Eliesa, I love your photography and the style that you bring to the mpls art and photography scene. However, I was really disappointed to read this post. I understand you're trying to likely shoot a high fashion editorial, but your specifications for height and weight are demanding a woman with very unhealthy proportions. I understand a model needs to be fit and look good in the clothes she wears, however, I also don't think perpetuating the anorexic frame that so many high fashion models have is the way to go. I would think an artist of your caliber would be able to make any woman look high fashion, not just those who refuse to eat.

Interesting. I had the exact opposite response. I'm not a model, love to eat, am far from anorexic, am 5'10 and 133 lbs. Most "anorexic-looking" models are more like 105 -120. I guessed you are looking for a fit, but not waif model from this post. Regardless, no doubt the results will be fantastic.

Dear Anonymous, Thank you so much for voicing your concern! While some people might just delete the comment, I think there is value in this that needs to be addressed! First off, under no circumstances do I approve of eating disorders, at all. I know this is very relevant in the fashion world and I do not support it, what-so-ever. However, I did feel that I needed to be more specific in my description of what I was looking for in a model, especially when it's going all out on social media to a very broad crowd, and I felt like 'skinny' was too general, so I went ahead and took a guess and the height/weight ratio. I am 5'7'' and 148lbs., which is what I based my 'guess' on. I feel that the height/weight range I listed will be effective in communicating that I do want a slender, trim girl - but by no means deathly skinny. This is absolutely not the message I want to send. When it comes to choosing models, it is truly more about inner beauty to me! The way a woman communicates in front of the camera and with the viewer is essential and this is what I look for beyond anything else. I don't believe in weighing, measuring, or calling people out that don't fit in those exact limitations, they are guidelines, not absolutes. I absolutely love my blog readers and your opinions matter a lot to me! I assure you that the people I choose are the best at what they do - and I only surround myself and crew in healthy environments - again, an essential element to making amazing photographs! I hope this clears anything up! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to e-mail me (at) eliesa@photogen-inc.com - And THANK YOU for giving us this opportunity to address an obvious issue in the industry! LOVEe

Thanks Eliesa, I appreciate your honest response!

You are so very welcome! LOVEe

I just wanted to agree quick with the second message…I am 5’10’’ and 127 pounds and I eat like a pig. Having a high metabolism and working out helps…but most “high fashion models” are around 120 pounds. Your requirements are very healthy. :-)

OMG! Awesome video - love it! We drove through all that same stuff so I feel like we just lived that :)

soooo fun! amazing camera work!

I'm pretty sure that video rocks! Love 'Yes' as the song choice. Looks like you guys had fun!

that's awesome on your award! CONGRATS! I wish i would have gone this year, maybe next year i'll be cool enough to go haha :)

I so can't wait until next year! You and your team are amazing individuals and I'm so glad I finally got to meet them all, as well as you got to meet Jenny! Next year, we're all bringing the pain!

CONGRATS!!

Miss you!!! Wish we were there, looks like another amazing time!!! :D How are you?! And of course, CONGRATULATIONS ON THE WIN!!!!! You're dangerously awesome, E! ;)

Of course your new adventures in fashion photography took home the Award! Cheers to you and your team for this honor.

Well Howdy Duty...you just keep sharing the love to the MIDWEST AND I LOVE IT! :)

Well shoot, I have to work that day! I really hope you do more of these! I'd LOVE to attend a class on your photoshop techniques - like how you did your photo above and the kick-ass boudoir ones! :-)

Just what I asked for! Unfortunately, I don't think there's any way I can make that day work with my schedule. We'll have to talk when you're back from Vegas!

Am I allowed to sign up if I live a few hours south of Minneapolis? I hope so! I just bought a tilt shift lens and this is exactly what I need. :)

I'm SOOOO coming to this!!

Alicia! Absolutely everyone in the Minnesota/Wisconsin area can sign up for these! They are really open to whoever wants to attend, I just wanted to offer something that was more localized for our immediate industry! A few spots are still available, so reserve your space! LOVEe

How fun!! I've always want to try out tilt-shift photo shooting! :) If you're ever in FL area, I'll be sure to sign up for it :) Have a wonderful time!

Daaaaang. As of now, I'm busy that day. But this looks so rad! I'll be watching for future MINNe-SHOPS! What a sweet idea!