So, the time has come for your first photo shoot. It doesn’t matter if you have waited for months for this opportunity or if you’re paying for the session yourself. Either way, this is a great chance to show your modelling skills and preparation is essential. For this reason, we prepared this article featuring the dos and don’ts for your first photo shoot.
The importance of a photoshoot
The main goal of a photo shoot is to create a portfolio. Believe it or not, a powerful portfolio can open a world of opportunities. For example, many agencies hire models based on their portfolio before even asking for an interview. If they do ask for an interview, the portfolio is the filter they use to select their candidates. The bottom line is that your portfolio must cause a great impression and reflect your best features and abilities. Therefore, it should have the basics, which are:
- A clean shot
- A full body shot
- Swimsuit shot
- Creative shots
- Smiling shot
- Commercial shot
But what to do to create this powerful photo set that will leave everyone astonished? There’s a lot of work that you have to do before and after the shoot, but this article concentrates on this particular moment. Here are the dos and don’ts to consider so that your first photography session is a success.
Bring the essentials
Unless there are specific requirements, make sure to bring the essentials. Choose a colour of underwear that blends with your outfit. Usually, black, white, and nude always work, so make sure to have these and bring them with you. If you want to try something more daring, check out this entry on how to combine lingerie. Also, paint your nails a neutral colour and remember to bring accessories.
Practise in front of the mirror
Check out the poses you like and practice them in front of the mirror. Then, take selfies or ask someone to take your picture because what you see in the mirror is different from what you see in photographs.
Don’t be afraid to try new poses, especially during the practice period. If something doesn’t work, you’ll know it, or your photographer will tell you.
Practise what to do with your hands
What you do with your hands can make a difference. If you feel awkward with what you are doing it will surely look awkward in photos too! So, make sure you practice this in advance and figure it out before the photo shoot.
Get inspiration from magazines
It always helps to learn from the great models. Check out magazines, blogs, and all kinds of photos and practice the poses that you like. If something doesn’t work, your photographer will tell you.
These are excellent sources to get inspired, so, don’t be afraid to learn from them. Watching photo shoot videos on YouTube might also be helpful. For example, see how Claudia Schiffer handles this photoshoot in the following video.
Be natural
Don’t try to hold a pose for too long. Trying crazy things won’t work either. Even if you saw a photograph that you loved, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the pose feels right to you. Keep moving so the pictures look natural and do what makes you feel comfortable.
What you should never do before and during your first photoshoot
Try a new haircut
Trying a new hairstyle before a photoshoot is too risky. If you don’t like it, you’ll be carrying it for a few months at least. Make sure you stick with what you know looks well on you, at least for the first few photo sessions.
Try new skin products
Maybe you’ve been hearing about this new make-up that everyone loves? Maybe you think that your photoshoot is the perfect occasion to try this out? Don’t. You never know how your skin is going to react and you risk showing up with a breakout or a rash.
Stay up long
Nothing makes a face look worse than lack of sleep. Make sure you come to the appointment well-rested.
Conclusion
Every model or person aspiring to get into the fashion world must have an outstanding portfolio, and the photoshoot is essential for this. Also, this is your initial step in your modelling career, so make sure to do it right. Use these tips to help you and remember that experience is key: you’ll get better at it every time.