I Photographed Ricky Martin in the Nude (and here's my BIG lesson)

in #rickymartin7 years ago (edited)

Ricky Martin posted my nude photograph of him and it caused quite a stir on the internet. I made this video to discuss my thoughts on how & why it went viral and how that makes me feel as the photographer. I really have tons of beautiful images of Ricky Martin, in B&W and color, in action and in the rehearsals. I have images of him dressed up and down, shirtless and in costume. I've released a handful but while it seems naive, I am surprised that THIS one took off like wildfire.

It's not that much of a surprise when you stop to think about it, but it does make me question:
Do we need to show more nudity for our work to be seen on Instagram and online? Check out the video and let me know your thoughts!

This video is relevant whether you are photographing a celebrity or new model. For me it has nothing to do with Ricky. It's just that THIS picture went crazy online and I realized what everyone else probably already knew...skin is in. You have to show skin to gain attention. I am PROUD of this work with him and all my clients but for a minute I have to stop and ask myself if I need to shoot more nudity for exposure? Watch the video for my thoughts and please let me know what you think.

So I have a bunch of questions that I do discuss and I'd love photographer input (even those not in photography)

  1. Have you ever intentionally photographed more skin so the image is popular on Instagram?

  2. Where do you stand on the subject? Do you stay on brand or change your branding for exposure?

  3. Do you shoot with Instagram in mind or your portfolio (assuming they are different)

  4. Do you feel art left photography?

Read more about this story https://howtophotograph.net/photoshoo...

See my Ricky Martin Gallery http://www.walidazami.com/ricky-martin/

RickyMartinNaked.jpg