Strength Over Skinny: Nikki’s Journey & The Birth of The Boo Crew

At Robyn Allan Photography, I love capturing people at their most authentic — and Nikki’s shoot was exactly that. Strong, honest, and full of personality, this fitness brand session told a story far deeper than aesthetics.

By day, Nikki is a dedicated History teacher with an impressive academic background, holding an MA in History, a PGDE in Secondary Education, and a Master of Letters. Learning, researching, and pushing herself intellectually has always been part of who she is — but her journey doesn’t stop in the classroom.

Her passion for movement began early. From the age of 12, Nikki trained in a mix of martial arts, including karate, kickboxing, and taekwondo. That passion only grew stronger during her university years, where she discovered both MMA and a love for the gym — training hard while working in sports facilities in Aberdeen.

But like many people, life shifted.

At one point, Nikki found herself weighing over 120kg and battling body dysmorphia. She chased the idea of being “skinny,” struggling deeply with self-image and confidence. It’s a story so many can relate to — and one that makes her transformation all the more powerful.

From 2018 onwards, everything began to change.

Through consistency, resilience, and a commitment to building healthier habits, Nikki lost around 50kg — 25kg of that in just the last three years. But more importantly, her mindset transformed. No longer focused on being smaller, she shifted towards being stronger, healthier, and more appreciative of what her body can do.

That strength has taken her far.

Over the past year, Nikki has embraced hybrid training, pushing her limits through events like the Hybrid Games, The Gauntlet, and a Hyrox Relay. Always one to challenge herself, she took things even further in June 2025 by qualifying as a gym instructor and personal trainer.

And from there, The Boo Crew was born.

A self-confessed Halloween lover, Nikki wanted a brand that truly reflected her personality — fun, bold, and just a little bit fierce. The Boo Crew isn’t just about fitness; it’s about community, accountability, and support. It’s about helping people reach their goals without ever feeling abandoned — “not ghosting them,” as she puts it.

Nikki brings honesty and humour into everything she does. Whether she’s being jokingly called “evil incarnate” during a tough session or hearing complaints about lunges, she shows up fully for her clients — and they clearly love her for it.

This shoot was about capturing all of that: her strength, her story, and the energy she brings to others.

Nikki isn’t just a coach — she’s proof that transformation is about more than physical change. It’s about mindset, resilience, and learning to truly value yourself.

And if you need support on your own journey, she’s ready and waiting — no ghosts here.

You can find her Instagram here

https://www.instagram.com/__theboocrew__?igsh=dmdpOHY1cG0yNWk1

You can find my Instagram here

https://www.instagram.com/robynallanphotography?igsh=MWgxczc0dnA2MjJvNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Next
Next

Gym Photoshoots in Perth: A Unique Boudoir & Fitness Experience