When this blog was started, a major aim was to introduce you all to hunks and heartthrobs that you may not be aware of. Darrin Miller is a nude model from Texas that I know you will just love. We were thrilled when he agreed to do this interview. Not only will you love seeing his amazing pictures, you'll also become a fan of Darrin the man.
1. How did you first get into modeling? Was it something you'd always wanted to do?
Darrin: "Modeling was always something I wanted to do. In fact, I did some brief modeling work in my twenties in my hometown of San Antonio, TX. My first return to modeling at the age 44 whereby I did a series of nude poses for an artist named Christie Nicole Chandler."
2. Do you remember your first photo shoot? Were you nervous?
Darrin: "The only time I was nervous for a photo shoot was when I did my first nude photo shoot for the photographer Russell Windle. Russell and I collaborated on creating a book entitled “Homage to an Adonis”, in which we replicated various iconic images of Tony Sansone – the First American Physique Icon. This was the first time I was going to bare all on film so I was nervous; but Russell put me at ease."
3. What's your dream modeling job?
Darrin: "Well, I have three: 1) Model for a fitness magazine, such as Men’s Fitness. 2) Be selected as a model to launch a major underwear campaign for a boutique underwear company, such as Bayou Beau. 3) Be selected as the first 50 year old model to pose in a book by Mark Henderson, dedicated to men 40 and beyond…perhaps a twist on his “Suburban Pleasures” book, called “Mature Outdoorsmen”, which would feature shots of men doing rugged outdoor activities, such as chopping wood or bailing hay."
4. Tell us about your work with the Mister Texas Organization?
Darrin: "Although it has not taken off like I wanted it to, it is still a passion of mine. My goal is simple…to celebrate the beauty of the guy next door and provide a platform where nice, well-rounded, men have a chance to shine."
5. Are there any models or photographers that you look up to or who's work you admire?
Darrin: "Wow, way too many to list. When it comes to models, I truly do find a lot of inspiration via browsing sites like Model Mayhem, The Male Form, and Male Models Vintage Beefcake. I particularly find inspiration with the older models, not just because I’m post 40; but because I find that the images captured of these models possess “humble confidence”. When it comes to photographers, I really do love the work done by Mark Henderson. His use of color saturation is breath taking."
6. When did your interest in health and fitness develop?
Darrin: "I’ve always tried to stay in shape. That said I was strapping 230 lbs. on my 5’7” frame when I was 40 – nothing like 10 years of a traveling job to help you pack on the pounds. So…at 40 I began hitting the gym again, it hopes of one day landing some modeling work or competing in fitness shows."
7. What keeps you motivated to stay in such great shape?
Darrin: "Well, first of all, although most artists don’t care if you are a little pudgy, you will stand a better chance at landing work as a nude life model if you have more definition for artists to capture; whether that be with charcoal, pencil, or paint. Secondly, if you want to be used for fitness, swimwear or underwear work, you need to be in shape. Third, I have an 11 year old son, whom I’m trying to set an example for. Lastly, working as an Information Technology professional during the day, it’s kinda cool to the be old guy, who looks better than many who are 15 years his junior."
8. What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into nude modeling?
Darrin: "Relax and don’t worry about the size of your unit! Many guys I know are fearful to do nude modeling because they aren’t “a stallion” south of the border. Nude modeling is about so much more than that one body part. It’s about allure, sensitivity, the ability to show vulnerability, etc. I would recommend reaching out to local colleges, universities, and artist who need nude life models and getting your feet wet by posing for an art class."
9. Your images (both nude and non-nude) have gained a following for you. Is it flattering to know that you are viewed as a sex symbol and have gained quite the following of male fans?
Darrin: "I’ll be the first to admit that being straight, married, and having a son, I was a little taken back that I “scored better” on the fan meter with men than women. However, at the end of the day, if images of me bring someone joy or a smile, than that is fine with me."
10. For you, what distinguishes erotic nudes from pornography? Is there a difference?
Darrin: "Well, my photographer friend Russell Windle was the first to tell me the old adage…”If it’s black and white, it’s art. If it’s color, it’s porn”. All kidding aside, the difference between erotic nudes and pornography for me, is whether capturing actual sex on film is done. If the image is of two people engaged in sex, than that to me would be porn. Other than that, the rest is art."
11. What does the future hold for you?
Darrin: "Not certain. I’m still surprised that I’m landing as much work as I do at 48, so the sky is the limit. My short term goals are to compete in a fitness show in 2013 and find that illusive company who would use me as their cover model for an underwear launch. "
Random Rapid Fire Questions:
1. Item that you can't leave home without... A sense of humor. I have to drive one of the most treacherous (due to massive construction) commutes in Texas (114 to 635)…33 miles is 1.5 hours.
2. Secret talent? Singing…I can really belt out the Star Spangled Banner
3. Last book you read? The Raw Foods Diet
4. Where do you go to unwind? Jacuzzi tub, with a bottle of wine and the sounds of Raphael (Singer from Spain, circa 1960s)
5. Best birthday gift you've received? Although the wife would kill me for this…a good, long, romp in the hay.
6. Strangest request from a fan? Nothing too strange to date. I have been asked to autograph an 18” X 24” nude photo of myself for display in someone’s house.
7. Favorite quote? Wow, this is a tough one. As I get older, I think the following quote, by whom I don’t know, is great: “The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flat tires called Jobs, but if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, a driver called Will Power, you will make it to a place called Success.”
8. Boxers or briefs? Neither one. I actually like a thong.
Many thanks to Darrin for taking part in this interview. Keep your eyes open, I'm sure you'll be seeing a whole lot more of Darrin as his modeling career goes forward.
Awesome!
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