Silks & Sandstone: An Aerialist's Guide for Arch Photoshoots

Let's get into it

It's been a pleasure to photograph aerialists suspended in front of this beautiful rock formation. I've written down a handful of things I've gathered over the years so you can get the most out of our time together. The height and slanted terrain prove to be difficult to utilize off camera flash, so hiring a photographer with a great understanding of available light is crucial as the appearance of the arch can change drastically by the hour. If you're reading this, you already found her. Hi! I'm Nat, owner of Red Fox Photo. Let's get you up and flying.

safety first

There is no photo worth risking your life for. Participating in aerial arts outdoors can be strenuous, so it's crucial to listen to your body.

While you may feel more at home in the air, please be cautious in your approach and exit from the silk. We're shooting on the West side of the arch which features a steep incline, so it is important that you have the energy and awareness to return after your time on the silk.

When performing in unfamiliar circumstances, many aerialists tend to over grip. This leads to becoming tired more quickly than they would be compared to training inside a studio. Keep more energy in your reserve than you think you need.

height conscious

Positioning your self too low or even too high can make for less than optimal framing in the arch. I make it a point not to push an aerialist to climb higher than what they are comfortable going. However, if you're feeling good and not sure if you're in the sweet spot, don't hesitate to ask!

respect

We're in a public space. That means it is also a shared space; we are not entitled to it no matter how early we set up. Be kind and courteous to any hikers or gathering spectators. We live in a time where any individual who might come into frame can be removed through a little photoshop magic. Also, be prepared to pack out anything you bring in. We want to do our best to leave this place better than we found it.

Movement

WHIP THAT SILK! Silk movement can easily take a good photo to being a phenomenal one (see the photo above for an example). The majority of my compositions focus on the overall scene, so you may appear smaller in frame than in a typical portrait. Lively silks fill the frame and create lovely leading lines right to you. Spread 'em, toss 'em, spin 'em.

what to wear

If there is one thing I hope you take away from this section it is that you test run your costume in an open gym. I've seen far more of my aerialist friends than I've ever wanted to over the years due to outfits not being "upside down proof". If I can't post it on Instagram, I won't be photographing it. If you'd like further clarification on what I mean by that feel free to reach out before the shoot.

I also highly recommend bringing a backup outfit. Let's face it, aerial arts are rough on articles of clothing. If something rips or tears the day of, you'll be happy to have another option packed.

I'm not one to police what colors you wear but if you are looking for suggestions, here are a few swatches that will complement the green silk and red rocks. These are simply suggestions; if you find the color of your favorite piece falls under the "not recommended" category that doesn't mean you can't rock it.

skills

Skills, moves, tricks, poses, whatever you call them, they're not all made equal when it comes to still photography. Here are a few questions to ask yourself concerning your move set.

• Can I hold this skill for 10 seconds or longer?
• Is this a familiar skill I've executed well numerous times?
• Have I recorded myself in this skill and find it flattering on me when I play it back and pause?
• Will this skill work with and flatter the costume I'm wearing? (*cough* going upside down in skirts *cough*)
• Am I demonstrating clean lines in this skill?
• Is this skill at least one level below my current training level?
• Is this pose time efficient to get in and out of?
• Is my face relaxed in this skill (no popping forehead vein)? Is the fear behind my eyes concealed?

If your answer to any of these was "no", consider scrapping it. I see it over and over again: an aerialist spends so much of their shoot time attempting to execute a new or complex skill. They get their proofs back and end up wishing they invested more time into simple wraps where they could have rested and demonstrated clean lines. Additionally, drops and spins are typically better suited for video.

Even the most experienced aerialists can forget a skill they prepared once they get in the air. This is why I highly recommend making a physical list of your favorite moves for a friend to read off if needed. Literally write them down; nothing is worse than losing your endurance in the air while yelling your iPhone password to whoever is on the ground.

what to bring

Must Haves

• Water
• Quick access footwear (sandals for example)

Recommended

• Yoga mat (For your warmup, stretching, or to sit on.)
• Wet wipes - we're outdoors but the less dirty feet appear the better
• Spare costume

Optional

• Snacks
• Electrolyte drink
• Grip Aid
• Entertainment, book or games
• Lawn chair or other device to sit on
• Jacket, blanket, sweats, or coat (Utah weather can change in an instant, doesn’t hurt to have something warm even if it just stays in your car. Be prepared for high winds.)
• Touch up cosmetics and hair maintenance tools (For those with long hair if you intend to wear your hair down, have a backup plan for quickly styling it into an updo if the weather turns excessively windy.)
• Portable Charging Block (All the cool behind the scene videos you’ll take can drain that phone battery pretty quick.)
• Change of clothes (Maybe your costume isn’t the most comfortable to drive in or to get dinner in after the shoot.)
• Sunscreen
• Phone tripod