Bohuslav Hybrant: Art of akt and the Invisible Boundaries

Bohuslav Hybrant, glamour fotografie, aktová fotografie, erotické umění

When someone says “nude photography,” many might envision the cliché of a man with a camera and a mysterious model in a dimly lit studio. However, Bohuslav Hybrant dismantles these clichés with glamour photography that is extraordinarily personal, elegantly sparkling, and provocatively spicy. His photography interview highlights his graceful balance between artistic expression and erotic art, with a skill even a tightrope walker above the Grand Canyon could envy.

1. Your photographs often balance on the edge between art and eroticism. How do you determine where this boundary lies, and have you ever crossed it?

Who determines where this boundary is? It’s subjective; everyone perceives it differently. For me, the photograph must be tasteful, non-harmful, and not vulgar. I strictly try not to cross this line, and hopefully, I’ve managed to stay within it so far.
– Bohuslav Hybrant –

W5A3626 Bohuslav Hybrant — Bohuslav Hybrant

2. Photographing nudes requires trust between photographer and model. What have been your biggest challenges in this area, and how have you overcome them?

I stick to what my parents taught me – treat others as you would like to be treated. The biggest challenges usually arise during outdoor nude shoots, such as in parks. I have to instill courage and a sense of safety in the model, even though I’m often stressed about potential reactions from passers-by.

3. How do you respond to criticism that your work may objectify women? How would you defend your artistic intent?

I’ve never personally encountered such criticism. My artistic intent is that every woman has her unique beauty, and I strive to highlight it.

4. In the age of social media, where nudity is often censored, how do you showcase your work?

It’s challenging. Instagram even removed a photo of mine where the model wore a dress, claiming it had an erotic undertone. I primarily showcase glamour photography across Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, and my free Patreon channel.

5. What’s your stance on retouching nude photographs?

I’ve trained in retouching under Standa Petera, so I retouch every photograph. I have my own editing and color-toning methods, which form my signature style. The boundary in retouching is very thin – it’s essential that the model likes the photo and remains authentic.

6. How do you react when your photography is perceived as provocative or controversial?

It’s more of a side effect of my work. I mainly photograph non-models, so reactions are genuine and authentic, not just posed for the photograph.

7. What advice would you give aspiring photographers wanting to pursue nude photography?

Start with portraits, learn lighting techniques, communicate effectively with models, and master retouching. Move onto nude photography only when you no longer need to focus on technicalities and can concentrate on expressions and posing.