacular and a memorable end to our trip.'


'We typically have a beach bonfire one evening, complete with smores and stories. This year we were also treated to a couple of wonderful fire dances by Quin.'

Gordon Nebeker

'Houseboats have some quirks. Even at 59 feet in length the 7 of us were essentially living on a big floating RV for 5 days. The bathrooms are small, and the shower downright tiny. But, there is an outdoor shower that proved very popular with everyone!'

StudioMGphotograhy

'The most unexpected pet of the trip was how easily and readily we all bonded with each other. I came into the trip having only known Quin well and having only worked with Gordon once before. I loved my time with the photographers and models and count them all as friends now. We took some amazing photographs and created art together, but we also developed friendships and had a blast together on this adventure away from everything else in our lives. It was a pretty incredible experience.'




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