How to get media attention in sports
Media attention doesn’t come by itself — it’s the result of condition, hard work and visibility. If you have a physique that catches the eye, it makes sense to know how to use it in the press, too. Here are practical steps that will help you get into the media.
Why media attention doesn’t come by itself
Let’s be honest: bodybuilders are often attention junkies. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing — many of us came to the sport for exactly that reason. The desire to be noticed is a strong motivator. The real question is whether your look and your attitude are the kind that actually spark media interest.
It’s very hard to be objective about your own physique. Everyone’s mother has told them how good-looking they are — but the reality is that some people are more attractive and better trained than others. If you’re strong in both, the media may find you. If not, it may be more useful to work on it deliberately.
Basic rules for winning media attention
The tips below aren’t magic — they’re practical steps that professionals use.
Let editors know who you are
Got into great shape? Have a professional photograph you: posing, training sessions and maybe also nicely dressed. Put together an album of your best pictures and introduce it to media outlets. Before sending, make sure the pictures are high quality — a dim phone photo won’t sell you to anyone.
Stay in good shape year-round
You never know when someone might be interested in you. Lee Apperson is a good example: photographers often call him when they need a model quickly, because they know Lee is always tanned and shredded — and so always ready for a photo shoot. He may not be the first choice, but he’s the second or third, and he’s often the one who gets the job. Photographers don’t want to hear that you’re in a bulking phase and need 12 weeks to get lean.
Take part in events where the media is present
Winning a competition will certainly raise interest in you, but that alone isn’t enough. It’s important to compete in contests that get a lot of media attention. If you want to be noticed, you have to go where you can be noticed.
Be confident, not arrogant
The models who are offered work again and again are the ones who are easy to work with. Prima donnas don’t make it in the media industry. You can be confident, but stay human — in the long run, that matters more than a perfect physique.
Build yourself a proper website
A good website is essential these days. Add plenty of pictures, keep it up to date and consider keeping a blog with regularly updated photos. Links to other people in the same field will also increase traffic to your site.
Follow up, but don’t pester
After sending your photos, stay in touch with photographers — call or email after some time has passed, but not too often. If there’s still no reply, they’re probably not interested in you. Don’t take it personally. Find another way to make yourself visible.
Be ready for media attention at any moment
Having lots of contacts is a key factor in this business. So what actually happens? If a photographer needs a brunette model and your blonde acquaintance recommends you, you get the job — it’s that simple. Those who help others also get further themselves. Do someone a favor and it will come back to you someday. Build as many contacts as you can — you’ll need them!
To sum up: if you have the right look, get to know the right people and make yourself available. It takes good prerequisites, hard work and serious commitment — but if you have all of that, your face can reach a wide audience.
FAQ — media attention
Are professional photos essential?
Yes. Poor-quality pictures won’t sell you to anyone. A professional photo shoot is an investment that pays for itself.
How often should you remind photographers of yourself?
One or two times per quarter is reasonable. More frequent contact feels like harassment and can damage your reputation.
Is winning a competition essential?
No, but it helps. What matters more is taking part in events where the media is present, and being visible, likable and well prepared when you’re there.
Source: Ron Harris, Musclemag, spring 2006
Translated by: Aktivist
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