Behind the Lens with Chris Zimmerman

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Published on Friday, 02 July 2010 20:49

Written by Chris Zimmerman

This is just the first in a series of articles I will be writing up for RXmuscle.com on photography in the fitness industry. For those of you who don’t know me, I started working for Dave two years ago. While attending the NPC Long Island show (to view and scrutinize the competition for a client of mine) the stage photographer got into a fight with the promoter. Luckily, I happened to have my DSLR camera and stepped in to take stage shots for the night show. Fast forward to today and here I am as one of the two staff photographers for Rx Muscle; the best and unrivaled bodybuilding site on the planet!

Dieting for a contest takes considerable time and dedication. The look you achieve contest day comes only second to how you look on your wedding day. It's very important to treat the photos of your efforts just as carefully. You certainly don't want to end up being herded like cattle with other girls, one after the other into a Motel 6 getting your pictures taken, complete with plaid carpeting from the 60's.

When scheduling a shoot with any photographer, you need to be comfortable. It really shows in your pictures, if you cant express the correct emotions. Ask any and all questions before hand, so you know exactly what to expect. For example the night before writing this I shot Taryn Rut (overall fitness winner at the NPC Philadelphia Classic) outside of a gothic stone cathedral. If she would have worn bright neon colors it would have ruined the entire composition and turned a truly outstanding photo shoot into something worthy of the recycle bin! (Check out Chris’ new feature R-XXX Girl later this month to see Taryn’s photos). Plan before hand! Outfits, locations, themes, hair and make-up etc... If you want to bring a friend or significant other to ease the tension, mention it, as it should never be an issue. Don't do anything you are uncomfortable with or get talked into anything, you will regret it! No professional photographer should pressure you into anything.

There are many outstanding photographers out there to choose from. Take a look at samples from each, as we all have certain styles that will appeal to various tastes. I for one excel at the edgy looks and retouching photos. The industry icon J.M. Manion has by far the best studio locations in the industry to make for a stunning and memorable photo session, Isaac Hinds shoots stunning compositions, Jeffrey Sygo is known for his amazing lighting techniques, and there are many others! Prices for work can vary from $200 dollars to well into the thousands. Of course you can get free photos or even make some money to shoot photos, just be aware they will likely end up on a pay site. No professional does this for free; we either make money creating a timeless piece of artwork for you or it goes to a members site for paying fans to see. There is also the third option: a professional is shooting you for a reputable magazine or website. Just make sure have written confirmation regarding the publication this person claims to be shooting for.

I have run into a few models that were shocked a price was given but could you imagine going anywhere and expecting work or services for free just because your a competitor. Last time I had my Infiniti in the shop they did charge me for work, even though I am Chris Zimmerman, the somewhat new and little known photographer and graphic artist! Remember, just like buying a car, you get what you pay for! Once you sign the model release form the photographer has the rights to do what they like with your pictures.

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