Janus

Janus is one of the most recognisable and long‑running British spanking magazines, published across two major series between 1971 and 2007. The early issues (1971–1980) evolved from Mentor and featured illustrated covers—often by Rex—before moving to colour photography in the mid‑1970s. Content in this period combined articles, fiction, artwork, correspondence, and selected glamour photography, with a notable emphasis on thoughtful editorial writing.
The second series (1981–2007) defined the magazine’s enduring identity. Central to this was the development of the “photo fantasy”: extended, carefully staged photographic stories produced with attention to acting, setting, and narrative detail. Photographer Vic Barnes played a key role in shaping this style, introducing techniques that became hallmarks of the magazine’s visual approach.
Despite industry restrictions in the late 1980s and 1990s, Janus remained a prominent publication thanks to its creativity, loyal readership, and unusually authentic correspondence section—genuine letters that often influenced editorial direction. Over time, certain models became favourites among collectors, and retrospective features helped maintain interest in earlier issues.
Today, Janus is regarded as a cornerstone of British spanking publishing, valued for its long history, distinctive photography, influential artists.