Fashion photographer Nicole Pagan from Puerto Rico emailed me an amazing, dreamy portfolio – ethereal, beautiful, and brilliant.

What was growing up in Puerto Rico like? How has it affected your artistic endeavors?

Growing up in Puerto Rico was wonderful. It’s such a beautiful place covered with so many beautiful places. It’s the perfect location to go on vacation.

My love for photography originated from the first photography I remember taking –  a beautiful photo of the ocean. It was that photo that made me think about pursuing photography as a carrer. Puerto Rico has had a profound effect on my life and my photography inspiration.

Photographing Dreams  

Top 5 tips for fashion photography:

1)  Get to know your subject, In this case your model.

2)  At least two weeks of preparation.

3) Know what you want and don’t be afraid to give directions.

4) Scout your location

5) Props, lots and lots of props.

 

Where do you get your models from? How do you decide which model is right for you?

I get my models from Model Mayhem and Boston Models Inc. Since I moved to Boston a couple of months ago, I didn’t know anybody so I started searching on the internet and showing my work to potential models. I decide which model is right for me by writing my ideas or even drawing them, then visualizing the look of the model in my head and seeing if it fits.

 

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from spontaneous visions I have every once in a while. Thats why I always carry a note pad with me and is full with all my ideas. Movies and books also inspire me for some of my work.

 

What equipment do you use? Do you use any studio equipment?

I use a Canon 7D and a Canon 5D mark II with a couple of prime lenses. The Canon 50mm 1.4 is my favorite lens of all time. In addition, I use the Canon 24-70mm and a 50mm 1.8. I use a ProPhoto studio kit but I prefer to shoot “On location” with maybe one flash and reflectors. I love the outdoors, since you can transform and manipulate your surroundings to reconstruct many different places. For example: you can make a beach look like a desert by making a pile of sand and putting your subject on top of it.

What do you plan on doing with your photography later?

I have so many big dreams. I plan to be successful with my photography. I see myself working for a magazine or a big fashion company. I want to have gallery shows all over the world to show my art. And no matter what happens, I will never stop shooting.

 

THINK YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE FEATURED AS OUR NEXT TEEN PHOTOGRAPHER?

Email Us: justin@teenagephotographer.com. Send a short bio about yourself, 5 photos you think best displays your portfolio, and your name, age, and country/state/province of residence. If we’re impressed, you may be featured as our next Showcased Teen Photographer.

See all showcases here

Justin Lai

Justin Lai

I'm a sixteen year old photographer from Austin, Texas. I launched Teen Photo in the summer of 2011, the first website dedicated to the growth and collaboration of young photographers. Since then, the site has grown enormously and garnered a lot of support in the photo industry. You can check out my other project, a new magazine for young adults and adolescents at www.neosmagazine.com.