When you photograph Powerlifting, generally a large number of images are taken, just trying to capture that split second, that moment. The action can be slow or even super fast, sometimes with tough lightning conditions that you have very little control over. Objects, gym equipment and people can get in the way, making that angle of the photograph not exactly the best one but you have no choice but to hit the shutter button.
On the odd occasion you have complete control over the surroundings and you capture an image that whenever you show anyone, they comment, ‘wow’. Not just from the incredible form of the athlete but just from the simplicity of the image.
The image below is that image. It shows Naomi Sheppard hanging from a squat rack and was taken in October 2022 during a photoshoot with her for her first training plan she was marketing for female strength athletes. It was taken right at the end of the photoshoot and the theme had been pink and red for women but I decided to quickly change the cameras setting to mono and grabbed the photo.
I have taken many images of Naomi over the years but this image captures her in that moment and shows the work and dedication she has given to her lifting. The monochrome image works well with the harsh lighting of the gym and has created some fantastic tones of monotone across her back muscles. The image has had no work or retouching, it is just the image shot from the camara.
A personal favourite.
Mark Sims
27th March 2025
How was it taken?
Date : 21st October 2022
Photographer : Mark Sims
Location : Leamington Spa, UK
Camera : Canon 1DX mkii
Lens : Canon EF 24-105mm f.4 IS USM
Shutter speed : 1/250 second
Aperture : f6.3
ISO : 12800
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