RAW CAPTURES….that’s what’s in the camera. See it live, there’s something about it that’s incredibly exciting. LIVE! Work done by masterful photographers, digital technicians, producers, stylist and the whole crew working together on set… it’s awesome. Years ago, I walked around with polaroids in my pocket after the shoot that I clipped from the photographers table. That was Polaroid film and those cameras are gone now from the commercial landscape. Today it’s sophisticated electronics with digital camera, multiple computers, and vast amount of compositing, digital imaging, Photoshop and all the tools and toys any kid would wish for. But the constant is this array of incredibly smart, talented artists working together creating light and finessing these captured plates that make your heart pound. Drama, mystery, and total control. Here’s a recent shoot from Paul Aresu…. On his computer screen is a raw capture….scroll down to see Paul and his team, the actual location and then the ultimate… that final image by Paul Aresu and his 10 year collaborator, Mike Moskowitz of Aresu Digital.



Excitement in Battery Park City today. I grabbed these shots of ENTERPRISE space shuttle mounted on NASA’s 747 Shuttle Carrier as it flew at 1500′ overhead! Circling around the Statue of Liberty on her way to Intrepid before landing at JFK. I took a moment to hang out on the Esplanade (in the freezing cold temperatures) with neighbors (my pal, top notch Art Buyer Joann DeCarlo) and strangers from around the world – observing this historic moment in our front yard!

New Citizen Watch campaign features Paul Aresu photography with praise from Citizen Pres. Jeffrey Cohen. Assigned to capture Citizen ambassadors: Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, Daytona 500 champion Matt Kenseth, and talented golf champion Paula Creamer. Paul put everyone at ease with totally buttoned-up production. His completely relaxed demeanor while directing high-profile athletes at these photo shoots made it look so easy. Master of light, laser focus on magical moments, Paul is intent on capturing iconic images for this campaign with real eye appeal. Roll out starts today.
They say ” a picture is worth 1000 words.” When Paul Aresu photographed this adorable young girl, he wanted to help these adoptable kids in their search for lasting love. Paul volunteered his time at Bronx Art Museum Heart Gallery, never considering how they’d touch his heart with their kindness. All he could say was “they are so upbeat, it is an inspiration for us all to behold.” Paul makes a difference. He wanted to help these foster care kids. Reach out if you can help too.

Paul Aresu at Heart Gallery
Fabulous Coach loves Robert Tardio! (Judy told me so
) Giving Robert this “jewel” of an assignment – The Jewels of Tony Duquette – showcased in Harpers Bazaar this month (Feb 2012, Demi Moore cover) featuring Coach story of their collaboration with late designer/decorator Duquette and the “all-American purveyor of good taste”. Personally I just want to wear all these gorgeous Coach gems! I am revamping my wardrobe around their style. Yes, I went shopping this weekend at www.coach.com to their 57th flagship store, NYC, building my own Duquette collection. Thank you Robert Tardio for all your gorgeous work that’s all over the Coach website. And thank you Judy, Lois, Lee, James and the whole gang….. We love Coach too!!

"PERFECT PAIR"
“You guys are going for world domination with those butterflies!” Yes Becky, you got that right!
When Neiman Marcus booked ROBERT TARDIO to shoot more of his iconic butterflies created with super stylist Suzy Kim, there was huge excitement. Neiman beauty book covers for Fall and Holiday…. very cool.

Butterfly for Neiman Marcu - photo by Robert Tardio
Working with Coach is always amazing. Super talented Art Directors show up at Robert Tardio’s studio with gorgeous merchandise, top stylists, exquisite design for their marketing and a real understanding of their product. When Lee Pullano arrived at Robert’s studio for this shoot, she said, “Let’s just play!” Being the great Art Director, she knew they’d get fresh images from Robert. Awesome results became double-page spread ads in major magazines, plus holiday shopping bags for their retail stores. And they call this work! Thanks for for being exceptional client working with us.
Thank you NPR and HUFFINGTON POST. Listening to NPR every chance, admiring Arianna Huffinton our role model. Now reading their blogs we spot CARLI DAVIDSON and their observations about her photography. “SHAKE” series and “Disabled Pets” demonstrate CARLI DAVIDSON true passion for animals. Coming next is stunning collection of images by Carli Davidson, Zoo Portraits from Portland Zoo.
Huff Post: http://www.npr.org/blogs/krulwich/2011/11/16/142387948/shake-it-how-dogs-cats-even-hummingbirds-keep-dry
NPR http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/08/dogs-shaking-off-water_n_920885.html

When BVK Advertising AD Mike Scalise wanted “Strong Babies” for his ad campaign, he went to powerhouse ALTER for their digital imaging expertise to execute this concept. Together with photographer Eric Sahrmann, working in concert with ALTER digital artists, Eric Sahrmann photographed (17) separate babies (whoah, that’s patience!!!) to create these award winning images.

Does it get any better than this sunny afternoon in Siena? Only if you’re with Robert Tardio! When these images appeared from the “little hillside village just north of Siena saying, “You must come and visit! We’re about to serve antipasto. Multo Buono!” I booked my trip. Only to learn that Robert shot these in his studio on 25th St. in Mid-Town Manhattan. I love my job!!!

"The Grappa Dirty" by Robert Tardio

"Vino Bianco" by Robert Tardio

"Barolo Grappa Nuts" by Robert Tardio

"Barolo Grappa" by Robert Tardio
Young gun CARLI DAVIDSON is a photographer who captures something truly original. Dogs SHAKE, sometimes their disabled, but always lovable and she’s got ‘em. Just so you know, I met Carli D when she was a little kid! Having worked with her Dad, my friend and client the Creative Director, he called one day recently – so excited and proud of Carli’s work. Already featured in the NYTimes, Vanity Fair Italy, BBC, Huffington Post, PDN, Carli is drawing real attention to these pictures of ’shaking’ dogs (and a few cats). Her website had 1.2 million hits in 2011, over 5 million page views. An award-winning shooter, lifelong animal lover, experienced animal trainer, Carli captures compelling images! By rolling on the ground with her subjects, she encourages these mostly four-legged creatives to open up to the camera. The SHAKE series explores humor and drama in these animal’s distorted faces, leaving observer time to explore the unexpected in these typically invisible moments. We’ve had so much enthusiasm showcasing this work that we wanted to share here. www.carlidavidsonphotography.com

SHAKE 4 - photo by Carli Davidson

SHAKE 1 - photo by Carli Davidson

SHAKE 2 - photo by Carli Davidson

SHAKE 3 - Photo by Carli Davidson
I’m always excited to see Robert Tardio photography when opening a top publication like Vogue. I remember the day we landed Bulova and the Marketing Director, a truly lovely women, noted that my ‘timing’ was good that day – I happened to call at the exact right moment – she had something she needed shot. (Luck was on our side.) Our relationship has developed as a tribute to Robert’s beautiful work. It has endured from the experience of working with Robert. I’m very lucky.

Bulova Ad in Sept 2011 Vogue - Photo by Robert Tardio
When Paul Aresu walked onto the field at the Rose Bowl last week, he was playing for real. Hired by Creative Director to photograph The League, they wanted Paul’s narrative style for their new campaign. FX Network wanted Paul’s signature photography and his ability to work with people. Shooting alongside broadcast is always exciting (and challenging). These huge productions filled the arena with vans, trucks, the largest lighting set-ups imaginable and tons of protection for that sacred ground. Paul had his own A-team from Aresu Digital by his side (as always) to develop extraordinary imagery as they do on a daily basis. (I never walk into their studio when there isn’t some incredible picture up on the computer screen in development under the tight direction of Paul). Now back to The Rose Bowl! So FX new campaign is slated to promote hit comedy show The League. Paul masterfully worked their team and his crew photographing each member of the cast then creating final iconic Aresu images using innovative techniques developed over years and year. While I am not at liberty to show you those pictures yet, here’s a few that illustrate Paul Aresu style. Thank you Paul and FX for an incredible shoot.


Move Over Estee Lauder! When New York Times SundayStyles section published that headline June 12, 2011, Robert Tardio already completed his second photo shoot and was about to begin the next one for the new superstar in world of cosmetics – Bare Escentuals. Their creative team flew to NYC from San Francisco to shoot with Robert again, and we remembered that it all began back when QVC introduced these two a few years ago. When Leslie Blodgett, new high priestess of cosmetics industry, began on QVC she transformed the world again. Being compared to icons like Estee Lauder, Max Factor, Revlon and L’Oreal – Bare Escentuals came out with a vengance, launching their mineral line that has special properties designed for youthfulness and lasting impression. Just purchased by Shiseido, BE’s new blockbuster product features Robert Tardio’s gorgeous photography. A few weeks ago, when their VP Creative walked into Robert’s studio with newest over-sized promotion book distributed to magazine editors globally – we were thrilled to see Robert’s work! Collaborating with super stylist Suzy Kim, Robert and Suzy created these exquisitely artful images. As Leslie says, “amazing” and “awesome” – that’s Robert. Thank you BARE ESCENTUALS!


BARE ESCENTUALS . Ready Smears . photo by Robert Tardio

BARE ESCENTUALS . Ready Pans . photo by Robert Tardio

BARE ESCENTUALS . Shadows . photo by Robert Tardio
As I was saying, ARESU DIGITAL is HOT. While I love to let pictures speak for themselves, I realize telling a story is essential to broaden your knowledge and understanding of exactly what you’re looking at here. This is among the finest digital imaging in the world. These images, that are created from multiple captures over a period of time, often in various locations, under a huge of array of lighting conditions, are visionary. The constant is …. PAUL ARESU and his vastly talented associate, Photoshop master, Mike Moskowitz of Aresu Digital. The passion and sophistication, collaboration and connection, the seriousness mixed with unending jokes, make them an unparalleled match. Get ready for your experience with outrageous results when you work with Aresu Digital. Incidentally, I am not all talk. Here’s the proof……

NBA Superstars: LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Kevin Garnett, Amare Stoudemire, Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant photo by Paul Aresu / Imaging by Aresu Digital

NBA Superstar Kobe Bryant / photo by Paul Aresu / Imaging Aresu Digital
Tags: Amare Stoudemire, Carmelo Anthony, Digital Imaging, Dwight Howard, Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, NBA Superstars, Paul Aresu, Photography
Posted in Digital Imaging, Inspiration, Photography | 1 Comment »
I was running through Madison Square Garden last week when I saw gigantic blowups of NBA superstars. I was in awe! Realizing that Paul Aresu photographed everyone of these guys in his own inimitable style really struck me. If you’ve ever photographed a celebrity, you know you get five minutes – if you’re lucky. Paul Aresu’s relationship with these players is established instantly. So bam! Paul hits the ground running on these assignments. Imagine, you’ve waited all day, driven to location, set up lighting, sat around waiting for these giants of the sport to arrive (who are sometimes an hour and half late) and you’ve got this one abbreviated moment to capture this compelling image that gets blown up fifteen feet high or is posted where millions view. Paul does an amazing job! What do you think?

Carmelo Anthony / photo by Paul Aresu
Barbra Walz, my tribute to you! I began my career in New York City representing BarbraWalz. She was an extraordinary person. Exceptional photographer, exquisite woman, great style and lovable wit. And she was a cancer survivor. Her pictures brimmed with intelligence; they were packed with the essence of relationships. I was in awe of her New York Times Magazine covers, book covers in a world of famous people with images that made lasting impressions. Her vast talent resided inside a woman who had one leg as she was 14 years old when the other was amputated at the hip from cancer. This never stopped her. Not from having two amazing daughters or strolling onto movie sets hired by great directors who wanted Barbra to shoot their film stills. She was a real favorite. Today, Barbra Walz’s photograph of Ralph Lauren is used for The Oprah Interview to promote their conversation that airs this week, one of Oprah’s final interviews. I’m thankful to Barbra’s husband, my dear friend Kevin Walz, for allowing us to publish this image, giving honor to pictures with lasting appeal. We honor Barbra Walz along with Ralph, Oprah, Kevin and our beautiful families for carrying the torch of our passions.
- Ralph Lauren – Photo by Barbra Walz
Testimonials have value! When Paul Aresu was hired at DraftFCB, to shoot Merck Hypoglycemia Awareness campaign last summer, intentions aimed high, combined efforts equaled award winning results. Nominated for Manny Award by MedAd News in category of “Best Disease Awareness” campaign, running against 21 campaigns in their category, they’re now Final 3. Their Art Director emailed me, and here’s his words…..”It was a pleasure then and it’s a pleasure now to share this congratulatory news with you. From Paul, to Mikey, to Sally and more, our shoot was an awesome experience with quality results. Hopefully, if the stars align, we’ll get some hardware from this. If not, it’s an honor to be nominated and it’s a reflection of your team’s commitment to excellence. Our team from Draftfcb couldn’t be prouder to share this with you. Much love and appreciation.” Thank you Michael!
http://www.mannyawards.com/vote2011/?action=viewnoms&cat=22&maid=3&cname=Best%20Disease-Awareness%20Campaign

Photo: Paul Aresu / Agency: Draft FCB / Award: MedAd News
ALTER never ceases to amaze. Working in concert, every discipline under one roof, they produce images with no boundaries. Spanning time and space, ideas abounding, no limitations. Whether it’s ‘historical’ captured moments like ‘Gladiators,’ showcasing Eric Sahrmann’s exquisite photography, or capturing a boy in a modern day school room with extra pizzazz (wait n’see in future blog). There is no limit to what ALTER does. Oh yeah, top-notch conceptual thinking, high-end photo production (including casting, styling, wardrobe, props, set construction, splashing, swirling)-and that’s just photography. Then ALTER launches into realm of CGI! Hold onto your hats-it’s like being shot out of canon! From physical to virtual where ‘anything’ is possible. At ALTER extraordinary CGI artists work side-by-side with phenomenal digital artists to create whatever! Here’s a little something they did in their ’spare’ time. Transcend time and space. Think ALTER and go!

The Gladiators - ALTER CGI - photo: Eric Sahrmann
When Paul Aresu shoots, everyone wins! This time Paul’s campaign for TLC Posters won Addy Award Show. Officially this award is presented February 17th and Paul wishes he could be there to accept, but he is booked all month! If anyone makes it to St.Louis for the show, Chuck Berry is playing at Blueberry Hill in U.City. Paul would have loved being there for all of it. Thanks guys!

TLC Poster Campaign/ Addy Award Winner by Paul Aresu

TLC Poster Campaign / Addy Award / photos by Paul Aresu
When Paul Aresu goes out to shoot, the response from clients is phenomenal. This morning alone, three testimonials filled with praiseworthy phrases for Paul and his team for shoots this week. ”You really nailed this project for us!” “Your shoot was easily the smoothest we’ve ever had…the quality speaks for itself.” from CNBC. ”I’m just so thrilled with how everything went, from Commonhealth, “accolades from client to you and your crew…. really, really enjoyed working with you.” And from Palio, after shooting video and print “Great working with you and your team.” Go Paul! Go Team!



When Mary Kay cosmetics wanted a fresh eye on their beauty photography Art Director Kathy Albright suggested Robert Tardio. She’s been a loyal fan and client for a long time, having worked with together on product for years. Kathy loves Robert’s light. Creating a top team with hair & make-up artist supreme, amazing Robert Jones – they could not go wrong with beautiful Eva P. This crew had a fantastic day!


Paul ARESU lives for the photoshoot. Last night in the darkness of NYC on location with charismatic Art Director, Ray Colon and fabulous Senior Art Producer Alexa Benitez, plus their massive crew – they brought the city to life! Like a movie set, they created a scene! Lighting, water trucks, talent, police, motor homes, generators, computers, still cameras, video and there’s ARESU behind the camera, of course, the place he loves best, and turns to me saying “I want to do this every day!” “Me too,” was my reply. Call me when you’re ready to join us.

"Look at My Kid"

Digital master Mike Moscowitz, brand manager Kim Owens, charismatic AD Ray Colon, amazing ARESU!

Man on The Move, That

Producers Par Excellance, PhotoGroup Team Peter Strongwater, Vail Palmer Smith
Janice Moses Represents is thrilled to welcome new photographer Paul ARESU. Vastly talented at creating phenomenal images, Paul’s distinctive style produces pictures with extraordinary impact. We are excited about working in this global community developing more fans and making new friends around the world. When you want a creative solution – Call me for your next production – with ARESU!

Brad Guice was in Haiti this month donating his energy and talent documenting the construction of a medical facility to help the team of doctors and professionals arriving weekly to care for people of Haiti. Brad captured these images to help us see what is there. Scott Zacaroli at Merkley & Partners created this video AidToHaitiToday.org from Brad’s images and video footage as he sings about the dire situation that persists there. Imagine how we can make a difference. We donate to Partners in Health. We hope you will find your own way to give. We thank you Brad for your generosity.




If truth be told – these are RAW captures! That’s right, no retouching, pure photography – and I’m bold enough to want to share them this way. It’s the only way to tell absolute truth about Robert Tardio, his talent and vision. I once read that “exceptional images are more than pretty pictures.” For Robert, his images represent an approach, a passion, and pure instinct to be in a relationship with his subject. They define his photography, they propel his Art Director, and in the commercial world of fashion retail, they are non-verbal strategy that actually creates business – pure and simple – they create “Sales!” So when Elie Tahari wanted moody, dramatic, glamourous lighting, they came to Robert Tardio. What they wanted were sexy images to move the buyers at their core. They relied on Robert’s ability to capture the Elie Tahari product and make you want to possess them. I think Robert did an awesome job here – what do you think?




When you come across this issue of Archive – pick it up. There’s always inspiration to feed your creative soul and, with time now moving at warp speed, you’ll need all the nourishment you can get now. Then thumb thru until you find these images – and now STOP!
Take that split second to study these new pictures from Robert Tardio. Wonder a while about how he made that liquid come squirting from those tubes. Contemplate the light as it measures the immeasurable, space! Yes, that’s right – you’ve read this far to discover that we’re talking about photographer Robert Tardio, and they way he draws you into time and space – and makes everything stand still. Some call it “still life” – but that’s not really enough, I call it Robert at play.

Top notch Art Buyer asked me recently if Alter could create bubbles, not just ordinary bubbles, but iridescent, shimmering, luminous bubbles, shining with a lustrous sparkle; she emphasized the amount of research that went into the study of her client’s product. She wanted “glow” emanating from their form – and to be sure that Alter would follow the agency’s creative direction. With these samples we won her confidence – and the work.



Tags: Alter, Beer, Bubbles, CGI, Digital Imaging, Foam, Palmolive, Photography, Troy Evans
Posted in CGI, Digital Imaging, Photography | No Comments »
When Robert Tardio photographed The Style Checklist by Lloyd Boston, we never expected Lloyd to invite ME to join him on the Today Show. Carmen Adriana, Lloyd’s fabulous stylist rocked the experience with her wardrobe selection. (That’s Carmen in blue blouse- and ME in fabulous leather dress by Elie Tahari). Best part of the day: working with Jones NY’s own Lloyd and meeting his mom, Lynell Kollar. Moms are awesome! Check us out http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/39079069#39079069

When photographer Brad Guice shoots for Citizen Watch he obviously brings them luck! The year US Open winner Kim Clijsters was “unstoppable” after this photoshoot and last year Eli Manning won the Superbowl! Joining forces with stylist Lori Upbin, Brad and Lori bring style to Citizen Signature campaign of champions.
Photo by Brad Guice / Styling by Lori Upbin
Our masterful Robert Tardio collaborated with the impeccable Lloyd Boston to create their new book! “The Style Checklist” is launching in NYC with Fashion Week and Lloyd adds to our excitement by inviting Me to join him on The Today Show. With these expert tastemakers guiding our style, we’re sure to make magic in our own lives. Thank you Robert & Lloyd for giving us this new bible of fashion.


When Grey Healthcare wanted the perfect team to create a natural “look” for Invega-Sustenna campaign, they paired our favorite stylist Lori Upbin with top photographer Paul Aresu. They did a great job, what do you think?

Stylist: Lori Upbin / Photographer: Paul Aresu / Agency: Grey Healthcare / Art Buyer: Michelle Bernstein

Fabulous Coach team moved into Robert Tardio’s studio this month! Bringing their exquisite merch for global holiday campaign to shoot with Robert – they had a blast! We can’t show you those pictures yet, but here’s a gem Robert shot last Spring that’s running in September ELLE.

Robert Tardio for Coach

Fresh Eye On Clinique
We’re prejudice! We think Robert Tardio is the greatest (me, Tiffany and Sharon, that is), so when Clinique called, we weren’t surprised. Collaboration with Digital Evolution only added to exquisite captures and we’re very proud of these results.
Janice Moses Represents welcomes new photographer Jean-Francois Berube, master of portraiture, creating a moment to capture the elusive soul of his subject. JF’s distinctive approach, characterized by uncluttered images where nothing comes between his lens and true nature of his subjects. The work appears in Elle and Interview, a variety of global commercial clients. Currently living in Montreal, JF’s recent essay on Olympic Athletes in Canada celebrates the heroes we make of them during the games.

A Despatie, Olympic Athlete, Canda