Photographer Shaun Simpson lives and works in one of the most beautiful places in the world, Nova Scotia Canada. You can see a little of Nova Scotia in these shots of 21 year old Brian Stever but province, almost completely surrounded by the Atlantic has one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. Although the landscapes are amazing, the weather can be a challenge.
'The short 'warm' season of Atlantic Canada means that most of the shoots take place indoors, but whenever the weather is helpful, shooting outside provides an amazing range of shooting locations, and stunning scenery.'
SS
Nova Scotia has a huge community of artists but for photographers, especially for those who shoot fashion, the opportunities can be limited. Canada's fashion industry is mostly centered in Toronto and to a lesser extent Montreal.
'The fashion industry is limited here, but even more limited is the selection of male models that are comfortable with fashion, and enjoy being in front of the camera. Finding someone like Brian who enjoys working in the studio, outdoors, and basically working under any condition is always a joyous occasion.'
SS
Shaun describes himself as a 'computer geek'. Originally from New Brunswick, Shaun moved to Halifax about 10 years ago and shortly after the move began spending more and more time with his camera, and even more time with Photoshop.
'My background is in computer network engineering; I'm a self-taught photographer, never received any training in photography, Photoshop, or really any form of the arts.'
SS
Initially Shaun's work started with still life, landscapes, and pets.
'Things that wouldn't move too quickly, and would give me plenty of time to learn the proper focus and lighting required. After years of still life, and tons of trial and error, I decided to take on the challenge of photographing people; men's fashion being my primary area of interest.'
SS
When going through Shaun's portfolio (which I strongly encourage you all to do), my initial interest was looking for a model to feature with his work. Before hitting 'enter' on his model portfolio's I got detained in his 'pet' section and even more so with Shaun's still life shots. As soon as you open the page, even before choosing one particular shot to view you are hit by the beauty of shape, Shaun's use of scale and most of all light and color.
Once I did finally make my way to Shaun's model portfolios I knew it was Brian Stever I wanted to focus on. Brian, who is an actor as well as a model has such a great face, body and of course that hair that the camera, especially the lens of Shaun Simpson obviously loves. Brian has a great body which works well for fitness and underwear but it was Shaun's work with Brian in 'quieter' moments where he really shines. His beautiful blue eyes, especially when looking off create great moments. The series in front of the hotel window, black and white with natural lighting, are my favorites out of the many shoots Shaun and Brian have done together.
You can check out Brian Stever on MM HERE:
'Brian is quite possibility one of the most ambitious, energetic, confident, and friendliest people I've ever met. I don't think I've ever suggested a scenario or concept that he did sound excited to tackle. He's an award/prize winning athlete, which becomes obvious by looking at his physique, but never comes across as cocky or arrogant. He recently placed as the Top Male Model in the Nova Scotia Model search, and is starting to receive attention and interest in the modeling and acting world.'
SS
Thanks to Shaun Simpson for sharing his work with FH!
Be sure to check out more of Shaun's work at his official site HERE: or on Facebook HERE:
