Thanksgiving Secrets

Using models in my work isn’t new to me. Over the years, there's been a variety of projects. Hands delicately showcasing jewelry, expressive faces surrounded by skincare products, and even some rather nice feet for a brochure a local podiatrist wanted to put together. Each shoot had its unique challenges, but clothing was uncharted territory for me. A challenge I am all too eager to conquer. Still, the fundamentals of product photography remain the same, giving me a certain level of comfort as I venture into this new field.

I have an array of models I’ve used before, independent people not associated with any agencies. They're all good-looking, each bringing their own style and energy to the shoots. This morning, I locked myself away in my studio, surrounded by my previous works. But unlike before, my focus wasn't on the products showcased in each photo. Instead, I scrutinized the models themselves, their poses, their expressions, and the way they interacted with the camera.

Sifting through the collections, I began compiling a list. It wasn’t just about who looked good; it was about who could bring the right vibe to each piece of clothing, and who could tell a story with just a glance or a gesture. I considered which models would suit specific types of apparel. Who would best embody the casual elegance of a certain line, who could bring an edgy, urban feel to another?

This is where Nico, my favorite barista, comes into the picture. Adorable Nico. Sexy Nico. There's something about him that's just so captivating. I've spent countless mornings sipping coffee, admiring him from a distance. 

He has a nice body, from what I can tell. It's usually hidden behind his barista apron, but as a photographer, you learn to notice details. There are subtle hints in the way he moves, the slight stretch of fabric across his shoulders, the contours hinted beneath his uniform. It's not just about his physique, though. It's the way he carries himself – a natural, unassuming confidence that's incredibly appealing.

His short brown hair is always styled just so, not overly done but with enough care to show he values his appearance. It's versatile, the kind of hair that would look good tousled and casual or styled for a more sophisticated look. More often than not, he ties a bandana around his forehead, which has the effect of spiking his bangs up and away from his eyes. A fashion statement giving him his unique style. Yet one that gives me many ideas. In many ways, when combined with the light dusting of facial hair, it creates a touch of ruggedness to his otherwise boyish charm. 

But it's his smile that really seals the deal. Those cheekbones, sharply defined, give him an almost sculpted appearance. And when he smiles – those dimples, they're just... they add an irresistible charm. It's a look that's both approachable and attractive, a combination that's not easy to come by.

I can already imagine how well he'll photograph, and how his features will translate through the camera. Nico has the potential to be a popular model for this clothing line. There's a versatility to his look that I know will appeal to a wide audience. 

As I sat back in my office chair, my gaze fixed on the big screen TV mounted on the wall of my studio, I flipped through image after image. Each photo sparked a new idea, a new possibility. It wasn't just about the models; it was about the entire scene, the story each picture would tell.

That's when another idea struck me – setting the stage. The backdrop, the environment, it's as crucial as the models themselves. I began to envision the perfect settings for each line of clothing. A gym nearby sprung to mind, an ideal locale to showcase all three lines – the athletic gear against the backdrop of gym equipment, a leisure line in the spa area, and even the more intimate apparel in the sauna. The possibilities were endless, each setting offering a unique narrative. But, in an off-hours photoshoot, you can mix it up. Why not work out in your underwear? I challenge anyone who isn’t trying to show off their body to tell me they hadn’t thought about doing it. 

And then, the showers. I could already visualize the steam, the water, the play of light and shadow. It could be a bold, daring shoot, but one that could capture the essence of the clothing line in a raw, unfiltered way. The juxtaposition of the clean lines of the clothes against the rugged backdrop of the gym's shower area could create a striking visual impact.

Excitement coursed through me as I thought about the potential these locations held. It wasn't just about photographing clothing; it was about creating a mood, an atmosphere that would draw the viewer in. It was about crafting images that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also evocative and compelling.

But that’s only part of the puzzle. Public and professional settings are one aspect, but private and more intimate settings bring an entirely different dimension to a photo shoot. Capturing moments on a bed, in the personal space of a bathroom, or even lounging by the pool. These are scenarios that evoke a sense of intimacy, a glimpse into a lifestyle. This was where my idea started to take shape, but to make it a reality, I needed something crucial: locations.

That’s where Reiley came in. With his connections in real estate, he had access to exactly what I needed, vacant houses, each with its own character and style. With some assurances that we would leave everything as we found it and a bit of compensation for the homeowners, we could turn these houses into perfect, photo-ready settings.

To solidify my plan for the upcoming meeting with Lance and Trey, I flipped through pictures I’d taken in the past few weeks. These weren't just photographs; they were proof of my vision and ability to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary scenes. Each image was a step closer to convincing them of the potential these private settings held.

When I finally presented the idea to Reiley, his response was more enthusiastic than I had dared to hope. He saw the potential, not just for my project, but for showcasing these properties in a unique light. However, as expected, he had one stipulation, to ensure the integrity of the homes, he needed to be present at all the shoots, acting as a liaison to the homeowners. It was a reasonable request, one that I had somewhat anticipated. Outwardly it would reassure the homeowners and add a layer of professionalism to the endeavor. But Inwardly, it was just Reiley being Reiley.

My next task, while critical, was somewhat tedious: reaching out to all the models on my list to ensure they had recent and compelling cover shots and portfolios. In the world of modeling, your portfolio is your gateway to opportunities, and an outdated one can close as many doors as it opens.

As I contacted each model, a common theme emerged. While they had the time, many expressed concerns about not being able to afford the fees associated with getting their portfolios updated. This was a hurdle, but one I could easily eliminate. It also presented an opportunity for a creative solution.

To address their financial constraints, I proposed a deal. I would update their portfolios at no upfront cost. The catch, however, was a conditional agreement: if they landed the modeling job with Lance’s project, they would pay me double my standard rate for the portfolio shoot. If they didn’t get the job, they wouldn’t owe me anything and would still have updated photos for their use. It was a risk-reward scenario that seemed to resonate well. 

This arrangement created a win-win situation. The models would get their much-needed portfolio updates without immediate financial burden, and I would potentially secure a higher payment. The only thing I lose for those who didn’t get selected is time. And I’m okay with that. 

The response to this offer was overwhelmingly positive. The models appreciated the chance to refresh their portfolios without the upfront costs. After the first few, I started offering it to everyone I contacted, regardless of their current portfolio status. 

As I began scheduling the shoots, I realized just how much of my time over the next two weeks is going to be taken up by it. 

First up on my list of models to contact was Nico. He had texted me the very evening I gave him my business card, expressing his interest. There was an eagerness in his message that matched my own enthusiasm for the potential collaboration. When I finally texted him back with a more concrete plan in mind, I was already visualizing how perfect he would be for this project.

We spent the next few days texting back and forth about it. I for one would have rather gone to the coffee shop and talked to him directly about it, but I wasn’t about to interfere with his day job for it. And our schedules didn’t allow for meeting any other time. I explained what he would need to bring, various garments that would accent just how perfect he is for the line. More than once he sent me pictures of him in various apparel asking my opinion. 

The boy was driving me crazy, in a good way. It was almost like he was intentionally trying to tease me. And maybe he was. Who knows. I did need to take Riley’s advice to heart though. To slow down. To gain control of my hormones. 

That wouldn’t stop me from stacking the deck in his favor though. We would tailor his portfolio to make it look like he was born to model for this line. In my mind, he already fits the bill perfectly.

As I prepared for his shoot, I couldn't help but be aroused the entire time. I seriously thought about rubbing one out before he arrived, just to ensure I didn’t allow my hormones to get the best of me. 

I arranged the studio with meticulous care, setting up the lights and a few choice backdrops. For this session, simplicity was key. I planned to convey to Lance that Nico was a new model and we hadn't had the luxury of time to set up a more elaborate scene. Deep down, I trusted that Lance would understand and appreciate the raw, authentic quality of these initial shots. After all, they were meant to capture Nico's natural appeal, which aligned perfectly with the vision I had for the clothing line.

As I adjusted the last of the lighting, I glanced at the clock. Right on cue, I heard the studio door open. Nico arrived punctually, a quality I greatly appreciated. He walked in, a little tentative but with a visible excitement that mirrored my own.

"Hey, Nico, glad you could make it," I greeted him, offering a friendly smile to put him at ease. "Thanks for coming in on such short notice." I locked the door behind him. Explaining that we didn’t want any sudden and uninvited guests. He asked if I had any employees, to which I promptly said I didn’t. The smile he had told me he was fine with the current arrangement. So we proceeded. 

Nico's honesty was refreshing. "No problem, Lucas. I'm really excited about this. Thank you again for the opportunity,” he said, his smile growing more confident.

I was curious about his background. “Have you ever modeled before?” I asked as I adjusted a light stand.

“Nope,” he replied, a hint of amusement in his voice.

“Ever considered it?”

“Nope.” His response was quick, laced with straightforward honesty. “Never really thought I was hot enough for it.”

I paused, looking at him thoughtfully. “First, Nico, you are definitely hot enough for it. Trust me on that,” I said with a smile, hoping to boost his confidence. “Second, it’s not just about being hot. A lot of it is about having the right look and attitude. It's about how you connect with the camera, how you convey an emotion or a story without words. And from what I've seen, you have that potential.”

He seemed to consider my words, his initial self-doubt giving way to a cautious optimism. “Well, I’ll have to take your word for it,” he said with a chuckle.

“That’s the spirit,” I encouraged him, hoping to ease any lingering nerves. “Let’s start with the athletic wear. Just relax and be yourself. I’ll guide you through it. There’s a changing curtain over there,” I gestured towards a corner of the studio partitioned off for privacy. “Or, if you'd be more comfortable, you can use my office. It's right through that door,” I added, pointing towards my office door.

Nico glanced briefly at my office before heading towards the changing curtain. His choice was telling. In my experience, models' comfort levels vary greatly, especially those new to the industry. Those particularly conscious about privacy and accidental exposure would always choose the more secluded option of an office, changing room, or even a bathroom. Nico’s decision to use the curtain suggested a level of comfort with his body, a good sign for a budding model.

He carried a bag with him, presumably the clothing I had asked him to bring. As he set it down and began unpacking, I couldn't help but observe his choices. The swimwear, athletic wear, and underwear he brought all seemed to reflect his personal style – nothing too extravagant, but each piece had a certain understated elegance.

As he disappeared behind the curtain, I turned my attention back to the setup. Desperately not wanting to imagine him naked only a few feet away. I double-checked the lighting and the camera settings, ensuring everything was perfect for when Nico emerged in his first outfit. This part of the shoot was crucial, not just in capturing good photos, but in establishing a rapport with Nico, making him comfortable in front of the camera.

I waited, going over the potential poses and shots in my mind. The anticipation of seeing how Nico would handle his first professional shoot added an extra layer of excitement to the session. Every new model brought a unique energy to the set, and I was eager to discover what Nico would contribute to the canvas of this project.

Nico was a natural. It took some work getting started, I often had to demonstrate what I was after. He took every suggestion, and within the first hour, you would think he had been doing it for years. 

Nico turned out to be a natural in front of the camera. At first, there was a bit of hesitation, a slight stiffness that is common with new models. I found myself demonstrating the poses, showing him how to relax his shoulders, and how to angle his face to catch the light just right. He watched attentively, nodding and imitating my movements with a keen focus.

It was remarkable how quickly he picked up on my guidance. With every suggestion I offered, he adapted, his movements becoming more fluid and confident. He seemed to have an innate understanding of how to convey emotion through his posture, and his expression. There was a certain rawness in his approach, something unpolished yet incredibly captivating.

Within the first hour, Nico was moving with a grace and ease that belied his inexperience. It was as if he had been doing this for years, not just stepping in front of a professional camera for the first time. His initial nervousness had completely vanished, replaced by a budding confidence that shone through in each frame.

As the photo shoot progressed, I found myself in unfamiliar territory. For the first time in my professional career, I was experiencing a level of arousal that was completely new to me in a work setting. It was an odd sensation, blurring the lines between professional focus and personal attraction. I attributed part of this to Nico's natural charisma and the way he presented himself in front of the camera, it was undeniably captivating.

The shoot resulted in hundreds of photos, a testament to my heightened engagement. The beauty of digital photography is its capacity for limitless captures, allowing me to explore various angles and moments without the worry of running out of film. As I clicked away, I realized that some of these photos were for me, personal keepsakes of this unexpected stirring I was experiencing. As many of them were in a style, that you wouldn’t use in a portfolio. Others, I knew, had the potential to be used in my other income streams. The stock photography market, for instance. Posters and large canvas prints were another example. 

I was well aware that I would need to discuss this with Nico and offer him appropriate compensation if I decided to use any of these images outside the scope of our initial agreement. It was only fair, and professionally ethical, to get his consent and provide him with a release form. The last thing I wanted was to cross any boundaries or exploit his trust.

Well, that isn’t entirely true. I absolutely wanted to cross boundaries and exploit the hell out of his body. But not with my camera. Especially when we got to the underwear portion of the shoot. As Nico nonchalantly turned his back to the camera, dropping the speedos he was wearing, I was momentarily caught off guard. There it was, a perfect, unobstructed view of his naked form – something both unexpected and startlingly intimate in the context of our professional interaction. My heart raced, and for a split second, I felt light-headed, as if I might faint.

Quickly, Nico slipped into a pair of briefs, his movements fluid and unselfconscious. When he turned back to face me, there was a hint of a mischievous smile on his lips. “Sorry, I should have asked first,” he said with a casual shrug. “I just figured, since you’ve already seen so much of me, a little more won’t hurt.” He then reached into his bag and pulled out a jock strap. “Especially since I brought this along. Thought it might make for a great photo.”

In that moment, I whimpered. I fucking whimpered. It was an involuntary reaction, one that left me feeling both embarrassed and incredibly flustered. The line between professional and personal was blurring more than I had ever experienced before. He noticed, and he smiled. 

I had to regain composure, to remind myself of the professional setting we were in. “Uh, yeah, it’s fine,” I managed to say, trying to refocus on the task at hand. It took all of my willpower not to give in to my desires. In the end, the only thing that worked was telling myself. “Another Day,” over and over again. 

I would not be that stereotypical photographer, the one who gives the industry a bad name.  The one that invites people over under the pretense of work, for the sole purpose of taking pictures. If Nico lands this job, and if he is still interested. Then I might consider it. Hell, that’s a lie. I doubt I would have the willpower to not give in a second time. 

I recognized again, the reality and truth of Reiley’s words about maintaining control, and not going crazy. If I gave into my urges with Nico like this. What’s to say I wouldn’t do the same with the next hot model that flirts with me? This was new and uncharted territory for me.  

We made it through the rest of the photoshoot. Nico chose to put on the jock strap last. Each time he would just turn around and change right there, in the open. Yes, I am ashamed to admit. I did sneak a few photos of his ass in various positions. Praise the person who invented burst mode. It’s so wrong, and yes I felt guilty for doing it. But I couldn’t resist. Especially if he was going to do something like that. 

And if that wasn’t bad enough. He didn’t even turn around when he changed into the black jockstrap. He wasn’t hard, but he was mildly aroused. He watched me watching him, a huge smile on his face the entire time. The flirting was unmistakable. 

When we finished, he flat-out asked me. “Want to take some nude ones?”

“Oh my god, yes I do,” I answered honestly. “But not today.” He almost seemed disappointed by my reply. I felt the need to explain. “Nico. First, you are incredibly sexy. Brutal Honesty, I have never been this aroused during a session before.”

“So what’s stopping you?” He asked, stepping up to me. 

“Professionalism,” I replied. “I’ll make you a deal. Whether you get this job or not. If you still want to do a nude photoshoot in a few weeks. I’m there. I’m absolutely there. No cost. Just you and whatever setting you want. I just don’t want to come across like I am trying to take advantage of you.”

“I’m the one offering.” He replied. 

“Just so. It’s a line I am not prepared to cross right now.” I replied. Absolutely hating myself for doing it. “Later, after this job is settled one way or another. If you’re still interested. Then Absolutely.”

“Why wait?”

“Again, brutal honesty. You’ll know I did it because I wanted to, and not because I was trying to take advantage of you. You’ll have the job, so there won’t be any strings attached there. And I’ll know you did it because you wanted it. And not doing it as a way to secure the job.”

“Fair enough. I’ll hold you to it.”

“Also,” I added. “You know I have a boyfriend right.”

“What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him.” He said, closing the distance with me. Slipping his tongue into my mouth, while cupping my rock-hard cock with his hand, and grabbing my ass with his other hand. The kiss was just long enough to show me what I was missing out on. 

“And just so you know Lucas. I learned something about myself today. Thanks to you.”

“What’s that?” I asked, barely able to get the words out. 

“I’m a bit of an exhibitionist. Who knew?” He joked. “So, I fully expect you to set that camera up to take pictures while we fuck each other’s brains out.”

I whimpered, again.