Obsessing Over Obsession
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Do you remember naughty photos? Not the highly stylized soft core Playboy shoots with too perfect models and unrealistic boudoir settings. Nor the vulgar money shot based, "nothing is too extreme" style of modern hard core porn. Honest to goodness naughty photos, of real girls in probable situations. Girls that you might actually know. For some reason, these were more tantalizing than the over produced glossy magazine shots that appealed to the masses.
We recently had the opportunity to review a new collection of precisely that kind of photo. "Obsession" by Martin Rafael Class. Martin takes a truly refreshing swipe at classic black and white photos of pretty, and yet obtainable girls.
While definitely leaning towards the darker side of bondage, Martin also manages to explore some more classic pin up themes such as the "Soldier Girl" and the "School Girl". Throughout it all, there is a feeling of sentimental familiarity. There is a place in our memories where these girls still frolic at the whim of our imaginations.
While "There is nothing new under the sun" is a very true statement, Martin manages to take classic themes and ideas and refresh them in compelling ways. Think of it not so much as a revamped hotrod, but as a vintage ride restored and improved. The photos in "Obsession" are less a caricature then a retouched portrait of our past.
Probably the most endearing aspect of Martin's work is his reluctance to move to modern equipment. Still firmly entrenched in the land of film and chemical dark rooms, the film grain and intense contrast lend themselves perfectly to Martin's unique interpretation of the female form.
Traditional film-based photography is a dying art form, so if you have even the slightest desire to taste a last little bit while you still can, now is your chance. "Obsession" is a first rate offering from a first rate photographer, in a world that is rapidly descending into third rate pedestrian consumer driven drivel.
Kudos Martin and keep up the great work. We'll be watching.
Be sure to check out Martin's RetroKitten Profile, and of course, his website.
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- DJ Krause 5/04/2008 16:57 went to the website... beautiful BEAUTIFUL work!
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