Keeping fit and looking after your body as a photographer

This week, Sam and Marcus discussed keeping fit as a photographer. Many types of photography take a physical toll on the body, such as events where you can be moving quickly and carrying a lot of kit. The job also involves a lot of desk work, which can be bad for the body again, but in a different way.

There are three areas covered in the show

• Exercise and keeping fit
• Protecting yourself while on the job
• Best practice working at the desk
  

Marcus and Sam agree that with exercise and keeping fit, the important thing is finding something you enjoy. Sticking at it is also important. Clubs can help with this, as there is a fixed time each week, which enables you to make sure you make it. Things like the gym are harder as you need more self-discipline. It’s important to think about cardiovascular work, strength training and flexibility. Which means you might need to do different activities.
Marcus says he consistently does yoga in the morning and every night, just 10 minutes, but it has made a difference. He notices it particularly at events. Sam and Marcus discuss the idea of using a sit-stand desk. Sam also discusses that it’s good to have an activity that you always do standing up. For example, Zoom calls.

The final thing is being aware while shooting of what youare doing. Think carefully about what you are carrying with you. Do you need all of the equipment you are carrying around with you? Also be careful at the event, thinking about how you are carrying things. Look after yourself during the event. Marcus says that for larger events he employs an assistant who carries his bags.