He gave Tempo a behind the scenes look into “Fashionova” a 5 Feet Productions event that featured photography, modeling and design, and one that he expects will be held annually and developed into its own brand.
Tell us about Fashionova 2011
Fashionova is a fashion event with a difference. The idea was that models of any size and age could participate by getting their portfolio clicked by about 30 photographers and then walk the ramp in designer wear. We realized that people love posing for the camera but may be shy because of their size or because they don’t know what to do in front of the camera. That was how Phase 1 of the event began.
Men and women of any age or size participated, learned how to pose and modeled, and were given a fabulous portfolio at the end. The photography student were trained by renowned photographer, Binu Bhaskar, on how to take portfolio pictures.
This led to Phase 2 which included training the models to walk the ramp, and teaching the photographers how to create commercial photography. Commercial photography covered products, architecture, wildlife, still life, landscapes etcetera. The photographers got invited to the design studios with their pictures and were taught how to take better pictures. This included touch up work, how to figure out better camera settings, lighting for a better shot, etc. For the models, it was about wearing designer clothes and getting trained to walk the ramp by Ajay Ashok. Phase 1 shoots happened on 22 and 23 July at Lighthouse Studio, Dubai and on 29 and 30 July 2011 at the Millennium Hotel, Abu Dhabi and, because of immense demand, another shoot took place on 12 August at Lighthouse Studio, Dubai.
Binu, tell us about yourself and your experience with Fashionova 2011.
I am photographer but I also consider myself to be an artist. I have a degree in photography from Melbourne and I participated in a number of commercial shoots over there. But over the past six or so years I have been focusing on my art. It was through my art shows that I met Vibhu and the 5 Feet team. I had done quite a few shows in Dubai and I started workshops which wer more about connecting photography with art. Through these workshops I talked to Vibhu and he asked me to train the photographers for Fashionova. I was delighted to do it because I like the energy of the 5 Feet team. They are keen to bring something new to the market and I hope it works out for them. I was only here for the first two photo shoots and I won’t be here for the fashion show but I have enjoyed my time with the models and photographers.
Ajay, what was your role in Fashionova.
I am a fashion choreographer and model trainer. I’m here to style the shoots and train the models on how to walk the ramp with grace and confidence. I loved the idea that men and women of any age and size could participate in this event. It helped reach out to those that may never be models but can learn how to be one through these workshops. It helps by increasing self confidence and helping them develop a positive attitude about themselves. It is also an experience they will never forget.
This is what the photographers had to say about the experience:
Firoze Edassery- every element of the workshop was superb. Binu Bhaskar backed with the 5 Feet Production team made it informative and entertaining. Binu has the ability to communicate complicated lighting, composing and framing concepts with incredible ease. We had a good shoot at Light House with models who were trained equally well. It was worth every Dirham! I learned a lot about studio lighting and portfolio shoots and I had a great time having met great people.
Nelson Davis- I am an amateur and I’m happy I got the privilege to learn from the best in the industry. The way the workshops were organized and how the knowledge was communicated was great. The workshops have helped me take my photographic interests to a new level.
And the models:
Vimal Vijayan- Fashionova was a great experience. It gave me the opportunity to work with highly professional people and share their experiences. It was fun and exciting. I think it’s good for aspiring models who want to learn about the fashion industry and for photographers who want to learn different concepts and techniques.
Reshma Khan- When I heard about Fashionova I jumped at the opportunity because I have always wanted to get my portfolio taken by professional photographers. I am extremely glad I did. They taught me how to pose and corrected my expressions and now I have photographs that make me do a double take to make sure they are mine!
Sheetal More- Fashionova was not only about learning but about having fun. I got the opportunity to interact with professionals from the industry and I am thankful to 5 Feet for organizing this event.
By Sharon Carvalho
