SPPP’s March Meeting and Photo Shoot

By Ingrid Samson

The Society of Portrait Photographers’ meeting last March 14, 2011 was an eventful one. There were lots of alcohol and fats consumed, there was talk of nudity, and there was also some spray paint, and uncensored swearing involved.

Early on, everyone feasted on beer and lechon, courtesy of birthday celebrants Boy Samson, Stan Abainza, and Lito Remulla. What better way to start the night, than on a healthy note, right? Most people were still high from the recently concluded ‘Naic Photo Escapade’, and some participants came armed with their photo contest entries.

Richel Mascariñas, Mon Ching, and Charming Baldemor served as judges. Winners were recognized in three categories: Bodyscape/Nude, Glamour, and Bridal. Congratulations to Ed Banaga and Nancy Lim (tie), Ferdie Flores, and SPPP President Orly Mercado for leading the roster at 1st place for each category respectively.

Of course everyone also came that night in full anticipation of the photo shoot. This time, SPPP’s Jeng Flores came with trusty hair stylist Martini. Together they transformed beautiful Perch Dianne, into a bizarrely stunning model, just perfect for this month’s Avant Garde theme.

But let’s go to the swearing, shall we? More congratulations are in order as Nancy Lim and Lito Remulla, transitioned from being probationary members to bona fide regular ones. They swore their oath and were presented their SPPP Certificate of Membership. Ed Banaga and Dr. Lillian Ebuen also presented their photo entries as a requirement in becoming regular members. We look forward to having them, and more probationary members join the line-up of regular SPPP members in the near future.

Lights, Camera… Shoot!

By Ingrid Samson

Road trip to a beautiful secluded farm, four gorgeous models, and many talented photographers. These are the main ingredients to the successful, fun-filled Naic Photo Escapade organized by one of the premier photography clubs in the country, the Society of Portrait Photographers of the Philippines (SPPP). Joined by several eager participants, SPPP headed to Lopez Farm in Naic, Cavite, on March 5, 2011. It was just a 1-hour drive from Manila, but seeing the vast expanse of lush green fields, and the relaxing nipa huts in the farm was a welcome delight after the group’s journey.

SPPP is composed of photographers of all shapes and sizes, from all walks of life. They are fortunate to have among them, one of the most sought after make-up artists in the country, Jennifer Flores, who is also the better half of SPPP Vice President Ferdie Flores. Jeng, as Ms. Flores is fondly called, wasted no time and started working on the models while President Orly Mercado delivered a quick orientation of the day’s proceedings. Ibarra Deri, who is one of the founding members of SPPP, gave some tips on using different camera settings and taking effective photos. After this, everyone was divided into four groups.

Never mind the rain, things started to sizzle as the photo shoot kicked off with the sexy models wearing their swimsuits. The much-awaited and always challenging Nude/Bodyscape Photography came next. The models were all very professional, not to mention patient, complying with the photographers’ various requests and instructions, while having to put up with the rain, and on some instances, uninvited six-legged visitors.

There was still much to be done, so after a hearty lunch facilitated by SPPP probationary member James Dy, the groups got the ball rolling again with Glamour, followed by Bridal Photography. The participants had a grand time capturing photos of the girls in stunning dresses and gowns designed by Jazel Sy. As darkness started to fall, everyone had dinner while Ferdie Flores gave a mini lecture on Wedding Photography. He showed an audio-visual presentation of some of his best wedding shots, including the photos of the newly-wed daughter of Ibarra Deri, Dail. As the night wore on, exciting raffle prizes were given away. Everyone was also given a surprise treat, as another SPPP founding member and magician extraordinaire Boy Samson showcased his magical prowess, leaving the participants baffled and very much entertained after a tiring day.

SPPP holds monthly competitions, and the winners for last month’s contest were awarded that night, led by Sonny Kabigting (1^st place) and Ed Banaga (2^nd and 3^rd place). This photo shoot is no different, as participants will also compete in the three categories: Bodyscape, Glamour, and Bridal. Photo entries will be judged during the club’s next meeting. For shutterbugs who are interested in joining SPPP, they meet every first Monday of the month, at F5 Studio in Mandaluyong City.

SPPP thanks their models, Lynyl Tenedero, Mary Catherine Boldo, Angelhaine Noblejas, and Daisy Jane Castor. Special thanks also go to the sponsors who made this event possible, Aperture Trading, Albums & Co., Jazel Sy Fashion Shop, and Abacus Microcomputers.

Participants to SPPP's Naic Photo Escapade at Lopez Farm on March 5, 2011.











Stunning gowns by Jazel Sy. Models from left to right Catherine Boldo, Daisy Jane Castor, Lynyl Tenedero, and Angelhaine Noblejas.














Thanks to the very beautiful make-up artist (center) Jeng Flores.












Winners to our February 2011 photo contest.













Magic show by SPPP adviser Boy Samson.

Participants to Naic photo escapade had fun shooting our models Jane, Lhaine, Ming and Lyn.

Bridal gowns courtesy of Jazel Sy fashion shop.

SPPP conducts another photo workshop at Lopez Farm, Naic, Cavite.

Naic photo escapade at Lopez Farm.

More visuals on Naic photo escapde.

SPPP President Orly Mercado welcomes everyone to Naic Photo Escapade. Ibarra Deri talks on taking effective photos while Jeng Flores puts on make-up on model Lhaine. Dr. Sharon Ga and Nancy Lim handle groupings of the participants. Ferdie Flores lectures on bridal photography.

To all SPPP's Naic Photo Escapade participants, members, probees, officers, lecturers, models, make-up artist, designer, sponsors and everyone who has helped and made this event possible, thank you so much.


Photos courtesy of Bing Budiao.