You: The Cover Girl
An Interview with FitSights
by Olesya Novik

You set your internet home page to Muscle With Attitude months ago. You don't remember where Krispy Kreme is. You've forgotten the taste of a Double Quarter Pounder with cheese. You now look forward to chicken and broccoli dinners followed by sugar-free Jell-O for dessert.

Boring, but it works. It works so well, in fact, that you look just like that girl on the cover of your favorite newsstand fitness mag this month! Hell, maybe even better. You wonder how she got there, and you just know you could do it too. If only someone were to show you the way, you too could be famous — making good money while inspiring women all across the nation to follow in your footsteps.

Guess what? MWA has got you covered once again! One of the most respected individuals in the fitness world, Mr. FitSights, a.k.a. Conor, is here to help you get started.

Conor is a talented photographer who's been working with fitness models and figure competitors for the past ten years. He's photographed everyone, from top pros to those just starting out.

MWA: First things first, what steps should be taken by someone attempting to break into the fitness industry? How does a fitness model get started?

Conor: With MySpace, Facebook, Muscle With Attitude, and other forms of online promotion being so readily available these days, the fitness model realm is getting more and more crowded every year. However, there are still many ways to make your mark on the industry. But just like most things in life, it takes hard work, patience, dedication, and a bit of luck.

The most important step is to refine your look and get yourself to a point where you want to take the plunge into the modeling world. In this industry, it helps to be personable, outgoing, and all of those admirable traits, but let's be frank — it's all about your image: hair, face, skin, physique, smile, and everything in-between.

So before you start building a portfolio, make sure you've got those aspects in place. Because if you do, you'll be able to work with better photographers sooner, build a more impressive portfolio quicker, and be on your way to becoming the "next big thing."

MWA: Speaking of photographers, how would a girl find reputable, trustworthy fitness photographers?

Conor: Reputation is everything when it comes to seeking out a photographer, so the best way is to simply ask your peers in the industry. Click around on fitness model pages on MySpace. Check out the pics of members of Muscle With Attitude. If you see someone with a photo that you really like, ask them who took it and how it was to work with the photographer.

Most people are happy to share good experiences with photographers, and also glad to share some horror stories. Always take those horror stories with a grain of salt though, because the photographer and/or model could've had an off day. However, if the horror stories start to pile up, then you might want to heed their advice.

MWA: How much should an aspiring fitness model expect to pay to have her photos taken by the photographer whose work she likes?

Conor: This is a tricky topic, because the old adage "you get what you pay for" doesn't always apply. When trying to schedule a photoshoot, the payment will usually be handled in one of three common ways — you pay for the shoot, you do an "exchange," or you are paid for the shoot. Allow me to go into a bit more detail on each one.

When paying for a shoot, you're usually working with a highly skilled photographer that will be able to bring out the best in you and capture images you didn't think were possible. Services like makeup and hair are often a part of the package to ensure optimal results.

Great care in styling, location, and lighting are taken to make sure it's worth the sometimes high price, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Usually you'll get all the photos, but only a certain amount are refined via Photoshop to make the model look absolutely flawless.

An "exchange" is usually characterized by the acronym TFP (trade for print), or TFCD (trade for CD). As a model, you're exchanging your time and talents for the time and talents of the photographer. The aim is for both parties to get what they want out of it — good photos for their respective portfolios.

Depending on the photographer, the model can either be a newbie and use the shoot to gain valuable experience in front of a camera, or they might be expected to know how to work it if the photographer is more seasoned. In the fitness industry, however, most photographers you'll meet work in this general format, and are happy to work with new models trying to establish a more diverse portfolio.

Lastly, if you have a look photographers desire, there's a chance to get paid for a shoot. These shoots are typically for large, popular websites with members sections, so the photographer is paying you for your photos which they will in turn make money from.

While it's hard to say no to free money, make sure the photos are tasteful and flattering. Remember that even after you spend the money you earned from the shoot, those photos will still be floating around the internet for years to come.

MWA: Scary thought, definitely enough to make you think twice about who you choose to take those photos! But what if there are still images the model doesn't like? How does she prevent them from being seen?

Conor: This is a touchy subject. Depending on what the model release says, especially if you're being paid for the shoot, you don't really have a lot of control over this. Just try to work with a reputable photographer and you can avoid this problem. They'll do their best to not take any disparaging photos in the first place, or will usually remove them from the internet if you ask.

I wouldn't try to have a photographer remove a photo because your hair isn't falling the way you prefer, but if a photo was taken during a little "nip-slip," then it's usually grounds for a removal request.

MWA: So a model release is the agreement a fitness girl should expect to sign at every shoot?

Conor: No matter what type of format the shoot is, always insist a model release is signed, especially if it's your first time shooting with the photographer.

I must admit, when I shoot with friends whom I've worked with in the past, I don't really bother with releases, but that's only because the terms of the shoot are already known and established, so it's not as big of a deal.

MWA: It's always a good idea to get the legalities out of the way and make sure both the photographer's and the model's terms are clear and agreed upon. Once the photoshoot is over, would the model get copies of all images taken? Does the photographer keep copies as well?

Conor: These aspects are all dependent on the type of shoot you're doing and what's agreed to in the model release. In general, if you're paying for the shoot, you'll get all of the photos (or at least the cream of the crop) and you retain the rights to them.

If it's a TFCD shoot, both parties get to use the images how they see fit. If you're getting paid for the shoot, don't always expect to get the photos, although most people in the fitness world still give the models copies of their photos.

MWA: When the model does have a few great photos, how does she get into fitness magazines? Do you think that's a good way to begin a career in the fitness world?

Conor: There are two routes you can take to achieve the common goal of appearing in a fitness publication — either shoot with a photographer who routinely submits to magazines, or simply send in the photos yourself.

The first option can be a bit trickier, because photographers who submit tend to be a bit more discerning with who they work with, but that's why it's important to work hard and refine your look before seeking out the upper echelon photographers.

The second option is actually a lot more painless than you'd think. Simply email your photos and a brief blurb about who you are and why you think they should run one of your photos to a contact from the magazine's website. You just might end up with a shout-out, a small profile, or even a request for an extended pictorial if they really like your look.

And remember, there's a wide array of publications out there. Keep in mind the "look" each magazine showcases for female fitness models when deciding what types of photos to send in.

MWA: Okay, our aspiring fitness star is now in the magazine of her choice. She's on cloud nine, but can she expect to get paid? Is it true that even cover models don't always get paid for their work?

Conor: Don't expect to retire to a mansion along the bluffs of La Jolla from the money you make as a fitness model. With any luck, you'll be able to make enough money modeling to buy lunch at a restaurant along the bluffs of La Jolla, but even that isn't guaranteed. Some magazines will pay you a small sum of money to print one of your photos ($50 or so) but even that's rare.

A lot of the time, the alleged prestige that comes along with being featured in a publication is supposed to be payment enough for models. Fitness modeling is a route that can often lead to a bit of fame, but don't expect fortune to come along for the ride as well.

MWA: Alright, let's move on to the fun stuff — those details that make or break a photoshoot. What would be a good outfit to wear to a shoot?

Conor: I'm a proponent of the mantra "wear the outfit; don't let it wear you." Pick outfits that compliment your physique, your structure, and reflect your general sense of style. Try to shy away from outfits with crazy patterns or ultra bright colors because they'll draw attention away from your physique and the other elements of the shot.

If you know the location beforehand, keep in mind colors or styles that would mesh with your surroundings. Doing a shoot in a grungy alleyway? Grunge up your look with a ripped up, soiled tank top over a bikini top, some boots with a heel, and a strappy leather wristband. Feel free to get inspiration from magazines, TV shows, music videos or wherever else you see cool outfits.

MWA: "Cool outfits" sounds great, but where do fitness models get them? How many changes of outfits should be on hand? How about accessories?

Conor: A lot of people think they need to shop for photoshoot clothes at stripper stores, but I tend to think otherwise. I'm not a huge fan of that kind of clothing.

I think you can find sexy items anywhere, from American Apparel to Target. It's all about finding clothes that flatter your shape and show off your physique. Save the stripper clothes for the bedroom... or work. (Hey, I'm not here to judge!)

While I'm not a fan of stripper clothes, I'm a huge advocate of accessories. They help to break up the usually large expanses of bare skin that fitness models tend to show off in photos — for good reason, of course. So spice up that skin around your neck, arms, wrists and waist with some accessories that not only compliment you, but also what you're wearing.

The amount of outfits is dependent on the time you'll be shooting, but I'd recommend about two per hour of shooting, just to be safe. It's always better to bring too much and have options than have too little and be forced to wear things that may not go too well with your location.

MWA: What about hair and makeup? Are there usually makeup artists and hair stylists at shoots? If not, do you have any tips on what makeup and hair looks good in photos?

Conor: If you're paying for a shoot, makeup should be a part of the fee, or at least be a recommended option available for the model. On all other types of shoots, you're usually on your own in that department. If you aren't comfortable doing your own makeup for a shoot and want something more dramatic, head down to a MAC or Sephora counter and let the experts there do what they do best.

Your makeup should mesh with the rest of the elements of your shoot — location, outfit, and mood. Don't get ultra-dramatic smoky eyes and long lashes and then wear a sundress while frolicking on the beach. Go into it with a plan, and when it doubt, look at those same sources of inspiration (mags, TV, music videos) for helpful hints.

MWA: Are there any grooming tips you can give to an aspiring model?

Conor: Well, unless you're going for a very niche market at FurryFitnessModels.com, I'd try to minimize the Sasquatch look as much as possible. Remember that photos are taken from all different angles and zoom lengths, so bringing a crisp, clean, polished look to the shoot will only benefit you.

When you have stubbly pits or busted-up nails, you may have to alter your posing to avoid exposing them, so its best to grant yourself the freedom to situate yourself however you'd like by taking care of those things ahead of time.

MWA: Sounds pretty basic! What if the girl has scars? Does she need to wear outfits that hide them, or can they be touched up in photos?

Conor: Anything and everything can be touched up in Photoshop, but don't expect the photographer you work with to be skilled enough to take care of these things. I've seen the whole gamut of no touching up and color correction, to the obliteration of pores and skin texture due to a hefty dose of blur tool.

When a photo is touched up by a deft Photoshop technician, you won't know it's been touched up. There won't be any indication of a scar, a pimple, a stray hair. It'll just be the physique, in all its natural glory.

MWA: So if a model breaks out two days before a shoot, should she just pretend it's not there and carry on in hopes of getting that huge pimple on the tip of her nose Photoshopped out?

Conor: If something comes up before the shoot — a rash, rogue pimple, serious bloating, etc. — simply contact the photographer and see how he feels about the problem. It's best to let him/her know in advance, and the shoot can either be rescheduled, cancelled, or perhaps the problem can be overcome. The sooner you get the word out about your little (or big) problem, the sooner a decision can be made on how to proceed.

MWA: How about a tan? Is it necessary for a fitness model to wear stage color to a shoot? If not, is it a good idea to have a natural tan?

Conor: Having a healthy, bronzed exterior always enhances a physique in photos, but only to a point. Stage tans can look muddy and splotchy, and there's always the problem of matching your face to your newly applied dark skin tone. Try using a tanning process like Mystic Tan, which will give you even coverage and a nice color.

MWA: I have a few flawlessly tanned, very well groomed, gorgeous friends who are still painfully shy and would love some tips on how to relax in front of the camera. Any ideas?

Conor: Well, for some people it's hard to feel natural while standing half naked in front of a stranger. For others, it's nothing.

As a competitor, you should be comfortable and proud of your body, so although I don't recommend wearing your posing suit to the grocery store while picking up some chicken breasts, wearing a bikini at a shoot shouldn't be anything to get nervous about.

The photographer you're working with should be able to calm any nerves as well. Personally, I usually break the ice with a little old fashioned comedy, but who knows what other photographers do. Juggle? Breakdance? Yodel? I'm sure everyone has a different approach.

MWA: Thank you Conor for taking the time to help debunk some fitness industry myths and help us all take better pictures. Your time is very much appreciated!

Note: If you have any specific questions for Conor, feel free to ask them in the article discussions section of the forum. For more of Conor's work, please visit FitSights.com.

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