![Chad Flakoll of Risqe Factor Models this is a shoutout to you! Everybody’s always looking for somebody to shoot with and somebody to experiment with who can push the envolope… here’s Chad of Risqe Factor. Not everyone can qualify as a photographer. Try point and shooting yourself! The name of his company pretty much speaks for itself (defined below). But you have my vote of confidence that Chad will do his best to assure that you’re satisfied. Read the interview below! [Chad’s Background] I began in film working as a PA, and then a grip, working on various independent films before taking a job at Warner Bros in their DVD department as a Production Coordinator on all Domestic and International DVD release titles starting with ‘City of Angels’ up until I left, with my final project being ‘Matrix Reloaded’. After starting Elasians in 2000, I began building model portfolios and running a website on the weekends until I left WB and moved onto doing more frequent freelance photoshoots, starting Xotiquex in 2002 and then Risqé Factor in 2003. After shutting down Elasians and Xotiquex in 2004, I shoot full time for Risqé Factor and am currently working on MAXX Magazine. *** I won’t be stereotyped and am always eager to try a different style! I believe that a varied portfolio is the true test of a creative and diversified photographer and I continue to strive to be both. I am always eager to try something new and am always open to ideas and themes that are different. I spell Risqé without the “u”, and here’s why: ris·qué –adjective daringly close to indelicacy or impropriety; off-color. Syn. - broad, gross, indecent, ribald Risqé Factor –adjective bold; courageous; intrepid; adventurous a style of photography that is not afraid to push the limits of creativity and sexuality a creative edge in vision or concept the willingness to continually step out of a “type” and endeavor a style that is continually changing and progressive My style is NOT Risqué, or raunchy. It is my OWN definition; ever changing and challenging; attempting to adapt and progress towards whatever “style” that is needed or fits the theme of whatever concept I am photographing. That’s why I don’t spell it with a “u”!
A little Q & A with Chad
Is this your primary job?
I actually work as a photographer at a photo studio during the day, but enjoy the freelance photography more. Having done over 5000 photoshoots at my job in just the past 6 years, I find it’s nice to get out of the studio and do more location work, whether indoor or outdoor, as it provides for a more unique atmostphere to coincide with the shoot premise.
What do you enjoy doing outside of photographing beautiful women?
I do a lot of work on the computer. I used to design websites, but found it took too much time between my job and my photography, now I just network a lot on myspace and chat with friends. I like watching movies, whether going to the theater or sitting at home watching a DVD. I also enjoy time with friends and special people in my life. My free time is dull without them!
How did you get your start?
By accident, or happenstance, really. I started attending model conventions and made friends with a number of models who relayed experiences with photographers who weren’t living up to their agreements. So I was asked to do photoshoots, as I already did photography, and kept meeting aspiring models who were looking for photos as a last minute necessity, and had tried to start a calendar shooting with various models. Well, the calendar never happened, but I built a good reputation and a striking portfolio.
Most people don’t dream of growing up to be photographers, what was your original dream as a kid?
I want to be a movie director. I haven’t completely given up on that yet, which is why I didn’t say “wanted to be”, I still want to direct movies. I love movies - the way they can take you away for just a while, to make everything in your life seem minor, and for just 2 hours, you get to be witness to another story, other than your own. I love the journey to far off worlds, science fiction, action to make my heart race, and even the sappy romance that makes me long for someone special. I could sit and watch movies all day long, and have. I love taking an idea, penning it to paper, putting together a cast and crew and making it a reality. There’s something magical about the journey, and about the final product. You get a sense of completion, unlike any other job!
What is your most prized piece of equipment for photography?
My camera. Couldn’t take pictures without it. Though, it frustrates me to no end as I am continually changing my settings to coincide with the environment I am shooting in. I don’t use the Program or Auto mode like some other photographers do.
What is most painstaking about your job?
Making the shoot happen. I swear it takes more energy to setup a shoot, discuss what’s to be shot and making it all happen, which too often takes more than one attempt, than the actual shoot itself. Ya, editing is a pain, but it’s fun to see the final product, especially when I had a specific concept in mind.
What is the most daring or experimental shoot that you’ve ever done that turned out great in your eyes?
Hmmm, daring… Beach shoots. Every beach shoot I’ve done has been somewhere we had to climb down to get to. Try doing that loaded up with equipment - camera bag (35 lbs), lights (2 that I have to carry), tripod and wardrobe bag. I’ve had to climb down and back up with all that. Not easy!As for experimental - 2 shoots, really. One with Gretta, her first shoot, conceptualized and shot pretty easy (before I blew my battery pack), with electricity surging around her (all done in photoshop, I wouldn’t risk the health of a model to do that live). And, the maternity shoot I did with Melissa Soria, done on a rainy day, clouds in the sky, wind blowing (she was a trooper as we shot 175 shots to get the right one), just to get the right shot and for me to edit a beam of light coming down from heaven to shine upon her. It was a magical shot, and everything turned out perfect. Melissa is wonderful to shoot with, and I shoot with her a lot!
Who is the one model you enjoy working with most, and why?
Melissa Soria. I met her 4 years ago and knew she was going to be great. She is such a trooper, doing whatever it takes to get the shot, regardless of the elements. I shoot with her a lot, not only because I know I will always get great results, but because we have so much fun together. We can hardly plan time to hang out that doesn’t revolve around a shoot concept (but we still get time to hang out doing other things). She is my muse. I love working with her and think she has so much potential to be a supermodel. I can’t wait to see that happen for her.
For most people, being a photographer affords you the opportunity to be very close to models, any encounters/experiences you mind sharing with us that would never have happened if not for this type of networking?
I have met, in my mind, some of the most beautiful women in the world, and had the opportunity to photograph them. I am very close to many of the models I have shot with, developing great friendships. A few, I consider family, and would do anything for. My first was a model named Roanna, my second photoshoot. She was my best friend for 10 years, becoming such a wonderful influence and angel in my life. I miss her greatly. She doesn’t model anymore and has stepped out of the limelight. Then Dee Tran, my kid sister (not literally) for nearly 5 years, who meant the world to me and shared experienes that I would only include family to share. It’s been a long time, and I miss her greatly. Then a model named Courtenay, who recently stopped modeling, who was my best friend the last 2 years. She’s left the drama behind, and many of her friends, so I don’t hear from her anymore. Gretta, a wonderful beauty who is truly captivating. It took a bit of encouragement to get her to model, but after a stern talk after she flaked out on a shoot, she made a decision to model and we have shot numerous times and got great work from it. We’ll be shooting again soon! And Lexi, who moved to LA a few years ago. One of the first models that I got close to after moving to Northern California. A truly inspiring muse, and special friend, whom I’ve fought with on occasion, but never seem to have the heart to end a friendship. She means a lot to me and I miss her. She and I used to shoot a lot before she moved. I hope we do again once I move back to LA. Then there’s Melissa, who is my heart and soul of photography. I love shooting with her, and she inspires me constantly to keep doing it. She is such fun to shoot with, and always makes me feel like I could fly. I don’t know what I would do without her. I hope I never have to find out.
Does this line of work afford you the glamourous lifestyle you often portray?
Haha, good one. No. I’ve been broke since I started doing this. I pour all my money and energy into it, and until recently, wasn’t getting much attention for the work. But now I’m invigorated to get my work noticed and finally do what I should have been doing all along, not just networking, but putting myself out so people can see my work and want to work with me.
Whose work do you enjoy outside of your own?
There’s a number of photographers whom I admire - Rich Cutrone (NY), he has such a glamorous style; Eddie Baute (TX) whose varied portfolio style inspired me to vary my own portfolio; Dan Doyle (NY) whose work always has me amazed and always photographs the most beautiful models; Michael Rosen (IL) - such artistic style that truly captivates me; Questionmarc (NY) who always has such elaborate colors and styles, very creative look to his imagery; Johnny Crosslin (TX) - very glamorous style that should be in Playboy - WOW! And, Frizzycube (NY) - great imagery and graphics.
Why should models choose you for a shoot?
I think my portfolio speaks for itself, as far as creativity and style. I like trying new things, and the fact that I provide the wardrobe for 90% of my shoots. And, I like playing with a variety of locations, from rustic to urban. I can even do studio if that’s what the model is looking for. I’m fun to shoot with, and often take longer than most photographers do to do a shoot since the model and I are usually having a good time and talking while shooting. I feel I’m down to earth and easy to vibe with. I’ve shot from fully clothed to no clothes at all (not me, that is, I don’t shoot in the nude) and I’ve never had a model feel awkward to be either around me. I once had a model ask me - “So who’s going to tell me to get naked?” It was for her Playboy submission, she got accepted! :)
Links: Risqe-Factor.com | Myspace | maxxumeyz@risqe-factor.com](http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kqrgrxktwa1qzsslio1_500.jpg)
Chad Flakoll of Risqe Factor
Models this is a shoutout to you! Everybody’s always looking for somebody to shoot with and somebody to experiment with who can push the envolope… here’s Chad of Risqe Factor. Not everyone can qualify as a photographer. Try point and shooting yourself! The name of his company pretty much speaks for itself (defined below). But you have my vote of confidence that Chad will do his best to assure that you’re satisfied. Read the interview below!
[Chad’s Background]
I began in film working as a PA, and then a grip, working on various independent films before taking a job at Warner Bros in their DVD department as a Production Coordinator on all Domestic and International DVD release titles starting with ‘City of Angels’ up until I left, with my final project being ‘Matrix Reloaded’.
After starting Elasians in 2000, I began building model portfolios and running a website on the weekends until I left WB and moved onto doing more frequent freelance photoshoots, starting Xotiquex in 2002 and then Risqé Factor in 2003. After shutting down Elasians and Xotiquex in 2004, I shoot full time for Risqé Factor and am currently working on MAXX Magazine.
*** I won’t be stereotyped and am always eager to try a different style! I believe that a varied portfolio is the true test of a creative and diversified photographer and I continue to strive to be both. I am always eager to try something new and am always open to ideas and themes that are different.
I spell Risqé without the “u”, and here’s why:
ris·qué
–adjective
daringly close to indelicacy or impropriety; off-color. Syn. - broad, gross, indecent, ribald
Risqé Factor
–adjective
bold; courageous; intrepid; adventurous
a style of photography that is not afraid to push the limits of creativity and sexuality
a creative edge in vision or concept
the willingness to continually step out of a “type” and endeavor a style that is continually changing and progressive
My style is NOT Risqué, or raunchy. It is my OWN definition; ever changing and challenging; attempting to adapt and progress towards whatever “style” that is needed or fits the theme of whatever concept I am photographing. That’s why I don’t spell it with a “u”!
- A little Q & A with Chad
- Is this your primary job?
- I actually work as a photographer at a photo studio during the day, but enjoy the freelance photography more. Having done over 5000 photoshoots at my job in just the past 6 years, I find it’s nice to get out of the studio and do more location work, whether indoor or outdoor, as it provides for a more unique atmostphere to coincide with the shoot premise.
- What do you enjoy doing outside of photographing beautiful women?
- I do a lot of work on the computer. I used to design websites, but found it took too much time between my job and my photography, now I just network a lot on myspace and chat with friends. I like watching movies, whether going to the theater or sitting at home watching a DVD. I also enjoy time with friends and special people in my life. My free time is dull without them!
- How did you get your start?
- By accident, or happenstance, really. I started attending model conventions and made friends with a number of models who relayed experiences with photographers who weren’t living up to their agreements. So I was asked to do photoshoots, as I already did photography, and kept meeting aspiring models who were looking for photos as a last minute necessity, and had tried to start a calendar shooting with various models. Well, the calendar never happened, but I built a good reputation and a striking portfolio.
- Most people don’t dream of growing up to be photographers, what was your original dream as a kid?
- I want to be a movie director. I haven’t completely given up on that yet, which is why I didn’t say “wanted to be”, I still want to direct movies. I love movies - the way they can take you away for just a while, to make everything in your life seem minor, and for just 2 hours, you get to be witness to another story, other than your own. I love the journey to far off worlds, science fiction, action to make my heart race, and even the sappy romance that makes me long for someone special. I could sit and watch movies all day long, and have. I love taking an idea, penning it to paper, putting together a cast and crew and making it a reality. There’s something magical about the journey, and about the final product. You get a sense of completion, unlike any other job!
- What is your most prized piece of equipment for photography?
- My camera. Couldn’t take pictures without it. Though, it frustrates me to no end as I am continually changing my settings to coincide with the environment I am shooting in. I don’t use the Program or Auto mode like some other photographers do.
- What is most painstaking about your job?
- Making the shoot happen. I swear it takes more energy to setup a shoot, discuss what’s to be shot and making it all happen, which too often takes more than one attempt, than the actual shoot itself. Ya, editing is a pain, but it’s fun to see the final product, especially when I had a specific concept in mind.
- What is the most daring or experimental shoot that you’ve ever done that turned out great in your eyes?
- Hmmm, daring… Beach shoots. Every beach shoot I’ve done has been somewhere we had to climb down to get to. Try doing that loaded up with equipment - camera bag (35 lbs), lights (2 that I have to carry), tripod and wardrobe bag. I’ve had to climb down and back up with all that. Not easy!
As for experimental - 2 shoots, really. One with Gretta, her first shoot, conceptualized and shot pretty easy (before I blew my battery pack), with electricity surging around her (all done in photoshop, I wouldn’t risk the health of a model to do that live). And, the maternity shoot I did with Melissa Soria, done on a rainy day, clouds in the sky, wind blowing (she was a trooper as we shot 175 shots to get the right one), just to get the right shot and for me to edit a beam of light coming down from heaven to shine upon her. It was a magical shot, and everything turned out perfect. Melissa is wonderful to shoot with, and I shoot with her a lot! - Who is the one model you enjoy working with most, and why?
- Melissa Soria. I met her 4 years ago and knew she was going to be great. She is such a trooper, doing whatever it takes to get the shot, regardless of the elements. I shoot with her a lot, not only because I know I will always get great results, but because we have so much fun together. We can hardly plan time to hang out that doesn’t revolve around a shoot concept (but we still get time to hang out doing other things). She is my muse. I love working with her and think she has so much potential to be a supermodel. I can’t wait to see that happen for her.
- For most people, being a photographer affords you the opportunity to be very close to models, any encounters/experiences you mind sharing with us that would never have happened if not for this type of networking?
- I have met, in my mind, some of the most beautiful women in the world, and had the opportunity to photograph them. I am very close to many of the models I have shot with, developing great friendships. A few, I consider family, and would do anything for. My first was a model named Roanna, my second photoshoot. She was my best friend for 10 years, becoming such a wonderful influence and angel in my life. I miss her greatly. She doesn’t model anymore and has stepped out of the limelight. Then Dee Tran, my kid sister (not literally) for nearly 5 years, who meant the world to me and shared experienes that I would only include family to share. It’s been a long time, and I miss her greatly. Then a model named Courtenay, who recently stopped modeling, who was my best friend the last 2 years. She’s left the drama behind, and many of her friends, so I don’t hear from her anymore. Gretta, a wonderful beauty who is truly captivating. It took a bit of encouragement to get her to model, but after a stern talk after she flaked out on a shoot, she made a decision to model and we have shot numerous times and got great work from it. We’ll be shooting again soon! And Lexi, who moved to LA a few years ago. One of the first models that I got close to after moving to Northern California. A truly inspiring muse, and special friend, whom I’ve fought with on occasion, but never seem to have the heart to end a friendship. She means a lot to me and I miss her. She and I used to shoot a lot before she moved. I hope we do again once I move back to LA. Then there’s Melissa, who is my heart and soul of photography. I love shooting with her, and she inspires me constantly to keep doing it. She is such fun to shoot with, and always makes me feel like I could fly. I don’t know what I would do without her. I hope I never have to find out.
- Does this line of work afford you the glamourous lifestyle you often portray?
- Haha, good one. No. I’ve been broke since I started doing this. I pour all my money and energy into it, and until recently, wasn’t getting much attention for the work. But now I’m invigorated to get my work noticed and finally do what I should have been doing all along, not just networking, but putting myself out so people can see my work and want to work with me.
- Whose work do you enjoy outside of your own?
- There’s a number of photographers whom I admire - Rich Cutrone (NY), he has such a glamorous style; Eddie Baute (TX) whose varied portfolio style inspired me to vary my own portfolio; Dan Doyle (NY) whose work always has me amazed and always photographs the most beautiful models; Michael Rosen (IL) - such artistic style that truly captivates me; Questionmarc (NY) who always has such elaborate colors and styles, very creative look to his imagery; Johnny Crosslin (TX) - very glamorous style that should be in Playboy - WOW! And, Frizzycube (NY) - great imagery and graphics.
- Why should models choose you for a shoot?
- I think my portfolio speaks for itself, as far as creativity and style. I like trying new things, and the fact that I provide the wardrobe for 90% of my shoots. And, I like playing with a variety of locations, from rustic to urban. I can even do studio if that’s what the model is looking for. I’m fun to shoot with, and often take longer than most photographers do to do a shoot since the model and I are usually having a good time and talking while shooting. I feel I’m down to earth and easy to vibe with. I’ve shot from fully clothed to no clothes at all (not me, that is, I don’t shoot in the nude) and I’ve never had a model feel awkward to be either around me. I once had a model ask me - “So who’s going to tell me to get naked?” It was for her Playboy submission, she got accepted! :)
Links: Risqe-Factor.com | Myspace | maxxumeyz@risqe-factor.com
