THE marketing power of Fifty Shades of Grey has led to some tenuous tie-ins (Earl Grey tea, classical music compilations, baby clothes?) but here's one that actually makes sense.
Portrait studio For Your Eyes Only was making X-rated seductresses of us long before Ana met Christian. This female-only photography studio in Manchester city centre gives women a safe environment where they can create provocative photographs using flattering, body-sculpting lighting techniques.
Some do it to make an erotic present for their partners, others just for the liberating, thrilling fun of it. Either way, FYEO has experienced a rocketing demand in the last year. But what actually happens behind the closed doors, and do you dare to try it yourself?
Ashleigh Guthrie recently had a Fifty Shades-inspired photo shoot at For Your Eyes Only Manchester. We asked her to reveal all.
Why did you want to have an FYEO photo shoot?
I thought it would be a fun experience and a great gift for my boyfriend seeing how Christmas is just round the corner.
Describe what happened on your trip to FYEO
After taking a trip to Ann Summers to pick out some props from their Fifty Shades range, I then headed to FYEO to be greeted by the photographer Claire, whose personality put me at ease straight away.
We had a little chat whilst she took my details before we went through to make-up. Then we headed to the studio to pick out which outfits and props to use first.
What sort of photographs did she take?
We took some simple soft shots where I was lying down and some seductive shots where I was wrapped in bondage tape (which were my favourite). We also did some very provocative photographs which are for my boyfriend's eyes only.
What outfits/props did you use?
I took along three sets of Agent Provocateur underwear from my little collection I have at home, including a set of stockings that say 'Eat me, Bite me, Whip me, Tease me'.
I also took a pair of black knickers laced with black feathers and a simple black thong. Plus the infamous grey tie and white shirt which was a lot of fun to improvise with. I bought some black bondage tape, soft rope and a pair of handcuffs from Anne Summers which came in handy for some of my favourite images that were captured.
Was it a nerve-wracking experience?
Not really. Claire was fantastic as she put me in all the poses and helped me pick out the different outfits and props. I didn't feel uncomfortable at all or silly and the phrase 'look sexy' was never used.
What did you enjoy about the experience?
I enjoyed experimenting with the different props and outfits because Claire made me feel so at ease. We had a good giggle with the goody bag I'd brought along.
She guided me clearly on where to place my hands and legs, and where to look which was my biggest worry as I didn't really know what to do with my face. I actually felt sexy because I could forget about posing and just enjoy the shoot.
How do you feel about the photographs that were taken?
I loved them! The lighting makes them look really professional unlike some of the other makeover studios out there. I think my boyfriend will be a very happy boy come Christmas Day.
Do you think the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon has made women more open to experiences like this?
I think so, yes, because I think it made women more open-minded to new experiences and experimentation. It's such a big boost for your confidence. Your inner goddess will thank you for it!
Who would you recommend this kind of experience to?
It's a great present for you to have for your boyfriend, for him to give you, or you can even go together.
