Becoming a model in New York City

FIV Magazine: Good afternoon, dear listeners. Today we have a special guest with us: Michael, Head of CM Models, a renowned modeling agent with many years of experience in the fashion and media industry. She’s here to share some insights into the modeling business, especially in the exciting world of New York City. Welcome, Michael!

CM Models: Thank you for having me here. It is a pleasure.

Why New York?

FIV Magazine: To start, Michael, New York City is known as the fashion capital of the world. What do you think makes the city so special for models compared to other cities?

CM Models: New York City is indeed a hotspot for the fashion and modeling industry. What sets it apart is the incredible diversity it offers. There are opportunities for all types of modeling jobs here, from high fashion runways to commercial assignments. The city is home to some of the world’s top modeling agencies, designers and photographers, making it a magnet for models looking to break into the industry.

Fashion hotspots in NYC

FIV Magazine: Before we dive into the modeling world, what are the fashion hotspots in the city for models, for example, when they are in town for castings and jobs and have time! What are your recommendations?

CM Models: If you’re a young model in New York City with time between castings and jobs, there are some stylish neighborhoods you can explore. Start with the trendy Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn. Here you’ll find hip cafés, vintage boutiques and street art. The Lower East Side is another hotspot for young people, with cool bars and clubs where you can dance the night away. The High Line not only offers a relaxing green oasis, but also trendy bars and restaurants nearby. And don’t forget to visit the Meatpacking District, known for its hip clubs and chic rooftop bars.

FIV Magazine: What would be your top 5 things to do in New York if you had one day?

CM Models: These are:

1. Williamsburg, Brooklyn – trendy cafés and vintage boutiques
2. Lower East Side – cool bars and clubs for the night
3. High Line – Relaxed green oasis with rooftop bars
4. Meatpacking District – trendy clubs and chic rooftop bars
5. Greenwich Village – artistic atmosphere and urban cafés

Model agency application and admission

FIV Magazine: That sounds fascinating! How can aspiring models get into the industry in New York City?

CM Models: The path to a modeling career in New York City also begins with an application to a reputable modeling agency. These top-notch agencies will take charge of building you and your modeling career. They have outstanding fashion photographers who will help you create an impressive portfolio. Personal meetings allow you to discuss your goals and ambitions and develop a tailor-made career plan. In renowned model agencies, you will have a permanent contact person at your side to clarify questions and concerns.

A big advantage of leading modeling agencies in New York is the exclusive access to clients and castings, which are by invitation only. This gives you the opportunity to take part in high profile projects and establish yourself in the fashion world. As your career progresses, you may even have the opportunity to work abroad, as top modeling agencies often have international connections and contacts.

How do you recognize ‘good’ models in NYC?

FIV Magazine: While we’re on the subject of recognizing models, how do you recognize potential models, especially in a bustling city like New York?

CM Models: Good question. Potential models often stand out because of their unique features, proportions and an innate self-confidence in their charisma. They have a certain “look” that attracts attention. Look out for people who look striking and have presence. However, it is important to remember that modeling is not limited to looks; professionalism, work ethic and personality are just as important.

FIV Magazine: Let’s talk about your role as a modeling agent. How do you scout for new models in New York City?

CM Models: Great question. Discovering new talent is one of the most exciting aspects of my job. We often attend fashion shows, open castings and even street castings to find fresh faces. We also receive applications from aspiring models via our website and social media. When searching, we look for that special spark and potential that can be developed into a successful modeling career.

Castings & Jobs in NYC

FIV Magazine: Fascinating! Now, Michael, let’s talk about the types of jobs that models typically take on in New York. What can aspiring models expect in terms of opportunities?

CM Models: In New York, models have a wide range of opportunities. They can work in fashion shows, photo shoots, commercial advertising, catalog modeling and even runways during Fashion Week. The city offers a diverse clientele, which means models of different styles, sizes and backgrounds are in demand. It’s important to be open to different types of work and build a diverse portfolio to increase your chances of getting jobs.

Casting tips from a model pro

FIV Magazine: That’s valuable advice. Finally, Michael, for young models attending casting calls, do you have any tips to help them navigate the process, especially if they are nervous or overconfident?

CM Models: Absolutely. Casting calls can be nerve-wracking, but self-confidence is crucial. It’s important to find a balance. Be well prepared, have your portfolio and sedcards ready and always dress appropriately for the casting. Remember to remain polite and professional. It’s okay to be excited, but don’t let nervousness or cockiness get in the way of being yourself. Agencies and clients want to see the real you, so just be authentic and put your best foot forward.

FIV Magazine: Thank you, Michael, for sharing your insights into the world of modeling in New York City. It was a pleasure to have you here today.

CM Models: Thank you for having me here. I hope this information helps aspiring models on their way to success in this exciting industry. Good luck to all!

Bonus! Working in New York City (for EU Models)

FIV Magazine: One final question: How can you work in the USA?

CM Models: This is an important question. If you want to work as a model in the USA and your main agency is in Europe, you usually need a work permit. In the USA, there are certain visa categories that apply to models. One option is the so-called “O-1 visa”, which applies to people with exceptional skills or achievements.

To obtain this visa, it is helpful to already have a successful modeling career with many jobs in your home country. Your main agency in Europe can help you with this process and support you in applying for the visa. Find out about the necessary steps early on, as the process can take some time.

• You can apply for your visa here: US / Europe Visa

FIV Magazine: Thank you Michael for your time and your answers. We’ll also link CM Models here again if anyone wants to apply. Where are you going next?

CM Models: I will be spending the next 3 weeks in LA, at Venice Beach. Work life balance!

Becoming a model in Los Angeles

FIV Magazine: Hello everyone. Today we have a very special guest with us, Michael, Head of CM Models, a seasoned modeling agent with years of experience in the fashion and media industry. Michael is here to give insights into the world of modeling, especially in the glamorous city of Los Angeles. After our interview, today all about Los Angeles, welcome back Michael!

CM Models: Thank you for inviting me. I am very happy to share my knowledge with you and other aspiring models.

What makes Los Angeles special?

FIV Magazine: Absolutely, we’re delighted to have you here. First, let’s talk about the city itself. Los Angeles is known for its famous models. What do you think makes LA so special for models compared to other cities?

CM Models: Los Angeles has a unique charm that is incredibly appealing to models. The city’s appeal lies in its connection to the entertainment industry. Models here often have the opportunity to break into acting or other areas of show business. The fashion scene is vibrant, and LA is a center for commercial work. In addition, the city’s diverse environment provides a demand for models of all backgrounds and styles.

Fashion hotspots in Los Angeles

FIV Magazine: Before we dive into the modeling world, what are the fashion hotspots in the city for models, for example when they are here for castings and jobs and have time! What are your recommendations in LA?

CM Models: Los Angeles has many cool neighborhoods for young models who have some free time between castings and jobs. Start with Silver Lake, a hip neighborhood with trendy cafés, vintage stores and street art. In the evening, you can explore the city in the bars and clubs of Hollywood. Melrose Avenue is perfect for shopping and Instagram-worthy photoshoots. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a popular meeting place for young people, with street artists, stores and beach bars. And if you want to experience the surf culture, Santa Monica Beach is the place to be.

FIV Magazine: What would be your top 5 in LA with some time on your hands?

CM Models: These are:

1. Silver Lake – trendy cafés and vintage stores
2. Hollywood – bars and clubs for night-time adventures
3. Melrose Avenue – shopping and Instagram-worthy photoshoots
4. Venice Beach Boardwalk – street artists, stores and beach bars
5. Santa Monica Beach – surfer culture and relaxed beaches

Becoming a model in Los Angeles

FIV Magazine: That’s fascinating! Now let’s talk about identifying potential models. How do you recognize someone with modeling potential?

CM Models: Recognizing potential models requires an eye for certain qualities. Models often have striking and versatile looks, but it’s not just about looks. Self-confidence and the ability to move naturally in front of the camera or on the catwalk are also crucial. A great model exudes charisma and can captivate an audience.

Find a good modeling agency in LA

FIV Magazine: Excellent insights! Well, for young people who dream of becoming a model in Los Angeles, what advice can you offer?

CM Models: The path to modeling in Los Angeles begins with an application to a reputable modeling agency. If you are accepted into such an agency, they will take responsibility for building you and your modeling career. They have top-notch fashion photographers who will help you create an impressive portfolio. These agencies also offer one-to-one meetings where you can discuss your goals and ambitions. You will have a permanent contact person to help you with any questions or concerns.

One of the benefits of a reputable modeling agency is access to clients and exclusive castings that are by invitation only. This gives you the opportunity to take part in high profile projects and establish yourself in the industry. Later in your career, you can even take up opportunities abroad, as top modeling agencies often have international connections and contacts.

Working as a foreigner in Los Angeles: Requirements

FIV Magazine: Let’s talk about working as a model in the USA. How can you work in the USA?

CM Models: Sure, for anyone wondering how to work in the US, here’s some useful information. If you are a model from the European Union (EU) and want to work in the US, especially in Los Angeles, it is usually necessary to obtain a work permit. The US has certain visa categories that apply specifically to models. A commonly used visa is the “O-1 visa”, which is intended for people with exceptional skills or achievements.

In order to obtain an “O-1 visa”, it is an advantage if you already have a successful modeling career with numerous jobs in your home country. Your main agency in the EU can help you with this process and support you in applying for the visa. It is advisable to find out about the necessary steps early on, as the visa application process can take some time. This way, you can successfuly realize your dream of working in the USA, especially in Los Angeles.

• You can apply for your visa here: US / Europe Visa

Model dimensions and requirements in LA

FIV Magazine: What about the typical measurements for a model, what is it like in LA?

CM Models: The industry is evolving and there is no longer a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. While size and proportion are still important, there is an increasing demand for diversity in terms of body types and sizes. Models come in different shapes and sizes, and agencies are looking for people who can represent real people.

FIV Magazine: That’s an important point to emphasize, the diversity in the industry. How has the modeling industry in Los Angeles embraced diversity?

CM Models: The modeling industry in Los Angeles, as in the rest of the world, has recognized the importance of diversity. There is a growing demand for models of different ethnicities, sizes, ages and gender identities. Brands and agencies are actively seeking a broader range of people to better reflect the real world. It’s a positive change that was long overdue.

Do you have any casting tips for models?

FIV Magazine: Absolutely, it’s wonderful to hear. Finally, for young models attending casting calls, do you have any tips to help them navigate the process, especially if they are nervous or overconfident?

CM Models: Casting calls can be intimidating, but remember that everyone started small once. Find a balance between excitement and confidence. Be well prepared, bring your portfolio and dress appropriately for the casting. Self-confidence is important, but it should come from within, not from arrogance. Be authentic and show your unique qualities, and always remain professional.

FIV Magazine: Thank you, Michael, for sharing your valuable insights into the world of modeling in Los Angeles. It was a pleasure to have you here today.

CM Models: Thank you so much for inviting me. I hope this information helps aspiring models find their way in this exciting industry in the City of Angels. Good luck to you all!

Becoming a model in Miami

FIV Magazine: Hello everyone! Today we have a special guest with us, Sarah Martinez, a seasoned modeling agent with years of experience in the fashion and media industry. Sarah is here to give advice to aspiring models and share some insights into the world of the modeling business, especially in the exciting city of Miami. Welcome, Michael!

CM Models: Thank you so much for having me here. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and helping young, aspiring models find their way in the exciting world of fashion.

Miami: What makes the city special for you?

FIV Magazine: Fantastic! Let’s jump right in. Miami is known for its unique vibe. What do you think makes the city of Miami so special for models compared to other places?

CM Models: Miami is indeed a special place for models. Its diverse culture and international appeal make it a melting pot for fashion, art and entertainment. The city offers a wide range of modeling opportunities, from swimwear and beachwear campaigns to high-fashion photo shoots. Miami’s sunny weather and lively atmosphere make it a year-round hotspot for fashion events and photo shoots, setting it apart from other cities.

But it’s no comparison to modeling in New York and Los Angeles.

Fashion hotspots in Miami

FIV Magazine: What are the hotspots in Maimi for models, for example when they are here for castings and jobs and have time! What are your recommendations?

CM Models: Miami has some stylish neighborhoods for young models to explore between castings and jobs. South Beach is of course a hotspot with its trendy beaches, art deco hotels and beach bars. Wynwood is an up-and-coming neighborhood with graffiti art and cool galeries. Brickell is another hip neighborhood with chic rooftop bars and modern restaurants. Coconut Grove offers relaxed cafés and boutiques in a lively setting. And don’t forget to visit Little Havana to experience Cuban cuisine and Latin American flair.

FIV Magazine: What would be your top 5 in Miami?

CM Models: These are:

1. South Beach – trendy beaches, art deco hotels and beach bars
2. Wynwood – graffiti art and cool galeries
3. Brickell – chic rooftop bars and modern restaurants
4. Coconut Grove – relaxed cafés and stylish boutiques
5. Little Havana – Cuban cuisine and Latin American flair

Model Scouting: What do you look out for?

FIV Magazine: That sounds incredible! Now let’s talk about the search for new talent. As a modeling agent, how do you scout for new faces in Miami?

CM Models: Scouting in Miami is an exciting process. We attend local fashion shows, work with photographers and often scout in popular locations such as beaches and shopping districts. Social media is another valuable tool to discover new talent. We look for people who have that unique blend of striking looks, confidence and charisma.

Famous names from Miami

FIV Magazine: Great insights! Miami has produced some famous models. Can you tell us about some of them?

CM Models: Of course! Miami has been the home or starting point for some of the most famous models. You may have heard of Kate Upton, Karolína Kurková and Lily Donaldson, who all started their careers here. Miami’s vibrant fashion scene and proximity to the international market have played an important role in nurturing talent that has gained worldwide recognition.

How do you recognize a ‘good’ model?

FIV Magazine: These are certainly some big names. In your opinion, how do you recognize a potential model?

CM Models: Recognizing potential models requires a trained eye for certain qualities. While looks matter, it’s not just about physical appearance. Models often exude confidence, have a captivating presence and the ability to act naturally in front of the camera or on the catwalk. It’s a combination of charisma, uniqueness and adaptability.

Model career in Miami: Beginning

FIV Magazine: Valuable insights once again. For young people who dream of becoming models in Miami, what advice can you give them?

CM Models: The path to a modeling career in Miami starts with applying to a reputable modeling agency. At a top-notch agency, management will take charge of building you and your career in the modeling business. These agencies have talented fashion photographers who will help you build an impressive portfolio. You can discuss your goals and ambitions in personal meetings and develop a tailor-made career plan. In renowned modeling agencies, you will have a permanent contact person to help you with any questions or concerns.

One of the special advantages of a leading modeling agency is the exclusive access to clients and castings, which are by invitation only. These opportunities give you the chance to take part in first-class projects and establish yourself in the fashion industry. In time, you may also have the opportunity to work abroad, as top modeling agencies often have international connections and contacts.

Model dimensions and diversity in Miami

FIV Magazine: Excellent advice. In terms of measurements, what typical measurements should a model aim for?

CM Models: The industry’s perspective on measurements has changed over the years. While size and proportion are still important for certain types of modeling jobs, there is an increasing demand for diversity in terms of body types and sizes. Models come in all shapes and sizes, and agencies are looking for individuals who can represent a wide range of people.

FIV Magazine: That’s a crucial point. How has the modeling industry in Miami embraced diversity?

CM Models: The modeling industry in Miami is becoming more diverse and inclusive. There is a growing demand for models from different cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, sizes and gender identities. Many campaigns are now aiming to reflect the real world and agencies are actively seeking a wider range of people.

Casting tips NYC: How to get the job!

FIV Magazine: It’s great to hear. Finally, for young models attending castings, do you have any tips to help them cope with the process, especially when it comes to nervousness or overconfidence?

CM Models: Castings can be intimidating, but remember that everyone started once. Find a balance between excitement and confidence. Be well prepared, bring your portfolio and dress appropriately for the casting. Self-confidence is important, but it should come from within and not from arrogance. Be authentic and show your unique qualities and always remain professional.

FIV Magazine: Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your valuable insights into the modeling industry in Miami. It was a pleasure to have you here today.

CM Models: Thank you for inviting me. I hope this information helps aspiring models on their path to success in the vibrant and diverse world of fashion in Miami. Good luck to you all!

Fashion Management – the combination of fashion and business administration

Fashion management studies are a way to gain a foothold in the fashion sector and even turn your passion into an attractive income. During the course of study, students not only acquire a sound knowledge of the production as well as finishing of materials. Students examine technical and digital trends, build knowledge of marketing measures, learn the basics of business administration and receive a wealth of information on fashion technologies.

One sure thing in the fashion world is change. We are constantly bombarded with new fashion ideas from music, videos, books and television. Movies also have a big impact on what people wear. Fashion is big business. More people are involved in the buying, selling and production of clothing than in any other industry in the world. The degree enables students to translate knowledge of fashion trends and design into management concepts and get a piece of the sales pie.

With a bachelor’s degree in fashion management, nothing stands in the way of a career in the national and international fashion business. Graduates are hired by fashion agencies as well as publishing houses, TV stations and fashion companies.

That’s what makes the Fashion Management degree program so special:

• Learning how to manufacture and refine materials
• Investigate technical and digital trends
• Knowledge of marketing measures
• Fundamentals of business administration
• Development of marketing concepts
• Bachelor degree

Fashion designer – a creative engine in the fashion industry

As a fashion designer, you research current fashion trends, predict what will be popular with consumers, and draw inspiration from the world around you to create fresh and original designs. You’ll decide on fabrics, colors and patterns, create sample designs and adjust them until you’re satisfied with the final product.

The main areas of work for fashion designers are high street fashion, ready-to-wear and haute couture. High street fashion is where most designers work. Here, garments are mass-produced and made for the masses. Buying patterns, seasonal trends and influences from celebrities on the catwalk play a key role. It is a commercial and highly media-driven sector. Ready-to-wear involves creating ready-to-wear collections that are produced in relatively small numbers. Haute couture requires a large amount of time to produce one-off pieces for the runway. Designs usually support the brand and create a “look.”

Common tasks of a fashion designer include visualizing an idea, creating designs and mood boards, planning and developing assortments based on a specific theme, and presenting designs at fashion as well as other trade shows.

The work environment varies from company to company, from a modern, purpose-built office to a small design studio. Freelance designers may work from home or in a rented studio. Fashion design is a very competitive industry and usually requires a degree in a subject that teaches both technical and design skills.

That’s what makes the fashion design program so special:

• Research and forecast of current trends
• Create new designs
• Main areas of work: High street fashion, ready-to-wear and haute couture
• Plan and develop assortments and collections

Textile designer – important basic work for fashion

Textile designers create two-dimensional designs used in the production of knitted, woven, and printed fabrics or textile products. They work in both industrial and non-industrial locations and often specialize or work in a specific context within the textile industry.

The daily tasks of a textile designer include making sketches, designs and samples for presentation to customers, working out design formulas for a group of samples, developing new design concepts and sourcing fabrics and other materials at trade shows as well as markets.

Relevant work experience, whether through vacation work or college internships, is almost essential for entry into this industry. Typical employers include manufacturing and processing companies that produce clothing, home textiles and other textile products, large fashion and clothing retailers, and design studios.

That’s what makes the textile design program so special:

• Creating two-dimensional designs for textiles
• Making sketches, designs and samples
• Elaboration of construction formulas for a group of patterns
• Development of new design concepts

What speaks for a job in fashion

Numerous other professions can be found in the fashion industry. These include garment engineer, fashion seamstress, pattern director and garment technician. While some professions require a degree, other jobs build on an apprenticeship.

When you consider what fashion is and how it moves people, the reasons for pursuing a career in fashion become clear. International fashion editor Cynthia Durcanin describes fashion as a state of mind. A spirit, an extension of one’s self. It can be a subtle whisper, an energetic shout, or an all-knowing wink and smile. Fashion is all about feeling comfortable with yourself and translating your self-esteem into a personal style. Fashion gives people the opportunity to try out many different roles and explore themselves in this way.

As soon as a profession is taken up that helps shape or even redefine fashion, people are helped along with additional opportunities. The space for new self-development is expanded. More can be moved than a piece of fabric or leather would suggest.

This speaks for itself:

• Industry with a future
• Space for new self-development
• Gives people the opportunity to try out new roles

Fashion Videos: Management and Design

The presentation of the three study programs has aroused your interest? Here you will find videos that give you an insight into the fashion business. Whether it’s sewing, tailoring, designing or managing – here you’ll find out everything you need to know about entering the world of fashion.

Fashion and design management

How does a video of fashion and design management actually work? Here you can find out first-hand what qualifications you need to have as a prospective fashion manager and what you will encounter during your studies.

6 facts about the job fashion designer

Here you can learn six exciting facts about your dream job that will prepare you for life after graduation. So you can better decide whether your dream will live on after graduation. Find out first-hand what the real work of a fashion designer looks like in everyday working life.

The day of a fashion student

Here as a little extra, the day of a fashion student. Experience the everyday life of this student up close and accompany her to the workplace at the university. Interesting steps in the design process, such as sewing, tailoring or drawing you can watch here and get an impression of student life.

Body Positivity & Self Love Tips

FIV: Hey Elena I’m glad you found the time to do an interview with me. Looking at your Instagram feed, you seem to be very much into body positivity and are therefore a role model for many young people. Can you give us some tips on how to feel more comfortable in your body?

Elena: I think that everyone has to find out for themselves. Unfortunately there is no panacea. But it has always been helpful for me – should I not feel well with myself – to look at myself from a bird’s eye view. A body is also simply that. A body of flesh and blood that fortunately works great and does everything it’s supposed to! So to just take this huge weight off the whole topic of “perfect body”, that helps.

FIV: What has helped you feel more comfortable in your body the most – was it yoga, perhaps?

Elena: On the one hand the above described and on the other hand yoga has certainly helped me! Especially in times when it is particularly difficult for me to accept myself as I am. In the end, yoga is nothing more than a “moving meditation”, where you simply let go of everything you don’t need, just like those thoughts of self-criticism.

FIV: Yoga is a very relaxing sport and certainly good for the soul. Is there another sport you would like to try that is more the opposite of yoga?

Elena: I wanted to do a boxing course for a long time!

Linda Böse

Model everyday life: new projects & identity crisis

FIV: Besides the photo shoots and travelling, how does a day look like for you?

Elena: Well, since these two things are no longer an issue since Corona, I have very different and relaxed daily routines at the moment. I can set my own working hours and concentrate on what I would like to do beyond the whole online topic. So lots of time and energy for my own projects at the moment!

FIV: How do you find time for yourself at all?

Elena: Yes, a lot at the moment! I’m very grateful for that too. I’ve been overworking myself quite a bit the last few years and a lot of it just wasn’t necessary. Due to the “standstill” this year I only noticed how much I distracted myself from myself, my insecurities and my “identity wars” – by constantly travelling and jumping from peak to peak! In return, I finally got time to shed more light on these very things!

Linda Böse

Podcast with her dad Mathieu Carrière: “Tongue in Ear”

FIV: Not only are you a very open person on Instagram and talk about all kinds of topics, you also do that in your podcast ” Tongue in Ear”.

How did you get the idea to do a podcast? And then with your dad Mathieu Carrière?

Elena: At the end of last year I first had the idea to have his biography written (he wouldn’t do it himself out of humility and I have neither the time nor the “know-how” unfortunately). Then I thought, you could start a kind of audio diary of him, where you talk to him about everything: his views, stories from the past, anecdotes etc. . He’s had such a colorful life (and still does!) that it’s incredibly important to me to capture it in his own words! And of course our age difference plays into our cards: he’s a whopping 46 years older than me, which means we cover generations that has really big gaps in between! That is exciting!

FIV: How do you come up with the topics for your podcast? Do you brainstorm together? Or does it all come rather spontaneously?

Elena: In the beginning we agreed on one topic per episode, but then we quickly realized that we jump so freely and confused in the topics that just touch us more, that it does not make so much sense! But of course we always discuss beforehand what is on our minds and what we would like to talk about!

FIV: Thank you very much for taking the time for an interview for our FIV Magazine. I wish you and your family much more success and stay healthy!

The roots of photography: analogue photography requires time and passion

FIV: Hello Mr. Bockemühl-Simon, please introduce your company briefly for our readers!

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon: JOBO: We love pictures. To the moon and back.

Quality, commitment and professionalism have brought us to the top of the photography world. The motivation to keep challenging ourselves for the best picture, all the way to the moon. The year was 1969, the year mankind was to take the most significant step into space: The first manned flight to the moon. Apollo 11. All this was captured photographically – with a Hasselblad. But the camera only captured everything on precious analog film – with a silver halide coating. On the moon only the “latent image” was created. Nothing was proven yet. The negative was still undeveloped.

But everything in photography (and in the materialistic perspective) depends on the “visible image”. The “real image” was needed. Who better to entrust the transformation of this historical evidence to than JOBO’s developing equipment? Yes, you heard right:

Proof of authenticity of the first NASA moon image by JOBO

By using the photo equipment of JOBO from Gummersbach, near Cologne, from West Germany – the latent image became the visible image. The visible PROOF. A double proof. Man in his striving for infinity actually reaches the moon for the first time. But at the same time this is also quite a PROOF with political message: The free man with unleashed zeal and almost boundless economic possibilities (the “West”) comes up to the moon.

But not only the West, but only FIRST the West. Because the moon should lose neither for mankind, nor for the small photo manufacturer from Gummersbach (JOBO) in importance. The EAST later set its own standards with the MIR. The MIR contained a complete photo laboratory with – yes, you will guess it, exactly (!) – with JOBO development equipment for the photos from space!

Well, actually we would have to say: We love pictures. To the moon and back!

FIV: What exactly fascinates you about analog photography as opposed to digital photography?

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon: The most authentic way to learn and appreciate the art of photography is ANALOGUE photography. Nothing can replace the experience of working with silver halide film.

The fascination of creating unique prints on silver halide paper cannot be reproduced digitally – back to the roots of photography! Rarely is the human urge for the beautiful and the true so closely connected as in analogue photography. Analogue can be consciously designed – but the image itself can hardly be manipulated – quite different from Photoshop. Working analogue requires time and passion. If you don’t have time, you have to take pictures.

No “virtual reality” – no “augmented reality” – but real photography.

FIV: What topics and products are offered on your website?

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon: First and foremost, we at JOBO offer analog photo accessories for your own film processing. We also recently added the beautiful view cameras from CHAMONIX to our range: cameras made of teak and carbon: new technology for old school.

For the demanding digital photographer we also offer a unique perspective correction system : LensTRUE.

FIV: How exactly does the LensTRUE system work?

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon: On the one hand, the LensTRUE system consists of hardware that measures the tilt of the camera with a sophisticated GYRO sensor. Furthermore, the LensTRUE system consists of software that synchronizes this tilt data with the photos and then calculates an automatic perspective correction.

Until now, this was almost only possible with shift lenses for DSLR cameras. Basically, LensTRUE turns any lens into a shift lens. Currently, almost all full-frame DSLRS are stored in the software. Currently only Mac compatible. Apple in front of window ;-).

Before – After pictures with LensTRUE

The original image without editing

After processing with the LensTRUE software it looks like this… a great change!

Creative work – analogue photography decelerates according to the expert

FIV: What tips for analogue photography can you give our readers?

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon:Allow yourself time. It is not the multitude of images that is decisive, but the deliberate assrbeit. The reduction to the form and the shading of black and white has its special charm with coarse-grained film. Great for portraits.

Own enlargements are uncomplicated from black and white and quickly lead to good results. Creative work that decelerates.

FIV: What do you draw inspiration from, who is a “role model” for you?

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon: My favorite artist is Michel Angelo – even if that’s before photography. Realism and expression were never so united before him. He literally got to the bottom of nature. The photographic works of John Sexton – a landscape photographer from America who studied with Ansel Adams – are of the highest level of craftsmanship and artistry.

FIV: How do you stand out from the competition?

Johannes Bockemühl-Simon:JOBO is the specialist for lab development and the darkroom. JOBO processors are based on decades of experience of engineers and photographers. The world-famous black and red JOBO can is found in almost every photo lab from China to the USA.

If you want to develop 8×10″ images from your view camera yourself, you will hardly get around the Expert Drums from JOBO. Unfortunately, the analogue photography market is a small niche – but it is growing. Paradoxically, the demand for analog photography is growing again not only in galeries but also among young people.

In the digital arbitrariness, an analog original simply stands out.

Learn more about Jobo and the LensTRUE system here:

• Jobo
• LensTRUE

We thank Johannes Bockemühl-Simon for the interesting interview and wish JOBO continued success!