Once again the Raiderettes filled the rooms of Pro Image Studios with their dazzling smiles. Over the course of a week, Football's Fabulous Females gathered in Dublin, Calif., for their annual uniform photo shoot. This was the beginning of a large project for the season's calendar and web site, and the Raiderettes had no problem diving right in.
Upon arriving at the studio, both veteran Raiderettes and the new editions were taken into hair and makeup to prepare them for the numerous shots and group photos they would be posing for. Although you could see lip gloss and powder brushes in every direction, these beautiful females seemed to be having a blast. Each Raiderette recorded her own short video bio for fans to view on the team's web site. Following the recording of their bios, the Raiderettes each participated in individual shoots, where the camera caught every angle. Just when they thought they had seen their last camera flash, it was time to come together for the group photo session.

This was truly an exciting experience for some of the rookie Raiderettes. Some admitted that they felt a little uneasy at first, but the talented photographers have a strong history of working with the Raiderettes and allow them to relax and have fun. Rookie Raiderette Shab stated, "I like how the photographers are really interactive and I love watching them show us how to pose. It's really cute and they really know what they are doing." This kind of expertise allowed for smooth sailing throughout the process and a very successful start to the project.

Veteran Raiderettes also expressed enthusiasm, but they also admitted that there was a time when their nerves also tried to get the best of them. Erica A. says, "The first year is always a little nerve racking, second year you already know what to expect, and third year you kind of feel like 'okay, I'm ready for this.' I know exactly what I need to do. You're just more relaxed and more prepared." Doing photo sessions like these are not like taking everyday pictures. The cheerleaders have to show their passion for the team through the camera lens. Even Raiderette veteran Tiaja stated, "I get kind of shy in front of the camera, but you know, you work it out."

Undoubtedly the Raiderettes' most favorable part about the photo shoots involves the glitz and glamour of it all. They all agreed that although the job is not just about the allure and enchantment, that aspect is still one of their favorite parts. Adding to this thought Erica A. feels that, "Everybody has this conception that we're glamorous all the time you know. All we see is sweat [from] being out there practicing and getting dirty at Saturday practices so this is the glamorous part." This was a chance for the Raiderettes to come together, bond, and to really shine. Christine said, "You just feel like a star, like you're in Hollywood."

The Raiderettes were not the only ones running from camera to camera. Raiderette Director Karen Kovac also had very busy, but fun-filled days. Kovac was seen anywhere from making last minute adjustments to the uniforms, directing them on where they needed to be, and assisting them with poses. Although it is always a busy event for Kovac, she takes comfort in "enjoying the energy of the girls." Karen feels that the Raiderettes are very deserving of this glamorous portion of their careers. "Ninety percent of what they do is hard work and we only see the 10 percent, so this is part of that 10 percent and it's just fun for me to see them enjoying themselves."

The Raiderettes are on the big island of Hawaii at the Hilton Waikoloa Village where they are shooting the remainder of the photos for the calendar and web site. "We always have a good time when we're out there," Tiaja said. "They treat us well. People are so friendly and it's just so pretty and beautiful." Surely the islands will provide beautiful scenery for some spectacular swimsuit photos.