SAUNA PORTRAITS

  • SAUNA PORTRAITS with Aaron Burgess

    Bio: Ever since I was young, I have always been curious with an imaginative mind, so I was instantly drawn into the world of cinema, and the washes of colour and expression it took me to.

    This fascination drew me to photography, working commercially for clients or for my own fine art practice. This has led me to shoot many different people, from professional athletes, dancers, yogis, musicians and many other amazing humans from different walks of life.

    I am interested in people’s responses to life’s situations, and through the lens reveal an external expression of an internal state.

    My work has been exhibited in group shows and two solo shows, including Heat Tonic in 2018.

    About the project:

    My interest in creating the original Heat Tonic portrait series, evolved from the physical and mental change that can happen after people have spent time relaxing in a sauna. Capturing the transformative effects of the health practice on both body and mind.

    The idea to develop this series at Sauna Fest 2026 felt like a perfect alignment, as my project requires people who love to sauna.

    The process:

    For anyone that is curious in being included in this project, I would capture a portrait before entering the sauna. Then another portrait after you have exited the sauna. Each (of the before and after) portrait sessions will only take about 1-2 min each. After each portrait you are welcome to go back into the sauna. I aim to capture portraits immediately after each sauna round, which can often be two or three rounds.

    The portraits will be in a separate area, close to and outside of the sauna.

    The outcome:

    This is a development of my personal art series, Heat Tonic. The images would be for my photography portfolio, some of which are on my website, aaronburgess.com/heat-tonic.

    Depending on the outcome of the project, some of the images could be displayed in a photography exhibition in the future. The only portraits that could be used would be after signed approval is given after the shoot.

    Anyone that partakes in the project will be provided with a small photographic print of their portrait.

    I hope that this might add a unique experience for people, and an opportunity to be part of this creative art series.

    See FAQ’s below for further info…

FAQ’s:

If I want to be included, how can I be included?

Come find the area where the portrait area is setup and express your interest on the timetable.

What times you be photographing portraits?

There might be an early morning, and early evening session each day. However, the operating times will be shown with a timetable nearby the area.

Is there an extra cost to be involved?

No, this is a unique opportunity that is free to participate in.

Where will the portrait area be?

Next to one of the saunas, with a sign next to the portrait area.

What do I wear?

Whatever you are wearing in the sauna.

Can I have a portrait with my friends or partner?

For this series, these will just be individual portraits.

However, if you do want something different, you are welcome to ask, or email me on the link below and we can see if this is something that can be arranged in future.

What if I don’t like how I look after a sauna?

This project is about illustrating the natural beauty of this health practice.

What if I want a print?

I am to provide a small print to each participant at the end of the event.

Where will these be shown?

Potential uses might be my website, an exhibition, or a photography competition. Any other uses would require specific approval.

What if I change my mind, or don’t want my portrait included?

Everyone involved will be shown their portrait afterwards. A signed consent will be required for any portraits to be used, which will be requested after the portraits are done.

Any other questions not listed above, please contact me at hello@aaronburgess.com