Frequent Use of Soft Focus Photography
Cheri made extensive use of soft focus, diffusion filters, and warm color grading—particularly in the 1980s. These techniques created a dreamlike quality that softened the visuals and contributed to the magazine's sensual tone. This aesthetic became synonymous with high-glamour erotic publishing and set Cheri apart from its harsher-looking peers.
Soft focus photography is a technique used to blur the edges of an image to create a romanticized effect. It was popularized in the early twentieth century by photographers such as Alfred Stieglitz and Edward Steichen who wanted to capture the ethereal beauty of their subjects. In the 1960s, it became associated with fashion photography when artists like Richard Avedon began using it to convey a sense of glamour and luxury. During this time, some magazines began to incorporate soft focus into their photo spreads. For example, Vogue frequently featured models with softly focused hair and clothing in dreamy landscapes or abstract backgrounds.
However, the true master of soft focus photography in erotic publishing was Cheri magazine. The publication was founded in 1975 by Paul Raymond, who envisioned a magazine that would be both sexy and sophisticated. To achieve this, he hired world-renowned photographers such as Helmut Newton, Patrick Demarchelier, and Peter Beard to shoot his models. They used soft focus and other artistic techniques to make the women appear beautiful but unattainable - just like movie stars on the big screen. By contrast, many other men's magazines at the time relied heavily on close-up shots of nude bodies with little regard for lighting or composition.
Cheri also pioneered the use of diffusion filters. These are transparent sheets placed over lenses to create a hazy effect similar to fog or smoke. This technique was often combined with soft focus to give the photos an even more dreamlike quality. Diffusion filters were particularly effective in conveying intimacy; they allowed readers to see the model without revealing too much detail.
Another key component of Cheri's visual identity was warm color grading. Warm tones made the skin look healthy and natural while cooler colors could make it look pale or sickly. It was essential to have models with flawless complexions because anything else would detract from the sensuality of the image. In addition, the magazine frequently shot outdoors or in locations with lots of natural light, which helped to accentuate the warmth of the images.
Together, these three elements created a unique aesthetic that set Cheri apart from its competitors. Other erotic publications either looked too harsh or too soft-focus; however, Cheri found the perfect balance between the two extremes. As a result, the magazine became known as "the world's most glamorous adult publication," selling millions of copies each month.
Soft focus photography is still used today by fashion photographers and art directors who want to convey a sense of romance or nostalgia. However, few magazines can match the level of sophistication achieved by Cheri during its heyday in the 1980s. The magazine's iconic style has influenced countless other publications and continues to inspire artists around the globe.