'Working with Man Space was like seeing myself through my eyes, but with an entirely new perspective.'
When I first contacted
Man Space Photography, I asked about featuring his St. Patrick's Day work with model
Sebastian Calvin. After spending time on his site however, there were so many looks and shots that I really wanted to share. The chemistry is evident in every shot and theme captured. Man Space generously welcomed me to choose more of my favorites. Sebastian was also on board, and welcomed my questions about his modeling, and his many creative collaborations with Man Space.
What first brought you to modeling? I think it first started with a friend wanting to take my picture, I had shoulder length hair that I was donating for cancer patients and wanted to document how I looked before the haircut. After that, I think ManSpacePhotography reached out on Instagram and I did my first real photoshoot with him.
Did you initially plan on modeling nude?
I wasn't planning on it, but in my first shoot with ManSpacePhoto I think he asked if I'd be comfortable. I obviously said yes. I loved seeing portraits of my favorite artists nude and I found nudity to be beautiful so I wanted to try it myself for a photoshoot.
Did you have any factors you had to weigh before your first nude shoot?
Of course I was a little worried about where it would go and who would see it, coming from a small town, I didn't want to be shunned by my community. But during that time I had also moved 2000 miles away and was in the exploration years of my life so | was more focused on the joy that it would bring me rather than what people would say.
After ManSpace contacted you, did you check out his work, and if so, what stood out?
I did! What stood out was how comfortable his models were and the variety of them. Also his shooting style was very clean and honest-feeling. And I felt safe and excited to shoot with someone who had a great sense of the Camera.
Did you discuss themes, especially the holiday themes, prior to shooting?
Yes, I think we talked about locations, what to wear for some of the shots. He helped direct my modeling too so we talked quite a bit about how the shoot would go.
What stands out most from the shoot?
I felt so beautiful. Growing up not getting much attention or thinking I looked attractive conventionally. It was great to see me through someone else's eyes. Working with Man Space was like seeing myself through my eyes, but with an entirely new perspective.
How many times did you work together?
We've worked the most together than any of the other photographers that I've worked with. I'm losing track now but maybe over 10 times over the years. Since moving back to California we are working together more often.
What was your favorite part about working with ManSpace?
He is so kind! We are both open to exploring new ideas. It's always very easy and fun with him.
I've seen your holiday images on many sites. Have you had them pop-up place you didn't expect? Ever since I started modeling pictures have been popping up on Tumblr (back when that was the big site) and Facebook groups and Twitter. It was a little surprising, still always flattering. But friends will often message me saying “You're on this page again!" And send me a pic.
What's been your favorite reaction from viewers of your work?
I've had a couple of people reach out and says how I've inspired them to be more confident. Talking about nudity, I don't usually pose erect and my penis is small- average. People have thanked me for showing that your penis size doesn't define your beauty or worth as a man, and that you can still be sexy, and comfortable in your skin with the body you have. :)
