GETTING Harry Potter good girl, Emma Watson to show off a more sexy side to her personality takes some powers of persuasion, but convincing celebrities to expose their real selves for his charity photo projects is becoming a habit of Aussie snapper, James Houston.
The New York-based fashion photographer, who counts Elle Macpherson, Sarah Murdoch and the Hart sisters as close friends, continues to enjoy a wildly successful career behind the lens shooting the world's best models.
But it was only when Houston began building his dream home in the wilds of Connecticut that the raw beauty of his environment inspired him to marry the two in his latest fundraising tome, Natural Beauty.
Calling on his model friends and a few VIP eco warriors, like supermodel Christy Turlington and Entourage star Adrian Grenier was a two-year labour of love for Houston, who hopes to raise awareness and money for the Global Green cause “while not scaring the hell out of people.”
The thoughtful Houston believes the green movement would have more success with the next generation “if it shifts the focus off what we’re losing and instead highlights the natural beauty we’ve still got around us.”
It was also an opportunity for the acclaimed lensman to return to some of the most exotic locations he’s visited in his international career, including Arizona’s mesmerizing slot canyons (a sacred Navajo Indian site where he shot Irish model and actress Catriona Balfe).
Previous projects like Move, which saw Elton John and the Australian Ballet perform for its World Aids Day gala launch in 2006, have raised millions for related charities, while showing off Houston's huge talent and big heart.
His latest work, which includes 120 images and a 12-part webisodes featuring the `making of’ the book, was celebrated at a luxury dinner in NY last week, sponsored by Dom Perignon, with guests including Grenier, models Anja Rubik and Nicole Trunfio as well as Estee Lauder beauty Carolyn Murphy with her Sydney-born beau Lincoln Pilcher.
Featuring Melbourne model sisters, Jess and Ashley Hart was a ``perfect fit,'' Houston told News Limited, a long-time ambassador for Australian fashion talent.
Watch webisodes filmed during the making of Natural Beauty and buy the book at www.jhnaturalbeauty.com
Source
