It is a growing trend in the present
fitness industry to document hard earned results with a fitness photo shoot.
However, the industry is full of a vast selection of beautiful models with
perfect physiques to choose from. These photos last forever, and what better
time to step in the limelight, then after working your butt off for weeks,
(literally!) for a physique competition. Here are some simple tips for looking
and feeling your best on shoot day.
·
Before choosing a photographer
to shoot with, do your research. Have you heard of this person before? Seen
their work in your favorite magazines? Do you know anyone who has worked with
him or her before? And what were their thoughts? Are the shots flattering to
the models? You want to be confident that the photos will turn out well.
Chances are, if you like his or her previous work, you will be happy with
yours.
·
Sure you could get a friend to
do the photos, who may have some experience, but it is worth shelling out the
extra cash to someone who is experienced in the industry. Experienced
photographers know how to compliment your look. Also, it pays to meet
photographers who have been previously published in magazines. These people may
help connect you to publication opportunities, or other important people in the
industry.
·
- Have an idea of what you would like for the shoot (ex different looks, props etc.), also be open to suggestions. Be clear about your wishes up front.
- · If you are going alone, with someone for the first time, tell someone you are close with. This is a general life rule, so that someone knows where you are in the event that something should happen.
- · Read over the contract thoroughly before you shoot. Every contract can be different. Know your rights and responsibilities to the photos being developed.
- · Makeup: It is beneficial to hire a professional. Your photographer may recommend someone who knows his lighting best. Under the lights, home make up can look very minimal, and can sometimes wash you out.
- · Take your make-up bag for touch ups. Even if you get your make up done. The make up artist may not be sticking around for the whole shoot, and you made need something for touch ups.
- · Tanning leading up to a shoot will give your skin a healthy glow, but be careful to overdo it and burn, or have tan lines. Spray tans may be blotchy at times. It is a good idea to do a practice tan to see how your skin will react.
- · Exfoliate and moisturize your skin leading up to a tan so that the tan will adhere evenly.
- · Hair removal! This may sound obvious, but arrive to the shoot groomed.
- · Nails: French manicure looks best. If wearing artificial nails, keep a back up press on set in your bag in the event of one breaking or falling off.
- · Bring hair tools for touch ups if needed. If getting hair done, or extensions put in, a trial run in beneficial.
- · Cut tags off of outfits, a tag can pop out, making it more difficult for the photographer, as he or she may require to edit the photo to remove a tag.
- · Get up early! Have a good breakfast and get ready, nobody wants to feel rushed before a shoot.
- · Pack a “photo shoot” bag. A suitcase with wheels works best as it avoids lines by carrying a heavy bag over your shoulder.
·
In the photo shoot bag I include:
o
Several different looks
(outfits). Keep them organized for easy finding. Mix and match, and bring
extra! If it is not used, then no harm done. Always good to have a back up or
some extra pieces to play with to change up a look.
o
Jewelry to match different
looks.
o
Shoes.
o
Oil. Tanning glaze or baby oil
can give your muscles a defined look, especially in fitness shots.
o
Paper towel or wipes to prevent
getting oil everywhere, or for make-up touch ups.
o
Pump up material. Resistance
bands are lightweight and fit in the corner of your bag.
o
Contact information. If you
have a business card, it may be a good opportunity to exchange contact
information.
o
A robe or housecoat to wear
between sets to keep comfortable in.
- · Pack a lunch for the day. Pack extra than what you think you will need. Shooting may go longer than you expected, and you don’t want to have to leave early or be hungry during a shoot.
- · Don’t deplete yourself of food or water before a shoot. This may leave you weak, dizzy, or make your muscles cramp, affecting your performance. (Not to mention it is extremely unhealthy). If you are concerned about how you look after you eat, stick to small frequent clean meals and moderate water intake.
Hope these tips are
helpful! Enjoy the shoot, having fun is noticeable and will make for a great
shoot!
Celia Hodder
WBFF Figure Pro, Fitness
Model, Nutrabolics Brand Ambassador
