Cuyler’s entries for “Taboo”. Click on a photo to view larger.

Photo one:
pregnant and still partying.
Photo two:
Four Japanese things that are taboo:
-never give scissors (means to severe ties)
-chrysanthemum (given at funerals)
-anything in fours (signifies death, shi in other contexts) 
-to stab chopsticks in your rice (also means death)
Photo three:
one word “penn state” 

Luke’s entries for “Taboo”. Click on a photo to view larger.

One of the many things I love about skate photography is it’s attention to space. Not only can they be photographs of super human athletes, but they are photographs of space and the use of that space. It has an appreciation for architecture, and depicts that appreciation in a unique way often unintended by the architects themselves. 
The stigma that follows skateboarding is due to the fact that it is indeed counter culture. Taboo in nature, basically doing things in places you aren’t supposed to. The above shots were taken in places where skateboarding is highly restricted and in a couple cases, if caught, one would receive the highest of repercussions. Just one chance, one shot, but the risk and joy of the moment forever. 
Shot with Leica C1 38-105mm and Leica Mini Zoom 35-70mm, point and shoot cameras. With Kodak Ektar 100 and Portra 800, 35mm film stock. 

An Interview with Luke Aguinaldo

Luke has won two challenges so far (“Water” and “Film Noir”). Let’s pick his brain before his photos for the “Taboo” challenge are released:

What are your thoughts on winning two in a row? 

It’s been a lot of fun! Photography can be a such a solitary art at times, so it’s been fun competing amongst friends. At the same time its been great motivation to get out there and shoot. 

What made you choose “Taboo” as the theme?

I thought it would be a fun topic to throw out there. To be drawn to something “taboo,” whatever it may be depending on your upbringing and cultural background, is a natural instinct that I find very interesting. 

What is “taboo” to you?

When I hear the word taboo, I quickly think of cultural differences. Photography that offers a window into different cultures that I am unaccustomed to have always intrigued me. They are usually images that shock you but at the same time you find yourself learning new things about the world and even yourself. 

Do you plan out all your photos — or is a large part improvised?

I usually go with the first idea that comes to mind since time management is key in Photoboxing. As far as planning the shoots, I go with the flow of whats available to me. That goes for camera equipment, talent, and location. It’s weird, I kinda thrive working under limitations, it forces me to be creative with what I have as opposed to having a budget, all sorts of gear and set time, in which cases I tend to over think things. 
And finally, any advice to budding photographers out there?
Get out there and shoot. Don’t worry about shooting something that’s already been done, because everything has been done. The only difference is your perspective, and in that will you find your originality which will in turn bring about your personality in your photos. I think then you will enjoy your work and people will enjoy connecting with them as they are connecting with you. 
Thanks, Luke! We all look forward to seeing you and Cuyler’s photos!

While the photoboxers are shooting their photos, let’s get to know new challenger and armed rifles dealer cool guy Cuyler Yogi:

  • Strengths: survival
  • Weaknesses: Procrastination

That’s it. What a mysterious guy. Go follow his blog because his experimental photography is pretty kick ass. You never know where he’ll wind up and what he’ll shoot, which makes this “taboo” challenge very exciting! 

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