'For 27 years, I dreamt of you. I craved you.'
Pennywise
One of the most fascinating things about this shoot was that in about 95% of the shots, Jonathan's face was covered. As he usually does, Jim (Studio1x) initially sent me on hundreds of images. Jim graciously lets me go through the entire shoot to choose my favorites. He then goes back and edits just the ones I'm going to use.
It took me quite awhile to go through the hundreds of shots before Jonathan's face was finally unveiled. Just as many did with the character of Pennywise, this had me wondering what and who was under the large white and red faced mask. Because of his dance background, Jonathan has a lean, tight form and a firm perky behind. I initially guessed our creepy clown had to be about 19 or 20. Even the mask itself had a young looking feel.
What a pleasant sexy surprise then, when the handsome smiling face of Jonathan was revealed in the last dozen or so images. In a horror movie, it's always nice when the sun comes up at the end of a terrifying night of murder and mayhem. After spending over an hour going through hundreds of images of a creepy clown, it was like a bright ray of sunshine to finally see the face and body of the costumes inhabitant.
How did you first connect:
I was connected to Jonathon through a previous model. Jonathan and I started talking and brainstorming ideas. It was a while before we were able to connect but once we did it was well worth the wait.
Jonathan
We met via a mutual acquaintance on IG. I don't really consider myself a model, just an everyday guy with an appreciation for creativity. It certainly was a push of personal comfort and stepping outside of my familiarity.
How was the idea of the IT theme received?
Jim
When I laid out the idea of Pennywise Jonathan was really into it.
Jonathan:
There was no hesitation; I simply said “When do we shoot?”
Had you seen the movie or read the book?
Jim
I have not read the book and I did see part of the first movie while i was flying. Sad to say we landed before I was able to finish the whole movie, but it is on my list to watch.
Jonathan
Embarrassed to say I have not read the book; but have seen both the original as well as the newer films. My favorite King book is Christine.
Was it difficult to bring Pennywise to life?
Jonathan:
Nah, the mask did the hard work.
Jim:
Pennywise just came to life once the mask was put on. It was fun to see it all come together.
What was the most challenging thing about the costume and shoot?
Jonathan:
The mask was bulky and the toile collar was a little finicky.
Jim:
I did wish the mask was made of different material to cover Jonathan's whole head. He didn't seem to mind having his face covered for a lot of the shoot. Sometimes it helps hiding behind a mask to come into character quicker and one is a bit more free to become someone else.
At times we had to get the ladder out and pull the balloon from the ceiling as in the movement and having the mask and gloves on it was hard for him to always know where it was and at times it slipped out of his hands. It was the first time I had used a balloon in a shoot but was very happy with the results.
Was much direction needed?
Jim:
I always shoot by improvising, when two creatives get together we build upon each other's ideas and coach through the movement. We did have a few other models in studio that day so he had a lot of assistance and direction.
Jonathan:
Jim guided me into my own natural creepy. It was a good balance of both.
What was the best thing about working with the other?
Jim:
Jonathan came with confidence and a open mind. He has studied dance so knew his body and movement well.
Jonathan:
It was super fun! The entire shoot was a blast and full of laughs. Despite being in a group session with a bunch of guys I didn’t know at the time Jim’s professionalism made it easy to relax and just have a good time.
What did you think of the final images?
Jim:
I was pleasantly surprised at how well they turned out. When you have an idea and put it into practice you never really know how it is going to turn out.
Jonathan:
I haven’t seen them all yet, I’ve been waiting for this post! 😉
1 comment:
What a great series. Both the model and photographer did an outstanding job in this creative endeavor.
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