The Mane

*Canon EOS300 + Ilford FP4+

Model: M.

(This week I'm not commenting the Photosynthesis images I will publish but rather am letting my models comment them and talk about the experience of shooting for this project.)

I was first made aware of “Photosynthesis" through a friend who had modeled for Ben. I was enthralled at first sight. I loved the gentleness that transpired in the pictures and asked for details. My friend explained the technique used, and I decided I wanted to be part of the project – despite the fact that I had never posed in my life and am terribly shy. ME? Naked? In front of a camera held by a complete stranger? Why not if you love the concept… Sometimes we just have to trust our feelings.

And I was right to. I enjoyed the shoot, the way Ben makes you feel relaxed, explaining his process, how he pulls you into the project, aware of the steps and also… aware of the surprises that can come out! The beauty of this double exposure technique is exactly this. You can do your best to make it work but… the final result is unknown! You only can try to mix the ingredients in a proper way!

In that process you get to discover yourself “as seen by the artist”. It's a new way to consider your own silhouette. It turned out to be fun, especially because of the gentle way in which Ben makes you feel in a nature related mood.

The days between the shooting and the image being ready were like waiting for a cake to be ready. When I finally saw the images… surprise overwhelmed me. The gentleness of some of the images, where I saw myself melt with flowers or plants, it left me speechless. And of course the fails... Did I really have to close my eyes in that moment? It was a roller coaster of emotions like I'd rarely experienced before; I had never looked at myself in such a way. Different poses, expressions, lights and shadows… mixed with nature. It was just lovely.

I was right to follow my feelings, to put my trust in this wonderful project, to get in touch with someone I discovered in the following weeks, to be not only very professional but also a gentle soul and a good friend.