Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Reflections...
We used to be a civilized society...
There was a time when protesters could strip down and jump into the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool with only the risk of getting arrested. Today, they also have to worry about itchy rashes, hives, irritated skin, and bumping into dead ducks. The orange idiot ruins everything! Haven't protestors suffered enough without now also having to worry about algae induced skin conditions and painful, fluid-filled blisters.
Rum Tum Tugger

Favorably Disposed: Benjamin by New Manhattan Studios
That first request to feature Wes' work was over 14 years ago in 2012. I was inspired after seeing his stunning shots of the muscular Drew. (HERE:) I was struck by two things starting with Wes open to working with me. My favorite artists and models to feature don't just send me visuals, but work with me to create the story. Each time I featured the work of NMS, Wes provides plenty of story, most of it, I'm able to share with FH readers.
Occasionally, there's a tidbit or two I'm asked to keep to myself. This is is common with most of the artists and models that I feature. Many share certain aspects of their work which helps give contest to the visuals, but not all of it needs to be shared. I also loved that Wes wanted to check with Drew before going forward. I know this may seem a small thing, but it's something I always encourage.
This shoot with Ben was a few years ago and the 22 year old model was a recent college graduate when they first worked together. Wes remembers that Benjamin was one of the first models to list 'influencer' as his day job. As we know, not everyone can make money as an influencer, and although he had a large social media following, Ben eventually returned to school to to get his graduate degree. Wes shares they worked both in the studio and along Manhattan's East River waterfront. They actually wound up shooting in front of a building that Ben had lived in during his years in school.
Although Wes shares they got some good shots during that first shoot, Wes felt there was something missing, and felt they could even do better with a second shoot. About three weeks later, Ben returned to the studio, and most of these shots were from that second shoot. Wes compiled his favorite shots of Ben, featuring images from their location work, and studio shots featuring full frontal and erecton shots into an almost 50 page photo essay. If you want to see more of Ben, including Ben's beautiful boner, download the Essay on NMS HERE:



























