Strike a Pose: A Yogi's Guide to Photo Perfection
Hosting my first overseas yoga retreat on the stunning island of Amorgos, Greece was an unforgettable experience. While surrounded by breathtaking scenery and incredible energy, I naively assumed that capturing the essence of the retreat would be a breeze with the help of my co-host, Libby Stevenson, and students. However, the reality was far from it. The importance of professional photography became abundantly clear when we decided to hire a local photographer for a dedicated photoshoot.
The results were amazing!
Not only did the images perfectly capture the spirit of the retreat, but I also had the opportunity to chat to and gain valuable insights from our lovely photographer, Aga Wójcik, about the art of capturing yoga on camera.
As a yoga teacher and a yoga business coach, I'm excited to share these tips with you.
Here’s Aga’s Top Photography Tips:
Makeup and Hair
Less is definitely more. Focus on enhancing your natural features with subtle makeup.
Keep your hair simple and avoid styles that might distract from your pose.
Jewellery
Choose jewellery that complements your outfit and the overall vibe of the shoot.
Be mindful of long necklaces or earrings if you plan on doing inversions.
Poses
Stick to poses you feel confident and comfortable in. Trying something new during a photoshoot can lead to discomfort and tension, which will show in the photos.
Simple poses often look more elegant and timeless.
Pay attention to your body alignment and engage your core to create a strong and balanced look.
Colors
Choose colors that complement the surroundings and create a harmonious look.
Sometimes, a bold color can add a pop of interest to a dull photo.
“The most important aspect of a successful yoga photo is capturing the essence of the pose and the practitioner's connection to their body. A good photographer will be able to guide you into a pose that looks both beautiful and authentic.”
– Photographer: @bigblueyoga
– Model: @libbystevenson.wellbeing
Hiring a Photographer
As a yoga teacher, capturing the essence of your practice through photography is essential for building your brand and inspiring others. Collaborating with a talented photographer can elevate your visual storytelling, but it's important to approach the shoot with a clear vision and plan.
Here are some additional tips to consider:
Portfolio Review: Look for a photographer whose style aligns with your aesthetic. Consider their experience in shooting yoga, fitness or dance. Have some poses in mind and ask the photographer what they think will work best.
Communication: Communicate openly with your photographer to discuss your vision, desired outcomes, and any specific poses or props you want to include.
Trust: A good photographer will make you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
Fun: Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process! And, don’t forget to take some behind-the-scenes footage, or out takes to show a bit of your personality
Your next steps
I hope these tips help you create stunning yoga photos that capture the beauty and spirit of your practice. Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera. If you’re ready for your first (or next) photoshoot, then get my FREE download that gives you more tips and tricks for a winning photo shoot!
Choosing
the right photographer is essential for capturing the right shots.
My FREE checklist & template will help you find the perfect match and ensure your vision comes to life.