Kirill Bichutsky is a New York based nightlife photographer that knows how to push the limits with respect to building a brand. KirillWasHere.com was launched in March of 2009 and has really gained traction in terms of developing web traffic and a loyal following. Kirill’s work was displayed on the front page of Examiner.com this week featuring recent shots of Jamie Foxx at his album release party in NYC.

If you’re in marketing or advertising, it’s easy to realize that Kirill is dedicated to blowing his brand up by using the power of web traffic and curiosity to drive visitors to his website. Simply put, partygoers want to see pictures of themselves online and event planners are always seeking media coverage to maximize returns on PR budgets. Kirill encourages his website visitors to “steal” his watermarked photos to broaden his reach. This makes it easy for media outlets to provide detailed coverage on events using Kirill’s unique images.

The majority of Kirill’s work is still based around nightlife photography. Recently, he’s stepped his game up by shooting popular artists, musicians, and celebrities. The shot above featuring hip-hop sensation Drake captures the power of his onstage-delivery the and rise of his career in 2010.

It may be premature to compare Kirill Bichutsky to Terry Richardson with respect to shooting images that are raw, provocative, and often humorous. The shock value and quality of Kirill’s photography is a key selling point that continues to keep online visitors coming back for more.

Working with artists such as LMFAO and Lil’ Jon this year gave Kirill the credibility he needed to take on more exclusive projects. Most artists that showcase their work online often struggle with monetizing their work before it ever gets into the hands of the public. This is a mistake that sometimes takes creative’s years to figure out and overcome.

The work presented on KirillWasHere.com speaks for itself and isn’t diluted with meaningless commentary and fluff. Additionally, there’s no shortage of images of beautiful women putting themselves in compromising situations. You can’t help but respect a guy that’s honest and dedicated to his craft.

I don’t have a crystal ball handy, but I’m confident KirillWasHere.com will continue to grow as more galleries featuring celebrities, socialites, and party-goers are posted. If Kirill Bichutsky remains as dedicated and driven as he is today with regard to shooting at multiple venues in the same night and aggressively promoting his brand, he should become a household name by early 2013. Follow this guy on Twitter @KirillWasHere. He’s quite the character.

Nightlife Photographer Kirill Was Here is a post from: Nicky Papers

I’ve had my share of roommates in my time and travels. From the obsessive compulsive, (tagging initials everywhere) to the UFC fighter, (allegedly trained with Forrest Griffin?) to the downright filthy, (one roommate smelled like feet) no one takes a more memorable rank than Kevin Nicholas, the professional magician.

I met Kevin my senior year of college through Andrew, my current roommate at the time. Kevin attended the same high school as Andrew which created the social link. Upon greeting Kevin initially, he got cute and stole my watch off my wrist. Not cool. I didn’t know that he was a magician, so naturally I was caught off guard.

After reclaiming possession of my watch, Kevin explained that he has been performing magic for years and one day hopes to make a living from it.

After processing the sequence of events, I asked Kevin if he’d ever take his pick pocketing skills to the streets of New York City.

Firmly, Kevin stated: “I don’t use my magic for evil purposes!” That’s when I knew the kid had the twinkle. Kevin instantly became part of the crew.

For the first semester, Kevin lived on my couch doing magic tricks and sipping Coffee Coolata’s into the night. For entertainment purposes he was everything our crew needed. Now operating with a professional magician on hand, Kevin’s charm and boy-ish looks opened many conversations will eligible females on campus.

Unfortunately, Kevin got a terrible nick-name during that fall semester, “Magic Gay Boy”. I felt sorry for him as Justin (our other roommate, upperclassmen) tortured Kevin by introducing him to girls as “Magic Gay Boy”, our magic gay magician.

After college, Kevin found his way onto MTV’s Room Raiders 2.0. In an effort to prove his heterosexuality, Kevin was tasked to pick one lucky lady after rummaging through their rooms.

Aside from all the likely things to appear, (condoms, cum stains, etc.) Kevin did an excellent job playing Nancy Drew and selecting his shining star; a hot Latina named Carmen. (Andrew approves as she fills out those booty shorts nicely!)

I always try to surround myself with the best and brightest people. I’m glad I met Kevin the day he stole my watch and I’m honored to call him a friend.

More importantly, Kevin Nicholas is a true rising star in the magic industry. Newsday has referred to Kevin as the “Justin Bieber of magic”. Recently, Kevin Nicholas performed at Ivanka Trump’s launch party for a new jewelry line. (pictures above)

Bottom line: Kevin Nicholas is multi-talented. Not only can he keep up with the best magicians in the industry, but he can sing, dance, and perform stand-up comedy. Kevin Nicholas has a bright future ahead of him.

Kevin Nicholas Magician is a post from: Nicky Papers

Leah Cohen was a “cheftestant” appearing on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 5. Leah shined through the entire series earning her a spot in the final four sending her down to New Orleans. Unfortunately, for this culinary cutie “the last supper” was her final challenge.

Leah definitely brought the eye candy to the last few episodes (sorry Carla, even though you were a model – allegedly) to make the Bravo Network show worth watching.

Leah, if I had the honor and pleasure of meeting you I would discuss the following topics:

Your egg dish: You got robbed on this one babe! The judges wouldn’t send Stefan home because he dominated so many of the previous competitions. Your poached eggs looked fine to me and all the viewers.

Your boyfriend: I really should be sympathizing with your man. You played him on national television when you had that hot make-out session with Hosea. I know you didn’t think the cameras would be rolling, but that shouldn’t justify your behavior. If you swear it ended with just some tongue action, I think we can forgive you.

Hosea: I know the kiss probably “felt right” at the time, and now you think of him as “just a friend”; however, with a little booze thrown in the mix you could turn Hosea into a new f-buddy.

Now that you’re single and Hosea’s got the confidence that comes with being “Top Chef”, this is something that you may want to explore.

In the next few months, you’ll probably both get super busy and start exchanging cute “I miss you” and “come to NY” text messages. Don’t let it get to that level, put Hosea in your man-bank today!

Playboy Magazine: I think you are sexy as hell and would look great naked. You should seriously consider doing a spread with the Heff-man. You have the look, you have the personality, and now you have the notoriety.

I predict the bunny-spread will crush Rachel Ray’s FHM shoot in 2003, bring more attention to foodie-culture, and up certainly up your steez.

Good luck! : )

Leah Cohen Top Chef is a post from: Nicky Papers