Bijou: From Williamsburg to Soho
Bijou, strikes a pose in the East Village. New York, 2018
These photos will always resonate as they were my first shoot with a competitive bodybuilder. I was acquainted with the subject — Bijou — beforehand, but I learned a great deal about her life at the time as we scoured Williamsburg and Lower Manhattan in search of the perfect setting.
I crossed paths with Bijou, a competitive bodybuilder and avid cyclist, during a photography assignment at CONBODY fitness studio. Fearlessness defined, she’s an intelligent, endearingly nerdy, and natural beauty who personifies cool. A master of the mirror selfie, her glorious mane and exceptional shoe game are always on point.
I photographed Bijou in May 2018, capturing her in peak physical condition. Her sculpted body was the result of the hard work she’d put in training as a competitive bodybuilder.
Bijou poses at Martha P. Johnson Park (aka East River State Park). New York, 2018
On shoot day, I met Bijou and her husband, Jerry, at Martha P. Johnson Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The skies were grey, but the cloud cover ensured there wouldn’t be harsh shadows on her face.
Bijou was ready to shoot, sporting a colorful manicure, perfectly coiffed hair, dope sneakers, and range of body-hugging outfits. The session started along the rocky banks of the East River, where I snapped photos of her against the Manhattan skyline.
After roughly 20 minutes of shooting, we hopped in their car and rode over the Williamsburg Bridge to Lower Manhattan. As we crossed the river, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bijou and Jerry on a range of topics. The engaging conversation, filled with insights and lots of laughter, created a relaxed atmosphere that enhanced the shoot. Refreshingly hospitable, the couple brought complimentary snacks and beverages, which was a nice touch.
Bijou poses in Soho. New York, 2018
At our next stop in Soho, Bijou’s beauty and magnificent shape set tongues wagging, drawing compliments and catcalls from scores of ogling men. Unfazed, she blocked out the noise and posed beautifully. Jerry was equally composed, showing a command of the situation and level of self-control most men lack.
Over in the East Village, Bijou drew attention from men and women. A group of guys spotted her standing in the street and adjusted their walking routes to get a better view, while a well dressed female couple stopped and told her how beautiful she looked.
Bijou in Soho. New York, 2018
My favorite photos from the session are of Bijou standing against a graffiti wall in Soho and the shot of her in the middle of the street in the East Village. In both photographs, she conveys strength and beauty as those glorious locks sweep her stunning figure.
Bijou sports her Rebook Classics Freestyle high tops in the East Village. New York, 2018
After leaving Bijou and Jerry, I reflected on how cool they were. Their closeness and genuine love for one another were inspiring. Eschewing conventions, they’re one of the most compatible couples I’ve met. And as the photos illustrate, Bijou is one of my best subjects.
