As I get older, I realize that I should also feature those incredible models at the start of my career. These are guys I documented in black and white film back when that was the ONLY method of taking pictures.
Many are the earliest nudes I’ve shot, but my style still echoes throughout.
I don’t know how I met Royce, but his body is one that I will never forget. The look of a lean rippling physique without massively overinflated musculature is the attraction to me.
It harkens back to the common man who labors daily. It is a body that has developed out of necessity and not steroids. It’s real and natural.
And Royce had THAT body! And it was so glorious to observe as it moved in the room, a sinewy shape that was caressed by light.
Fortunately, he had a wonderful apartment with clean lines and a wonderful skylight. The rest was up to his ability to strike a pose.
Classical arts like Michelangelo’s David give us the ability to enjoy the beauty of the male form without regret. But, in real life, we are denied that pleasure through twisted constructs that maintain a conservative mindset.
And for no good reason! The human body should be admired like any other fine art, as a gift that nature bestows.
It’s ridiculous that we still argue that point about the nude after all the years. Why are we so afraid of our own skin? Is it pride or fear that drives this issue?
These are points of personal reflection that dive into a deeper psyche. Luckily, my job is to preserve that incredible form for others to enjoy – the internal battles are their own to wage.
I am proud of this wonderful early figure study that transpired in the simplest of spaces. And I’m fortunate to have a handsome man like Royce as my muse.
A beautiful figure with a singular light source – as close to perfection as it gets!
Thank you, Royce!
Back to color next month.