Fabric

Fabric may be one of the most versatile props in physique photography. Draped, wrapped, held or simply laid beneath the model, it can recall the theatrical folds of classical and Baroque art, provide a textural counterpoint to bare skin, or become a conveniently movable bit of modesty. Depending on the material, it can conceal, reveal—or manage to do both at once.

1. Ernie Lopez draping dark reflective fabric across his pelvis.

2. Frank Giardina wrapping dark fabric over his shoulder and across his back.

3. Barton Horvath leaning into a crutch draped in black fabric.

4. Beresford Morris holding shiny gold or silver fabric behind himself.

5. Gerald Homer holding a small piece of fabric in one hand.

6. Chuck Howard draped in light patterned fabric.

7. Drexel Poe covering himself with dark fabric.

8. Joe Marcy reclining on reflective fabric.

Sheer fabric makes that contradiction especially playful: technically covering the body while drawing even more attention to whatever lies beneath. At the other extreme, Ralston Hale sends ribbons of brilliant color flying against a blue sky. Seen today, the rainbow effect is difficult not to read through the visual language of Pride—a fittingly exuberant finish for a prop that can become almost anything in the photographer’s hands.

9. Rock Granger draped in sheer fabric.

10. Ken Roye wrapping his erection in sheer fabric.

11. Ralston Hale waving colorful fabric ribbons in the air.

Please leave thoughts, questions, corrections or additions in the comments. Thank you, bns