Saturday, September 21, 2019

Sheen of Sweat: Mike Philips by YogaBear Studio


'Mike put a colossal amount of energy into the shoot. In particular, we worked on my new series called 'Dynamic Tension,' It was hard work, but as you can see from the photos, Mike gave me lots of muscle definition and a wonderful sheen of sweat.'



When it comes to sweat, most of us react to it differently, depending on the situation, and especially the person. I love working up a good sweat when working out, yet hate the flop sweat that has been known to slide down the back of my neck during stressful and awkward situations. I'm not sure I've seen a model wear his sweat quite as beautifully as Mike Philips.


Many photographers spritz water on to achieve that sheen on a model's skin, but if you look closely at Mike's images, his sheen of sweat beautifully highlights every inch of his incredible physique, adding a sexy layer shine and light to David's captures. Mike's sheen comes from hard work and dedication to both his body, and his work as a model


The Los Angeles based model takes his work seriously and always brings his best to any shoot or project he takes on. Mike hits the gym almost every day and uses strength, conditioning training , along with a strict diet, to maintain his camera ready physique.


David first saw Michael's images on Model Mayhem, and although they lived about three hours apart, Mike made the long drive from Los Angeles to San Diego for their two sessions together. Even with the long hours in the car, and the traffic, David was impressed with energy and enthusiasm Mike brought to the shoot. Mike was also the perfect model to work on David's new series 'Dynamic Tension' which is all about flexing muscles and motion.


I love Mike's look, and the incredible shots he and David captured together. In addition to his amazing body, Mike has a beautiful head of auburn hair, and a face full of personality and joy.  Although serious about fitness and his work, Mike also seemed to be thoroughly enjoying his work with David.  I especially love the shots where Mike's great smile makes an appearance.


More About Mike:

What first brought you to modeling?
I was looking for career and I got tired of people telling me that I should do it

What is your favorite part of the job?
The reactions I get

Have you had any strange requests from any photographers?
Just a few photographers wanting me to let my body hair grow


When you began modeling, was modeling nude part of your plan?
I wanted to overcome my fears, I knew posing naked was part of the deal

On a scale from 1-10 how nervous were before your first nude shoot? 
3, I was definitely nervous during my first nude shoot

Did the response from friends/family enter into your decision?
My girlfriend loved it!


Have you ever said no to a concept or shoot idea?
I've never had to say no. The photographers I've worked with have been pros

What's the best compliment you received about one of your modeling images?
Not really a compliment, but I think when people asking what I eat.  Nutrition is huge for me


What part of your body are you most happy with? What part gets the most attention?
I'm happy with the progress I've made on my legs because.they were lacking. I think my chest gets the most attention but I was over training it, so I cut back

Why do you think you like modeling?
I love it's not a full time 9-5 job. I can be flexible with my schedule and that allows me to spend more time with my family

What would be your number one thing, you do to maintain your fitness level?
I try to hit the gym a minimum of 5-6 days a week to maintain my fitness level. Nutrition is key


Do you have a dream scenario for a shoot you'd love to do?
I would love to do a shoot for Giorgio Armani, on the beach in Puerto Rico would be amazing!

What piece of advice would you give a new model who was considering giving modeling a try?
Don't hesitate or let a bad experience stop you from living your dreams.


What stood out from you with your day shooting with David?
David is an ideal photographer! Always cool, calm and collected and very professional

Was there anything about your with David, unique from any of your previous shoots?
The dynamic tension was one of my favorite parts of the shoot. It gave me a chance to pose and flex in ways I was not use to while showcasing my physique

Dynamic Tension

You can check out more of David's work with Mike, including more of Dynamic Tension and the other themes they shot on PAGE 2 HERE: 



1 comment:

-Sean Dibble / rSEANd PHOTOGRAPHY said...

I LOVE this model and all his work, clothed or unclothed. Super hot, great chemistry with the camera, gorgeous physique, and the photographer captured him perfectly. You should do a second feature of him.