These friends of mine are powerlifters and when they made their announcement for their engagement, I immediately thought of shooting at the gym where they work out. We had a great time despite the cold and ended up speading several hours trying different set-ups. I think the results speak for themselves!
They both have the unusual quality of being able to look into the camera. Many are unnerved by a camera's laser-like focus, as if the camera were able to capture skeletons in the closet. But this couple not only looked directly at the camera, but
through it. Literally looking through the looking glass!
I like the grittiness of this photo - it speaks more of the realistic nature of relationships than a polished photo. And it has a believable tenderness that transcends what our ideas of perfection are - which is a fantasy to be sure.
The "American Gothic" for powerlifters. This is certainly not a typical engagement shot but I like it nonetheless. It has as a quiet power and tension that is very expressive. There is so much at work here - a delightful play of directness and hidden secrets.
This shot says a lot without the fuss. It's humorous. It's direct. And it pulls no punches. Personality plus.
