FN Photographer Turns Candy Cutie

I was going about my usual business one day, when I got a text message from Candy magazine. It said, “We'd like to invite you to the Candy Cuties 2012 photo shoot!” I thought it was a photography gig. I even said to myself, “Ha! This might be the break that I’m waiting for. I’m going to shoot for a magazine.” I was looking forward to what might happen.

So I was totally unprepared when they asked me, “Can we check your age? Our cut-off is 25 years old.” It was then that I realized I wasn’t going to be behind the camera.

I felt flattered to be chosen as a Candy Cutie, but at the back of my head, I was wondering whether I’m too old for this. I consulted my sister who is in her teens--she replied with laughter and said she doubted whether I should join. Even my girlfriend wasn't so sure about the setup.

Eventually, I said yes, since not a lot of guys have the chance to become a Candy Cutie.

During the photo shoot, I was very self-conscious. Being a photographer, I don’t know how it feels to be in the limelight. I know some poses, but I don’t see myself doing them. I always wanted to get a glimpse of how I looked in the photo. As the shoot progressed, everything fell into place. Poses and smiles came naturally. Videos were shot, and I found myself enjoying the entire experience. I guess this is how it feels to be in front of the camera instead of behind it. All eyes are on you, and it is up to you how you are going to project yourself. I found it amusing, and I felt kind of at home. Plus, working with my colleagues made everything a little bit easier. Now whenever they see me in the hallway, they always kid around by calling me, “Candy Cutie.” The label has a certain ring to it! I might even keep it… but only in the office.

Candy Cutie voting started July 15, 2012 and it will end August 31, 2012. If you’re interested in voting for me or for any of the other Candy Cuties, click here.

The gallery below shows four things I learned from the shoot.

(Photo by Majoy Siason courtesy of Candymag.com)