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Project: Anya Iakymchuk
Production: VERTEX
Photographer & Retoucher: Jeff Thomas
Model: Anya Iakymchuk
Makeup Artist: Meagan Brown
Modeling Agency: Shamon Freitas
Behind the Scenes & PA: Colton Brandt
Location: Oceanside, CA
What goes into a fitness lifestyle photoshoot?
What goes into a fitness lifestyle photoshoot? Wardrobe, lighting, makeup, hair, location- that goes without saying, but for this project the lighting set up was my main focus. Once I know how I want to approach my lighting style, everything else falls into place. I love natural lighting, but I always want to make sure my shoots have control. So I figured why not incorporate both?
My main motivation behind this concept was to test out my new Profoto B10 Plus. It’s a portable, battery-powered strobe that has built-in transmitters; allowing for quick setups. This strobe allows me to be agile and bring the studio outside easily. Let’s just say, I am really excited.
This was a quick shoot, consisting of two hours of prep [wardrobe, makeup, and hair] and two hours of shooting. Meagan [makeup artist] and I wanted to challenge ourselves to keep the shoot fast pace; not lingering on one look for too long.
When you’re doing a test shoot it’s critical to get a variety of looks that can be used for everyone involved. Because of this, test shoots often try to play it “safe”, basically meaning: generic images. If the image doesn’t stand out and make someone stop to look at it then what’s the point? That’s why I always try to put an artistic spin on these “safe” images.
Luckily for me, Anya and the modeling agency loved the idea of creating something safe yet creative. We were able to use studio lighting, vibrant colors, interesting outfits, and have fun with it.
My number one strategy to approaching a personal shoot is to come prepared; but let the vibes take you on the spot. Although this was a quick shoot, a lot of time went into preproduction; I location scouted, bought the wardrobe, created a mood board and discussed the direction with my team. This gives us a foundation; but more importantly, it allows us to have the ability to diverge from the original plan. On the day of the shoot, we never looked at the mood board or forced something to work. We had options at our disposal and then we went with what felt right.
Results are always better this way. Creative, simple, clean and artistic.
– Jeff Thomas
Behind the scenes photoshoot with Anya Iakymchuk
