Photographs of Claudia

To win a spot in an elite workshop for studio photographers, Leonora Westcott must put together an extensive portfolio. Her efforts--and inspiration--get a boost when Claudia Galloway, a teacher intern in town for only a few months, volunteers to model.

For Claudia, the sensual poses offer one last chance to flaunt her independence before settling into the scripted life her wealthy fiancé has planned for them in California's exclusive San Simeon community.

Leo has always seen her subjects a...