The Opéra, Volume II: Magazine for Classic & Contemporary Nude Photography Paperback – March 31, 2014

This periodical offers such a variety of visions that no one description could cover them all. It starts with undated B&W photos by Trude Fleischmann, possibly as early as 1920s. They offer simple statements of womanly grace, but with enough muscle definition to hint at hidden power, too. Their romantic mood contrasts with Ilja Keizer's stark, frontal portraits, Durgin's organic abstractions, De Joode's baffling constructions, and Dubinsky's contrasts of warm human tones and curves against subdued landscapes or urban decay. Riley and Schopper offer romantic male nudes - interesting in the context of largely female models, but away from the center of my interest. And these examples represent only some of the range presented; I omit the others only for brevity.I like the format. Heavy paper and fine printing demonstrate impeccable production values. Each artist gets enough space to show some of their gamut, but enough different artists and styles appear to give the thinking viewer something to ponder. Although generally un-self-conscious about all aspects of nudity, this never titillates or confronts the viewer. I could only wish for a bit more description, though. The images have been allowed to speak for themselves, even when a few words of commentary or background could have added insight. And, for some reason, the models remain nameless. Knowing even a first name would have made the imagery more personal for me. Still, the imagery commands attention. And, as with so many of the finest pictures in any medium, each viewing offers a new perspective.-- wiredweird

Congrats to the crew/staff at The Opera Magazine. The first one blew my mind. I was really hoping it wasn't going to be a fluke on issue #2. Some of the best photographers in the world showcasing just a snip bit of their work. I am looking forward to the future of this beautiful magazine. Wish it was monthly ;)

I rather buy the HI Fructose, This one is okay but would not buy any others. Not my taste. Quality of workmanship top notch. Priced too high in my opinion.

Great book in every way!!!

Is one of the few publications that deals with the real nude art, not necessarily glamor or erotic. A very good editorial choice. I would have liked the captions.

THE OPÉRA I finde ich persönlich besser. Diese ist etwas kitschiger in meinen Augen und für mich dadurch weniger interessant und weniger zeitgenössisch. Die Serien wirken teilweise etwas verstaubt.

Eine schöne Mischung aktueller Bilderwelten von menschlichen Körper, ohne Tabus und Scham. Ein Kunstwerk für alle Freunde erzählerischer Kunstfotografie! Liebevoll kuratiert und präsentiert!

Aktfotografie wird immer beliebiger. Schön, dass sich dieses Magazin auf Topniveau mit anspruchsvollen Sichtweisen bzw. Zugängen zu diesem Thema widmet. Auf sehr gutem Papier gedruckt ist das Studium des Magazins eine Freude.

I like the varied styles that are presented great inspiration to seek different styles.