5. Just for fun – have there been any funny or embarrassing stories during your photography career?Whilst doing a photo shoot for 3 women (topless calendars for there boyfriends) we were standing by a canal at 10am on a winters morning it was about -3, I turned around and there were several people looking out of their bedroom windows! Not embarrassing for me as it was their idea but they were a little embarrassed!
6. If someone was thinking about taking up modelling as a career what advise would you give?Be careful of what model agency you sign up with. Some will charge a high price to simply get listed on their books, some of which say you must a have portfolio done my their team of photographers which can be very expensive and the same as 100’s of other people.
Make sure you are committed; modelling is a very hard industry to get into. I have an area on my website offering advice to aspiring models because I feel there a far too many people who get ripped off every year. Don’t forget if you are worth having on an agencies books they will want you!!
Thursday, 21 May 2009
Wednesday, 20 May 2009
Modelling Tips and Photo Shoot Advice from a Photographer
3. What things shouldn’t models do in front of camera during a photo shoot?
Look like they are posing! As much as possible a model needs to be able to relax with the photographer so that the photo’s in turn also look relaxed yet professional.
4. Any general tips or advice for models during a photo shoot?
Practice, Practice, Practice! It really is key to all images you get from your time in front of the camera. The way you smile, the way you pose and anything else you do while in front of the camera will all help you feel more relaxed and get the images you require.
Check your outfits a few days before the shoot, do they look as you expected they would, do you need a different pair of shoes. Choose your favourite outfits to take with you but take an extra one incase something doesn’t look perfect I front of the camera.
Don’t try anything new the night before, changing your hair colour at 8pm when you have a booking at 10am the next morning won’t give you time to resolve anything that goes wrong!
Don’t turn up from a night out on the town and come in after hardly any sleep you won’t look you’re best and that early night really would have paid off when you see the final images!
Te key to all photo shoots is being professional and this applies to the photographer and the model. Make sure you arrive on time, know the kind of images that you want even if this means taking some pictures that you like will help the photographer know what you want form the day.
It is hard to know whether you should take a friend along to the shoot or if you should go on your own. As a general rule I would suggest that you don’t take your girl/boy friend but do bring a friend that will understand that they may need to leave you to it. Alternatively ensure that people know where you going how long you will be and give them the photographer’s details.
Look like they are posing! As much as possible a model needs to be able to relax with the photographer so that the photo’s in turn also look relaxed yet professional.
4. Any general tips or advice for models during a photo shoot?
Practice, Practice, Practice! It really is key to all images you get from your time in front of the camera. The way you smile, the way you pose and anything else you do while in front of the camera will all help you feel more relaxed and get the images you require.
Check your outfits a few days before the shoot, do they look as you expected they would, do you need a different pair of shoes. Choose your favourite outfits to take with you but take an extra one incase something doesn’t look perfect I front of the camera.
Don’t try anything new the night before, changing your hair colour at 8pm when you have a booking at 10am the next morning won’t give you time to resolve anything that goes wrong!
Don’t turn up from a night out on the town and come in after hardly any sleep you won’t look you’re best and that early night really would have paid off when you see the final images!
Te key to all photo shoots is being professional and this applies to the photographer and the model. Make sure you arrive on time, know the kind of images that you want even if this means taking some pictures that you like will help the photographer know what you want form the day.
It is hard to know whether you should take a friend along to the shoot or if you should go on your own. As a general rule I would suggest that you don’t take your girl/boy friend but do bring a friend that will understand that they may need to leave you to it. Alternatively ensure that people know where you going how long you will be and give them the photographer’s details.
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
Commercial Modelling
Commercial Modelling is defined by the term 'commercial'. It refers to the type of assignment and covers the promotion of various products and services provided by companies. This can range from a number of different products including things like clothing, perfumes, cleaning products and all other commercial products. This type of modelling will appear in print and on television in newspapers, magazines, billboards, posters, TV adverts and more.
Requirements may vary, but this type modelling can give you massive exposure and bring in good pay.
Requirements may vary, but this type modelling can give you massive exposure and bring in good pay.
Tips from a professional photographer
I was speaking to a professional photographer earlier in the week called Darren House (www.darrenhouse.co.uk) and asked him a few questions on how to become a model and also tips for already established models. Here's the first two questions I asked him and what he had to say.
1. How should a model best prepare for a photo shoot?
Ensure they have different sets of clothing all of which they feel comfortable in.
When picking outfits for the shoot think about props that may enhance the effect you are trying to achieve, you can always leave them out if you change your mind later. However, if you are trying to build a portfolio, props and jewelry or similar can sometimes detract from the focus of the image. In portfolio photography you are trying to sell yourself not your lovely necklace!
Try to practice posing in front of a mirror prior to a shoot and remember things that sometimes look a bit over the top in a mirror don’t always come out that way in the still shot that a photographer is trying to achieve. Learn how your face feels with a perfect smile - no gums, eyes open but not squinting
If doing their own make up they need to understand that the lighting being used will naturally ‘wash’ them out so the photographer may request that you apply more then normal to combat this.
2. As an experienced model photographer what tips could you give to a first timer in front of the camera?
Let the photographer know if you are not sure what to do with yours hands or feet, they can change a ‘good’ photo into an ‘average’ photo.
Listen to the photographer and let them give you direction in your posing. Body parts can be obscured by the angle of a camera that you wouldn’t expect.
Remember not many people can stand in front of the camera and not feel self-conscious at the start of a shoot, but as much as possible try to relax so that this doesn’t show through in all of your pictures
More to come tomorrow...
1. How should a model best prepare for a photo shoot?
Ensure they have different sets of clothing all of which they feel comfortable in.
When picking outfits for the shoot think about props that may enhance the effect you are trying to achieve, you can always leave them out if you change your mind later. However, if you are trying to build a portfolio, props and jewelry or similar can sometimes detract from the focus of the image. In portfolio photography you are trying to sell yourself not your lovely necklace!
Try to practice posing in front of a mirror prior to a shoot and remember things that sometimes look a bit over the top in a mirror don’t always come out that way in the still shot that a photographer is trying to achieve. Learn how your face feels with a perfect smile - no gums, eyes open but not squinting
If doing their own make up they need to understand that the lighting being used will naturally ‘wash’ them out so the photographer may request that you apply more then normal to combat this.
2. As an experienced model photographer what tips could you give to a first timer in front of the camera?
Let the photographer know if you are not sure what to do with yours hands or feet, they can change a ‘good’ photo into an ‘average’ photo.
Listen to the photographer and let them give you direction in your posing. Body parts can be obscured by the angle of a camera that you wouldn’t expect.
Remember not many people can stand in front of the camera and not feel self-conscious at the start of a shoot, but as much as possible try to relax so that this doesn’t show through in all of your pictures
More to come tomorrow...
Thursday, 7 May 2009
Catalogue Modelling
Models always appear in catalogues of major chains and mail order shops, and on their online shops on the Internet. Average looks are sought, requirements are somewhat more relaxed and a little closer to the real world - but this still means having a dream body.
Catalogue work is in abundance and can be easily found on many casting websites and through modelling and casting agencies. I recently found a website called www.fame4anyone.com listing a a good number of catalogue modelling jobs and other model jobs. Its worth having a browse there.
Hope this helps :)
Catalogue work is in abundance and can be easily found on many casting websites and through modelling and casting agencies. I recently found a website called www.fame4anyone.com listing a a good number of catalogue modelling jobs and other model jobs. Its worth having a browse there.
Hope this helps :)
Tuesday, 5 May 2009
Editorial Modelling
Editorial Modelling:
This is modelling for magazines (features and covers), very often fashion or lifestyle.
You can get excellent exposure from it, therefore it is desperately sought after by models, and your best friend becomes your worst enemy in the fight for an assignment.
Hard work, difficult to get into (you need to be signed up with a good agency) and poorly paid.
Although there are these drawbacks, editorial modelling is a great way to gain major exposure, and would look great in your portfolio. The low pay is equalled out by the increased exposure gained, think of it as speculating to accumulate, give your time for low pay, but gain in the long run!
Next - Catalogue Modelling
This is modelling for magazines (features and covers), very often fashion or lifestyle.
You can get excellent exposure from it, therefore it is desperately sought after by models, and your best friend becomes your worst enemy in the fight for an assignment.
Hard work, difficult to get into (you need to be signed up with a good agency) and poorly paid.
Although there are these drawbacks, editorial modelling is a great way to gain major exposure, and would look great in your portfolio. The low pay is equalled out by the increased exposure gained, think of it as speculating to accumulate, give your time for low pay, but gain in the long run!
Next - Catalogue Modelling
Friday, 1 May 2009
Types of Modelling - Fashion Modelling and Catwalk Modelling
Over the next few days i will be displaying new posts describing different types of modelling.
There are many different types of modelling in many different areas and industries. Glamour modelling is often in the form of print in mens magazines for example, and things like character modelling often occurs in how to booklets and informational videos e.g. how to do mechanics may require a character model for someone who looks like a mechanic.
First in this series i will be touching on....
Fashion Modelling & Catwalk Modelling:
The term fashion modelling covers a wide range of work: from editorials and covers for fashion magazines to commercial advertising campaigns for manufacturers, including the top brands.
Catwalk means modelling clothes in fashion shows.
Perceived to be glamorous, it is very hard work, very difficult to get into and only a few models make it to the top. If you do get there though you will become very famous and are very likely to see the world.
Distinctive facial features are on and off in demand, but the requirements and expectations change constantly. You need to be tall, thin and young generally. There are exceptions like Kate Moss who is old yet is enjoying some of her greatest successes now, although generally this is not the case.
Next is Editorial Modelling
There are many different types of modelling in many different areas and industries. Glamour modelling is often in the form of print in mens magazines for example, and things like character modelling often occurs in how to booklets and informational videos e.g. how to do mechanics may require a character model for someone who looks like a mechanic.
First in this series i will be touching on....
Fashion Modelling & Catwalk Modelling:
The term fashion modelling covers a wide range of work: from editorials and covers for fashion magazines to commercial advertising campaigns for manufacturers, including the top brands.
Catwalk means modelling clothes in fashion shows.
Perceived to be glamorous, it is very hard work, very difficult to get into and only a few models make it to the top. If you do get there though you will become very famous and are very likely to see the world.
Distinctive facial features are on and off in demand, but the requirements and expectations change constantly. You need to be tall, thin and young generally. There are exceptions like Kate Moss who is old yet is enjoying some of her greatest successes now, although generally this is not the case.
Next is Editorial Modelling
Thursday, 30 April 2009
Posing tips for photo shoots
Here are some general tips on posing for the camera. During a photo shoot, the photographer will usually direct the model for any specific poses that the photographer is trying to capture, but it helps if the model knows what to do without a lot of direction.
Some General Posing Tips: Don't hold your breath for a pose. The concentration usually shows in the picture. Hold in your stomach to give a more toned appearance to the abdomen (even if you are in great shape).
Most people, including models, do not have very good posture. Unless you're going for a casual look, keep your back straight and your shoulders up. Don't keep both arms entirely straight unless directed to do so for a specific pose. Bend one or both arms, even if only a little, to make the pose look less artificial. Likewise, don't keep both legs entirely straight.
Don't always look straight at the camera. Instead, use a variety of head and eye positions: Try turning your head, tilting your neck to one side or the other, or looking off to the side for some poses. Don't use a big smile for every pose. Sometimes try a small smile, a pout, a laugh, a scowl, or even a frown, to give some variety to your facial expressions. Listen to what the photographer tells you. He can see you through the camera. You can't.
Additional Posing Tips for Plus-Size Models: Rest most of your weight on one foot or the other instead of evenly on both feet. Doing so makes poses look less artificial and gives a slight slimming effect in most positions. When sitting or reclining, roll one hip up slightly from the resting surface so that most of your weight is on the back of one thigh or the other instead of evenly on both thighs. This gives a slight slimming effect and makes the pose look less artificial. Avoid having your arms hanging flat against your sides. Instead, bend your arms slightly, place your hands on your hips, or try other poses that involve alternate placements of the arms. Keep your chin up to avoid chin wrinkles or double chins.
Posing Tips For Emphasizing Cleavage: Lean forward. Bring arms together at the waist. Clasp hands together below the waist, keeping arms straight at the elbows. Cross arms.
Posing Tips for Minimizing Cleavage: Lean backward. Slouch. Keep arms apart. Raise arms above shoulders or above head
Hope this helps you girls out there!
Some General Posing Tips: Don't hold your breath for a pose. The concentration usually shows in the picture. Hold in your stomach to give a more toned appearance to the abdomen (even if you are in great shape).
Most people, including models, do not have very good posture. Unless you're going for a casual look, keep your back straight and your shoulders up. Don't keep both arms entirely straight unless directed to do so for a specific pose. Bend one or both arms, even if only a little, to make the pose look less artificial. Likewise, don't keep both legs entirely straight.
Don't always look straight at the camera. Instead, use a variety of head and eye positions: Try turning your head, tilting your neck to one side or the other, or looking off to the side for some poses. Don't use a big smile for every pose. Sometimes try a small smile, a pout, a laugh, a scowl, or even a frown, to give some variety to your facial expressions. Listen to what the photographer tells you. He can see you through the camera. You can't.
Additional Posing Tips for Plus-Size Models: Rest most of your weight on one foot or the other instead of evenly on both feet. Doing so makes poses look less artificial and gives a slight slimming effect in most positions. When sitting or reclining, roll one hip up slightly from the resting surface so that most of your weight is on the back of one thigh or the other instead of evenly on both thighs. This gives a slight slimming effect and makes the pose look less artificial. Avoid having your arms hanging flat against your sides. Instead, bend your arms slightly, place your hands on your hips, or try other poses that involve alternate placements of the arms. Keep your chin up to avoid chin wrinkles or double chins.
Posing Tips For Emphasizing Cleavage: Lean forward. Bring arms together at the waist. Clasp hands together below the waist, keeping arms straight at the elbows. Cross arms.
Posing Tips for Minimizing Cleavage: Lean backward. Slouch. Keep arms apart. Raise arms above shoulders or above head
Hope this helps you girls out there!
What does it take to become a model?
Models can be of all ages and sizes and there is work available for all people. Character modelling allows almost anyone to become a model, and there are many modelling jobs that span across a wide age range.
In the strict world of fashion modelling female fashion models should be somewhere between 15 and 22 years old, although probably closer to fifteen. Models don't have careers that last as long as for instance, doctors, so agencies tend to invest their time in someone young.
Female models are generally tall, long-legged, and lean. The minimum height is usually about 5'8", and average weight for a model is 108-125 lbs. These characteristics are partly aesthetic and partly practical: this type of frame looks good on the runway and in front of the camera; and a somewhat scrawny build drapes clothing nicely and ensures a good fit in the standard wardrobe. There are always exceptions to the rule, of course - Kate Moss is 5'7" and Gabrielle Reece is a giant 6'3" - but, in general, the closer you are to the industry norm, the better your chances.
Fashion models still tend to be very skinny. Commercial modeling doesn't require that you be "skinny". The key is to take care of yourself. Don't overeat, but do eat well balanced meals and avoid the snacks. Exercise and keep yourself in good shape.
Male fashion models are normally 6' to 6' 2" tall and wear a size 40 regular jacket. Commercial models do not have any height, weight or size restrictions.
There are a million types of modelling jobs out there however, so if you want to become a model don't be disheartened by the many agencies that have strict requirements. I find a lot of work can be found through online casting agencies. I will write about these one day soon...
In the strict world of fashion modelling female fashion models should be somewhere between 15 and 22 years old, although probably closer to fifteen. Models don't have careers that last as long as for instance, doctors, so agencies tend to invest their time in someone young.
Female models are generally tall, long-legged, and lean. The minimum height is usually about 5'8", and average weight for a model is 108-125 lbs. These characteristics are partly aesthetic and partly practical: this type of frame looks good on the runway and in front of the camera; and a somewhat scrawny build drapes clothing nicely and ensures a good fit in the standard wardrobe. There are always exceptions to the rule, of course - Kate Moss is 5'7" and Gabrielle Reece is a giant 6'3" - but, in general, the closer you are to the industry norm, the better your chances.
Fashion models still tend to be very skinny. Commercial modeling doesn't require that you be "skinny". The key is to take care of yourself. Don't overeat, but do eat well balanced meals and avoid the snacks. Exercise and keep yourself in good shape.
Male fashion models are normally 6' to 6' 2" tall and wear a size 40 regular jacket. Commercial models do not have any height, weight or size restrictions.
There are a million types of modelling jobs out there however, so if you want to become a model don't be disheartened by the many agencies that have strict requirements. I find a lot of work can be found through online casting agencies. I will write about these one day soon...
Hello
Hi, welcome to my blog offerring tips, tricks and information for all existing and aspiring models.
This blog will provide information and advice in all areas of modelling, and will give information on what it takes to become a successful model and make it in this industry. The website will provide information on some of the best ways to get into modelling, and important information on the best agencies and the best websites out there in order to help you move your career on succesfully.
more to come...
This blog will provide information and advice in all areas of modelling, and will give information on what it takes to become a successful model and make it in this industry. The website will provide information on some of the best ways to get into modelling, and important information on the best agencies and the best websites out there in order to help you move your career on succesfully.
more to come...
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