A Vibrant Journey: Behind the Scenes of the "stern" Cover Shoot
As a photographer specializing in portrait, beauty, sport, health, and wellness photography, my work in Hamburg and worldwide is driven by the pursuit of capturing authentic moments. One of the most memorable projects of my career was producing the cover image for the renowned news magazine stern. This article takes you behind the scenes of that dynamic shoot, where creativity met positivity in every frame.
A Collaborative Vision in Hamburg
The energy on set was infectious, setting the stage for a creative and uplifting session. From the moment the team gathered at Studio One in Hamburg, it was clear that this project was more than just a photoshoot—it was a celebration of art, passion, and the transformative power of health and wellness.
The Concept:
The theme, "Die geheime Macht der Muskeln – Warum Krafttraining das Beste ist, was Sie für Ihre Gesundheit tun können", resonated deeply with our vision. It was designed to showcase not only physical strength but also the inner vitality that radiates from a balanced lifestyle. The cover had to be both striking and inspirational, capturing the essence of robust health and dynamic energy.
Presenting the Final Cover
stern Cover – The Secret Power of Muscles
The final cover photo highlights the theme of muscular strength and holistic well-being, featuring Sunny’s poised and confident stance. The vibrant colors and modern layout perfectly encapsulate the spirit of empowerment and health that defined the entire shoot.
The Creative Team Behind the Magic
Every member of our team played a crucial role in transforming our vision into reality:
Editor: Frank Dietz brought his expert editorial eye to the project, ensuring that the visual narrative aligned perfectly with the magazine’s standards and aesthetic.
Model: Sunny, represented by the reputable Hamburg agency Promod, exuded an effortless charisma that perfectly complemented the theme of vitality and strength.
Hair & Makeup: Chiho Schwarzer’s exceptional skills enhanced the natural beauty of the shoot, creating a flawless and contemporary look that stood out in every shot.
Styling: With the artistic touch of Rike Schlüter, the styling was both bold and refined, adding depth and personality to the imagery.
Assistance: Robert Lindemann provided indispensable support, ensuring every detail was managed smoothly and efficiently throughout the day.
Photography: I had the privilege of capturing these moments at Studio One in Hamburg, where the studio’s vibrant atmosphere helped elevate every aspect of the shoot.
The Positive Atmosphere That Fueled Creativity
What truly set this shoot apart was the palpable positive energy. Laughter, creative brainstorming, and mutual respect among team members created a collaborative environment where everyone felt inspired to push boundaries. This vibe not only translated into outstanding portraits but also reinforced my belief that a positive atmosphere is key to producing impactful art.
Working in such an energizing setting allowed us to explore innovative ideas, experiment with creative lighting, and capture spontaneous moments that epitomized both strength and beauty. The session was a reminder of why I love my craft—each project is an opportunity to tell a unique story, driven by passion and a commitment to excellence.
Global Reach from a Hamburg Base
Although my studio is based in Hamburg, my work spans the globe. This project for stern is a testament to how a local setting, when combined with international vision and collaboration, can create imagery that resonates worldwide. The universal language of strength, health, and beauty transcends borders, making our work accessible and inspiring to a diverse audience.
In Conclusion
The stern cover shoot was a milestone in my journey as a photographer. It was more than just a successful project—it was a creative celebration marked by innovation, collaboration, and a truly positive vibe. I am grateful to every team member who contributed to this remarkable experience and to stern for trusting us with their cover story.
For those passionate about portrait, beauty, sport, health, and wellness photography, this project embodies the spirit of creativity and the power of a collaborative vision. Stay inspired, and keep capturing the moments that make life extraordinary.
Credits & Links
Editor – Frank Dietz: @dietz_editorial
Model Representation – Promod Modelagency: promod.org
Hair & Makeup – Chiho Schwarzer: chihomakeup.com
Styling – Rike Schlüter: kultartists.com/artists/rike-schlueter/
Assistant – Robert Lindemann: robertlindemann.de
Studio – Studio One Hamburg: studio-one-hh.de