As mentioned in the Round 1 post, a wee while ago we had the pleasure of joining local up-and-coming boxer Tom Heads during a training session as he prepared for his first Pro fight.
What an eye opening experience!
Quite often when people see us on a photoshoot for the first time, or when we get to talking about our work, they often comment how amazed they are at what exactly goes into a shoot and how much goes into creating our images. There are many people that believe photography consists of turning up with a camera and clicking the button – job done. When you discuss what ‘taking a photo’ involves they are often taken aback. When people see our images they don’t tend to see the years of learning, practice, time, energy and money that has gone into getting to the point where we can create that particular image.
I felt the same way about boxing while watching Tom training. Not realising what goes into something isn’t unique to photographers. When watching a boxing match you might think ‘oh this guy is good’ or ‘he’s doing pretty well’. If you’re particularly thoughtful you might even consider that he must have trained pretty hard to get ready for the fight. But it wasn’t until I saw the intensity of the training that I could appreciate what “training” involves and how grueling it is.
Even in the short time we spent with Tom it was very obvious that a lot of time and energy has gone into his technique and into becoming the best boxer he can possibly be as he embarks on the next phase of his career. It was quite exhilarating and inspiring watching the concentration and determination as he was put through his paces.
Although it was quite a serious session there was plenty of time for laughs. It truely was a magical morning.
We also had the chance to meet Tui Maree. I can’t find the words to describe Tui. Not only did she let us borrow her gym (Tui’s Boxing Gym) for the morning, but she also agreed to run Tom through a training routine despite recently suffering a shoulder injury. She was so easy-going, welcoming and friendly. Yet when it came down to it, was also a hard task-master and pushed Tom until he looked ready to drop. We were also incredibly impressed with her work at the gym. Getting kids off the street and coaching them – all for the love of it.
We left the session on such a high and have been so keen to share these photos. So here’s round 2 – Tom’s training shots. Keep an eye out for Round 3 in the next few days.
Thanks for stopping by to check out our images.
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