Oringe Stiletto

2011-11-09T01:42:00.000-08:00

Hello there! It's been an eternity since I posted here, and for good reason. The regular Feature Fridays can be found at my tumblr blog. The rest of my faux-dventures can be found on my new blog (photo above). Thank you for stopping by.

Feature Friday: Florencia Mazza Ramsay

2010-08-06T02:28:00.000-07:00

I think yesterday's post was a sign of today's feature. Yes, spotlight's on the young and fierce Florencia Mazza Ramsay. I've spent days just looking at her photographs. And then looking again. They're beautiful. And they hit you precisely when she means to. They also have that vintage/film feel, which seems to be an "in" thing these days. Below are some of my favorites. And below the photos are links to more of her lovely photos.

Behance | Flickr | Facebook | Website

Feature Friday: Giuliano Beckor

2010-07-30T00:03:00.000-07:00

Now back to the usual set of features. Other than the part where I'm using one of his series as peg for a photoshoot tomorrow, I'm actually inspired by his work. Which is what Feature Fridays are all about. Love love love his photos. I can go on and on about how much I love them, but I'd let the photos below do that for me. Below are just few of the many crazy-amazing-fierce photographs you can find at the links below. I am such a fan.

Behance | Lightbox Studio | Website

Feature Friday: Olivia Bell

2010-07-23T02:52:00.000-07:00

Probably one of the less-fancy features, if not the simplest one. I was looking for something consistent when I started my search for this week's feature. That consistency, I believe, is present in her deviantart gallery. No fancy lights, no elaborate sets, no contortion, or extreme posing of sorts, just straight up and simple. Thing is, she gets it. That photography isn't all about the fancy stuff, it's capturing a moment, or any moment, that we intend to keep forever. It's that moment, and the emotion that's in it, that she captures. And for that, she deserves a feature. Because some day, she'd probably have those elaborate sets, lush costumes, and mad models. But today, we bask in simplicity.

Website | deviantArt | Twitter | Facebook

Feature Friday: Elena Kalis

2010-07-16T20:53:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure why I never featured her work here yet. Although I did reblog her stuff on my tumblr. I found her photographs via Hayley Willam's tumblr, and fell in love with the photos. I can't believe I haven't featured her yet, but I guess her works just came at the perfect time. Below are some of my favorites. She also has an Alice in Wonderland series that I've spared because you've got to see it on her site. They're simply breathtaking.

If this doesn't get you interested in underwater photography, I'm not sure what will. Considering my currently uninspired state, I'm gearing up to get some underwater gear to shoot. I want to shoot underwater now, too. And notice the red hair on the third photo. I'd love to have my hair dyed like that soon. Real soon. Actually, I will. But that's another story. Below are links to more of her awe-inspiring work.

deviantart | facebook | website

Feature Friday: Mónica Barreneche

2010-07-09T00:09:00.000-07:00

Saw her works on Behance while looking for inspiration for our recent fun shoot. This website has always come in handy for moments like those, where my mind's in 15 different places, and I need to focus. Her gallery, zoomed me right to where I needed to be. Which is why I'm sharing them today. Because her photographs are lovely.

Behance | Website | Flickr

Feature Friday: Daniil Timofeev

2010-07-09T00:08:00.000-07:00

Vibrant. That is one word that best describes Daniil's photographs. Colors literally pop and take your breath away. I've been following his work for about five years now, and it's always inspiring. Below are some of my favorite works off his gallery.

Deviantart | Website

Feature Friday: Aleksey Kozlov and Marina Khlebnikova

2010-06-25T00:56:00.000-07:00

Amazing work of this dynamic duo from Russia. What is it with Russia and art? This is the second time I've featured a Russian duo. And their works are awesome. Below is a sample of my favorite set off their behance page.

And before you go "This looks 'shopped", it's not. These images were done old school. Treating and adding chemicals on film to create these images. Although I'd disagree with the "you can't do this in Photoshop", statement, they look epic.

Behance | Website

Feature Friday: Paco Peregrin

2010-06-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

There isn't much to say about this week's feature. Except that the images in his gallery were the very reason why I've always wanted to get into fashion photography. The ability to create images like these are absolutely mindblowing. That alternate reality that you see on the pages of a magazine, and that knowing, that every image was fruit of such talent, imagination, and effort. His behance gallery is such a joy (and awe) to browse.

Behance | Website

Feature Friday: Danny Santos

2010-06-11T00:13:00.000-07:00

I’ve always been jealous of people who fearlessly carry their cameras out on the streets to shoot. And they shoot anything, and everything. What makes me even more jealous is that some of them get the most candid, real, and interesting images. I’ve never had the guts to display my slr when I take a walk. Sure, it’s the “in” thing now, and SLRs have become a status symbol. So I’ve invested on film. And use this inconspicuous looking camera that no one would take seriously on the streets.

Danny Santos, would probably be the embodiment of a photographer that I admire/envy. I love his photos, and I love that he dedicates weekends to shoot, and that his shots cannot be called “snapshots”. They’re exactly what photojournalism is. Although not the type of photojournalism most people have in mind.

His photographs are beyond worthy of a feature. There’s life to it. There’s a story. And they’re always taken at that precise moment when it’s supposed to be frozen in time. Like any earlier or later, it wouldn’t be as stunning. Any person with a camera can take pictures of anything and come up with snapshots. But a true artist armed with a camera produces works like these that move you, and inspire you. Thank you sir, you’ve got me fired up to shoot the streets for Independence Day. *salutes*

Behance | Flickr | Facebook | Website

Feature Friday: Andrey Yakovlev & Lili Aleeva

2010-06-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

Behance has become my go-to of sorts these past few months, for visual inspiration. And what better place to look than there, when you get these inspirational images from the Russian duo Andrey Yakovlev & Lili Aleeva?

Their works are simply stunning, and inspiring. Almost thrusting me out that door, and into the insane weather, just to shoot. Below are links to more of this inspirational duo.

Behance | Photodom

Feature Friday: Nicoline Patricia Malina

2010-05-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

It started with me browsing Behance and finding a familiar photo. I've never seen it before, but I recognized it. That photo belongs to the amazing Nicoline Patricia Malina. Of course she's on Behance. Her work is something fashion photography aspirants should see.

What I love about her work is that it's got a touch of photojournalism. You know it's fashion, and most likely staged, but the way she captures them is almost like we're taking a peek at a particular moment in the lives of these dolled up fashion models. Each frame tells a story straight up, and just takes you away. I love her photographs because they look effortless. It's like you know they're all posing, even when it doesn't look like it at all. Click the links below to view more of her awesomeness.

Website | Behance | Dripbook | Deviantart | Twitter

Feature Friday: Nick Rudnicki

2010-05-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Nick Rudnicki's style is most evident on the way he lights his subjects. Which is beyond stellar. I absolutely love how his lighting adds even more personality to his photographs. His photoset Heroes, is what led me to explore his gallery on Behance. Below are my favorites off his stunning gallery.

Behance | Website

Feature Friday: Nadia Moro

2010-05-14T18:59:00.001-07:00

I'm a sucker for photos with movement and contortion. Which would explain why models I've photographed long for a massage after a photoshoot. I love contortion and movement. These set of photos by Nadia may not have that amount of contortion, but it has movement that's romantic, and flowy.

Website | Behance | Designcollector | QuailStudio

Feature Friday: Iain Crawford

2010-05-07T01:57:00.000-07:00

There are photographs that you can actually have words for. Like stunning, or amazing, or mindlowing. But on one sleep deprived moment, searching for the perfect feature to open the month, I fin a series of photographs that literally had me speechless. Well except for thinking "My god, how did he do that?!" Below are some of his works that are so beyond astounding, you just won't have words for it.

I absolutely love how he lights his subjects. And that there's always some form of movement, contortion, and spunk in his images. If these works don't amaze, or at the very least inspire you, then I don't know what will. But right now, I think I just found one I'd love to be like. Below are links to his awesomeness.

Website | Behance

Feature Friday: Jericó Santander

2010-04-30T20:16:00.001-07:00

Of course in the digital age things are almost not impossible.Which are these works. That made what seemed to be impossibe, possible. I am literally in awe. And utterly speechless. And I thought last week's feature was insane. Looks like I ain't seen nothing yet!

His deviantart gallery may not have a lot, but his works sure are a lot to process. Unbelievable indeed. I hope these works inspire you as well.

behance | deviantart

Feature Friday: Michael Oswald

2010-04-23T00:35:00.000-07:00

This particular image made me go fuuuuuuuuuuuu-! It was so good. No. Stunning. No. Amazing. No. Brilliant! No. Mindblowing! Or all of that. Because there just aren't enough words to completely describe this. I may never ever be able to create stunning images like he does, which is fine. But nobody stop him from making more amazing works of art. Below are more of his works that totally blew me away.

There's a particular style, and identity evident in his works. Like when you see it from a distance, you'd just know it's his. Completely inspiring and mind blowing. I'd love to see more works from this artist in the future. You should too. Below are links to his awesomeness.

Feature Friday: Archan Nair

2010-04-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

It was this image that drew me to Archan Nair's gallery in deviantart. (I think I saw that kid in the photo on a Computer Arts magazine, a few months back.) And as fate would have it, I also had his behance page open while I was searching for a feature last week.

Archan's gallery is definitely inspirational. It's been a dilemma for me last week if I made a triple feature instead. But the lazy side of me wanted to save it, and have a fresh and dandy post for this week. Here's some mindblowing eyecandy from this awesome artist.

This one, is one of my ultimate fave off his gallery. I absolutely love love love this one.

What's inspiring about this artist goes beyond the stunning images he's created. He's the Gallery Moderator for the Digital Art galleries in deviantart, as well as a part of the volunteer community relations team. And, he also takes time to promote artists in the constantly growing dA community. How's that for awesome?! Give him some love on his places below. Click away, and be amazed.

Feature Friday: CarmentRino

2010-04-09T01:15:00.000-07:00

With endless searching for design inspiration (I'm getting into graphic design, if it's any news, I'm a fish out of water in this one), I find CarmentRino in deviantart. With a gallery so awesome, I definitely have to feature.

website | deviantart

Feature Friday: Nikki Farquharson

2010-04-09T00:02:00.000-07:00

This month's all about mixed media pieces. And this one sparks the idea. These series of works by the fabulous Nikki Farquharson were absolutely gorgeous, and definitely inspiring.

Found them while browsing randomly on Behance. When I saw these I knew I had to share it. And have something like this. Hopefully a collaboration is on the way. For now, feast your eyes on her fabulous galleries below.

Website | Flickr | RGB | Twitter

Feature Friday: Smart Bubble Society

2010-03-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

What's in your thought bubble?

Smart Bubble Society's youtube channel features shorts that are indeed thought provoking. I think that they're more that just expressing their own opinions on things, such as this short on advertising and consumerism, they also trigger a response from people who've viewed their stuff.

You may not agree with some of their views (I've read the responses on Junk Thought), which in the end doesn't really matter, because their main objective is always met. Whether you agree or not with that they have to say, they made you think. They make you rethink things that you've possibly thought nothing of. And that, for me, is what being in media is all about. Below are more shorts from their channel.

Really. They're more than just thought provoking, they make shorts that are indeed awesome to look at. Cheers!

website | youtube | twitter

Feature Friday: Angela Kohler and Ithyle Griffiths

2010-03-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Still in the search of mindblowing videos, I find this by accident.

This lovely short was made by the wonderful Angela Kohler and Ithyle Griffiths. Both are actually great photographers. But this month's all about motion and video, so let's zero-in on that. Below is a collab-work of theirs for Amazon's Kindle.

These are two of my favorites. And I love them. I think they're refreshing, despite the whole stop-motion thing becoming more mainstream. And it's quirky. And y'all know I love quirky.

Angela Koler | Ithyle Griffiths

Feature Friday: Magico Nakamura

2010-03-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

One of the awesomest videos I have ever seen. I believe it made its rounds at facebook sometime last year. I'm sharing it again, in case you missed it.

A concept like this may be the simplest one we could all think of, but pulling it off is another story. Intense planning and storyboards galore is what I'm thinking. And if you think this video is awesome, Magico has more tricks up her sleeve. Her vimeo page is one to see.

Magico Nakamura

Feature Friday: Ok Go

2010-03-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

This month, I feature clips of note. Videos (and video-makers) that rocked my socks, even when I don't wear socks. And what better way to start this set than with a video currently making its rounds on my favorite sites (and facebooks pages of my favorite people), from a band who comes up with some of my favoritest videos of all time. Because they're clever and crafty like that.

Remember this MTV? This was how I found Ok Go, and loved them instantly.

This MTV, if you look at it, is based on an idea so simple, yet delivered so well, it is just beyond mindblowing.

And if, like me, you'd love to geek out to it, they have a four-part behind the scenes set, starting with this one.

Motionographer article | Ok Go | youtube

Feature Friday: Gilad Benari

2010-02-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

This photograpehr has produced some of the most amazing photographs I've ever seen. Unbelievable as it may sound, but I discovered his works in deviantart when he "faved" a photograph off my gallery. Something I consider such an honor, since his gallery is beyond stunning. I love his series on Yotam, his son. It was precious. That's something I'd love to do someday.

This week I feature his work, "A Different Israel" which you can find here. Below are some of the photographs off the currently six-part series. More information on A Different Israel can be read here.

Gilad Benari | deviantart | flickr

Feature Friday: Akif Hakan Celebi

2010-02-19T00:02:00.000-08:00

In my early days, Hakan was one of those photographers I watched in deviantart that literally stood out. He was one of those photographers whose works I can spot almost immediately. There is something about his work, a fusion of east and west, and its story-like presentation that makes it stand out so much, each time I check my inbox. His photographs also have that "part twisted"element that is so hard to miss. It's hard to select just one series in his gallery to feature, so I selected three. With three of my faves each.

Dark Romance Series

This is possibly his longest series (if not Pinar Eris) in his deviantart account. With over 40 images. I've shared three, which I fancied the most.

How We Got So Blue
I am such a sucker for high hey lighting and portraits. Thus, this. Plus, at some angle, the model looks a bit like Leighton Meester.

Life at Backstage

This series was very different from the usual sets in his gallery. All photographs were shot backstage at the Vivienne Westwood show.

Website | deviantart | facebook | twitter

Feature Friday: Zhang Jingna

2010-02-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Zhang Jingna, more popularly known as zemotion on deviantart, is one of my favorites in the site. Her photographs are always stunning, and inspiring. There's just something about her style, that mix of drama and hint of darkness, that i find captivating. A sample of that can be seen here, in her Forgotten Fairytales series.

Rapunzel

Sleeping Beauty

These are just two of a number of other equally amazing photographs off her gallery. Below are links to her awesomeness. Click away.

Zhang Jingna | zemotion | facebook | blog | twitter

Feature Friday: Lexidh Solstad

2010-02-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

First of all, can I just say, I can't believe I started my February FFs on the last Friday of January? My body clock is so messed up since I had my new job that every day feels like a weekend. Seriously. So that means an extra post for this month, I guess.

January was focused on photographers that have inspired me to take on a field I've been in love with since I started taking photography seriously. Fashion is my passion. And by "fashion", I mean fashion photography. February is dedicated to artists and their most memorable series. Last week was the epic seven deadly sins, and this week, we take a vegan route.

Lexidh Solstad's series of conceptual photos shows us that we can make an interesting set of photos without stepping out of the house. All you'll need really, besides a camera, is one active imagination. Here is a series that brought her to my attention, and into my dA watchlist. Her conceptual photos are most adorable. Do check out her deviantArt page, and dig through her works.

Oh, and just so you know, neither I, nor the artist featured, are vegans. We heart our meat. But I respect every vegan's decision to lay off the meat. That means more for me. XD

There are a couple more interesting and quirky sets in her gallery. Some, even perfect this "love month". Go dig in her dandy gallery at deviantart (below). Oh, and if you have an account in there, please do wish her well, and give her some love. Her last post was rather sad. I can't imagine how horrible it must be to go through that accident. Hope she's much better now.

Lexidh Solstad

Feature Friday: Marta Dahlig

2010-01-29T00:53:00.000-08:00

This month I'd like to feature rad series by artists whose works I honestly do adore. I'll kick things off with one of the most amazing digital painters I have ever seen, and the series that brought her to my attention.

I know that the Seven Deadly Sins is quite cliché, but I guess it depends on how an artist would execute that. And as the site itself describes, her series was "near legendary". And it was indeed. The moment I saw Vanity, I knew it was something I had to follow. And it did inspire me to plan a shoot based on the same theme. It never pushed through though. But the point is, it did inspire me. And I hope it inspires you to create a series based on a theme (any theme) yourself, as well.

Click on the images for a larger view of it on her deviantart page. Or, click the links below to explore her awesome works.

Seven Deadly Sins | deviantArt | CG Society | blog

Feature Friday: Mark Nicdao

2010-01-22T01:56:00.000-08:00

To end this month's feature on my favorite photographers, there was a definite "yes" that I'd end the month putting the spotlight on one of my favorite local fashion photographers. What's tough, was the question of "which one?". I have quite a number of favorite pinoy photographers, and I love their work so much so, specifically because I think it's something that, I think, rock in a global scale.

This week, I set my sights on the Mark Nicdao. Mark is a regular for covers and spreads in my favorite local fashion mag. I love his style, which maximizes today's access to technology. I'm not saying that his photographs are digitally manipulated. I'd say tastefully enhanced. And you can tell that even untouched, these photographs would be stunning.

With images that look so good, and are constantly inspiring, I deem it fitting to feature him the same month I've featured icons. I know that it soon, he'd be one of them. Just wait and see.

More of Mark Nicdao's awesomeness.
Wildbunch | flickr | twitter

Feature Friday: Patrick Demarchelier

2010-01-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

If you happen to have enjoyed the movie"The Devil Wears Prada", you would hear his name mentioned over and over. "Did Demarchelier confirm?" "I have Patrick!"

It was through that movie that I found out about him, and I understood why he has to be name-dropped. His works are absolutely amazing!!!

No. Not really. They're stunning. And beyond amazing. It is through his photographs that I am reminded on why photography is something I'm so in love with. The ability to capture amazing images, and it's power to inspire people and awaken their passion for the craft.

Dites merci très beaucoup monsieur Demarchelier! Pouvez vous continuer à stupéfier et donner aux gens vos photographies.

| Patrick Demarchelier |

Feature Friday: Mark Seliger

2010-01-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Another Vanity Fair photographer this week! Btw, have you seen Annie Leibovitz's photos of Tiger in this month's issue?

This week I set sights on one of my favorite photographers, Mark Seliger.

I found out about the amazing Mark Seliger while browsing Vanity Fair. I got started on it when a friend of mine YMd me on a spread he did. Looked him up, and loved everything I saw. I know it sometimes sounds silly to say that "each shot tells so much", because that's exactly how it's supposed to be, but it really is. On some of his shots, it's almost like a frame taken off an entire movie.

What I do love the most are his black and white photos. I find them most appealing in the bunch. Not that his colored photographs aren't great, I just have a thing for monochromatic portraits, and his are ultimately stunning.

You'd think it's easy to pull off any of these shots photographers like him can pull of, but it's not. And that's what I like about it. Check out his website (link below) for more of his awesome works.

Mark Seliger

Feature Friday: Annie Leibovitz

2010-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

First, Happy New Year everyone!!!! I can't believe it's January so soon! So I've conveniently scheduled this post to appear on New Year's, as I'm currently out of town on that day. More photos can be expected. 2009 has been onehelluvayear for a lot of people. One of them is the iconic Annie Leibovitz.

I decide to have her as my first FF of the year is because her photographs are truly inspiring. She is fierce. And every shot demands perfection. Calling her iconic is well earned. Her story of her rise in the industry is something I find very motivating. And her photographs, remarkable. The line "a picture paints a thousand words" is definitely true in her works.

Vanity Fair Year in Photos 2006

Disney Dream Portrait Series

Here is a clip which I think is off a DVD, of Annie shooting for Vogue.

This is a clip off a documentary directed by her sister Barbara, about Annie's "Life Through a Lens".

Feature Friday: The Title Sequence

2009-12-04T02:51:00.000-08:00

Today being the last feature for my month-long birthday video streak thing, I figured I'd end it with a series of sequences that inspire me. While most people go to the movies to see the movie itself, I go and watch the entire thing from the pre-movie trailers to the very last character of the movie's end credits. While most people start leaving the theater the moment the end credits roll, I stay. One, I believe that watching the end credis would be my way of giving respect to the people behind making the movie. I stay to the very end, especially if I loved what I saw. There's that need to know "who did what". I actually do the same thing for TV series. Part of the fun in watching those series are the title sequences. It's a preview of what the show is about, and what you can expect, and it's one of the reasons why I seem to have that need to view every pilot of every show I fancy. And then I google the show and dig to find out who made them. Is that weird? Maybe that's just me. Below are a series of title sequences that tickled my fancy.

Frank Miller's 300

Aside from the movie itself having my jaw constantly on the floor, and I don't mean that because of the insane amount of abs, the movie's end credits were just an awesome way to cap the entire film. I enjoyed the movie for all the technical geeky video stuff. The colors, the treatment, the effects. I loved it so much I watched the making of the film more than I can count! [end credits by yU+Co]

Watchmen

I didn't enjoy the film as much, but I definitely enjoyed the opening title sequence. I love the whole re-creation of iconic personalities and events. I know the film isn't a period piece, but the title sequence certainly looked a lot like one. It was pretty long though. But hey, I found it to be the highlight of the entire film. Well, minus certain fight scenes, which I also found amazing. Title credits, again, by the amazing people at yU+Co.

Juno

Juno - Title Sequence from Alain Benoit on Vimeo.

This' flick's title sequence was created the long and painful way. But thanks to geeks around the world, a tutorial comes in handy to create your very own Juno title sequence. I loved it because of it's element of youthfulness, and it's uber indie feel. Y'all know how much of a sucker I am for indie stuff. Well, that, and insane visual effects. Definitely not the easiest one in this post. Created by Shadowplay Studio.

Six Feet Under

One word: FANCY. It may not be the most CG heavy title sequence out there, but I find it one of the most clever ones. Not so hard of the visual effects, but it does move you. Well, it moved me. Into saying "WOW! I wanna do that!!!" The camera work (+shots) were awesome. Proof that you don't need some super hi-tech 3d machine to produce something wild. But you do need a wild creative mind. This was created by the iconically amazing Digital Kitchen.

The Kingdom

Love the title sequence. I love it because I know it's something I can pull off. And it's awesome. And when I said "something I can pull off", I don't mean now. Give me a year, or a bit less than a year. I know I can pull something like that off. See? Inspired already!

There are two go-to sites to view more title sequence bliss.

I love these sites because not only do they compile these fabulous clips, and definitely the best out there, they provide interviews and links and more information in general to geeks, and people who are majorly interested on who and how those amazing sequences were made. All with just a click or two of your dandy mouse.

The Art of the Title Sequence | Forget the Film, Watch the Titles

Feature Friday: Chris Milk

2009-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

The director behind two of my favorite-st MTVs. It is because of him, that I actually liked Kanye West and his MTVs. Dubbed as the Steven Spielberg of music videos, I dedicate my birthday week feature to the great, Chris Milk.

This was one of the MTVs that totally blew me away. What I love about it is the clever use of metaphors. It was mind blowing to attack such a touchy concept and not be shot down, but instead The message comes across clearly, and just in case you didn't get the message, there's the stunning imagery to keep you occupied. What I recently discovered about this MTV is that this is the second MTV for this track. It was also nominated for Video of the Year in 2005, and was listed as the sixth best MTV of 2004. With this alone, you'd know Chris Milk's cred was no random thing. Insane video, this thing is, and it still blows me away.

Another MTV I absolutely loved as this one. What I loved about it was the whole POV thing. All I could think about then was "How'd he do that?!!?" with wide eyes, and jaw on the floor. I think it's pretty cool. I actually found a book that had him share how he did it. It was awesome. And clever. In an almost "Why didn't I think of that?!" kind of way. I know, given that tiny chance, I'd try and pull something like that off.

Kanye West "All Falls Down" [HD] from Chris Milk on Vimeo.

This one, found at his vimeo page, was an created for the 42 Second Film Festival in China. What's awesome about this is that in less than a minute, you get the entire story. And even more awesome is that it was shot using a Canon 5d Mk II!!! I'd go all geeky with the equipment, but I'll keep that to myself.

Last Day Dream [HD] from Chris Milk on Vimeo.

This just shows how amazing of a story teller Chris Milk is, and why I am a major fan of his work. What he does now, is a vision of the career I am wanting so much right now. Music videos, commercials, photography. Instead of pasting screenshots here, I think it's best you see his awesomeness in the links below. Be very blown away.

Chris Milk | vimeo

Feature Friday: Stop Motion Love

2009-11-20T00:44:00.000-08:00

Stop motion has been around for forever. Remember Gumby? How about Bob the Builder? These, and a number of other children's programs make use of stop motion. Today, thanks to the growing fascination with stop motion (and photography), and it's accessibility to the masses (all you need is a point and shoot camera, and a computer), More and more stop motion videos can be found almost everywhere.

This Coldplay MTV is absolutely charming. And quite clever, if you ask me. I love the chalk drawings in relation to the Chris. Plus, the story's just cute! It's just adorable! This Strawberry Swing MTV is created by Shynola. They're a multi-awarded London based group of artists whose works include animation for The Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy.

Coldplay | Shynola

I first saw this MTV when a friend of mine sent a link to vimeo. Made out of thousands, if not millions of photographs, there is just nothing little in the making of the Little Bribes MTV. As director/creator Ross Ching put it, he didn't have to go to around the country to get unique shots. All he did was create the interesting shots. And create he surely did.

Death Cab for Cutie - Little Bribes from Ross Ching on Vimeo.

Death Cab for Cutie | Ross Ching

Certainly something to think about for people who, like me, have no access to a video camera. Who knows, I may do something like this for the hols?

Feature Friday #14 What started it all

2009-11-13T00:24:00.000-08:00

When I was eight, I realized that there was one more thing I wanted to be. I want to be a film maker. Well, along with being a cardiologist, chemist, scientist to discover a herbal cure to everything, talk show host, runway model, and fashion designer. Yes, I wanted to be all that, but not all at one. It changed from time to time, depending on a lot of things. And in that list, what stuck was being a film maker. I still want to make videos till this day.

November being my birth month, I've decided to make this month's series of features to focus on music videos. It's been a dream of mine to make music videos. Well, it changed after a few years, with me wanting to make movies. But music videos inspired me to get into this industry, And it still inspires me to this day.

This was one of those MTVs I absolutely loved. And I knew when I saw this, that I want to make something like that when I grew up. Directed by Francis Lawrence (yes, the Constantine director) way back in 2001. I loved this video for its warm colors, despite the whole "jaded" thing. Mila Kunis also reminded me of a friend of mine, way back in 5th grade. I loved its message as well.

I grew up basically glued to MTV, watching well, MTVs, and shows like Making The Video. I love watching the behind the scenes footage of these music videos, which today, has evolved to the behind the scenes of making these insane CG-rich blockbuster movies. Here's another video that just has me all the time. I love this video.

What I love about this MTV, is its story, and its relation to the song. And I love how they made Bjork a robot. The effects were simple, but very effective. Directed by Chris Cunningham, this video, as most of you may know, has won numerous awards. So did the song. Which comes as no surprise. It was, and still is, stellar.

And to end this weeks MTV-filled feature, here's one that despite the risque poses and what-not, I find tasteful, artsy, fancy, and classy. This awesomeness was directed by Diane Martel. (The same director behind some Mariah Carey MTVs, and FOB's America's Suitehearts)

I'd love to make something like this any day.

Feature Friday: Cassandra Clare

2009-10-30T02:06:00.001-07:00

If, like me, you happen to be a major fantasy novel fan, then you've probably heard of Cassandra Clare and her works. Recently wrapped was her Mortal Instruments series, which, word has it, will be turned into a movie!

Earlier this week, I've been thinking about who to feature this week. Well, this week being Halloween and all, I figured this would be the perfect time to feature her work! If you remember my last literature feature (that inspired a photoshoot), well, her books are on its way there. Casting's proving to be a bit of a challenge, but I'm finding ways to interpret the story into photos.

Long story short, I read all three books of The Mortal Instruments series, and wrote about it here. I love how she infused fantasy with (pseudo) reality, and created a different world that won't make any references, dead or alive, roll in their graves. It was a beautiful series. And for the love of vampires, lycans, and everything else fantasy, pick up her books and find out for yourself why Cassie Clare and her TMI books are on the spotlight this week. Also, she has another series in the works, The Infernal Devices. Go see her websites for more info on that, and the links below to know more about her awesomeness.

Cassandra Clare | The Mortal Instruments | Infernal Devices | Twitter

Feature Friday: Becky Van Ommen

2009-10-23T00:15:00.000-07:00

One of my fave Pinoy photographers is Rebecca (or Becky) Van Ommen. What I love about her, and her works is that it fuses photography and digital art, yet straddles between the two that you can't always call it photography, or a photo manipulation. What you can always call it though, would be lovely, or stunning, as her work always is.

I've discovered her work via deviant art way back in 2004, I think, or 2005. Back then, all I had was this ancient and huge 2megapixel camera. I just had so much fun exploring her gallery, and seeing her recent uploads, because even today, it'll take some time for me to pull something like that off.

official site | deviantart | multiply | stock | model mayhem

Feature Friday: Design Collector

2009-10-16T00:15:00.000-07:00

This week I feature another go-to site for design inspiration: designcollector.net. It features artists and artworks most definitely click worthy. Thing is, sometimes their articles are in Russian. And I don't do Russian. So sometimes I don't get a thing they're blogging. But I do enjoy the links and the eye candy.

Early this week, I got inspiration from designcollector, via their article on inspirational digital art portfolios. What I did with it, I will blog in time. For now, give them a click for some inspirational bliss.

designcollector.net | twitter | facebook

Feature Friday #10: Lara Jade

2009-10-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

When I started getting into photography, I found inspiration (and a bit of envy) for Lara Jade. It doesn't happen everyday that you encounter a photographer who's gifted with skills, good looks, and styling prowess. It's like a complete package, and I wanted that LOTS. Thing is, we can't always get what we want. But we can make the most of what we've got!

It is in Lara Jade that I saw that you don't really need fancy lights when you want to shoot pictures. All you'd need to start is a good eye, good taste, and a whole lot of creativity. I've marveled at her photos which were shot next to a window, some were taken with a house plant as props. I believe that she has great skills maximizing natural light. Something I do hope to have myself.

Today, Lara shoots with more equipment we're familiar with. Seeing her work evolve keeps the inspiration alive. That like her, we have to grow and mature, skills and creativity wise. Now that I'm all hardcore into the craft, I find great joy to still be inspired by the same artist that fueled my passion when I began.

deviantart | flickr | official site | blog

Feature Friday: The Fanfic that sparked a photoshoot

2009-09-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Friday. The past few weeks have been quite hectic, involving sleepless, bath-less days, working. And since there's zero internet connection at work, everything has to be done late at night. Also, this Friday is a double feature!

I normally feature artists, but this time, I'm featuring a fan fiction piece that inspired me to have this photoshoot. After all, Feature Friday's all about inspiration.

Gin 04, originally uploaded by henri.villegas.
Character inspired by Jasper Whitlock.

It's based on a Twilight fanfic by jandco, called Scotch, Gin, and The New Girl. Now normally, I don't read fanfics. Actually, I've never heard of it before, until twitter happened, and I had people on my home page raving about this. I never regretted reading it. I actually enjoyed it a lot. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to have a photoshoot inspired by a character off the fanfic! Jasper's one of my favorite characters because he's just beaming with so much personality and style. Note the signature fedora, and suspenders. There's more that's missing, but that'll be for you to find out. I'd give this a do-over in a heart beat, I promise you that.

What I love about it is that the characters are so alive, and very interesting. It's just so exciting to just think of bringing them to life in one way or another. I've had a photoshoot once, and trust me. Once I get hold of my resources, I'd have one stellar shoot based on each chapter. That, is how fun this fanfic is. Give it a read as well, if you haven't already. It just might inspire you.

Feature Friday: Esteban Diacono

2009-09-11T06:54:00.000-07:00

It is through this amazing visual artist that I discovered the amazing neo-classical artist Olafur Arlalds. I've only found Esteban's work a few weeks ago when his video was featured at motionographer, and the moment I saw this video, I've become an instant fan.

let yourself feel. from Esteban Diácono on Vimeo.

I honestly don't have much to say about this video genius. I let his magic speak for itself.

vimeo | behance | flickr | tumblr | estebandiacono.tv

Feature Friday: Alexander Denomay

2009-09-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

College application portfolios, originally uploaded by A.Denomay.

I've been following this photographer for years, and up to this day, I still remain a fan of his work. His photographs are inspiring, and I must say, his works have, in some way influenced the photos I've been taking. His work ranges from the simple, to the elaborate, with stories to match. Browsing through this ubertalented artist really inspires me to go out and shoot, and I do hope it does the same to you. Here are some of my faves off his gallery.

The Legend Prevails, originally uploaded by A.Denomay.

Dreams & Air Waves, originally uploaded by A.Denomay.

Being this popular at such a young age, so much success is bound for this amazingly crazy talented Canadian photographer that is adenomay. Below are links to his awesomeness.

deviantart | flickr | myspace | modelmayhem | blog

Feature Friday: Keith Loutit

2009-08-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

If you're a photography and motion graphics enthusiast who has absolutely no idea who he is, then today's your day. I discovered Keith's work through a fellow photography enthusiast who just adored this video.

Helpless from Keith Loutit on Vimeo.

Since then, I've regularly visited his vimeo site to check his updates. Armed with a Nikon D3, and a tilt-shift lens, Keith produces stunning time lapse videos out of stellar still images. Below is one of my faves.

Bathtub IV from Keith Loutit on Vimeo.

Vimeo | KeithLoutit.com

Feature Friday: Up Dharma Down

2009-08-20T20:22:00.001-07:00

This week I give you one of my favorite Pinoy [Filipino] bands. How often does it happen that you get a local band featured in TIME Magazine? Not that often. And the feature is well deserved. With the airwaves dominated by foreign artists, and local musicians and bands who want to sound like foreign ones, Up Dharma Down definitely stands out. And it's more than just being, or sounding different that makes this band shine. It's that substance that each song has. Their music has its own genre. Some say it's indie. Others say it's alternative. Either way, their second album Bipolar [released October2008] is definitely something to listen to. Here are a few of my faves.

Official Site | My Space

Feature Friday #4 Calikartel

2009-08-14T04:35:00.000-07:00

Calikartel is an online magazine that features some of the world's best fashion photographers in the industry. When I said that I was looking forward to posting this, I meant it. Being an aspiring fashion photographer, It's like finding a free insiration book of sorts, with all the photographs you'd see.

Opened in 2007, I say I have a LOT of catching up to do. It updates regularly, and also links you to the photographers' official sites, so you get more out of your visit. And if you heart them as much as I do, show 'em some love on their twitter and facebook pages.

Feature Friday #03 The Cool Hunter

2009-08-07T04:30:00.000-07:00

Part two of this week's Feature Friday is one go-to site of mine. Whether it's music, design, photography, or art in general, The Cool Hunter narrows down endless google searches, and pricey magazine subscriptions by compiling and featuring the coolest stuff out there.

Stumbled upon this website while gathering various design inspirations. Since then, I visit it everyday. Whether it's shoes, or albums to check out, I do take it's "advice" and so far, it's been a constant WIN.

With eye candy in every page load, you're sure to be inspired, creative juices flowing in full force. Because it really is worth the visit, and free never sounded this cool.

Feature Friday #02 Passion Pit

2009-08-07T00:16:00.000-07:00

The past week has been incredibly insane that squeezing in a Feature Friday to the already up in smoke week would ruin the feature's purpose. Thus, I decided to put it off, and then make a double feature this week to make up for last week. Sound good?

I'm starting things off with one of my current uberfaves, Passion Pit. Passion Pit has been a major fave of mine since a good friend introduced their music to me about a month ago. Their music is a bit hard to place, really. It's got a touch of the 80's, electropop, and something either unique to them, or something I am completely unaware of. They have, although I completely disagree, been compared to MGMT and Hot Chip. Actually, I quote: "Hot Chip meets MGMT". I totally disagree. Being a fan of MGMT, I know MGMT when I hear it, and PP is nowhere near MGMT. What Passion Pit and MGMT do have in common, though, the record label.

With a seemingly carefree attitude with all the success they're in, and sounds this eargasmic, only time (and a bunch of future releases) will tell whether Passion Pit has evolved from "hype band" to a legend in the making. For now, chomp on every cyberspace chow there is on Passion Pit.

Feature Friday#01 Shelly Soneja

2009-07-23T22:44:00.000-07:00

As much as I love designing and finding inspiration online, and figuring out little puzzles, nothing peeves me more that failing to fully understand my blog's CSS. The design's obviously drafty, but I'm working on it. Welcome to my currently orange-y blog. Oringe is not a typo. I did that on purpose. Unfortunately, Oringe alone is not available so I had to make do with what is. Links are currently off at the moment. As I fill this blog up, the links will work just fine.

Enough about me, it's FEATURE FRIDAY!
The artist is very much dear to me, being one of my closest friends in college, and one of the most talented artists I've ever known.

Shelly Soneja produces digital pieces that honestly, constantly leave me utterly envious. If you think these are awesome enough as it is, try checking back 5 years from now and tell me her stuff ain't stunning. Following her stuff since college, I have to say, it gets better and better. And it won't come as a surprise that stellar things are bound for this stellar artist now working in a video game company!

To see more of Shelly's fantastic pieces, visit her at her deviantart. And if you're a fan, give her some love on twitter.