The Mr. and Ms. Muscle Beach contest was held on July 4th in Venice, CA. I spent most of the time behind the scenes prior to the actual competition, meeting people, talking with them and photographing them. Included in this gallery are 41 photos of the body builders as they prepare, pose, and preen prior to the competition.
Interesting poses--especially the derrieres and the headless bodies. It makes the photos look that much more graphic and bold. Looking at the expression on the face of the man with the vein covered chest reminds us how hard these people work to maintain those physiques. It is another world!
With bulging veins and muscles where no one ever thought there'd be some...a culture I doubt I'll ever understand, but the portrayal of this kind of life is fascinating. Thanks for showing us, Iris!