The event was the Ujena Bikini Jam 23
in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, organized by one of the world’s most
successful swimwear companies that have been around since 1984. Over 200
models and photographers from 10 countries competed for more than $200,000
in cash, prizes and contracts in an event that was watched by more than 10
million people.
The Ujena Bikini Jam 23 is currently held three times a year in exotic
locations across the globe although they are planning on holding as many
as 11 other Bikini Jams around the world by 2009. But it was the
international leg in Mexico, also known as the Main Event.
Spanning 7 action-packed days and nights, the competition was fierce, but
the Mexican weather ― with its searing heat, unbearable humidity and
never-ending rain ― proved an even greater challenge, especially when
several hurricanes circling the region threatened to destroy any
photographic opportunities. But the job got done and several hundred
thousand pictures were taken of the 140 beautiful competing bikini models.
Both photographers and models were challenged to deliver unforgettable
images in a competition where not only their talents were on show, but
even personalities were closely monitored. After all entries were in,
only 20 models and the 10 top photographers would make it to the finals.
An even tougher test lay ahead for the finalists where they had to compete
in a judged shoot-out and had just 20 minutes to demonstrate the broadest
variety and create the greatest images of the competition. After that, all
they could do was wait, relax, and let the judges decide their future… |
