The Muse:
When I first saw photographer Alan Armijo's portfolio it was his shots of Max Kalash that stood out.. There was something about them, maybe a bit more attention put into them, a bit more time, a bit more caring. That is usually what occurs when photographer and muse collaborate. There is usually a trust that pushes the one behind the lens to be 'just that much' more creative.... and in turn, the one in front of the lens to take more of a risk than their comfort zone usually permits.
'In photography, women can be transformed with hair and make up, sometimes getting lost in the "costume". With men, the photographer has to find the strongest trait and use that to bring out the sensuality and strength in the subject.'
-Alan Armijo-
Alan Armijo hails from Boston but currently lives and works in Montreal. Alan graduated from Montreal's Dawson College in Commercial Photography. He has shot commercial work, including; Architecture, Portraiture and product. Currently, as you can see from these shots of Max, Alan is focusing on 'the male image and is looking for models interested in collaborating as part of this series. Alan specializes in Men's fashion/editorial and loves his personal black and white work. As well he is working on a book series, and currently working on a winter collection shoot for a local designer.
It is easy to see how Max became a muse. Besides his great physique, Max has a great face, with features I would describe as both strong and delicate Max's 'sensuality and strength' were beautifully captured by Alan's lens.
Alan says that when he first saw Max's profile on MM, he had a few shots he took with a camera phone and knew right away there was something special.
'I knew there was tons of potential and as soon as I could get him in the studio, magic happened. He is not just attractive on the outside, his personality, smile and laughter complete his package and draw you under his spell.'
Alan feels the pictures capture this and has had more comments on him than any other model. 'He is a pro in front of the camera, doesn't have a bad angle and light moves over him like snow on a hill - a photogs dream! We will work together again soon and I will forever look at him as my Muse.'
Please check out more of Alan's work, including additional shots of Max at his MM page HERE: and his website HERE:
Thanks Alan and Max for sharing your work together with FH!
