<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=308775203138314&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">

A behind-the-scenes look at a photo shoot

avatar author By Peter van der Steege | October 21, 2015 | Reading time: 5 min

At Fitbrand, we love it when a photo shoot(or video shoot) runs like clockwork. But making sure the client also gets exactly what they want requires one thing: good organization. Because you want to make the best use of your time in the studio. And if something does go wrong: then you immediately know what the other options are.

Schedule a photo shoot now!

The assignment and consultation

When Planet Fitness came to us in late 2014, they wanted three types of photos: Product photography, photos showing proper training technique with the products, and lifestyle photography. In consultation, this was developed into a comprehensive list that listed all the products, and from which angle it should be photographed. An indispensable list, because all attributes must be there to be photographed. And it helps with finding the right photo after the shoot. Because that is not so easy with more than 3000 photos.

making of fitness photo shoot - fitbrand
Actually, those models are like ordinary people. Well: Well-trained ordinary people.

Planning: more lists

Once you have that list, then go into consultation. How can you best display everything? How much can you "shoot" in one day? What is the best (affordable) location? Isn't it an idea to actually do a boxing workout? Because we know from experience that that looks so good on screen. Finally, you make a plan. What equipment do you need? Is it convenient to use a second photographer? When is everyone available? We end up with 2x two days at two different locations.

Photo shoot 1: Technique in the studio

Because the product photos and the "technical" photos showing the correct training technique had to be as clear as possible, we chose to shoot them in two days in a photo studio on a white background. This makes them ideally suited for use in a catalog or a web shop, for example. Nice work, but you try not to show too much emotion, because on a page full of photos it is just too distracting. Excellent photo studio of the Cine Media Group by the way.

making of studio photo fitness photo shoot
Good lighting is half the battle, now the rest.

Photo shoot 2: Metal Cathedral

Our hearts beat faster during the two days we spent on location photographing at the Utrecht Metal Cathedral. Now the athletes could really go wild. We used a few lights for a dramatic shadow effect, and to get rid of some other shadows, and then let's go! Because then everything is real. We hardly needed the spray of baby oil that you can use to recreate sweat. Even though it was still the middle of winter, and the heat gun we brought along was no luxury.

making of fitness photo shoot at fitbrand
Attention and focus, even behind the scenes.

Working hard, with occasional breaks

And then it actually just runs really well. You can tell from everything that the preparation was not in vain. Everyone knows what to do, what needs to be done, and at what time. Working out together with the Kettlebell, a group workout on the body bike, or an individual workout with a battle rope. You can see in the pictures that the effort is real. The enormous experience and knowledge of Bas Hollander helped to connect the dots. Because in your enthusiasm you sometimes forget to keep your back straight, even though it should be. Or when you really need to take a break.

 planet fitness photo selections apple
Looking directly back at the set.

Tired, but satisfied

And then, without running out of time, when you finish the two days of shooting you are tired, but satisfied. Back to Fitbrand to clean all the equipment, and sort out the photos. And because it was all shot on location, you're almost done. Just a little tweaking of the colors, but no hours of Photoshop sessions to make the photos sparkle, and adjust details that no one ever sees. Simple, effective, and real. That's what we love.
Schedule a photo shoot now!

Taste the atmosphere

Not everything can be explained in words. So watch the video to get the feel of an on-site photo shoot with Fitbrand. And you immediately get a sneak preview of Planet Fitness' new brochure!

 

More pictures at our cases

Want to see even more? Then check out a selection of the end result in our Planet Fitness Lifestyle Photography case.

fitness lifestyle photography

The Crew :
Photographers: Peter van der Steege and Angelo Roga
Production: Hilly Goedhart
Photo and videography
'behind the scenes':
Nienke Meijeringh and Orlando Mual
Technical advice: Bass Hollander
Models: Dennis Toppin, Yves van de Eynden,Bas Hollander, Kim Vergouwen, Chantal de Rooij, Louise Duif, Annabelle van Gorcom and Laura Pels

About the author

Peter van der Steege

Peter van der Steege

Peter is the creative force and strategic mind behind Fitbrand and Winning with Your Brand. With over three decades of experience in brand strategy, design and marketing, he has developed the unique ability to take brands to the next level visually and strategically. As a speaker, I enjoy sharing my current insights into branding and market strategy. My mission is to make your brand not only stand out, but truly resonate with your audience.

Never miss another blog from us.

Sign up for our newsletter. It's full of tips, tricks and insights for making your own brand stronger. We do not spam.

You might also like these blogs

Branding
Design
Photography
Strategy

Building strong brands: The brand strategy behind FitX

The world of branding is all about creating a distinctive identity that resonates with [...]
Read more
Photography

What the Stock!!! Here's why you shouldn't use stock images

Stock images seem tempting at first glance - a quick fix for visual material [...].
Read more
Branding
Photography

10 video recording tips for filming with your cell phone

With these 10 video recording tips, you can improve the quality of the video functions in your cell phone [...]
Read more
Close