Tip of the Month: Photoshoots by Rebecca Slatt

Many of the emails I receive are questions about photo shoots.  Photo shoots are a perfect way to capture your competition experience in a unique way, and a perfect way to advertise yourself in the fitness industry.  Here are some of the most common questions I receive about photo shoots. 

Q: How do I find a photographer to shoot with?

A: There are a lot of ways to score a photo shoot, but the easiest way is to email the photographer.  Most photographers such as JC from Hardfitness, will advertise booking of shoots on his website.  Simply email the photographer from his website. If you have competed before, chances are that a photographer will contact you to ask if you are doing a certain show and request to shoot with you.  You may run into photographers at shows or clinics you are attending so you can always ask there.  Another easy way is to ask other competitors if they known photographers with open time slots.  Some girls shoot with more than one photographer while others stick with the same one at each show.  I like to shoot with the same one (JC-obviously), because then I am more comfortable and able to be myself. 

Rebecca Slatt

Q: What should I wear/bring to the photo shoot?

A: You will want to wear tighter clothes that show some skin since you are in the best shape of your life!  It is also a good idea for you to ask your photographer prior-to the photo shoot as to where you will be shooting: indoors/outdoors/beach/hotel room/hotel ballroom/park/playground/etc.  Here are a variety of clothing attire which are all suitable for a fit and sexy model:

bikinis
lingerie
high heels
mini dresses and mini skirts
tube tops
short shorts
thigh highs or fishnet tights
costume

Makeup and lots of it!
Hairspray and other hair products
curling iron/straightener/rollers
q-tips for touch-ups
makeup sponges
spray glitter
posing gel
if you are painted, bring some paint for touchups
dark colored towel
suit glue

outfit for a head shot (if you want a head shot)

props:
try some hats
dumb bells
flowers
another model!

It is always a good idea to have a friend with you at the shoot.  He/she can assist you with getting ready and changing, help you with posing, etc.  Plus, many times you may be shooting with a photographer that you have never met.  Bring a friend with you to assist you with your shoot, but also for safety. 

Q: Should I shoot before or after the show?

A: There isn't a correct answer to this question but it will really depend on how you prefer to look as a model.  The day before the show you may be a little flat; however, the day after you may be very full and chances are you are going to have a bit of a pushed out belly after you celebrate when the show is over.  I prefer to shoot the day before the show, because when I am done competing I am exhausted!  The last thing I want to do is my hair and makeup and reapply more tanning product!

Rebecca Slatt

Q: Will I get paid?

A: Chances are you won't get paid; however, getting a photo CD with hundreds of photos is more valuable than money.  Normally it costs hundreds of dollars to book a photographer, and with your photos you will be able to create a website and/or portfolio to advertise yourself! 

I wanted to emphasize a couple of things that I believe are important for successful photo shoots is that you should take time to practice your poses in  the  mirror at home.  Find poses that you believe accentuate your best features, this way you will be comfortable in front of the photographer because you already have a game plan.  Practice smiling and not smiling, looking at the mirror or off in the distance. 

Remember to always keep your tummy sucked in!!!  You do not want to have a little pushed out belly, especially if you are doing some shot where you are sideways-you will want to be emphasizing your tiny little waist. 

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