This guide outlines everything you need to know for your upcoming group photoshoot, including key details to ensure the day runs smoothly and efficiently. We aim to create a relaxed, fun environment while delivering professional results.

1. Location, Parking & Arrival Time

Bailey Studio is located at Unit 1 The Victoria Works, Wells Road, Nottingham, NG33AR. Please note that GPS systems may lead you slightly further up the road. Our entrance is next to B&R Webster Garage (blue sign). Look for the white door to the left as you walk through the archway to the garage.

Important Parking Information:

  • Do not park in the car park opposite the garage, as it is shared between the garage and the nearby supermarket.
  • The archway leading to the garage must remain clear as it is used for garage access.
  • There is usually parking available on the road across the street. We recommend carpooling to minimise parking challenges.

Please plan to arrive no earlier than 30 minutes before your scheduled photoshoot. Arriving too early may overlap with other clients or shoots, and arriving late will eat into your allocated time, which cannot be extended.

2. Time Constraints

Your group will be assigned a specific time slot for the photoshoot. It is important to stay within this timeframe, as another group or client may be scheduled immediately after. Respecting this schedule allows us to reset and clean the studio before the next booking.

3. Specific Shot Requests

Group shoots differ significantly from individual one-on-one sessions. While we strive to capture the best moments, group shoots require a more efficient, structured approach. Individual preferences for poses and styles are limited as group decisions must be made together.

Creative, bespoke shots that involve specific posing and lighting techniques are reserved for individual one-on-one sessions. For group shoots, we will focus on key shots that showcase the clients at their best, often utilising gym equipment and pre-determined setups.

4. Videographer / Professional Video

We offer in-house video services, but you are welcome to bring your own videographer if desired. Please note the following: For videographers who have never visited the studio before or whom we have not worked with, we kindly ask that they introduce themselves upon arrival and respect the studio space. A designated area will be provided for their equipment to avoid any disruptions during the shoot.

  • Mobile Phone Recordings: Coaches are welcome to take behind-the-scenes footage on their phones. However, the use of professional cameras by clients or spectators will also incur the external creator fee.
  • Testimonials: We understand the importance and value of gathering client testimonials during group shoots. However, these must be completed within the client's allotted time slot, as we cannot extend bookings or wait beyond the scheduled session time. We recommend filming testimonials during the photoshoot to avoid time constraints. If necessary, testimonials can also be filmed in the changing room while we reset the studio for the next client.

5. Outfits

Female clients typically bring between 2-5 outfits, while male clients usually have fewer changes. While there is no limit on how many outfits can be brought, please note that changing room space is shared. We recommend avoiding bright, luminous colours as they tend to get washed out by studio lighting.

6. Make-Up & Tanning

We do not offer on-site makeup services. Make-up and hair should be done prior to arrival, as we cannot accommodate these services in the studio due to space limitations and time constraints.

  • Tanning: Achieving the right tan is crucial for fitness photoshoots, especially given the powerful studio lighting. Many first-time clients underestimate how much a good dark tan can enhance the appearance of muscle definition and physique. While skin tones vary, it is essential to have a deep, even tone to prevent your definition from being washed out by the lighting. We have seen many incredible physiques not get the justice they deserve due to poor tanning.

For tanning services, we recommend our trusted vendors who are familiar with the studio lighting and camera setup. Please ensure your tan has been showered off on the morning of the shoot to remove the topcoat, which helps avoid smudging and staining the equipment when oil is applied during the session.

7. Additional People / Guests

While we understand that first-time clients may feel more comfortable bringing a guest for support, we strongly advise against bringing additional people unless absolutely necessary. Space is limited during group shoots, and extra guests can disrupt the flow of the session and distract from the group dynamic. Our goal is to create a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere where clients can bond and engage with one another during the shoot. Please keep this in mind when considering bringing a guest.

8. Equipment Shots

Specific equipment and stations within the studio are available for use during group shoots. Please be aware that, unlike individual shoots, group shots are less personalised. If you have any requests for specific equipment shots, please communicate this to us in advance so we can plan accordingly. An average session will allow for about 8 stations.

Gym Equipment:

  • Lat Pulldown
  • Tricep Pushdown
  • Cable Fly
  • Crucifix Curl
  • Pull-Up
  • Leg Raise
  • Low Row (Cable)
  • Mirror Dumbbell / Free Pose
  • Dumbbell Row
  • Romanian Deadlift (RDL)
  • Deadlift
  • Squat
  • Military Press
  • Leg Extension
  • Power Squat
  • Tricep Dips
  • Battle Ropes

Backdrops:

  • Lockers
  • Boxing Bags
  • Neon Lighting
  • Studio (White Cove)

9. Waste & Cleaning

The studio is maintained to a high standard, and while we do not charge an upfront cleaning fee, we expect clients to leave the space as they found it. Large items such as clothing boxes, props, or packaging from cakes and other items must be taken away after the shoot, as we do not have commercial waste services.

The white cove studio area requires frequent repainting to keep it free from marks and footprints. As this is an ongoing task, we ask that clients stay off the white curve area until instructed to step on it. Before walking on the curve, clients will be asked to step on a sticky mat to remove any dust and reduce the amount of marks left on the floor.

If additional cleaning is required due to excessive waste or mess, cleaning fees will, on average, be between £30 and £100. However, this may vary depending on the extent of cleaning or any damage to the property.

10. Image Selection, Editing, & Delivery

Please note that editing of group shoot images will only begin once all members of the group have made their selections. As editing is done by the job, not by the individual, the entire group must agree on a deadline to avoid delays. This means that even if some group members make their selections early, the editing process cannot start until everyone has submitted their choices.

Once clients have finished making their selections, they must email us to confirm, as we will not be automatically notified through the website or gallery platform.

For those who need their images sooner, we do offer an express delivery service at an additional cost.

All final images will be delivered to the group as a whole.