Issuu

Letter from

The Publisher It’s issue five, and I am so excited to feature some of the most recognizable “fit moms in fitness!” Personally, I am not a “mom”. Not to human children anyways. In my 40+ years on this planet, I’ve been exposed lots of clients that have had children, or are even grandmothers, like one woman featured in this issue! These ladies have proven that there ARE NO EXCUSES. They’ve had children, raised their children and families, and still MAKE the time to dedicate to themselves in the gym or a workout routine on a regular basis.

Publisher: SARAH LYONS

Editor-in-Chief: MIKE LYONS

As we expand the reach of BodyScape Magazine, you will begin to see influence from new writers and advertisers. There are so many amazing brands out there that we are more than happy to join forces with. Kudos to you small business owners expanding your reach and making it happen! One of the purposes of this magazine is to showcase not only my work, but what my clients have worked so hard for. This is the issue that showcases these fit moms that have become an inspiration and an influence in social media and the fitness industry. Here are some of the articles we have to look forward to in this issue: ~Cover Model, Rebecca Lee speaks about her career highs and lows and what it’s taken for her to finally be her own Boss lady and CEO of RaLee Fit. ~Fitness Olympia Champion Monica Brant gives valuable advice on prepping for a photo shoot. It’s not as easy as you think! As much work as the photographer puts in, the models should also be putting in to ensure that the shoot will be a success. ~Contributing writer Susan Hoff talks about getting in to healthy habits. It’s not a plan or a short term thing. It’s a lifestyle. Make appointments with yourself to avoid getting sidetracked. We would love your input on future article ideas and suggestions. We are currently booking photo shoots for future issues of BodyScape Magazine. We have location shoots planned with Sarah Lyons of PictureGroove Photography scheduled for features in upcoming issues. For further info, please email info@bodyscapemag.com

Art director & Creative Solutions: Rajpoot Talib

Associate Editor: Anil Madhwani

Contributing writers Issue 4:

Susan Hoff

Monica Brant

@BodyScapeMagazine /BodyScapeMagazine www.BodyScapeMag.com

Letter from

The Editor

Hi. My name is Mike Lyons and my claim to fame is that I’m Sarah’s Dad. She has me listed as editor in chief, although I wish she’d drop the “in chief” part. Too pretentious, If you ask me. Besides with the editor in chief part, that puts more pressure on me to be chief. Too much to live up to. Anyway, I was in the newspaper business for 35 years and taught journalism at East Tennessee State University. I managed to pick up a couple of national awards during that time. One was for feature writing and the other was for photography. It always helps if you are in the right place at the right time. The photo just takes care of itself. Just point and shoot and hope the tech in the photo lab can save it. I’m dating myself by placing what I’ve done in the dark ages before Digital Photography and Photoshop. Sarah does a great job with those, don’t you think? I spent most of my time on the News Desks at The San Francisco Examiner and The Seattle Times. I also was the managing editor of a daily paper in Tennessee. My main responsibility, though, was editing what we wanted to get in the paper. I’m pretty sensitive to reporters’ massive egos. I was one and felt like starting World War III with the editor if anything was changed. Heaven forbid if I changed one little, teeny comma. You’d think hell would freeze over and that by changing that comma, I’d completely butchered the story. My main role at BodyScape Magazine is to prepare stories that you submit to Sarah for publication. There’s nothing personal if I edit a story. I’m only trying to make the writer look good and more often than not save them the embarrassment of a major mistake. So, if you do pitch a story to Sarah, just know that it will be treated with the TLC it deserves. Send us an email to mike.c.lyons@hotmail.com

@BodyScapeMagazine

/BodyScapeMagazine

www.BodyScapeMag.com

Table of Contents Page 10: Creating healthy habits Confused on how to develop a routine that you can actually stick to? Contributing writer Susan Hoff makes it easy! Page 12: Fit Moms in Fitness! These fit moms share their individual stories, and how excuses are not a part of fitness success! Models: Noemi Olah Melissa Lynne lancaster Esmeralda Lopez Saxenian cover model Rebecca Lee Page 60: Photo shoot prep like a pro! Some key tips from IFBB Fitness olympia Champion and contributing writer Monica Brant, on how you can come in to your photo shoot MORE than prepared! Page 66: Epic Malibu On the heels of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, PictureGroove relocates at the last minute to stunning El Matador beach in Malibu, California to shoot Epic Malibu, and it was indeed, EPIC. Models: Ashlee Champagne Amanda Freick Jennifer England Kelley Anne Regina Bailey Susan Hoff

@fantescagirl & @susanhoffwbffpro hoffsusan

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

Creating Healthy Habits WRITTEN BY: SUSAN HOFF

It’s the challenge that thrills me. It’s what keeps me working into the wee hours of the night and up again before the crack of dawn. It’s being the chief communications officer in a male dominant Fortune 100 industry and earning my MBA in France while teaming up with my husband to start a successful winery in Napa Valley. It’s never settling for anything and knowing you can do better, because you can. That climb to doing better begins with a simple step: the decision to start a healthy habit. Two years before celebrating my 50th birthday, I earned my certification as a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and two years later claimed my Fitness Pro Card at the WBFF’s World’s Competition in 2015. While I could have been spending my mornings in the gym, afternoons reading new novels, and evenings sipping wine in the vineyards of Napa Valley, I found my motivation in helping others achieve a healthy habit. And these are the steps to get started.

Schedule Your Daily Goals You wouldn’t make dinner without first having all the ingredients and a plan. The same can be said for starting a healthy habit. First, you need to commit to yourself what you want to achieve, then you need to draw out the steps it takes to get there—that requires having a daily plan. No matter how busy my life gets, I never miss my scheduled workout. I have made an oath to myself that getting in my daily workout is top priority because it will help me succeed in every aspect of life. I put my workout on my calendar as a meeting with

myself and it requires me to stay accountable. Having integrity and accomplishing the goals you set for yourself each day, even if they are small ones, helps you have confidence in yourself, and you’re not only exercising your body, but you are exercising your willpower.

Plan Your Meals Planning dinner shouldn’t be your only scheduled meal. Rather, planning breakfast, lunch and dinner keeps you in line and significantly reduces the chance you’ll cave for an unhealthy doublecheese burger, fries and soda combo at the nearest burger joint down the road from work. You should eat to thrive, not to just eat. Planning your meals and cooking at home is both a healthy and financially responsible option. As an added bonus, using the MyMacros+ app on your phone to track your protein, carb and fat intake provides an added perspective for the nutritional value of your meals.

Find the Program That Works for You The reason why there are so many fitness guides, books, and programs is that there is no one perfect way to accomplish your fitness goals. We’re all structured differently in the way we work, relax, eat and sleep. To get you started on your fitness journey, I encourage you to write down exactly why you want to make a change. Whether it’s for your career, significant other or that recreational softball league, when you start with why you want make a change, the will to make it happen comes naturally.

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

FEATURE

Fit Moms In Fitness

It’s Issue five and we are excited to showcase some of the most beautiful MOMS in the fitness world. Personal trainers, fitness personalities, or just gym-goers, these fit moms are showing us that there are NO excuses and that you can achieve the physique you’ve always wanted, even after having babies. Some inspiring interviews lie ahead…

@noemiolah

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

FEATURE

NOEMI OLAH

“Infuse your life with action. Don’t wait for it to happen.” City you live in and where you’re originally from I’m originally from Hungary but I currently live in Tampa, Florida! Complete Bio: I was born in Hungary and I moved to the US (Florida) in 2012. I‘m a former Miss Hungary! I started my career in the fitness industry in 2005. I have competed in many shows and finally in 2010 I won the Arnold Classic Amateur Bikini Show and received my Pro card. I competed in fitness shows all around the world and I always placed in the top five. I qualified for the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. Ms. Olympia. I worked with QNT Supplement Company in Europe for 3 years, then I worked with Allmax for many years after. Now I have a really great working relationship with a wonderful nutrition supplement company called AMPD.

Tell us about your daughter! My baby girl was born on June 5th. She turned 5 months on June 5th. Lillian is turning into such a little ham, with a personality waaaaay bigger than she is! We are loving seeing her little spunk, and she is constantly making us laugh. I can only imagine what these next few months will be like – pure joy! She’s also been discovering the world around her, grabbing and reaching for things she wants, following people around the room with her eyes, touching Truckee when she walks by, and smiling at anyone who will smile back at her (most days). Her mega-smiles are enough to power a city for days, and I hope she always smiles as big as she does right now. Her giggles are absolutely hilarious. Her thighs are getting bigger by the minute, and every time I stand her up or lay her down, I can’t help but pinch those squishy rolls, kiss her all over, and inhale her sweet baby smell! It’s full on baby madness over here, and I wouldn’t it any other way! Special skills: I have a beautician diploma and I practiced it for few years as well. I received my National Recreation Degree at Semmelweis University of Sports in 2007. I have a personal trainer degree but currently I’m a full time mommy.

How do you feel about being featured in BodyScape Magazine? Omg, I feel like a million bucks. Thanks Sarah for the wonderful opportunity! You connected with Sarah Lyons of PictureGroove for some shoots prior, and leading up to this one. How did that come about? A great friend of mine Janine - who is The Body by Brazil owner - introduced me with Sarah. I was very happy because I heard so many good things about PictureGroove Photography. What was the highlight of your shoot? I was especially inspired by Sarah during my shoot. I love her attitude. I love the style of her photos. Name a few things people would not know about you I have a mixology certificate but I’ve never worked in the bar-tending industry lol If you could change anything in your life, what would it be? Would you change anything at all? I don’t think I would change anything. Life is an adventure and if you didn’t have low things then you wouldn’t feel the good things. I don’t have regrets because everything good and bad just adds to the rich tapestry of life, gives me stories to tell and most of all helped shape me.

Favorite things to do in your free time Honestly, as a new mom, I’m happy if I get a few hours of sleep! But I love reading, making healthy cookies and cakes, and I love to spend time with my loved ones. What advice would you give to anyone contemplating doing a photo shoot? Respect your photographer and they’ll look after you. If you both work together you can make the shoot a huge success and fun too. It may be cold or hot outside, or maybe the shoot will take a while, but keep smiling and stay professional! Nobody wants a moaning model or drama queen. Reputations spread quickly these days. Favorite Quote Infuse your life with action. Don’t wait for it to happen. Make it happen. Make your own future. Make your own hope. Make your own love. And whatever your beliefs, honor your creator, not by passively waiting for grace to come down from upon high, but by doing what you can to make grace happen... yourself, right now, right down here on Earth. @noemiolah

www.BodyscapeMag.com BodyScape Magazine is for everyone who is in to a “health conscious lifestyle.” Founded by Sarah Lyons of PictureGroove Photography, the magazine showcases her work, and her extremely flexible style of shooting. In each issue we feature everything from how to monetize your brand in the fitness and other industries, to beauty tips from the pros. Our issues are geared towards everyone who wants to better themselves and live their best life, showcasing it all through Sarah’s lens.

Ordering copies - If you would like to order either a high end print copy, or a digital downloadable version of BodyScape Magazine, you may do so at www.BodyScapeMag.com Being published in BodyScape Magazine - Sarah is currently building her shoot schedule for 2019 for BodyScape Magazine. Please email info@BodyScapeMag.com if you are interested in setting up a shoot, and possibly being featured in BodyScape Magazine. Editorial Features - If you are a business owner and wish to promote something, we would love to feature it in an article or advertisement in BodyScape Magazine. Please email us at info@BodyScapeMag. com on how to get started. FaceBook and Instagram Ads - We will promote your business online at our BodyScape Magazine FaceBook and Instagram pages to all of our fans. Splash pages - A full size ad on BodyScapeMag.com to advertise your business. Email blasts - Send your ads out to our readers with a growing list of subscribers

@melfit_wbffpro

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

FEATURE

MELISSA LYNNE LANCASTER

“If you don’t sacrifice for what you want, what you want becomes the sacrifice”

City you live in and where you’re originally from? I was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and lived in Catoosa Oklahoma almost my entire life until I went to college and lived in Stillwater and I now live in Jenks, Oklahoma. Complete Bio: I am born and raised an Oklahoma girl. I am a proud graduate of Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting…Go Pokes! I worked in the banking industry for 10 years and switched over into the non-profit arena for a few years. I currently freelance for a few different companies as this allows me the freedom to be a Mom to my two beautiful girls who are my number one priority! I grew up as a very competitive soccer athlete. Soccer was my passion for years and still is. As an athlete, I never really thought about fitness as a priority, it just came naturally with my love of sports. It all changes with the pregnancy and motherhood. Suddenly, I saw

myself differently. I found it harder to drop the baby weight and harder to find time for myself. I joined a local gym and signed up with a group class lead by a trainer who ended up changing my entire life’s path! The women in this group became more than people at the gym, we became family. I was suddenly thrust into this world of fitness from an entirely different perspective. I lost 60 pounds and the physical transformation was phenomenal, but it was the inner transformation that really changed my future. I had been hiding from myself in an unhealthy relationship with my own choices. Underneath those pounds was a woman waiting to be revealed to the world and revealed to myself in the mirror. It is that woman who had been neglected and forgotten by myself for far too long. The transformation led me to a path of competing. The confidence propelled me to chase dreams I never even knew I had. I stepped on the WBFF stage and placed 2nd in my first ever competition! That only fueled my desire for more

knowledge of the industry of health and fitness. I set a goal to achieve my Pro-Card and I was relentless in that pursuit. If I have learned anything in this process, it is to be relentless and never set limits on yourself. I continued to chase my dream until it was realized with Pro-Status. That accomplishment was beyond humbling and so rewarding. To come from overweight and unhealthy to fitness competitor has been a journey so worth every step. I also decided to get my personal training certification and I am now working to guide others towards their very best versions of themselves. Through all of this, I wanted to be an example to my daughters of what a woman can achieve and what it means to love yourself in a healthy way. I always want them to know their worth and never bury it under food or rely on other peopleâ€™s approval to be accepted. I want to inspire them and others to choose themselves. It truly is a lifestyle and I am more than a hashtag on IG. To be a #fitmom takes more than going to the gym. It takes perseverance, patience, flexibility, dedication and courage. Only the courageous will step into an arena and fight fiercely for those they love. However, to fight for yourself daily is what sets you apart. That is what fuels me nowâ€Ś showing others and my girls what is possible if you keep going. Tell us about your kids! I have two beautiful daughters. My oldest is sixteen, she has the most beautiful red hair and blue eyes with the kindest heart. She will be a junior in high school, so hard to believe! Her career goal is to go into social work and help with children. Currently her past times are working, studying, shopping, and long boarding. My youngest daughter just turned eight years old. She is my mini me 100 percent. She wants to play every

sport offered, and loves to be outside. Her hobbies currently are soccer and gymnastics. This little girls perseverance is so strong, she taught herself how to ride a bike. Both girls are very creative and strong willed. I expect both of them to be bosses some day. Special skills: I have played soccer for 35 years and I currently still play. I have the ability to teach myself almost anything. I am pretty crafty, I once turned a plain old bra and some bikini bottoms into theme wear for one of my WBFF competitions! How do you feel about being featured in Bodyscape Magazine? When I started this journey I found a woman within myself that I never knew existed and so to be able to be published on the pages of BodyScape Magazine is an honor that is truly a dream come true! Having the results of my fitness efforts captured through the lens of Sarah Lyons, (one of the top photographers in the fitness industry) and featured is a very humbling experience. In a world that is dominated by digital marketing and digital magazines, to have an actual printed version of those images gives a high level of professionalism that places BodyScape at the top of the game in Fitness and I am so grateful to have been selected. You connected with Sarah Lyons of PictureGroove for some shoots prior and leading up to this one. How did that come about? I met Sarah through a mutual friend (another model) who was featured in the first edition of BodyScape. However, I had heard of Sarah before because she is

very sought after in the world of fitness and has worked with so many top models for years. She creates images of women that leave an impression because the beauty of each individual model radiates through her work. Her creativity is unsurpassed and she has a way with her direction and ability to see where each shot is going even before she clicks her camera. She makes you feel comfortable, beautiful and does it effortlessly. What was the highlight of your shoot? The main highlight was just getting to shoot with her period! Sarah is such a talent and you can be assured that your images will reflect exactly who you are and what your story is. I also loved her creativity with styling me. I came prepared with many outfits and looks but her eye with what works and doesn’t really showed through in the finished product. Her talent with balancing the look with the lighting and the setting all while trying to convey the message of the shot is incredible. I also loved the way she makes you feel empowered to be YOU! That is what PictureGroove is all about, empowering images of art through the human body and you feel that exact energy the whole time…there is nothing like it. Name a few things people would not know about you I did not start competing in fitness competitions until the age 36. My goal right after college was to be a special agent in the FBI. I was chosen to go and sit for the exam, but my life took a different turn and I was unable to follow through. Growing up I had a pot belly pig as a pet. Once I turned twelve, we didn’t have a girls soccer team so I played on the boys team until I was 16. I have a serious addiction to pizza and can not turn down a slice.

If you could change anything in your life, what would it be? Would you change anything at all? The only thing I would even think about changing in my life would maybe start my fitness journey earlier. I wasted a lot of years treating my body not so well. I truly love my life and I am very blessed. My past has helped shape me into the strong, independent, woman I am today. Favorite things to do in your free time/hobbies? My favorite thing to do in my free time is to attend concerts, I absolutely love them! I get lost in the music with the atmosphere and I am able to just get out of my head for a few hours. I also love to long board with my daughters and husband. I also love to read books. What advice would you give to anyone contemplating doing a photo shoot? Go for it!! If you are contemplating it, then just bite the bullet and go for it! It is such a wonderful, empowering experience. Photo shoots are something I never even thought about doing before, then one day I did it and now here I am three years later, a lot of shoots later, getting published in an actual magazine!!! Favorite quotes “If you don’t sacrifice for what you want, what you want becomes the sacrifice” “Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief she is beautiful” -Sophia Loren @melfit_wbffpro

@lalysaxenian

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

FEATURE

ESMERALDA LOPEZ SAXENIAN “Consistency is key”

City you live in and where you’re originally from: Houston, Texas Complete Bio: I competed in figure and achieved my pro card, I also was a personal trainer and posing coach for future athletes which included diet, training and posing. I also had the opportunity to become a judge for these shows which was nice to also see the sport from the other side, but my best achievement is having a wonderful supportive husband and beautiful daughter who’s now 18! Exercise is something that has always helped me with my life in general. My goal is to stay in shape, stay healthy, and enjoy my life! Tell us about your kids! My daughter is 18 years old, she’s into working out and art. She was recently accepted to the college of her choice and will be a busy bee! Special skills: When I set my mind to accomplish a goal , I always fulfill it. I can focus and give it my 100%. As a parent, I’m also a nurse, teacher, life coach, organizer, and a true friend. Im also very creative in writing and fashion. I’ve learned so much from life, I wish I had more time for sewing! I used to make my daughter dresses and outfits when she was little. When she was a teen I put out my own line of dance wear! How do you feel about being featured in BodyScape Magazine? I’m proud to be featured. Now I can say “I did that!”

You connected with PictureGroove for some shoots. How did that come about? Well, I started to be a fan of Sarah’s work about 7 years ago! I always said one of these days Im gong to work with her, and in 2015, 2016 and so forth we’ve made magic happen! I honestly had so much fun with her during our shoot I just had to do more! What was the highlight of your shoot? I love feeling gorgeous, sexy and beautiful and that’s how Sarah’s photography makes me feel! She makes me feel so comfortable and she also has so many ideasI’m always impressed! She also has beautiful jewelry and wardrobe options for her shoots so there are always lots of options. I’m very happy to have met her! Name a few things people would not know about you I’ve overcome many hardships, I’m really hard on myself, and I love to travel If you could change anything in your life, what would it be? Would you change anything at all? Not really , I truly believe my life has been about learning so many lessons and I’ve learned to be happy, grateful and humble. Favorite things to do in your free time? I love spending time with my mom and family, spin class, and yoga is also growing on me! Spending time with my dogs and cats, and I also love to travel!

What advice would you give to anyone contemplating doing a photo shoot? DO IT!!!!!! you won’t regret it, Sarah is such a wonderful person and you will not only feel hot, beautiful and confident but you will make a life long friend, at least that was the case for me! Favorite Quotes? “Consitency is key” Where can the readers find you on social media? @lalysaxenian

@RabeccaLee

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

If you are going through hell, keep goingâ€? - Winston Churchill

Where are you originally from, and where are you living now? I am originally from Chatsworth, Georgia and currently reside in Acworth, Georgia Complete bio- tell us about your life! My life started out like “little house on the prarie” I was raised on a small farm, spent most my time playing in the dirt, and looked forward to the sound of the Icy Truck every afternoon. To say I was raised poor would be an understatement, but to also say I as raised with a wealth of love would also be an understatement. I am a humble person from humble beginnings. I have used my upbringing to fuel my fire in life. I want to be more, have more and achieve more. I want to be as hard working as my grandparents, mother, and uncles were. After graduating Murray County High School in 1994, I went on to attend Dalton State College, where I

obtained my degree in Information Technology. In 1999 my first son was born, and my second in 2001. When my oldest was 3 years I had my first TIA, (often called a mini-stroke) then another one 5 years later! In 2011 I had heart surgery to correct an arrhythmia. After that surgery I was good to go. I started competing, and I won my WBFF Pro card! Then in 2017 standing in my neighbors kitchen I thought I had the worst heartburn of my life. After hours of vomiting and excruciating pain one day later I finally went to the ER. I had experienced a minor heart attack. I didn’t let this set me back. I continued to train and take care of my body, and four months later I went on to compete with the PROs and place 5th at my 2nd ever WBFF PRO show.

I can honestly say I have had some crazy health happenings in my life. After my heart ablation in 2011 I went in for a basic back surgery and was left partially paralyzed. I couldn’t use my left leg! Talk about scary, this was a day I never wanted to experience. I was sent home with a walker and told I “could eventually” regain use of my leg. It took me two years to be able to lift my own leg’s bodyweight up but I never stopped trying, and the day I did 30lb on leg extension, I cried like a baby in happiness! I’ve worked with you several times over the years Rabecca, and know a bit about your work history. Just a few years ago, you were working 16+ hours a day at a corporate America job, with no free time to yourself. How did you decide to take the leap of faith and start RaLeeFit.com? Yes, my good ol corporate America job. The job that almost killed me. In 2015-2017, I was working 16+ hours a day, traveling a lot and stressed beyond words. The company I was working for filed bankruptcy, and in the blink of an eye my 6 figure life was taken away from me. Three months later I took a job in a town nearby. I only thought I knew misery from before. NOPE, not until this job. One day I was sitting in my office and was crying at 8:30am because I was dreading coming back in to work the next day. I was so depressed, and I didn’t care about much about anything. I told myself “this is not you, snap out of this”, so I did. If I didn’t believe in myself, then why should anyone else believe in me? I had to take the leap. I know if I jumped the Universe would catch me. I quit my job and started my own company. I started RALee Fit, LLC. My days of working 16+ hours are not over and maybe they never will be, but at least I love what I do. I wake up everyday happy and ready to help my clients!

Tell us about your kids! I have two sons, and I may be partial, but both my boys are super handsome. My youngest is 18, blonde, tall, and has the most beautiful blue eyes! He is crazy funny and super smart with a humble kind soul. My oldest son is 20. He is in the Army, attends MSU, works at the campus gym and is an ultra-runner. He is very determined and competitive. I wonder where he gets that from? Let’s just say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree! I am so proud to be the mom of these two amazing young men. We have faced our hard times in life, but it was all worth it. There is not a day I would not do over, or a mountain I wouldn’t climb for these two. They are truly my heart and being. What are your special skills? This may shock you, but I am a total geek! I can build a computer, setup your network, configure a firewall, etc. I can also start a kitchen fire with water. HAHA! Yes, I’m a horrible cook. You connected with PictureGroove for some shoots prior, how did that line up? For many years I followed Sarah’s work and I’ve been a big fan of her artistry. I really wanted to add her work to my portfolio. After all, I always tell people if you want to be seen at your best, work with the best, so that is exactly what I did. I was finally going to be in a location that she was shooting, so in 2013 I decided to take that leap of faith and booked my first shoot with Picturegroove. Man Oh MAN, I sure am glad I did. I have NEVER shot with Sarah and our work NOT be published. This is amazing and the only photographer I have worked with and had all shoots published.

What are some highlights from your shoots? Sarah and I connect on a very deep level when it comes to our work together. We can practically finish each otherâ€™s sentences and we are all about the fierce fit sexy look. The highlight of almost every shoot is US simply being US. We joke, we laugh, we roll with the punches, and we make the best out of any situation we are in. To sum it up, Sarahâ€™s loving yet professional and hyperfocused personality has to be the highlight of each shoot. How do you feel about landing the COVER of BodyScape Magazine? I am honored, shocked, & excited, I feel like I need to be pinched because I am dreaming. What are a few things people may not know about you? 1.) How I had to grow up 2.) I had my first birthday party at 43 3.) I hate onions. BARF! 4.)I do not speak Chinese. Just saying :)

What would you change in your life, if you could change anything at all? I can’t say I would change anything. I honestly feel like all the mountains I have climbed, all the heartbreak, all the bad decisions have made me who I am. I am a strong, determined woman. I finally know my self worth and love who I am. What do you love to do most in your spare time? I love going on mini-vacations with my sweetheart, spending time with my best friend, and hiking with my sons. What kind of advice would you offer to anyone contemplating doing a photo shoot? The best advice I can give to any novice model is this… shoot with great photographers and those who are willing to help teach you. Don’t waste your time or money doing trade shoots. You have to invest in yourself to get where you want to be and the best portfolio photos do not come for free. Favorite Quotes? If you are going through hell, keep going. Winston Churchill

@MonicaBrant

Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

Photo shoot prep like a pro! WRITTEN BY IFBB FITNESS OLYMPIA CHAMPION MONICA BRANT

It was 1984 when my Mom allowed me to sign up for a Modeling course in San Antonio, Texas. It was held in a small room near the hair stylist she saw regularly. I was a freshman in high school from a small country town, and did not know anything about modeling, I was an athlete and country girl! In some of the classes we were taught to walk and hold ourselves a certain way, and pose... and turn... and smile... and look fierce... or at least give it your best effort! We met once a week, and after the six-week course the class had a fashion show and our first photoshoot with makeup included! Honestly, I don’t recall all what I learned there but I do recall enjoying it and feeling pretty. This was my official start to modeling, and indeed, it served me well. I wish I had access to the beautiful lady who taught the class and so I could thank her for offering it to a small-town athlete who loved riding horses and running sprints more than anything else in the world! Fast-forward to 1991, I was signed to an agent who helped me book a very good photographer, Chris Borgman, to shoot some new images. I was now 20 years old and this photographer was way ahead of his time in talent. He showed up at my apartment prior to our shoot, rummaged through my closet with me to help pick out my clothes for the shoot, and he actually did my hair and makeup! We had a great little café set up for our shoot, and the experience was amazing. Since those young years, I’ve had the privilege to book over 200 photo shoots! Every National fitness magazine and many International publications, to clothing ads starting back when Hot Skins was the hottest fitness-wear worldwide, to the annual Flex Magazine Swimsuit issues for 10 years straight! I’m blessed to say that in my career, I have landed well over 100 covers! Other than my personal modeling jobs, I hosted a fun women’s

fitness event for 12 years called F.E.M. Camp. For the camp, I hired expert, professional photographers (such as the lovely and talented, Sarah Lyons for one camp!) to shoot each attendee complete with a professional makeup artist and some with hair stylists too. During the shoot I would coach the ‘model’ and help the photographer find the best angles during the shoot, while helping the model feel at peace in those moments, and most importantly, beautiful! F.E.M. Camp was a very fun event for me to coach. I loved that I could help other ladies experience a real, professional photoshoot complete with makeup and hair, lights, a loving and supportive environment, and end up with amazing images. Truly a joy!

I’ve discovered a few necessary things to consider while preparing to shoot. 1: Choosing YOUR photographer: In today’s world it is imperative that you book either from highly recommended, trusted sources, or you have researched the photographer of your choosing carefully. Sadly, I recall a beautiful young model that I worked with back in 1997 on a clothing brand shoot who went to the dessert to shoot supposedly for a car commercial, and ended up being killed because the “photographer” was a crazed fan not a real photographer! It was a brutal and very sad tragedy that was all over the news in LA at the time it happened. It could have been stopped had the model screened them correctly and taken some simple precautions beforehand. The photographers that you are looking to work with should have images for you to review on a website and social media that showcases their work.

Also, watch for HOW the photographer posts images. Are their posts professional, or in some cases, are they tacky? Always listen to “the language” in the photographer’s posts that you are seeking. Recently, I met with a photographer that shoots very sexy boudoirstyle images and is very talented at this kind of photography. As I contemplated doing a shoot with him I decided that shooting boudoirstyle images would not help my business/brand grow. We met at a local coffee shop to discuss a possible shoot, and I got the feeling he would not shoot me any other way, even though I saw some of his lifestyle work that was lovely and I shared that I was more interested in that style of his work. As we talked more, I realized he was only interested in shooting me in the very sexy boudoir-style, and I decided I needed to turn down the shoot opportunity. I worked with photographers long ago that continue to try and get models to compromise their poses as they get ‘warmed up’ shooting. I decided it wasn’t worth my headache while shooting to try and keep the shoot cleaner and more appropriate for my brand. Always be conscious and aware of what YOU are willing to do! Don’t ever let a photographer dictate to you, HOW the shoot is going to go. This is YOUR time, YOUR energy, and YOUR investment. These are important things to consider since the images will be with you (and the photographer) forever. Within the digital world almost anything goes and you, as a model, need to always protect your image, reputation and brand.

2) Timing to shoot: If you are a competitor or plan to be on stage, capturing your ‘contest physique’ is very important! In fact, you would be crazy not to document the hard work and awesome physique you invested over 12+ weeks to create! However, this is NOT the only body you want to capture images of, because this body is typically not realistic to hold year-round. If you are looking to book any type of modeling jobs, you must have “normal physique” images taken, and those are the ones you will want to shop for work. Companies or agencies will book from the images they see. If they are booking a super lean body based on that photo that was captured 4 months prior, and that model is hired for the gig and shows up in their “normal” skin, chances are the company will be very disappointed and most likely will cancel the job for the model. I’ve seen this happen in the fitness industry before. Competitors will look a certain way for a show, and then round out in between shows. The magazines book them based on their “show look” and take their word that they look similar at the time of the shoot. If they show up any different, the magazines are quite disappointed. You will want to develop your looks based on your individual needs and creativeness. It’s fun to have a variety of images to showcase yourself, but just make sure you have planned far enough out to be ready for the day with the right look!

3) Preparing your Body, Face & Skin:

I’m not against sexy images, trust me- Sarah Lyons can bring that out in anyone, even if you aren’t trying! She also isn’t going to jeopardize your marriage or relationship and brand with poses that you aren’t comfortable with.

Depending on the type of shoot you are going for, whether it’s a swimsuit shoot, or snow ski clothing, you need to plan your prep accordingly. Eating plenty of light, healthy foods, drinking plenty of fresh, clean water and making sure to get enough quality sleep weeks in advance will be very effective in preparing your body, face and skin.

Choosing your photographer is a critical piece of the puzzle and with so many people claiming to do photography now, you really need to do your homework and choose wisely. A great photographer will provide you with lasting images that you can feel comfortable sharing and using for years to come f you are working in the industry or hoping to.

Avoid drinking alcohol at least a couple of weeks prior to your shoot to keep a fresh, bright complexion. Alcohol robs body of nutrients and dehydrates everything making for duller eyes and skin tones. Plus, the body cannot lose unwanted body fat while alcohol is in the system.

Also avoid sun burns that leave tan lines and hard looking skin! Test a tanning product at least one week in advance, whether it’s an airbrush tan or spray tan to make sure the color looks good on you and suits your needs, meaning not too dark, not too grey/ orange/ red...etc. I suggest starting wth one of the self- tanning moisturizers that gradually tans your skin, and also firms, and helps with cellulite-prone skin too, over time. If you are planning to shoot in a pool, you will need to make sure your tan is semipermanent and won’t run the day of the shoot. Some tans will stain your outfits as well, so be sure to test them prior, especially if you are wearing white! Tanning is VERY important, but so is the skin prep prior such as shaving, dermaplaning (those tiny peach fuzz hairs on the face are ALWAYS picked up on-camera, and very difficult to retouch, causing a muddy look on the face!) and waxing. Feel free to do them all, but not the day before! Too close to the shoot can cause your skin to look uneven and the tan to not go on as smooth/even. Plan ahead how you will remove the hairs on your body. Images always look better with smooth, hairless skin. Sometimes hairs cause the skin to appear dirty or muddy- not pretty for your pictures. If you are doing any botox, fillers or such, please make sure to do these minimum 10-14 days before. You should never trust that you won’t be bruised or swollen from injections -even if you may have been getting them and never bruised before. Feet and hands should be manicured nicely and it’s my opinion to have a neutral color on your nails. I’ve seen some pretty images ruined with gaudy, long distracting nails or brightly painted colors. Hands and feet should only be extensions of your arms and legs, not the primary thing noticed in the image. I went to a shoot once where I completely forgot about my toenail color! It was a bright blue and the photographer was slightly amused, and thankfully didn’t ream me out for it! We worked around it, but I will never do that again! These are just a few of the things to keep in mind while preparing for your shoot. Enjoy your shoot and I hope to see you in front of Sarah’s lens soon! Stay Fit, Love Life and live Radiantly, Monica Brant www.monicabrant.com

Model Name: Ashlee Champagne Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Swimwear By AmandaLouise Beach www.amandalouiseswimwear.com

Model Name: Jennifer England and Amanda Freick Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Swimwear By AmandaLouise Beach www.amandalouiseswimwear.com

Model Name: Amanda Freick Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Swimwear By AmandaLouise Beach www.amandalouiseswimwear.com

Model Name: Jennifer England Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Swimwear By AmandaLouise Beach www.amandalouiseswimwear.com

Model Name: Kelley Anne Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com

Model Name: Kelley Anne Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Wardrobe by Body by Brazil www.bodybybrazil.com

Model Name: Regina Bailey Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Swimwear By AmandaLouise Beach www.amandalouiseswimwear.com

Model Name: Regina Bailey Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Wardrobe by Body by Brazil www.bodybybrazil.com

Model Name: Susan Hoff Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Bikini by Body by Brazil www.bodybybrazil.com

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Model Name: Susan Hoff Photography by Sarah Lyons www.picturegroove.com Wardrobe by Body by Brazil www.bodybybrazil.com

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