I was introduced to Chris Stanley through a mutual friend and knew I wanted to do a shoot with him. Chris is a fitness trainer who also models, represented by The Stair Agency in Tennessee and Dan Talent Group outside of the state. Sponsors that have collaborated with him for their products include Vital Proteins, RAZE Energy, Repp Sports, LES MILLS, and Prive Revaux, the last being fashion eyewear that Chris is sporting in the picture above.

I knew I wanted to work with hard light with Chris and the day we chose to shoot was what I wanted - hot and sunny. Sure, photographers talk about “the golden hour,” that time just before the sun sets when the world is lit with warm, soft light. That’s great for a certain feel, but I wanted some high contrast with hard edges. We shot outside a warehouse compound - stucco and metal demand some grit in lighting. I find that any photoshoot works better by working “backwards,” that is to say, nail down a concept, an idea, or a feel, then select the backdrop that speaks to that; now I am ready for a model and clothing choices, so that things are more cohesive.

Chris is a great guy to work with as well - professional and personable. It is always a pleasure to collaborate with someone like that and I hope to work with Chris more in the future. I invite any production studio or company to consider using him for a campaign or shoot. Chris can be followed on Instagram at @trackcstanley,.

Check him out: