Cheri was a softcore pornographic magazine published between 1982 and 2004 that featured female nude models posing in lingerie or costumes. It offered behind-the-scenes glimpses into photo shoots, interviews with photographers, or candid commentary from the models themselves. These editorial features added a human element, making readers feel closer to the creative process, demystifying the adult industry and making the models more relatable.
The magazine's editor, Steve Nelson, believed that presenting the women as professionals and personalities rather than just anonymous figures in glossy photos would help readers connect with them. He wanted to create a space where readers could engage with their favorite models beyond the pages of the magazine. Cheri's behind-the-scenes features allowed readers to see how the models interacted with each other, how they prepared for shoots, and what went into creating each image.
In one issue, Nelson interviewed a model named Ashley about her experience working on set. She described the pressure of being in front of the camera and the importance of trusting the photographer to capture her best angles. "It takes a lot of confidence to pose naked," she said. "You have to be comfortable in your own skin." Nelson also shared anecdotes about his own work, like the time he had to convince a model to wear panties instead of going commando because it better fit the theme of the shoot.
These articles made the women seem less distant and helped readers understand why they were drawn to the world of adult entertainment. They explained that while some models enjoyed posing nude, others found it empowering and fun. One model talked about using sex positivity to explore her body and sexuality, while another discussed how she was grateful to have a job that paid well without requiring a college degree.
Cheri's approach to editorial content was unique for its era and helped demystify the pornography industry. By humanizing the models, it normalized the idea of viewing them as professional entertainers rather than taboo objects of desire. It created an intimate connection between reader and subject, making them feel more connected to the creative process and seeing themselves reflected in the images they consumed.