Once upon a time, in the bustling streets of London, a young boy named Manos discovered a love that would shape his life. Armed with disposable cameras and a curiosity that knew no bounds, he began capturing moments—some came out blank, while others became windows into the things he loved. This early fascination with photography was just the beginning of Manos' journey into a world where art, creativity, and self-expression would intersect.


Today, Manos works as a creative and during his free time he runs Manos Mag, a publication inspired by the vintage magazines of the 70s. In this zine, he channels this retro spirit, creating a space where his love for photography and erotica merge to tell stories that are as provocative as they are moving.

Can you tell us a little about yourself? And what inspired you to start Manos Mag?

Hey, I’m Manos, I come from a Greek Cypriot background but I was born & raised in London! I grew up loving photography - back in the days of disposable cameras. Most of the time, the images were completely blank and I couldn’t understand why. I shoot digital now, so I don’t have that issue. My love for the practice has always been about the sentimental value of subjects in images, often questioning why we take photos of the things we do? I love to photograph beautiful things - places I’ve been, food I’ve eaten, boys I’ve crushed over… 

Manos Mag derived from my love for vintage magazines from the 70s, the ones which paraded hunky guys having fun and showing off. I love to show off. So it seemed fitting to create a space where I’m able to show off how I wish, and combine my love for photography and erotica. 

For my day job, I work as a creative for a social media agency - photographing, graphic designing, filming etc… I’m never far from something creative! I use my erotic photography as an escape, for the most part.

How would you describe yourself as creative? Do you see any links between your creative work, and sexuality contributing to it? And does this creative drive allow for some form of self-reflection and self-discovery for you?

As I’m sure any creative person would agree, I’m ever evolving. I’ve always been quite reserved, so since the beginning of 2024, I’ve pushed myself to explore the gay community deeper; exploring what turns people on, how others navigate relationships, how other creative gays express themselves - I’m a sponge. I love to learn, and let what I learn influence the way I create my own work. 

I’ve discovered that in fact, I love lingerie on men! It was always something I’ve been conditioned to believe is too effeminate, strange, creepy etc. One day I was studying the works of Helmut Newton, and loved how he portrayed women in lingerie - so powerful and sexy. I thought I’d purchase a pair of stockings, and I immediately felt that power & sexiness I felt from Newton’s images. Even more so, being in control of how I was perceived by the camera made me feel superior to the viewer, and I loved that.

What does sexuality mean to you, and how has your understanding of your own sexual and personal identity evolved throughout your life and career?

During my teenage years, I struggled to deal with my sexuality, whilst also dealing with other personal issues. I put myself in uncomfortable (and risky) situations, though it’s the only way I found I was able to learn more about the community. Sexuality was never something to be celebrated as I grew up. In my later teenage years/early adulthood, I thought about the future of how I’d live my life, and the mindset I’d want to have. Despite dealing with anxiety for the past few years, I can safely say that I’m way more confident and comfortable in my sexuality now than before. 

Photography really helped to drive this self-discovery. Sharing my work, and having people say they are inspired or enjoy it, is something I always appreciate to hear. 

How do you use photography as a tool to address and challenge societal norms around sexuality and identity?

Since starting my fanzine series, I’ve had the opportunity to encounter some incredible people. I’ve learnt that there is no such thing as “normal”, and so with my fanzines, I aim to curate each piece to the model, and flaunt their uniqueness. This could be a kink they’re interested in, a specific lifestyle they live, or simply the way they portray themselves on the day-to-day. 

Photographing myself has been a way to improve my own self confidence. By typical gay community means, I understand that I don’t contribute towards the ideal toned physique. Regardless, I find ways to portray my body in ways in which I find myself beautiful or interesting. I want to be admired, lusted over, but also studied. On the flipside, I want others to understand that to create a beautiful image, you do not need a stereotypically beautiful image (or an expensive camera), it’s the thought behind the process that counts.

What challenges have you faced in expressing your sexual desires and needs, and how have you overcome them?

Great question. As I’ve expressed, I’ve always been quite shy. I sometimes struggle to read social cues, and find it difficult to express my sexual needs. I personally love to form a bond with people before exploring sex, although I feel that these days it’s quite common to ‘fuck and go’ - each to their own. 

Lately, I’ve found that I can use photography as a crutch, to show off what I enjoy and expect from sex. I can portray things by showing instead of speaking, it’s an avenue of communication I’m able to use effectively, and it works!

How do you envision a more inclusive and fulfilling sexual culture and discussions around it in digital media? How can we work towards it?

First and foremost, I believe sex these days (when posted online) is mostly for the clout. Entertainment, admiration, desire, is somewhat lost. Sex posted online feels cold and unnatural - which is interesting given that platforms such as OF and JFF were made in favor of smaller creators to really display their niches.

As a photographer, I really struggle with constant restrictions on Instagram when it comes to sharing my work. Understandably, the internet/social media should be a safe space for all, and we should be mindful of hurtful behavior such as cyber flashing & doxxing. Although many historical paintings feature nude bodies and are displayed in a number of public spaces, should we be asking what the difference is when sharing nudity amongst the digital space?...

Sex for many is a vulnerable and intimate practice. Yet it’s one of the hardest things to teach, since everyone’s preferences are different. Ideally, we would be open to sexual discussions, free of shaming and judgment. Instead, creating an inviting space to embrace people’s desires and unique bodies, helping those who struggle with self confidence in general, and surrounding sex. As I always like to remember, stay safe, but most importantly, enjoy yourself. 

All the pictures shared on this post are self-portraits made by the same artist. Support his work by following him manos_wrld