Dave Naz, Paul Thomas Featured in L.A. Weekly's People Issue

LOS ANGELES — Vivid-Alt director Dave Naz and Vivid director Paul Thomas were featured in L.A. Weekly's People Issue, an annual compilation of profiles of Los Angelinos of note.

Naz's profile focuses on his work as an erotic photographer, having been featured in Taboo, Barely Legal and Leg Show magazines. His artier pictures are featured in gallery shows and a series of his own photography books.

Naz learned about the adult industry as New York erotic photographer Richard Kern's assistant, and Naz's unretouched photos feature models in their most raw form.

"The photos sometimes come out better when models are a little uncomfortable," Naz told reporter Jonathan Gold. "I can't explain it, but I am happiest when a feeling of uneasiness comes through in the work."

Thomas emphasized his passion for creating story-driven porn shot on film, giving it a texture that's "closest to dreams," rather than videotape that "looks as though it were recorded on surveillance tape."

Thanks to Vivid's high budget, Thomas is able to turn his mainstream-quality ideas into reality.

"People want some story with their eroticism," Thomas told reporter Steven Mikulan. "If you can make them believe in the characters and their conflicts, it heightens the inevitable sex in the screenplay."

Thomas also told of his "ambivalent outlook" toward screen sex, saying he even has trouble watching extended sex scenes because too much length makes the sex "gratuitous."

Thomas said he is dedicated to making his films stand out among the sea of low-quality, gonzo-style porn, setting a positive example for what porn offers the public that no mainstream Hollywood studio could ever hope to accomplish.

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

X3 Euro All-Stars Paint Amsterdam Red in Billboard Campaign

The X3 Expo Euro All-Stars are making a splash on the vibrant streets of Amsterdam as the creator-first fan event prepares to make its debut on the continent.

Kendra Sunderland, Alina Lopez Lead Latest From Vixen

Kendra Sunderland and Alina Lopez star with reigning and three-time XMAs Male Performer of the Year Vince Karter in the second installment of the Vixen showcase series “The Angel Anthology.”

Greta Foss Makes Her Immoral Debut

Greta Foss has made her debut for Immoral Productions alongside Megan Longoria, Matt Bird, and studio honcho “Porno Dan” Leal.

Grooby Producer/Director Louie Damazo Passes Away

Longtime Grooby producer and director Louie Damazo passed away Sunday at his home in Brazil at the age of 58.

'Goddess' Charlotte Sins Blesses the September Issue of X3 Magazine

Charlotte Sins graces the cover of the September issue of X3 magazine, the premier publication capturing the real personalities, passions, and stories behind top stars.

Penthouse Names Lulu Romanova as September's 'Pet of the Month'

Penthouse Magazine has named Lulu Romanova as Pet of the Month for September.

Suki Sin Fronts Latest From New Sensations

Suki Sin stars with Codey Steele in the latest release from New Sensations.

Elly Clutch Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Elly Clutch stars with Dwayne Foxxx in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Summer Snatch."

Vixen Celebrates a Decade of Decadence With a View From the Top

The adult community took multiple shuttles through the winding roads and driveways of Benedict Canyon on Friday night to celebrate Vixen Media Group’s 10th anniversary.

Richard Mann Drops New Evil Angel Scene With Ravyn Alexa

Ravyn Alexa stars in an Evil Angel scene alongside director/performer Richard Mann.

Show More