In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft is joined by veteran photojournalist Jenni Girtman, who shares practical, low-tech strategies for taking better photos at gym events. If you're running a fitness business and working with clients over 50, you know how powerful visuals can be — but most gyms miss the mark.

Jenni breaks down how to prep for events, what to shoot, and how to edit photos so they tell a story and elevate your brand. Even if all you have is a smartphone, her tips can help you create compelling images that attract and retain more clients.

From creating a shot list to simple editing tricks, this conversation is packed with actionable tips anyone can use — whether you're shooting a gym anniversary party or a 5K event.

👤 Guest Name: Jenni Girtman

Bio:
Jenni Girtman is a professional photographer with decades of experience, including photojournalism at major newspapers and corporate event coverage. She runs two Atlanta-based photography businesses — Atlanta Event Photography and Life on Film Photography — specializing in everything from Fortune 500 events to bar and bat mitzvahs.

Links:

• Website: https://atlantaeventphotography.com
  
  
• Life on Film Photography: https://lifeonfilmphotography.com
  
  

🎯 Episode Outline

Planning Photos That Help Your Business

• Why visuals matter for fitness marketing
• Why most gyms fall short with event photography

Pre-Event Strategy: Assign, Plan, Scout

• Assigning a photographer
• Building a basic shot list
• Understanding your venue and light

How to Shoot Like a Pro (Without Being One)

• Three pillars: fill the frame, clean background, strong subject
• Beginning-middle-end storytelling
• Tips for better smartphone settings

Editing and Posting for Impact

• Simple edits you can do on your phone
• Cropping and filters to enhance usability
• Matching photo format to platform (IG, FB, website)

Bonus: Jenni's Live Photo Review

• Real-time examples of good and bad shots
• What to fix and how to fix it

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Why photos are crucial for gym marketing
 01:15 – Meet Jenni Girtman
 04:50 – Common photo fails at gym events
 06:45 – How to prep: assign, list, scout
 09:45 – Capturing beginning, middle, and end of events
 13:20 – 3 keys to better composition
 20:10 – Smartphone camera settings for quality
 28:00 – Easy editing tips for non-photographers
 30:00 – Live photo examples from Jenni’s work
 36:45 – Connect with Jenni online

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Helping fitness professionals grow with content that connects to the over-50 market.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com

📬 Calls to Action:

• 📘 Book a free strategy call: https://primefitcontent.com/contact
  
  
• 📱 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
  
  

💡 Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow fitness pro or tag us on socials using #OptimalAgingPodcast