Beauty: Kelly Moreira by Daemian Smith + Christine Suarez

May 6 2011

Image Source: http://blog.daemianandchristine.com/post/5250496081/kellymoreira

Although this isn’t commissioned work I believe it’s one of Smith’s strongest works where he photographs models as a simple headshot showcasing their natural beauty rather than made up in unnatural poses selling garments. These portraits are like the Polaroids casting agents take when looking for models however don’t show the depth and detail that Smith captures. Much of his portraits in this style are shot black-and-white but I believe colour adds complimentary softness unlike the monochrome images which have a hint of harshness. I particularly chose to highlight this image as in the fashion world fair-skinned models dominate the catwalk and billboards so it is a rare occasion to see natural dark skinned beauty. Looking into beauty, Smith shows that modification doesn’t necessarily mean automatic attractiveness as Kelly Moreira (above) is naturally stunning. With today’s society obsessed with fair skin and sleek hair, Moreira goes against the norm and stands beautiful in her own skin. I especially like portraits with a shallow depth of field and believe this is shot on a 50mm lens to create the depth that is desirable in head shots. The soft focus accentuates her soft skin and draws focus on her dark eyes where the viewer is transfixed.

References:

Check out Daemian Smith and Christine Suarez blog 'Should Have Taken More Pictures'

Useful Links:

Check out my Sept 2010 post on my blog M.A.S.H on this photographer and their model portraits: http://mashthings.blogspot.co.uk/2010/09/black-white-portraiture-by-daemian.html

More images of fresh faced models:

[Above, captions left-right]

1. The hypnotic eyes of beautiful Kristina at New York Models. Shot with the Leica S2. / 18 Apr 2012

2. TSANNA / 22 May 2010

3. Rose Cordero / 16 Nov 2010

4. The beautiful skin tone of Jenny Albright at New York Models. / 5 Apr 2012

[Above, captions left-right]

1. Enyelisa at IMG. Shot with the Leica S2. / 16 Apr 2012

2. Flawless Fanny Fournier. / 17 Aug 2010

3. The graceful and expressive face of Lise Aanes at Root Management. Shot with the Leica S2 / 22 Mar 2012

4. Our beautiful friend Nina De Raadt at Ford. / 27 Apr 2012