NPC Bikini competitor and experienced model, Melanie Tillbrook is back with a helpful tip regarding water and how she prepares for a big photo shoot.
Melanie’s Tip:
The week before a big shoot, I drink a lot of water. You should always be drinking water but it’s extra important before a photo shoot. Typically, I’m having 4-5 liters of water a day and this helps flush out the toxins in my skin and keeps me fully hydrated. The last couple days before a shoot I taper off the water. The day before a shoot I will typically drink 1 liter and not much the morning of a shoot. After the shoot is over, I’m back to drinking water as usual. Staying hydrated helps to avoid wrinkles, clogged skin and overeating.
HARDBODY Insight: Melanie’s tip is helpful for models wanting to look their best. One thing as a photographer I will note, please do NOT deplete yourself to the point of looking unhealthy. I’ve had models show up on shoots looking like they are getting ready for a bodybuilding contest and are so dehydrated they cramp up and can’t move. This is NOT a good look and one that isn’t healthy. You have nothing to gain by taking diuretics or going to the extremes. Follow Melanie’s tip and remember to stay hydrated!
Melanie will be competing in a couple of weeks at the NPC USA contest in Las Vegas. Follow her on twitter @msmelaniet as she looks to earn her IFBB pro card in the NPC bikini division. She’s also been doing a number of runway projects. See what it’s like to be a model on the runway!
