It’s no secret that working with a model can be one of the most challenging aspects of model photography, especially if that model lacks experience. Directing a first time model during a photoshoot can be a challenge, but there are some simple tricks to discuss with your model to help them feel like a professional.
Hair Movement
The best way to utilize hair during photoshoots is by considering it a prop of sorts. Allowing hair to have movement will add life to any photograph. Remind your model it’s okay to play with their hair, move it around, and touch it during the photoshoot. Whether their hair is long or short, it can always be used as a visual prop to aid the simplest of photos.
Face Positioning
People have a natural tendency to relax the positioning of their head when taking photographs. This can be a downfall in model photography due to the awkward angles it can sometimes produce, especially when considering the model’s chin area. Before you begin shooting, remind your model to keep their chin pulled forward during the shoot for a more flattering angle.
Posture Adjustments
When shooting photographs that are full length, there is a wide range of tips to help make your model feel more comfortable. First, discuss with your model the fact that they do have freedom when it comes to posing. Keeping their shoulders turned on an angle will provide a slimmer profile. Leaving space around the waist area free of other objects also contributes to this slimmed-down effect. Remind your model to also have movement in their arms, especially in a way where the arm is not pressed down to their side. Lifting the arm to leave space creates a more visually appealing angle.
All About The Eyes
The number one thing a model needs to know how to do is to pose with their eyes. Providing them with different ways to do this that will translate well on camera is a crucial part of having a successful photoshoot. If your model chooses to look in a different direction than the camera during the shoot, remind them of the importance of keeping their iris’ in the general direction of the camera. Meaning, photographs where you can only see the whites of someone’s eyes do not usually turn out to be aesthetically pleasing.
These small tips will help ease your model and make them feel more comfortable, and knowledgeable. It will ultimately result in a more successful photoshoot.