V2

by Russell James (Photographer), Richard Branson (Foreword), Ed Razek (Foreword)

Book by

Genres: Photography, Art

136 pages, Hardcover

First published September 15, 2010

Reviews

[Blog on Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

V2 by Russell James (tuNeues), is assembled from out-takes the photographer created whilst commissioned for a Victoria’s Secret swimwear photo shoot on Richard Branson’s famed Necker Island in the Caribbean. The only thing that makes them outtakes, of course, is that the models – Brooklyn Decker, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Miranda Kerr and five others – are not shot wearing Victoria’s Secret wardrobe, and in fact, are largely wearing nothing at all.

Whether the title is a reference to the backup Victoria’s Secret shoot or the name of Branson’s former record label, V2 is a beautiful, largely black & white, document from an amazing location shoot. If there is any drawback to the 72 image volume, it’s that there just isn’t enough. James’ last eponymously titled book spoiled us with nearly three times as many breathtaking images as V2. Simply put, we want more.

[H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was kinda disappointed not to see Adriana here, but overall these were amazing shots. It was nostalgic seeing portraits of past Angels like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Miranda Kerr, and Erin Heatherton (especially Miranda, her presence is dearly missed in VS). However, current Angel and blonde bombshell Candace is the clear standout. One of the few models that can successfully traverse the commercial and high fashion worlds with ease. V2 is worth the look.