This "Letters" section is new, that's why you don't see anything here. But, if you have something to say, e-mail the editor@seriousaboutmuscle.com.

Champion Che

I just wanted to say thanks for the article on "The Illusion of Size." It was actually sent to me a few weeks ago by a friend of mine and I was pleasantly surprised. You definitely boosted my confidence. I remember you coming backstage and telling me i had a good chance at taking the Overall title. I remember asking myself, "Who's this guy, is he really serious?" But it changed my whole mindset and made me more confident at the posedown.

I've competed at various shows since 2001, but this has by far been my best year. It seems the 15 years of training is finally paying off. So, once again thanks for everything.

Che Chamungwana

On schmotography

I am a long-time fan of female physique competitions. Rather than seeing these ladies as some muscle-bound sex objects (like the schmoes), I see them as people and athletes worthy of respect and admiration, and seek to support them in their athletic careers. I am glad that there is someone like yourself who has seen fit to inform those ladies who wish to excel in these sports about "schmotographers" and how they operate.

I guess I am writing because I am seriously considering going into physique photography as a potential side business. I have gotten several compliments on the pictures I have taken, some of them from national NPC and professional IFBB competitors. I now know about how one does physique photography WRONG as a result of reading your article. The question is: How does one do physique photography RIGHT, in a fashion in which you DON'T come across as a schmo, particularly if you are just starting out in the business? Any information that you have to share would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, and keep up the excellent work!!!

Sincerely,

Jeremy

After I wrote that article, I received many e-mails and comments. Almost all of it was positive, with quite a bit coming from competitors who saw this kind of thing happening, but didn’t understand it too well. I guess the article helped clear that up. However, a small number of the comments were negative, but all of these were from – it’s not hard to guess – schmotographers. What was strangest, though, was that a couple thought I was talking about them specifically. However, I never did name any names – perhaps they were just feeling a little guilty.

My point is this: If you’re a person with commonsense – and it sounds like you have that – then you’ll know when you’ve crossed the line from photographer to schmotographer, just as those who thought I was accusing them directly did. A little voice inside your head will just tell you when you've gone that far....Doug Schneider

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