Photography is one of those professions you don’t expect to be physically demanding, but it definitely can be. Of course, it depends on your niche, too, but most types of photography demand some physical fitness.
When I first started as a professional photographer, I did not think about my physical (or mental) fitness at all. I assumed carrying a camera and walking around at an event or office wouldn’t be too harsh.
But I was wrong. At the end of the day, I would be drained. I was on my feet throughout, thinking about my shots and client satisfaction, and carrying two heavy DSLRs with lenses. I was exhausted.
Even after moving to mirrorless, which made my camera lighter, it still weighs a lot.
Photography is both physically and mentally draining
Often in photography, the days are long. You have to carry heavy equipment around. Cameras, lenses, lights, stands, … You usually don’t sit down until you’re in the car back home. A short drive if you are lucky.
Sometimes, you go without food because the schedule is tightly planned. And you do it all while smiling, being polite, and upbeat.
Lenses, cameras, tripods, lights,… it’s all basically weightlifting.
Taking shots from lower angles, that’s lunges or squats.
And the shots from higher angles are calf raises.
Just to show that photography is a physical activity. So being fit isn’t an unnecessary luxury.
Why improve your physical fitness as a photographer, then?
So, if it’s already draining you, it counts as a workout, right? Well, not really. It’s best to keep your fitness levels up. It shouldn’t be anything too crazy, either. For some people, a regular walk for cardio can be plenty.
To stay healthy, you could do some cardio, go to the gym for weight training, or do any other activity you like.
Sporting can help you maintain energy levels throughout a strenuous shooting day. It also helps with a shorter recovery time. So you don’t need to edit the photos in your bed the next day.
For me, it’s a (light) running schedule and some free weights at home. But it could be anything if you enjoy it in your routine.
Here are some quick tips for a routine to keep your physical health up as a photographer:
- Find a routine that works for you: As often and as intense as you can handle and enjoy
- Don’t go overboard: light exercise is plenty
- Find a workout buddy for accountability; this way, you might be able to keep doing it
- Phoblographer has a series of workouts on their blog.
The impact on your mental well-being
Working out helps clear your mind. Often, I feel refreshed after a short walk, ready to generate new ideas and reset my focus. This is perfect for starting a long day of photo editing or blog writing.
Working out can also be a stress-reliever. Relaxing those muscles while you do an intense Zumba session, for example. Sweating out the stress.
And it’s ofcourse very well known and documented that being with a group also regulates your mood. So doing any group sport is sure to be beneficial too.
What do you do to maintain your physical health as a photographer? Let me know in the comments!
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