This article was published on August 30th, 2014

You’re sitting at home, enjoying a few drinks with friends and the topic of porn comes up. The conversation turns to how being a porn star is the ultimate job in the world. You just fuck all day long, every single day. Well, it’s not quite like that. Working in the porn industry is a lot more work than you may think.

If you have seriously been thinking about getting into the gay porn industry, there are a number of things you need to think about. Here are a host of tips and advice from some amazing porn stars on things you should know before getting into gay porn.

“It’s important to ask yourself why you are doing it,” said Christopher Daniels. “As yourself if there are going to be any repercussions. It’s important to think about. I would also say to always constantly be working on your body; diet, nutrition, exercise and sleep.”

Christopher also adds that you should be prepared for a lot of rejection. Rejection might not be a big deal for some, but it can be tough for a lot of people, especially when they are first getting into the industry.

“Really research the companies that you are interested in working for,” says gay porn star, Chris Harder. “Some companies say they don’t have types, but some do. Be objective with yourself and figure out where you might stand out. There are more and more very unsightly trends in the adult industry that are starting to emerge. Understand what these companies are about and what they are putting out.”

Chris Harder suggests checking out the camera angles, lighting and models the studio you’re interested in working for. If you can see zits of the guys butt when they are getting fucked, consider that it could be you!

“Don’t just do it for the money,” Chris Harder added. “I’m not doing it just for the money. If all I needed were money I would just get another job. People that go into it just for the money are disappointed.”

When first starting out, once the money starts rolling in, it can be very tempting. Be cautious, save what you can, and spend it wisely.

“Be in a good mental state,” advised Canadian gay porn model and producer, Brandon Jones. “You have to know who you are and what you want in life. Go in this industry, not because you need money or attention, but because you are interested in your sexuality, you’re an exhibitionist in somewhat, love modeling, and love the camera. Understand you have to work hard to become famous. You have to work hard, it won’t come overnight.”

“Porn is forever,” says Hans Berlin. “Everyone will find out about it no matter how many masks or blindfolds you put on. It is just as cutthroat of an industry as any. It’s not easy at all. It’s all smoke and mirrors, and it’s all fantasy. Have some substance and be interesting.”

Hans also reminds people who are interested in getting into the industry to maintain their personal integrity, because there is a lot of negative influence.

“Consider what your ultimate career goals in life are, and will a career in the adult entertainment industry hinder it or not change it at all,” said Perry Cavalari. “As time goes on, the porn industry and less of a stigma to it. Is it something that you are going to do and not let it affect your ego or your self-confidence? When you’re naked on camera and all over the Internet, you open yourself up to a whole new level of criticism. You have to make sure you are ready for that.”

Having low self-esteem can really impact your chance of success in the gay porn industry. When first starting out, it’s going to be hard emotionally, dealing with rejection. It’s also important to not let your ego get in the way. Always maintain your authentic and genuine personality. You’ll go further.