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Eric, Find
and Bind All the Pretty Girls
 How did you become involved with photography and how did it lead you to fetish photography?
Actually, I became involved in the fetish long before getting into the
photography. I have been interested in bondage since early childhood.
So as an adult, I began to seek out ladies who wanted to experience
bondage. I found that I wanted to find a way to save and savor these
sweet experiences so I began photographing my bondage sessions. I am
not great photographer, so I make sure to use quality equipment to make
up for my general lack of professional photographic skills.
Why did you choose to operate your own fetish website than working for websites or companies?
I had wanted to do a website for quite a while, and most of my friends
knew that it was something I wanted to do. But being a true
procrastinator I could not quite get myself started. I had the good
fortune of hooking up with Monica and Hog of Archway-to-Monica. I began
assisting them with photo shoots. I learned a lot from them about the
internet bondage business. Eventually circumstances lead to me getting
my own site started. I like being independent and being able to present
my own versions of how I see bondage, or even how I would like it to
be.
What type of model do you prefer to work with -- 'the girl next door', gothic, industrial, or other?
The models that I work with can go from total amateur, to girl next
door, to the occasional bondage supermodel. Of course it would be great
if all of the models could get their elbows to touch, but what is more
important is whether she has that certain look or personality that just
screams "Tie Me!!" I am a sucker for a pretty face and a genuine smile.
I love models who enjoy bondage. It makes so much difference when they
love what they do. It shows in their pictures and it makes the photo
sessions lots of fun.
How
do you locate the models you work with -- the internet, the
recommendations of other photographers, or approach attractive women at
a social gathering?
My first few models were friends who were already involved in BDSM.
Sandra, Stormy, and Becca were my first models, and they were in the
local BDSM community. After that, I met most of my models either
through recommendations of other photographers, at conventions, or on
the internet through onemodelplace.com.
When viewing a possible model's portfolio or interview a model for an assignment, what qualities do you consider.
For example, attractiveness, experience, enthusiasm...?
Attractiveness is always a consideration, but enthusiasm is definitely
more important than experience. If a model has a real desire to do
bondage work, the photo shoots are always fun. I have had the pleasure
of binding several "bondage virgins" and it is a great pleasure to
share their first bondage experience with them. Attitude is very
important.
 In your personal option, what qualities make for a professional model
-- excellent reputation, modeling experience, a willingness to work, or other?
There are many models who come to a shoot without experience or
reputation, yet they can be as hard working and professional as the
supermodels. Sometimes even more so. They understand the appeal and the
beauty of the bondage and they are willing to work hard to the get the
right shots. They communicate well and let you know when the ropes are
starting to feel tight (or even if they are too loose). They have lots
of energy, change costumes quickly, take direction well, and naturally
know how to pose. They take pride in putting their best foot
forward.
On the other side, what traits do you think make for an unprofessional model,
for example tardiness, lack of motivation or interest, only seeks to be
paid...?
I would not say that "only seeks to be paid" necessarily makes for an
unprofessional model, since many models do consider this as just work.
But it usually shows in the pictures. I do not mind a little tardiness.
An hour or so is usually no big deal, but anything more than that is
just plain unprofessional and they need to know that our time if
valuable too. I have only had that problem twice in all my shooting. I
have been lucky. Lack of motivation or interest is an occasional
problem. It is hard to turn out good photos when the model is just
plain unmotivated.
Do you prefer the damsel in distress, love bondage, or other type of scenario for a photo shoot?
I like the Damsel in Distress look, but prefer the love bondage
attitude. I like the idea of the model portraying an enjoyment and
sensuality about the helplessness of her bondage. Strangely enough, I
also like the comedic style of bondage. I love the idea of a "Bondage
Sit-Com".
Who
has been your role model or inspiration for fetish photography --
Irving Klaw, John Willie, Jon Woods, Jay Edwards, or the detective
magazine covers from the 1960s and 1970s?
I was a big follower of the early House of Milan organization so my early heroes were Barbara Behr and John Savage. As
Harmony began to take over the market,
Jay Edwards became a big favorite. He was doing what seemed to be flawless bondage and photography. Today I enjoy
Hywel
Phillips' flawless photography. I do very much enjoy Jon
Woods'
writing and directing. I think he has the most imaginative storylines
in the bondage business these days. I especially love it when he
combines comedy with bondage.
What advice would you give to novice photographers and webmasters undecided about a career in the fetish industry?
If you have a true desire to do bondage photography or a website, make
sure you have all your ducks in a row before starting. It will take a
lot of your time and money. You will need to have a decent knowledge of
programming, coding, etc. Make sure you have good computer and
photographic equipment. Make sure you have a good knowledge of bondage
and bondage safety. Always be professional, with your models and with
other producers. Your reputation will leave a trail just like
fingerprints. Other than that, you only have one life. Do not wait
until it is half over before you seek out your dreams.
Thanks, once again for this interview Mr. Roper, it truly is an excellent one. I’m sure the
readers can’t wait to view your website for themselves.
Mr. Ropers' site is at JBRoper.com.
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