In the early days of physique photography, before OnlyFans and social media, there was Lon of New York. Alonzo Hanagan, known as Lon, began his photography career as a teenager with a Kodak box camera and darkroom skills he learned at a boy scout camp. His early photographs were of his first boyfriend, Ralph Ehmke, and eventually progressed to nude shots of bodybuilders.
Lon’s work included a diverse range of models, breaking away from the norm of only photographing white bodybuilders. He famously photographed Frank Leight, Mr America 1942, for Strength and Health Magazine, and also captured his nude physique for his private sales catalogue.
During this time, physique photographers often painted posing pouches onto nude photographs to avoid legal repercussions for sending obscene material through the mail. However, Lon of New York used erasable ink to allow his customers to remove the pouch and enjoy an uncensored view.
Lon’s work and artistry were rediscovered and celebrated before his death in 1999 at the age of 87. His pioneering work in physique photography for a gay audience paved the way for future generations to explore and express their bodies and sexuality through photography.
Take a step back in time with vintage nude bodybuilders of Lon of New York and appreciate the artistry and diversity that shaped the early days of physique photography.