Do any of your models ever make it big?
Yes, and that's the best part of my job -- when someone actually breaks through because of the images I've created of them. You'll see those examples throughout the website. I've also worked with several celebrities...you can find examples of those on the main "Photographer" page of viewfinder.net. But my discoveries have been on the movie Pearl Harbor, on TV soaps like "Young and the Restless," and "Bold and the Beautiful," even on a Disney series, TV commercials, and print campaigns.

So what kind of advice do you give up and coming models?
Exposure is the key: get your face and name out there. Market yourself. Of course you need some decent shots to do that. Beware of the scams -- there are alot of them. If you are lucky enough to attract the eye of a manager or agent find out the difference between the two and if they're reputable, jump at the opportunity. Success does not come knocking at your door all the time so you have to jump at it when the opportunity arises.

More of this exclusive interview coming soon.

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©2003 P. Michael Perez All Rights Reserved.
Website Design: Viewfinder Designs

Question: How did you come up with an idea of a website for male models?
Perez: It was a mistake, actually. Many years ago I was intrigued by this new thing called the internet. After months of research I found that few photographers were actually on it, so I decided it would be a perfect showcase for my work and the models I was working with. I've been on the net for almost 13 years now.

What kind of response does the website get?
Tremendous response. People write in from all over the world. It's been a great way to connect with colleagues and potential models. It's a win-win situation, both for me and the models.

Do you charge the models to be on it?
Nope. Of course not every model gets on the website. Only the best of the best. Plus the other thing is I only have so much time to shoot new models. Actually very little time, these days. Every single image you see on the website is original, shot by me. However there is a new website for aspiring models who may not have shot with me, but who still want to publicize themselves to agents, managers, and other industry types. Details are coming, but any aspiring models who want to be put on the mailing list can certainly email me.