It was at this client session when I realised this is what I want to do. I was at my most relaxed (apart from the naked man in the room, but I can get used to that). It just felt right. Normally I spend much of my sessions and the build up to those sessions, worrying about whether or not I will get 'the shot', the one that makes me think, 'yeah, now that is special, definitely good enough to be a sample in the studio'.
But during this shoot, it was more like, which one will be a sample for the studio. Hence the reason I actually have 10 images in this post, more than I have ever included because I am so picky with what I want to show as my best work.
Its also useful for those clients that want to show off their images without having to show the ones that reveal all. This way there is a variety of shots for a variety of audiences. In fact, if nude is going a little too far for some there is no reason why a session can't be booked with just topless jean shots in mind. I have to say I love the images in jeans as much as the fully nude anyway.
For anyone considering such a session I would like to assure you that I make it as comfortable as possible. At no point am I in a position to see more than my clients want me to see. I announce my every move, in the event that lights need adjusting, so clients have the chance to turn away when appropriate.
I have found male nude photography to be just beautiful. And having searched the internet for inspiration I found not many are doing it as elegantly or artistically as this. On the whole, the images I came across are not the sort I'd be happy to hang on a wall or show the family. In fact much of it looks a little like cheesy porn. So I am hoping I have found a niche to specialise in which will provide something not currently available.
I thoroughly enjoyed photographing Tom. For someone who was quite shy to begin with he did very well. Amazingly, he enjoyed himself so much he wants to come back again for another session. His portraits, which he loves, have inspired him to work harder at the gym so he plans to come back after another few months of working out, not that I can see anything that needs improving. Still though I am very much looking forward to his return. We'll have to take the opportunity to try something new.