Keeping in Shape as a Photographer

Photography can be surprisingly physical – long walks, heavy bags, awkward positions and long days – so staying fit and looking after your body helps you shoot better for longer. Here’s how to keep in shape as a photographer.

In this guide, I am talking about ways of keeping in shape as a photographer – not the normal type of article I write, but it’ll still be surprisingly helpful!

As photographers, we get into an array of awkward contortions just to get the shot. At the moment you don’t even think about how it’s affecting your body or even how it looks to others, you’re simply adjusting the camera however you can to get the shot. Lack of attention to your body over time can leave you with prolonged (and permanent) aches and pains.

That’s why I thought I’d bring up the discussion to make us all aware of what we’re doing to our bodies and better positions to take up while shooting so it doesn’t end up at the chiropractor’s!

There are two areas (knees and backs) to take care of above everything else and then we’ve got some better shooting positions and tips for you to practise.

How to Look After Your Knees as a Photographer

It may sound silly, but I know a lot of photographers who have at one point, or another worn knee pads. I wish I’d thought about it earlier in my photography career as it would have saved me from the creaky knees I have now!

I spent over a decade from my early 20’s rolling around a concrete floor photographing families, kids, and pets in my studio. I never thought, at that age, it was doing damage, but it really hurts whenever I consider running around now.

Knee supports or knee pads worn under hard wearing clothing isn’t a bad idea if you’re a wedding or family portrait photographer. You’re always moving around and adjusting shooting positions, so you’ve rarely got time to think about your own welfare.

Taking Care of your Back as a Photographer

Same again, back supports, are discreet and comfortable and stop you damaging your spine when you’re constantly in weird shooting positions.
Countless times I see photographers using prime lenses too close to their subject so instead of stepping backwards they lean back and hold their breath to stay steady – this is such a bad idea.

Firstly, you’re shifting your weight away from your centre of gravity and therefore putting more weight on your upper half which is already trying to keep the camera still and then you’re adding more weight and trying to keep that still – no, bad idea!

It’s better to use a zoom lens if you expect lots of movement so you can react using your lens firstly. Otherwise get on your feet and be prepared to move.

7 Tips for Better Shooting Positions

1. Right onto our tips for better shooting positions.
2. Don’t lean back on your standing leg. Stand with your feet apart but with one in front of the other and lean forwards instead.
3. Don’t put all your weight on your back when crouching down, place a knee on the floor at least to spread the weight back towards your centre of gravity.
4. Use your elbows to form a solid surface when lying down.
5. Hold your elbows together when holding the camera in two hands. The further apart they are the shakier your hands can be.
6. Never stand on your tip toes for a shot. Gravity is in control then, not you. It’s the worst shooting position I see photographers take up. It looks unprofessional and lazy. Just get a little step if you’re not as tall as you need to be.
7. Use your camera back to support your back if you must lie backwards.

Keeping in Shape as a Photographer: Final Words

Fingers crossed we may have saved you some back ache with these tips to keeping in shape as a photographer.

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For more, read our guide to photography and mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does fitness matter for photographers?

Photography often means carrying heavy gear, walking long distances, standing for hours and holding awkward positions. Reasonable fitness and looking after your body let you shoot longer, more comfortably and with fewer injuries.

How do I avoid back and shoulder pain carrying camera gear?

Use a well-fitted backpack-style bag to spread the load, pack only what you need, lift properly, and use a harness or strap that distributes weight. Stretch, and take breaks on long shoots.

How do I stay comfortable on long shoots?

Wear supportive footwear, stay hydrated and fed, take regular breaks, stretch, and use a tripod or sit when you can. Plan rests, and do not carry more gear than the shoot needs.

Does photography count as exercise?

It can, location, landscape, wildlife and street photography often involve plenty of walking and being on your feet. It is a great reason to get outdoors and active, which also benefits wellbeing.

How do I protect my body as a photographer?

Lighten your load, lift and carry sensibly, stretch and warm up before demanding shoots, vary your positions, and keep generally active. Looking after your body keeps you shooting comfortably for years.