Let them eat pasta

Mike McCarty · 07-02-2004, 07:54 PM

The secret to attracting beautiful models? Pasta! You wouldn't believe how much these girls can eat.

My buddy Linda Brandon spoke recently about working out your ideas on non paying subjects, I couldn't agree more.

Ever since I first saw the photo of the Afghan girl on the cover of National geographic years ago (and recently revisited by the same artist), I have wanted to try and make my version of that image. These first two (the serious ones) are my first attempt at that look.

I have to give people nicknames, I just can't help myself. The first is my muse Victoria, my Sicilian Peppercorn. Next is Devi AKA Two Train. She hails from Puerto Rico but grew up in the Bronx, you take #2 train to get to the Bronx.

Mike McCarty · 07-02-2004, 07:57 PM

I've always wanted to work my clock into a composition. I had them drapped all over it trying to work something out.

And Devi with Vicoria's cowboy hat.

The last is just to send home to my Mom.

Michele Rushworth · 07-02-2004, 10:29 PM

Many of these should be turned into paintings -- and a couple belong on magazine covers!

Mike McCarty · 07-03-2004, 01:43 AM

Maybe the cover of "Pasta Quarterly."

Thank you Michele,

I think what I've concluded is that my very elegant clock may need to be paired with an equally elegant dress, not unlike one of yours that I remember. Although, maybe the juxtaposition of the very formal with informal works on some level. Of all the shots I took I think the simplest one above (which was derived from the following) was the best approach.

The actual clock part is just sitting on the pedestal. Maybe I'll try and take it off, which would allow for some different approaches. I'm still evolving on this matter. I do love my clock.

The next is Victoria looking a little too happy to be a Taliban woman. Maybe it was the half pound of pasta she ate.

Julie Deane · 07-03-2004, 06:45 AM

Mike, you are too funny! But's it's not the pasta that I bet is the draw - I bet it 's your sense of humor.

Jean Kelly · 07-03-2004, 12:39 PM

Okay Mike, do you really need a critique on these? You are obviously having fun with your new toy. How about her leaning against the clock (with her back on the pedestal) and her head turned to the camera? That way there is interaction with the clock and the viewer. And let her wear red!

Victoria as "the Afghan Girl" lacks the haunted quality that the original had. She's too healthy (and "well fed"). But her eyes are just beautiful in that shot.