Everyone is a unique individual and has their own "style" about them. As a photographer, I work with men and women, either alone or paired with other individuals to create unique individualized images, similar to what photographers have done and continue to do for Abercrombie & Fitch®, Calvin Klein®, International Male®, and others.
I tend to work with men who are in good physical shape and who are generally considered to be "good looking." An excellent indicator of a guy's fitness level is his abdomen muscles. If you have some abs showing, then generally speaking you are in good physical shape. You don't have to be an Abercrombie & Fitch®, Calvin Klein®, or International Male® model, I am not only looking to work with men with perfect bodies, but a lean athletic body is an excellent start.
It is always good to work with models who are comfortable and confident with themselves and who can get over a little nervousness or shyness. Remember, a photo shoot should be a lot of fun and exciting. If you are relaxed and having fun that will translate to better photographs.
You should have a fairly clear complexion, but a few blemishes can be removed with software (i.e., Adobe® Photoshop®). Don't worry if you wake up the morning of the photo shoot with new acne.
I like variety in my photographs and therefore enjoy working with models of all races and ethnic backgrounds.
If you have tattoos, piercing and/ or scars, that is okay, as long as they are kept to a minimum. We can usually shoot around some tattoos, piercings and/ or scars.
MODELING: PREPARING FOR YOUR PHOTO SHOOT
Before a photo shoot you might want to diet or decrease your water input. This can be harmful to your body, so do not overdo it. Many times guys show up to photo shoots very hungry and thirsty. I keep water and protein bars on hand at all times because of this. While I appreciate the effort serious models and body builders put into doing the photos, but just don't go crazy!
Please do not shave or trim your chest, arms, legs, etc. specifically for the photo shoot. Shaving can cause red bumps. If you must shave, a liberal and repeated smothering of Vaseline® over shaved areas is a great way to reduce red bumps. So avoid manscaping if at all possible. We can make any changes when you are here. Remember, we can't add hair back.
If you look good "scruffy" do not shave your face for a couple days prior to a shoot. We can take photos with a few days growth, then shave half way through the photo shoot, giving you a totally different look.
Get a hair cut before a shoot. Do not change your hair dramatically from the photographs you submitted though. A nice hair cut will make you feel better about your appearance.
Absolutely do not tan or use a spray tan within four days of a photo shoot. Keep in mind that tanned skin is damaged skin. If you have a good base tan, that is fine. Overly tan skin tends to look like leather and for extreme weight lifters who are into the whole tanning thing, I will ask them to cut back on the tanning for at least a couple weeks before the photo shoot.
Get at least two good night's sleep (i.e., 8-10 hours) leading up to your photo shoot so you are well rested and energized.
MODELING: WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
All models must sign and execute a model release and provide proof of age and identity with no exception. Always bring two (2) forms of identification. One ID must be a valid United States Government issued photographic ID, such as a valid Driver's License or Military ID. The second form of identification may be a valid state identification card (with photo), passport, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, valid credit card, work ID or medical ID.
Bring a variety of clothing that might give you various looks. Remember, you are getting photographs for your own personal non-commercial use. Select clothes that show off your body and that you feel you look good in as it will translate to the digital images. Athletic gear, t-shirts, muscle tanks, shorts, boardshorts, swimsuits, Speedos®, jeans and even a suit and tie can help bring a variety of styles and looks to your final photographs.
Solids colored clothes are better than clothes with patterns. Avoid clothes with giant brands or logos, as we want the focus on you and not the clothes that you are wearing.
Watches, necklaces, rings and other jewelry can help with some of the photographs, and we can add and remove it to make the photo shoot look like time has passed.
Do you play a sport or do an extreme activity? If so, then let's photograph you doing it. Surfing, basketball, kick boxing, martial arts, volleyball, swimming, golf always add to a photo shoot. Remember to bring all your gear and equipment.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hestitate to ask. I usually find it is better to address any question and/ or concerns before the day of the photo shoot. The day of the photo shoot, I want you to be comfortable, relaxed, and to have fun.