On November 16th we had the pleasure of photographing 15 incredible models at Sword & the Stone in Burbank, CA. All costumed up in full armor, helmets, swords, knives, and other metallic wear these models really struck a pose in front of the camera and I took full advantage! A big thank you to master blacksmith Tony Swatton, owner and proprietor of Sword & the Stone for setting up this special day to feature his incredible works of art and another hearty thank you to the stunning models who came to powerfully pose throughout the day.

The goal was to have professionally studio lit costume shots for the website, but also for these models portfolios. We started off taking a standing front shot, side view and back photo, but once those were taken we got to have some fun!

Our youngest model that day was 6 years old and she rocked it in a full suit of armor, especially made for a kid. With limited visibility and a heavy sword she stood proudly showing off the armor at every angle.

Each model came out in a specially picked out costume with corresponding weaponry and we had an incredible time posing, jumping, and wielding heavy axes, spears, knives, and swords with conviction!

Even without metallic weapons, these models knew what to do. We had a great time showing off these metal bodices and cool accessories including fun headwear like a bear head - rarrr!

At the end of the day, even I picked up a golden sword (used in a Miley Cyrus music video) and posed for a quick picture!

Once I brought these stunning images home, Mike was inspired to digitally draw a few favorites.

Hi, Mike here. The ladies, armor, and weapons reminded me of adventure/fantasy movies and comics of the 1980s. Like they would be the warriors that fight Conan the Barbarian or ride with Xena Warrior Princess or something. I’ve been into drawing things with a retro comic style and it would be the perfect look for the warrior gals! Enjoy the sketches I’ve been working on below:

Thanks for reading and looking through all of these incredible images. I hope to shoot with Tony once again for some more fierce shots!

Photography by Crystal, Artwork by Mike Olguin.

January 12, 2020.