Working with Models - 4 Killer Tips
In this tutorial I am going to share with you 4 of what I think are the best tips when working with a model. I'll be explaining how beginner photographers can easily make the model feel comfortable and to how you can feel much more confident during the shoot. This tutorial will improve your model photography and give you great tips for your first model shoot.
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Working with models Tips and Techniques for Beginners
Tip 1 - Share your vision with the model
As with any shoot, do not go in blind. Have an idea of what it is you want to achieve and share this vision with the model.
· Scout the location before the shoot. Figure out where you want to take the photos and where you want the model to stand.
· Know what colour palette you want to use and tell the model what to wear and what make up to put on before the shoot.
· When the model arrives, share your vision, literally try to explain what the pictures will look like. It informs the model on what to do, makes them feel more confidence and gives you direction for the day’s shoot.
Tip 2 - Be confident and give clear directions
When working with models, being confident is not about being loud and brash. It’s about having a clear direction of what you want to achieve and communicating that with the model. The model does not want to be standing around twiddling their thumbs while you make up your mind! They need direction and want to be told what to do.
· Engaging with the model makes them feel comfortable.
· Give clear direction by telling the model what to do, where you want them to stand, where should they look etc.
· Be yourself – it doesn’t matter if you’re shy, it does matter if you’re not telling the model what to do!
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Tip 3 - Show the model your results
Everyone wants to look good in a photograph so show off! Sharing the photography also creates a good atmosphere and conversation with the model. It also fills you with confidence. We all love hearing ‘that’s a great photograph’ so why not try and get some positive feedback from the model.
Tip 4 - Keep the model comfortable
It might sound obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many beginners forget to do this when working with models for the first time.
· If it’s cold, keep the model warm between shots by bringing a big coat or blanket.
· Bring water, snacks or lunch if you’re going to be out all day.
Bonus tip
Have fun, enjoy the shoot! If you’re tense and worried about the shoot, this won’t sit well with the model and will likely result in a poor shoot and an unenjoyable day.
Go into the shoot with the knowledge that if you fail, you fail, there’s always the next shoot. This will free you up to just have fun with it. Ultimately, it’s that relationship you create with the model that will create those magical pictures. If you’re not relaxed and having fun, this won’t happen!
f 2.8 – 1/125 sec. – ISO 1000 – Focal Length 38mm
f 2.8 – 1/125 sec. – ISO 320 – Focal Length 25mm
f 2.8 – 1/125 sec. – ISO 500 – Focal Length 40mm
f 2.8 – 1/125 sec. – ISO 320 – Focal Length 40mm
f 2.8 – 1/125 sec. – ISO 400 – Focal Length 25mm
f 2.8 – 1/125 sec. – ISO 800 – Focal Length 40mm
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