America’s Next Top Model features Moncton entrepreneur’s app

A Moncton entrepreneur's smartphone app is getting worldwide attention, thanks to supermodel and reality TV show host Tyra Banks.

Philippe LeBlanc says Banks and the producers of the hit series America's Next Top Model contacted him last fall when they heard about the app, called Flixel Cinemagraph.

"It's a fusion of photo and video. We like to say it's the best of both worlds," said LeBlanc.

It boasts "living photos" for iPhone and iPad users, with a slogan of: "Life isn't still. Bring your photos to life with Flixel."

"Instead of having just a standard still photo, you can isolate an area within the photo and just have that loop endlessly," explained LeBlanc. "For instance, you can have a shot of Tyra Banks, but with just her hair blowing, but everything else is still," he said.

"So it allows you to create this new art form."

Millions of viewers

Flixel made its debut on America's Next Top Model on Aug. 8 and is now a permanent fixture.

LeBlanc says the application received a huge boost in sales after the show, which is broadcast in 180 countries and has millions of viewers, went to air.

Banks has also made an investment in the company, according to the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation website.

Flixel has also secured collaborations with other brands, including Macy’s new and exclusive Marilyn Monroe fashion collection, the website states.

The company received a $50,000 capital investment from the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation last year.

Flixel currently employs 11 people, with offices in Toronto and Los Angeles.

LeBlanc says he started out in Moncton, but couldn't find the software developers he needed.