After a few really close deaths in the family, my mood, confidence and shape were at an all-time low. Typically, of men, I never really talked through my problems. Andys Man club got me talking but things were still pretty low. I started running again but my confidence was gone and my weight was up.
Physically and mentally, I was not in a great place. Very slowly with talking and running, my mood started to improve.
Cut to a year later, I was on a downward spiral with imposter syndrome, I didn't feel like myself.
I restarted running, martial arts and the gym; however I was at such a low point, I thought about taking my own life.
Luckily, I decided to change. My body had started to change, I was losing weight to where I felt great, like my old self again.
I felt I wanted a bigger confidence boost, so I looked for a male photo shoot.
I came across BYB, called and booked it.
From the initial booking process to arriving for the first time, I was made to feel so welcome and invited.
I spoke to Nicola over the phone as well as Mel and Louise. We went through what I was hoping to achieve, my limits, if I wanted makeup, type of shots. I was hoping to push my boundaries.
Driving down I felt nerves settling in. Nervous and with my boots, shirts and jeans I walked in. Greeted by Louise, I started to feel at ease. Again, as a man, we generally don't get pampered, but today was my day. Louise was chatty and my nerves soon started to fade. Light makeup and concealer to cover shaving cuts, mascara to make my eyes pop. I was met by Mel and we went to discuss clothing. I changed and soon after, the nerves were gone altogether. Slowly the clothes were undone or removed completely. Mel was such a pleasure and so much fun to work with that stripping down from fully clothed to topless to just boxers to nothing was easy.
We went through several styles and shots I was truly gutted when it was over.
The afternoon tea was a lovely treat after the shoot.
I was so nervous to see the edited images, but Mel (again) made viewing easy. Several images instantly made me smile, I have my favourite.
I've never felt so masculine, sexy and body confident in one day. Even while writing this, it's done with a huge smile on my face and such admiration and respect for Nicola and the BYB team. I'd recommend anyone to give Nicola a call and get it booked in. I'll look back on these pictures with pride and confidence.
Mark
Comments