Interview - Chris Teel: Behind the Camera

Photo courtesy of Chris Teel.

If you're like me and you scour the Internet seeking out the hottest images of outstanding male bodies, chances are you've come across the work of Chris Teel. The Toronto based photographer's brilliant photographs have gained him quite the fan following. If you haven't, you must check out: www.christeel.ca. As a huge fan of his work, I was definitely thrilled to bring you this interview and enjoy the images of stunning model Klimak, that Chris sent along as well.

1. Love your work! When did you get your start in photography?

Chris: "Thanks Jeromme, I've been shooting for almost 4 years now and I love it now as much as when I started out."

2. What photographers have inspired your work?

Chris: "Its hard to name just a few photographers as I'm inspired by different photographic styles and techniques. Right now I tend to gravitate to photographers and models who incorporate a sense of fun and creativity into their work."

3. Do you prefer shooting in studio or on location?

Chris: "Depends on the time of year! Right now I'm shooting a lot of outdoor, location work. I generally have an idea of 'what' I want to shoot - I go in with a loose plan and then adjust as the model and explore the available surroundings."

Read more of the interview and enjoy more of the steamy pictures after the jump!

Photo courtesy of Chris Teel.

4. For you, what distinguishes erotic from pornography?

Chris: "For me, its all about the intent behind the photo. I know that much of my work is certainly erotic and that some may even define it as pornographic, but my focus is primarily on capturing the models' personality, followed by his physique and I think that sets it apart from your regular skin shot."

5. How do you go about selecting which models you work with? What do you look for in a model?

Chris: "Personality is key - my models need to be able to convey character whether its their own or one created for the concept we're shooting. Dancers, gymnasts, contortionists also go to the front of the line!"

6. Are there any models on your wish list to shoot with?

Chris: "I'm speaking to a well-known American model, I refuse to name now as I don't want to jinx the shoot I'm hoping to do with him in October. Russian model Pavel Petel's on my list for sure, I love his fearlessness! I could literally list dozens and dozens of established and new models I hope to shoot. All I can say is check my website regularly to see who makes it!"

Photo courtesy of Chris Teel.

7. What advice would you give to guys that are looking to break into modelling? Also, what advice would you to guys ahead of their first nude shoot?

Chris: "Serious models need to eat, breathe and sleep modelling. Its incredibly tough and the majority of new models end up dropping out. Very few make a full-time living from it. If you're going into it as a hobby, have fun with it and get what you can out of it.

In terms of shooting nudes, be clear with regards to your personal limits and communicate those clearly, up front. Stick to your guns during the shoot if the photographer, or client starts requesting shots that go beyond your personal boundaries."

8. I'm sure it must be hard to choose, but are there any models that you've enjoyed working with the most?

Chris: "All of them! :)"

9. What's next for Chris Teel Photography?

Chris: "I'm in the process of designing a new website that will better highlight the full range of what I do and I'm hoping to have it on-line in the next 2-3 months. The new site will allow me to offer prints, books, calendars and other merchandise my audience has been requesting."

Photo courtesy of Chris Teel.

Random Rapid Fire Questions

1. Item you never leave home without?  iPhone
2. Song you can't get out of your head?  That Gotye song... I'm blanking
3. Favourite gadget?  I'm really not a gadget kind of person... I shoot with a Nikon D90 so that!
4. Best birthday gift you've received?  All expense paid trip to NYC.  I shot 6 models on that trip!
5. Strangest request from a fan?  Not strange but it was weird when I was asked for my first autograph. Really? I have been asked if I sell models' underwear (no!)
6. Last movie you saw in the theatre?  Dark Knight
7. Fashion Icon?  Anyone theatrical, I'm always looking for inspiration in the fashion world (surprisingly considering my models wear so little of it)

Photo courtesy of Chris Teel.

A big thank you to Chris Teel for not only taking part in this interview, but for also sending these fantastic images to be included. You can enjoy more of his work and keep up with his latest projects by following him on Twitter: @cteelphoto and checking out his official website: www.christeel.ca