Tips for a Successful Yoga Photo Shoot

Have you ever been interested in doing a yoga photo shoot but didn’t know where to start? Whether you need professional images for your yoga studio’s website, or just want some pictures for “the gram” – photo shoots don’t have to be scary. Here are some tips to help you nail your next yoga photo shoot:

Find a good photographer

Finding a professional photographer is key. Although phone pictures are easy and usually turn out decently, a photographer who has their own equipment and knows about lighting, angles, etc., is going to result in much higher quality images!  Do some research and see if there are any local photographers in your area who have a similar style to what you are looking for.

Be mindful of location and wardrobe choices

Location can completely change the look and feel of a photo shoot. Try to come up with a few options for where you want to shoot so that you have a variety of images. If you do have a photographer with you, make sure that your chosen location will allow professional cameras so that you don’t get kicked out or fined. Many public locations have their photoshoot policies listed on their websites, so its recommended to call or check online before arriving.

When it comes to wardrobe, it’s better to bring too much than too little. Be mindful of what colors are in the background so that you don’t blend in. Pastels and neutral colors usually photograph better than bright colors or prints. You want the focus to be on you rather than your outfit. Always bring extra backup options just in case of wardrobe malfunctions, or if you’re not sure what will look best in the location you’re shooting at. 

Create an inspiration board and plan out your poses in advance

It’s very helpful to have an “Inspiration board” with you during a shoot. An Inspiration board is a collection of images you like from similar photo shoots that are shared between the yogi and photographer to make sure everyone is on the same page with the look and feel of the shoot. This is not so you can copy other people’s work, but rather to make sure that everyone on your team is on the same page when it’s time to shoot.

It is also important to plan out what yoga poses you want to do in advance and write them down so that you can refer back to them during your shoot. This helps decrease repetition of poses throughout the photo shoot.

Practice in the mirror

It sounds weird, but it actually helps to do a “dress rehearsal” and try different poses in front of the mirror. Sometimes the poses and outfit combinations will look great, other times they won’t. Practicing in the mirror can also help you find what angles look best (Some poses will look better from the side than the front, etc.)

Slow down

Unless you’re shooting a video in real time, know that a photo shoot is not going to be like a regular flow. You will need to practice holding poses and moving super slowly so the photographer can capture many frames while you’re moving. If you move too fast, your pictures could end up blurry. Try to hold each position for 5 breaths while making slight adjustments with your hand positioning, gaze, and alignment. It will help the photographer get more than just one shot to choose from. 

Most importantly of all – have fun! Let your personality shine through the camera!

Here are three Insta-friendly poses to try the next time you want to amp your feed:

	Natarajasana (Lord of the Dance Pose) Benefits: This iconic pose provides an all-around body stretch - thighs, hamstrings, calves, arms, shoulders, hips, and abdomen while helping you develop core balance.  How it's done: As an intermediate pose, this is one that you work into as your body learns its abilities. You won't be perfect the first time, but each time you will grow in confidence.  Watch the video here for guidance in accomplishing this posture.
	Viparita Shalabhasana (Inverted Locust Pose) Benefits: This pose strengthens your lower back, legs, shoulders, arms, and neck.  What to know: If you are just learning this posture, it should be done in the presence of a certified yoga instructor.   This is a very advanced ashantaga yoga posture.  Please watch the video here.
	Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana (Standing Splits Pose) Benefits: This is the splits on one leg - stretching your hamstrings, thighs, and calves while enhancing your core and balance.   How it's done: Stand with your feet together, toes forward Point the hips forward As your torso bends forward at the hip, raise your right leg behind you Keep the right leg straight with toes pointed Rotate your thighs together, to keep the hips neutral The left knee should be soft and pointed forward Grasp your ankle or calf with your hands

AUTHOR BIO

Stephanie Morgan is a yoga instructor and lifestyle blogger from Chicago! Yoga has impacted her life in so many ways, and she loves having the opportunity to teach and share her practice with others. She hopes to encourage and inspire other people to follow their dreams and find new levels of possibility in their minds and bodies by bringing their practice off their mat and into their lives! You can find her blog at www.XoStephMorgan.com

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