When I got an unexpected call for photographic images that would show the caller at his best sans clothing, I was uncertain how to proceed. I had taken loads of beautiful portraits of women, some with only a sheet to cover intimate parts of the female body, but this man was looking for something quite different. He’s interested in pursuing studio modeling for artists and photographers. It’s something he had done in his early life and thought he might try it again.

I have to admit that at first I was quite uncomfortable with the idea, but as we talked about what he’d like to get out of the session, I realized that as a professional, if it’s something I’m curious about, I shouldn’t restrict myself from the opportunity of some experimentation. I found images on the internet of other studio models, striking extraordinary poses that tensed their muscles and expressions for ultimate dramatic effect. I used those as a guide for some of the poses we eventually created in the studio.

I was surprised how quickly I became accustomed to the reality in front of me. Yes, I am a professional, and I found that I was completely engrossed in getting the pose, the lighting, and the expression right and paid basically no attention at all to the fact that a stranger was naked before me. I concentrated on form, contrast and overall effect.

I was very pleased with the results, as was he. He hopes to use the images for his website to attract artists to engage him. It takes a degree of courage I think to feel that comfortable with your body especially in front of a stranger.

All in all it was a productive experience. He ultimately determined that he wanted to go in a different direction and asked that I not post any pictures of him. Of course I obliged.