Mikhail Through the Intimate Lens of Elly Dobrynina

At 6’4″, Moscow-based personal trainer and fitness coach Mikhail possesses the kind of commanding physique that naturally draws attention. But in this striking black-and-white portrait series, photographer Elly Dobrynina looks beyond muscle and physical perfection to reveal something more personal: the man behind the body.

There is an unmistakable intimacy in Dobrynina’s photography. Her approach moves effortlessly between strength and vulnerability, capturing Chernyakov in moments of quiet contemplation, relaxed confidence, and unapologetic physicality.

Dressed in Calvin Klein underwear, relaxed trousers, soft knitwear, and casual essentials, Chernyakov becomes the subject of a visual conversation about contemporary masculinity. His sculpted physique provides the architecture, while Dobrynina’s sensitive use of light and shadow gives each photograph its emotional depth.

The Art of Trust in Male Portraiture

Dobrynina describes her approach to photographing men with a particularly compelling analogy:

“Taking off a male portrait is like opening a safe: drastic movements will not help, you need to choose the trust code precisely.” — Elly Dobrynina

That philosophy is beautifully reflected throughout the series.

Rather than relying exclusively on conventional fitness poses, Dobrynina allows Chernyakov to inhabit the frame naturally. Sometimes he leans forward with his arms crossed, sometimes he reclines comfortably on a sofa, and elsewhere he stands shirtless, allowing his muscular definition to speak for itself.

The photographs alternate between carefully composed studio portraits and seemingly spontaneous moments, creating a sense of familiarity between photographer and subject.

Strength, Sensuality, and Simplicity

What makes this editorial particularly engaging is its balance.

Chernyakov’s impressive proportions, broad shoulders, defined abdomen, and powerful arms could easily dominate the entire visual narrative. Instead, Dobrynina introduces softer elements: textured sweaters, casual gestures, understated expressions, and intimate close-ups.

The monochromatic treatment removes unnecessary distractions, emphasizing skin texture, body contours, facial expressions, and the subtle interplay of studio lighting.

There is sensuality here, certainly, but also restraint. The Calvin Klein underwear portraits celebrate the male physique, while the clothed images introduce a quieter, more approachable side of Chernyakov.

Even the behind-the-scenes photographs contribute to the story, reminding us that compelling portraiture is often created in the moments between poses.

For Fashionably Male, this is precisely the kind of photography worth celebrating: a powerful male physique captured with sensitivity, confidence, and an understanding that masculinity can be both commanding and vulnerable.

Ultimately, Elly Dobrynina doesn’t simply photograph Mikhail Chernyakov’s body. She gives us a glimpse of the personality, presence, and humanity that make a portrait memorable.

Credits

• Model: Mikhail Chernyakov @chernyakov.m_
• Photography: Elly Dobrynina @ellydobrynina Ph @ph_dobrynina