Here at SLR Lounge, we love creative personal projects, especially those are remarkably different and make you want to say “why didn’t I think of that?” Texas photographer Matt Rainwaters shot what is probably one of the wildest portrait series that I’ve seen of late. All of his subjects have in common – a crazy beard and/or a crazy mustache.

Lighting-wise, Matt chose to use a single ringflash. He then had the subject stand against a black background. Very simple lighting for a crazy bunch of characters! If you want to see how to use a ring flash for your own work, you can check out our previous article on The Slanted Lens’ use of Ring Flash.

In the mean time, be sure to check out the entire series by Matt on his website.

Thanks to Fstoppers for finding these images!

UPDATE: You can now purchase Matt’s book Beard at Chronicle Books.

Portraits of Beards & Mustaches by Matt Rainwaters

Portraits of Beards & Mustaches by Matt Rainwater

Portraits of Beards & Mustaches by Matt Rainwater

Portraits of Beards & Mustaches by Matt Rainwaters

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4. How to Color Correct Environmental Portraits – Lightroom Video Tutorial
5. Interview with Radio Popper – WPPI 2011