It was a difficult year for many. Violent weather patterns, political unrest and economic hardship were the continuing themes. The continuing slowdown of economic activity has affected many in the digital imaging sector. Borrowing a term from the union sector; we are now experiencing the "race to the bottom" for professional fees and the rise of do it yourself photography which can be attributed to the quality of today's digital imaging equipment and free photo editing software. 

Many in the industry have contributed extrordinary images into the public consciousness. Some excellent examples are in the links below:

Time Magazine's Pictures of the Year

The Big Picture I

The Big Picture Part II

Best Nature Pictures

Fashion is oriented towards spring and summer seasons 6 months ahead of the actual calendar year so it is hard to pinpoint the best images of 2012. There is one photographer that has brought us exceptional images and to a level that they are a world upon it self.  Numerous publications and advertising campaigns are par for the course for Benjamin Kanarek

As New Year descends upon us it is often a time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the new year. So here goes. Looking back at all of the sets for the past year there are definitely some favourites. 

#3 Samantha Carly recreated the vintage world of fashion. A fascinating look at fashions from the 1950's and 1960's modelled with a high degree of old fashioned romance. Since I am a romantic at heart this set got high marks from me. Vintage Fashion Gallery

#2 The Big Bang Theory is a hit television show, but sometimes fiction is closer to reality than you think. In this set we have Katie Buitendyk who has her degree in astrophysics and who happens to model as well. This set will challenge your stereotypical view on intelligence and beauty. Here is Katie Buitendyk in the real life Big Bang Theory Gallery

# 1 Here is my selection for the hottest set of the year. Kelsey Belle models some high fashion looks both in the studio and on the rooftop. Kelsey is a model that can hit that special look with ease and she certainly brings it on set and she is definitely a pleasure to work with. If you keep up with the spring and summer fashion shows you might have seen Kelsey on the runways in Milan. Maybe one day in the future there might be another shoot with Kelsey. Gallery