We often work with new or part-time models that are looking for pointers on what to do, what to ask, and how to pose. As a first time model, there is so much to think about and do, you don't know what to expect or what people expect of you, yet if you seek to stay calm, enjoy the experience, and be yourself, then the camera will capture you in a more natural look. We realize that might be easier said than done, but a good photographer will recognize a first time model and make every effort to relax you and make it an enjoyable experience, so the resulting images hit their mark. We offer the following modeling tips to models just starting out:

• Ask questions before the shoot starts:
  • Discuss your assets and those things you think should be avoided or need special consideration (Ex: Tattoos which may be hidden under clothing, belly ring, etc.).  Avoid surprises during the shoot or worst after the shoot.
  • Ask how they will direct you (ex. the photographer might do initial posing with some shots then give you the freedom to introduce different variations with every click of the camera).
  • Ask about the flow of the shoot and how frequent they expect wardrobe and makeup changes (ex. One location setup with multiple lighting setups; 20 mins shooting with an outfit/makeup prep.)
  • Do a quick review of what the photographer expects when he/she directs you to move.
    • What is a small head shift to them (ex. move only an inch or so)? Typically a shift left or right should still have some white on both sides of your eyes; all white on one side is typically not pleasing in an image.
    • Do they want you to make one movement or gradually move so they can stop you at the right point
    • Are they expecting you to improvise with posing variations. The photographer may wish to achieve a certain effect during a set, and will want to direct you completely in order to make this happen.  
  
  
• Interact with the photographer:
  • What are they framing or how tight they are shooting (ex. head/shoulders vs full length)
  • What mood or emotion are they looking for
  • Understand how much range of motion you have with your head and body before the lighting or background become an issue
  
  
• Your mental and physical health directly reflects your looks:
  • An outgoing personality is an excellent attribute for a model; your pose will set the stage but your personality and ability to convey it with different emotions and moods will bring the image to life and captivate your viewers.
  • Do not smoke in the studio / building, ask about ‘smoke breaks’ between sets and makeup changes.   Be aware that smoking causes skin problems and wrinkles that are counter to the image you want to convey.
  • Sleep is critical to a crisp lively look in your eyes
  • You must feel good about yourself, truely believe you are beautiful before you can convince a camera of that
  
  
• Posing:
  • Don't stay in a pose too long or it looks stale.  Tell the photographer if you get tired holding a pose. Break the pose and come back into it
  • Silently speak 'the vowels' to form your mouth and let them fade into position
    • 'A', 'I', 'E' for a natural smile
    • 'O' for a different smile
    • 'U' for sensual look
    
    
  • Posing Stances:
    • Basic stance
      • Feet apart by 1.5 feet
      • One foot facing forward
      • Other foot turned at a 45 deg angle
      • During posing changes shift your weight to the other leg and produce the mirror image stance
    • Another simple stance
      • Legs and ankles together
      • Lift one heel up and cross that knee cap over the other
  
  
• Makeup:
  • Use translucent powder as needed for a matte no shine look
  • Blend the face to match your neck
  • Use highlighter to accent portions of your face that you want the camera to notice
  • Don't use too much eyeliner under the eyes to prevent raccoon eyes.
  • Use subtle pencil liner to outline your lips without being able to recognize it.
  • If the photographer is using his/her own makeup artist, do not wear any makeup to the session.  Bring a clean fresh face to the shoot.
  • If the photographer is using his/her own hair stylist, do not over condition your hair. Do not use hair spray, mousse, or other treatments in your hair.

• Moods and Emotions:
  • Practice in front of a mirror to form poses and expressions that deliver certain emotions
  • Use the touch and flow of your hands on your body to evoke a true emotion in you. For example:
    • The brush of the back of your hand on your cheek
    • Fingers running through your hair
    • Fingertips along your ankles
    • Hand movements on your neck and shoulders
    Everyone reacts differently to their own touch; find what works for you. Use these motions to get into a pose and draw out an emotion. Whether it is a pensive, energetic, sensual, or other deep emotion, if you are emitting a true emotion with a pose, you're bringing the image to life!
    

It should be fun, exhilarating, and the effort required to look your very best will wear you down, you've probably done your best if it wore you out!