Gene Sampling Interview: The Photographic Work of Robert Mercer

When we heard the stunning men of the Ripped Genes 2008 Calendar were rolling into town, we begged boy-genius photographer Robert Mercer Jr. to give us a peek at these fellas. We can now tell you, if your a fan of hot men, have we a great calendar for you. We chatted with the "ripped geneticist" himself, Mercer Jr. who told us all about these calendar boys.

Tell me a little bit about the man behind the lens. Who is Robert Mercer Jr.?
Would you like the online version? 6'0, 165lbs, in shape, runner's build. [Laughs] Seriously, I am a man of vision and creativity. I love people. I try to be honest and real. Most people say I'm fun to be around and that they enjoy working with me. I am cool. Well, at least I think so. I'm a perfectionist at heart with a competitive spirit. A Photographer/ Fashion Show Producer/ Model Manager.

How did you get started in photography?
I started in college as a way to make some extra cash. I was part of a campus modeling organization. After graduating, I decided to pursue a career in high fashion modeling. It was fun and challenging, but I knew my heart was not set on being in front of the camera. A few years ago, I was given my first professional camera and studio lights. It has been a love affair with my Nikon D50 from the first shot. That passion is what's driving me forward today.

What was the inspiration for Ripped Genes?
First, I love the title because it's a play on words. I think most guys feel great in the right pair of jeans. So, I had all the guys wear jeans that were stylish and that showed-off their great DNA. I love the diversity of the models as well: the different nationalities, ethnicities, cultures, religious beliefs and sexual preferences. Secondly, I love the idea of possibly being responsible for launching the career of our next top male model.

How do you find the models?
I generally use several model networking sites to cast models. I look for realness, personality, confidence, a great face and body, and a masculine walk. I tend to stay away from models with egos. I would rather work with someone with drive, passion and a willingness to go far in this industry. I work with both professional and amateur models and have been known to stop a guy on the street and ask if he has ever modeled before. But, depending on what section of town you're in, some can take it as a lame pick-up line.

Typically how long do your shoots take?
Wow! Ok, now you're getting too personal! That's a "loaded" question. Hmmmm, it usually takes about an hour and a half with some prep work.

Any funny stories from the shoots?
While I was shooting Matthew, Mr. April 2008, I told him 'if this calendar is going to be called the sexy denim edition, then he needed to get more sexy. Do something crazy and hot.' He was psyched and wanted to do something that would make your nipples get hard. I walked across the studio to retrieve another lens and when I returned, he asked, 'Is this too sexy?' He was sitting on floor with his jeans draped loosely between his legs-just enough to cover his manhood. Not only did I capture his sexiness, but also his zany personality and raw masculinity. It takes someone who's confident in his sexuality to create such a dynamic image. Get your calendar today and try to keep those pages from sticking together.

We adore your work; where else can we see your stuff?
Thanks for the compliment, and it's an honor for my work to be featured in your magazine. You can find our latest Ripped Genes male model calendar in Lambda Rising. Although my work had been featured in several local and regional publications, you can always catch my most recent work at www.fashionenterprisesonline.com. Stay tuned for monthly updates!

What's next? When do you start work on RG 2009?
My next project is the calendar signing tour. We plan to visit several states along the East Coast promoting the calendar, the models, and my photography. RG 2009...Whew! It seems so far away, but actually closer than we think. The model auditions will begin in late October of this year. Then I will finish the calendar by January 1, 2008. I am also planning to release my first female model calendar, The Body Shop, later this year. In the early part of February 2008, I will launch the highly anticipated 20 cities Fashion Show Tour. Yeah, I definitely have a lot on my plate, but I love to work and enjoy what I do. The time is now!!!

Fashionenterprisesonline.com.