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We are happy to announce the June AIBP Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.

This month’s guest judge is Nino Batista.Nino Batista, a visionary in fashion, editorial erotica and sensual portraiture, has crafted a remarkable artistic journey. Exploring and working in graphic design, music and audio production, guitar, and ultimately in 2009, Nino officially embraced photography, setting the stage for his exploration of captivating, intimate portraiture.

Nino Batista’s remarkable story embodies the transformative power of passion and dedication, and his contributions as a photographer, educator, and the visionary behind NBP Retouch Tools have left an indelible imprint on the industry, inspiring others to overcome personal obstacles and find their creative voice.

And the winner is….

Kristina Daugherty – KJBoudoir

Congratulations to Kristina Daugherty from KJBoudoir based in Chesterfield VA.

Nino’s selected this image because “This one got me at first because I could not tell where the mirror was. I knew there had to be one, but it just looked like two subjects staring at each other across the room. Once I sorted out what was going on, I especially enjoyed how the concept was treated with a serious tone. Lingerie and that mask could go very campy very fast, but it didn’t, and the overall tone here and the post production work keeping it moody and subdued, really works very well. It’s bold and borders on erotica, and that is definitely never a bad thing.”

James Graf

1st runner up is James Graf.

Nino’s comments on this image “At first I was hesitant to select this one, but it’s pure glamour, and in that regard it works so well. I like the slightly overexposed background, I like the absurdity of the outfit (yay, glamour!) And the subject face not being seen. Adds a sort of air of mystery to it, and keeps it from being cheesy (which in this scenario could have happened easily). It’s sexy and well produced, and evokes even an odd storytelling element.”

Amy Laskye – Amy May Photography

2nd runner up is Amy Laskye of Amy May Photography.

Nino’s comments on this image “I am always partial to detail shots as they usually add some intimate intensity, and I especially like the various textures going on here. I think monochrome was a great choice as well. Highlights and shadows are kept very nicely in check, and that there’s plenty of contrast but everything is very clear. Very sensual but also fine art like.”

Congratulations to the winners of the Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.  We look forward to seeing more amazing work from you and more AIBP members! Thank you so much to Nino for being out guest judge for July.  We know it’s never easy to select winning images as we have so many talented photographers.

Are you interested in learning more about AIBP and how to be eligible to win a Monthly Choice? Visit our AIBP membership page to learn more.

Members – login to your account to enter your images.

We are happy to announce the June AIBP Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.

This month’s guest judge is Justin Benson from Aftershoot!

Justin Benson is a Wedding Photographer based out of Connecticut, as well as the Co-founder of Aftershoot, an Ai Culling and Editing Software. With a keen eye for lighting, his work embodies traditional wedding photography with a splash of a light and drama. In 2020, his focus turned to giving photographers their precious time back utilizing Ai tools to enhance their workflows.

And the winner is….

Emma Carter – Pittsburgh Luxury Boudoir

Congratulations to Emma Carter from Pittsburgh Luxury Boudoir based in Pittsburg PA

Justin selected this image as the winning image because “The color, light, framing, expression, retouching. It’s just fantastic! The image really pops and evokes emotion.”

Niki Schaller – Niki Jade Boudoir

1st runner up is Niki Schaller from Niki Jade Boudoir based in Michigan.

Justin’s comments on this image “Beautiful light, the pose and composition. It gives the feeling and energy of a soft and intimate moment that the viewer has been invited a glimpse of.”

Heather Glenn – Elysian Bloom Boudoir

2nd runner up is Heather Glenn of Elysian Bloom Boudoir based in Dallas, Texas.

Justin selected this image because it has  “Beautiful light and editing. Every time you look at the photo, you discover a little bit more beyond the subjects face that draws all of the attention, while leaving your eye to find the rest.”

Maria Turner – Black Diamond Boudoir

This month also has an Honorable Mention, Maria Turner of Black Diamond Boudoir based in Houston, Texas

Comments from Justin on this Honorable Mention “Beautiful use of light, and negative space. A great photo indeed, but the pose and face position are just a bit shy of perfection. A little tweak to the pose and this could easily have been in competition for 1st place as well!”

Congratulations to the winners of the Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.  We look forward to seeing more amazing work from you and more AIBP members! Thank you so much to Justin for being out guest judge for July.  We know it’s never easy to select winning images as we have so many talented photographers.

Are you interested in learning more about AIBP and how to be eligible to win a Monthly Choice? Visit our AIBP membership page to learn more.

Members – login to your account to enter your images.

We are happy to announce the June AIBP Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.

This month’s guest judge is Craig LaMere of Craig LaMere Photography & MOZ Studios.

A bit about Craig:

“I’ve been a full time professional photographer for 13 years. I’m based in Pocatello, Idaho where I run my full time studio. In those years I’ve been blessed to spend some of my time traveling the world shooting in amazing places and meeting incredible people. I have been an educator for 9 years teaching shooters my process of photography. I have been lucky enough to teach and speak at most of the major conferences in our industry as well as many of the state professional guilds. I have also been lucky enough throughout my travels to eat yummy food, drink great bourbon and have the best time ever. My greatest strength as a shooter has been coming from a place where I could not specialize in one genre. Being based in Idaho I have had to master many types of shooting, lighting, posing and post processing to be able to be a full time shooter. I take a lot of pride in my versatility and feel that’s what makes me the shooter I am.”

Craig is also a past educator at AIBP Retreats and a featured Educator with UAF Photo Lab.

And the Monthly Choice Winner is…..

Jean Tully – Adored Boudoir Photography

Congratulations to Jean Tully from Adored Boudoir Photography based in Columbus OH.

Craig comments on the winning image “I think this a great example of less is more. I really like the story telling aspects of the image. It’s simple, but powerful and harder to pull off than you might think. The artist did a great job of managing the highlights and shadows. With images like this, it’s SUPER EASY to have the highlights in the white shirt and skin overpower the image with hotspots and loose detail. The fall off in the image is nicely executed. The transitions from detail to darkness is beautifully. I also think they used depth of field in a good way to lead us to the focal point. Really nice job.”

Kara Dunn – Midnight Sun Boudoir

1st runner up goes to Kara Dunn of  Midnight Sun Boudoir based in PA.

Craig selected this image “I really like the form of this image. The use of light to highlight her shape is great. I like the way the artist used restraint in bringing the light around TOO FAR. To me, it’s in the middle of split light and rim. They were able to create mood by putting the right amount to light on the right places. I find the toning of the image beautiful. The warm pallet adds to the image. I don’t think it would be as strong if it were BW. The use of the couch to accent her form and separate her from the background is nicely done. Whether is was by design or not the way the couch is lit on each side is really perfect. Nice job.”

Heather Glenn – Elysian Bloom Boudoir

2nd runner up image is from Heather Glenn from Elysian Bloom Boudoir based in Dallas, TX.

Craig’s comments on this image. “The story telling of the image is strong here. I really like the use of light to shape her form. The artist made a really nice choice to use a softer and larger light source. The light is perfectly placed on the point of interest. The contrast in the image is awesome too. Just enough detail to see all that is going on with the chains and straps, but dark enough to create shape and mood. I like how the light is reflecting in a the metal parts of the wardrobe to give some pop. The other thing to note is the harness is perfectly fitted. A lot of times these details not noticed and take away from the overall image if it’s too tight creating an indentation or too loose and look sloppy. Nice job.”

Congratulations to the winners of the Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.  We look forward to seeing more amazing work from you and more AIBP members!

Are you interested in learning more about AIBP and how to be eligible to win a Monthly Choice? Visit our AIBP membership page to learn more.

Members – login to your account to enter your images.

We are happy to announce the April AIBP Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.

Our guest judge for May is Kiati Plooksawasdi. Kiati is a Sponsored Educator with UAF Photo Lab, an award Winning Boudoir Portrait and Dance Photographer at Kiati Plooks Photography based in Ellicott City, MD.

He’s passionate about creating beautiful art through the lens and helping entrepreneurs fulfill their dreams of starting up a business and becoming successful!  Kiati loves to educate, whether it is the art of photography, light, posing and editing or on developing their business strategies he is always willing to spend time to help. To learn more about Kiati’s educational offerings, visit Kiati Plooks Photography.

And the Monthly Choice Winner is…..

Heather Glenn – Elysian Bloom Boudoir

Congratulations to Heather Glenn of Elysian Bloom Boudoir based in Dallas TX.

Kiati’s comments on this image “Oftentimes a detail shot Is something we do as an add-on shot that plays a supporting role in the story of the session displayed in an album, but not in this case. This image definitely stands out as a centerpiece. Beautiful use of light and shadow to sculpt the body. I love the tones and I can easily see this as a large wall art. ”

Brianna Ellis – Brianna Lane Boudoir

1st Runner up for May is Brianna Ellis from Brianna Lane Boudoir based in Stillwater, MN.

Kiati’s thoughts on this image,”I love how the leading lines of the frame of the body draws the viewer to the tush as the focal point. The play between the dark on the left and the light on right also frames the body well. Another well crafted art piece that would be beautiful printed on the wall or displayed on the desk. As an anonymous image, this image will work both as a landscape as well as a portrait ”

Brianna Ellis – Brianna Lane Boudoir

2nd runner up is another image by Brianna Ellis from Brianna Lane Boudoir based in Stillwater, MN.

Kiati’s comments on this image, “You can feel the raw sensual emotion in this image. The subject is fully present in her thoughts and you can see that in the details of her pose. You can see the sensual tension in her shoulders through the pop of her collarbone and through her arms and fingers. The contrast of the red and white is beautifully balanced and that is carried through not only in the sheets and her outfit but also through the light and it transitions across her skin. Well done!”

Congratulations to the winners of the Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.  We look forward to seeing more amazing work from you and more AIBP members!

Are you interested in learning more about AIBP and how to be eligible to win a Monthly Choice? Visit our AIBP membership page to learn more.

Members – login to your account to enter your images.

We are happy to announce the April AIBP Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.

Guest judge for this month is Marietta Hardwick, owner of Etta Boudoir in Chicago’s North Suburbs. She has been helping women tell their unique story through boudoir photography exclusively since 2012. Marietta is also part of the UAF Photo Lab team. As the Trade show and Event Director, be sure to visit if you attend any of the upcoming trade shows.

And the Monthly Choice Winner is…..

Crystal Thompson – Beyond Boudoir Studio

Congratulations to Crystal Thompson from Beyond Boudoir Studio based in Mims, Florida

Marietta selected this image because it “beautifully captures the sensual and inviting atmosphere of a male subject lying down suggestively in his private moment of bliss on a plush velvet blue sofa. The soft natural light gently accentuates the subject’s curves and muscles, creating a seductive and intimate ambiance. The composition skillfully balances the subject’s masculinity and vulnerability, drawing the viewer into the scene and evoking a sense of intimacy and connection. Overall, the photograph showcases the photographer’s technical and artistic expertise and it drew me in. Great Job!”

Maria Turner – Black Diamond Boudoir

1st runner up is Maria Turner of Black Diamond Boudoir based in Houston, TX.

Marietta selected this image because “it it’s crisp lines and color choices alongside a variety of textures serves as. the perfect backdrop to the simplicity of an exquisitely lit subject in simple white.”

Amanda Mundy – Lovers Of Love Boudoir

2nd runner up is Amanda Mundy of Lovers Of Love Boudoir.

Marietta’s comments on this image “While I am not usually into thematic boudoir shoots with considerable props; this theme was masterfully executed with props to match that add to the feel and sensuality of the moment. The posing and composition were also done very well and all technical aspects were fantastic.”

Congratulations to the Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.  We look forward to seeing more amazing work from you and more AIBP members!

Are you interested in learning more about AIBP and how to be eligible to win a Monthly Choice? Visit our AIBP membership page to learn more.

Members – login to your account to enter your images.

We are happy to announce the March AIBP Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.

Our guest judge this week is Jacquline Tobin.

Jacqueline Tobin has worked in the photo industry for the past 37 years, kickstarting her illustrious career at the industry bible Photo District News and quickly moving up the editorial ladder there, as Associate Editor, Photo Editor, Managing Editor and, finally, Deputy Editor. After 25 years at PDN, Jacqueline was handpicked by then publisher Lauren Wendle to take over PDN‘s sister publication, Rangefinder, where she served as Editor-in-Chief for 12 years and successfully transitioned the 70-year-old print magazine in 2020 to a thriving website and digital brand. During this time, she managed to write two successful photo business books—Wedding Photography Unveiled: Inspiration and Insight From 20 Top Photographers (Amphoto, 2009) and The Luminous Portrait: Capture The Beauty of Natural Light for Glowing, Flattering Photographs (with Elizabeth Messina, Amphoto, 2012)—with the latter publishing as a second edition in Chinese. In 2022, she had the honor speaking at AIBP’s first photo retreat under the ownership of Shawn and Michelle Black, on How to Get Published. Jacqueline is a fierce supporter of photographers and is constantly on the lookout to discover new

And the Monthly Choice Winner is…..

Ari Leo – Vivid Instincts Photography

Congratulations to Ari Leo owner and photographer at Vivid Instincts Photography based in Rhode Island.

Jacqueline’s comments on this winning image, “There are several reasons I chose this as my number one pick: the location, the subject’s reflection, the calm mood being exuded overall…. I can almost hear the waves lapping on the shore. It just feels so peaceful, and she looks so comfortable yet still sexy. I am really drawn in by her eyes and the connection made within the frame. I personally don’t see many, if any, boudoir shots out on the beach so I applaud the photographer for getting out of the studio and using this gorgeous backdrop that doesn’t compete with the subject but rather makes her stand out.”

Michelle Carpenter – Michelle Carpenter Photography

1st runner up goes to  Michelle Carpenter owner and photographer at Michelle Carpenter Photography based in New England.

Jacqueline’s comments on this runner up image, “For me, this is a great example of creating an impactful image in a boring location. I love the lighting and I love the club vibe being created in, of all places, a stairwell! I am always drawn to storytelling in the images that most draw me in and here I feel like everything here is working to establish an intriguing narrative. The image elicits questions that each viewer may have a different answer for—I love that. Also loving the editorial quality of the image.”

Melisa Berlin – Inner Glow Boudoir

2nd runner up image goes to Merissa Belin of  Inner Glow Boudoir based in Houston TX.

Jacqueline’s comments on this image, “This could absolutely a fashion spread in a magazine and is a good example of boudoir that, again, tells a story. There’s a good use of props here that work so well with the lingerie the subject is wearing, and with the feathery wings behind her. The lighting is moody and dreamy, and her expression looks to be one of longing. The subtle nuances here are so engaging.”

And finally, this year the judges have the opportunity to recognize Honorable Mention images. Jacqueline selected 1 from the entries for March.

James Graf

Honorable Mention goes to James Graf.

Jacqueline’s comments “Such an empowering image from beginning to end—the location sets the scene and stirs within me a proud warrior woman in a castle-like atmosphere. The posing is strong and really makes her pop without feeling forced.”

Congratulations to the Monthly Choice Image Competition sponsored by UAF Photo Lab.  We look forward to seeing more amazing work from you and more AIBP members!

Are you interested in learning more about AIBP and how to be eligible to win a Monthly Choice? Visit our AIBP membership page to learn more.
Members – login to your account to enter your images.