When we began planning the "Manor Muses 1:1 June Edition," we knew it had to be something special—something that would surpass even the unforgettable experience of our May edition. As both - an organizer and a model, I felt a deep connection to every aspect of this event. It wasn’t just about creating beautiful images; it was about crafting an immersive journey through Latvia's most enchanting manors and castles, a journey that would inspire both photographers and models alike.

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Latvia is a country rich in history and natural beauty, and for this event, we wanted to explore some of its hidden gems. Veselava Manor, with its peaceful, almost ethereal atmosphere, was our first stop. I remember arriving that morning, the sun casting a golden glow over the sprawling grounds, feeling a surge of excitement as I imagined the incredible shots we were about to create.

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Our next destination was Zvartava Manor, a place that resonated with artistic energy. The manor’s unique gothic character and vibrant interiors challenged us to push our creative boundaries, and I found myself completely absorbed in the moment, both as a model and as someone witnessing the unfolding magic.

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Finally, we arrived at Stameriena Castle, a location that felt like something out of a dream. Its grand architecture and rich history provided a dramatic backdrop that brought out the best in every participant. I remember standing in one of its vast halls, the light streaming through huge ceiling windows, feeling like I was part of a living painting.

 

A Unique 1:1 Experience

One of the key elements that set this event apart was our strict 1:1 shooting ratio. This was a deliberate choice—a way to ensure that every photographer could work closely with each model, creating an environment where ideas could flow freely and personal connections could be made. Whether I was posing solo or as part of a duo or quartet, the intimacy of these sessions allowed for a depth of creativity that was truly inspiring.

 

The Models’ Perspective

As a model, working alongside Morfeja, Lisia, and Dana was an absolute joy. Each of us brought our own style and energy to the shoots, and the chemistry we shared with the photographers was palpable. There were moments when everything seemed to align perfectly—the setting, the light, the mood—and I could feel that we were creating something extraordinary.

 

A Celebration of Creativity

To cap off the event, we held a photo contest, a way to celebrate the incredible work that had been produced. When I saw the images that had been submitted, I was blown away by the creativity and vision of the participants. It was a tough decision, but in the end, Dave Rudin (@figuresofgrace) stood out as our winner. His image captured the essence of Stameriena Castle's beauty with a very extraordinary quartet model concept shoot.

 

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back on the "Manor Muses 1:1 June Edition," I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. Organizing an event like this is no small feat, but every detail—from the locations we chose to the meals we shared—was worth it to see the joy and inspiration it brought to everyone involved. It was more than just a photography event; it was a shared experience, a journey that we all took together.

I can’t wait to see where our next adventure will take us, and I hope you’ll be there to join us as we continue to explore new locations, embrace new challenges, and create art that resonates with our souls. Take a look at this beautiful collection of pictures which were our participants' work created during these days, backstage shots by Rudolfs, as well as some pictures created by Ilvy herself.