Getting Ready for your Fashion / Modelling Photo shoot

So, you are going for your first fashion photo shoot or shoot for modelling portfolio and perhaps not sure what to do or expect. Have a read though our tips and hopefully they will help you to get the best results.

First thing to remember is - unless you have been modelling for many years it is not so easy at first to relax, feel comfortable and give your best in front of the camera. If you know the photographer already and like his/her personality then it will take less time for you to relax. It is therefore important that you meet or have a good chat with them beforehand. We usually recommend that you book at least one and a half hours because of the time it takes to ‘warm up’ on camera even after you have built a rapport with the photographer.


Second, if you have a specific style of photography in mind, such as photojournalistic, glamour, beauty, etc., make sure that the photographer you are going to be shooting with understands what your requirements are. Sending a few pictures that inspired you for the photo shoot in the first place could be a good idea too. If you are not sure what you want and it is a great set of pictures you are after, then make sure that you like your chosen photographer’s portfolio and the style of shooting.


Third it is therefore very important to choose the right photographer for you! Make sure you have a look at their portfolio beforehand and like the styles of photography they are offering.

Fourth, is making sure that you bring the right style and amount of clothing with you. It is hard to say what style is the best for the photo shoot. The clothes should generally fit you well and not be two sizes bigger (unless that is the look you want). Try all of the sets at home before the photo shoot and if not sure ask your friends for their opinion. Three or four sets should be enough. If you still not sure about your choices, then do not worry, as a good photographer should be able to direct you and help you with the styling. Taking a few extra pieces of clothes with you that you are not sure about could be a good idea. Top tip: Accessories can make a dull shot look great!

Fifth is the makeup and hair styling. Have a chat with the photographer and see if they have makeup artists available. If you do not know how to apply makeup, do not avoid hiring someone to do it for you. Generally, makeup artists also do hair. Styling is one of the most important things on the photo shoot! Think about it if on a budget or hire the right people to bring it all together for you.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions.

Headshot London Photography
Fashion Photographers
Tel: 07940 444 641


(c) All rights for this article belong to Headshot London Photography at Portrait Photographers
(Any copying or distribution unauthorised by the owner is strictly prohibited)

Should they kill a dream to line their pockets?

If you are an aspiring model, then read on and we hope that our advice will help you in the future.

We do not want to join the ranks of photographers who happily mislead young wannabe models by implying that they need a professional modelling portfolio before they go to an agency. Those portfolio shoots could cost between £600 and £2500, lining the pockets of photographers who prey on the uninformed.

Instead we advise:

First - If you are genuinely looking for a modelling agency, you only need a very
simple picture of yourself. Most agencies will accept that if they are interested. All you need to do is take a simple shot professionally or using your own camera and submit it to the agencies of your choice. This is standard practice.

Second - Once an agency signs you — based on your very simple photograph, the agency will send you out to 'test' with their chosen photographers. This will create a portfolio and is standard practice. You therefore will build a portfolio of images free of charge. The photographers get new looks to shoot and you get a shot for the portfolio. It’s been like that for longer than you’ve wanted to be a model!

Our simple advice is to speak to an agency before you approach us or any other photographer. Be careful, look up the model advisory service for your country or area and above all, be realistic. Girls should be at least 5'7" tall and size 8-10 and guys should be at least 6’ tall if you’re looking for a role in fashion. If you can’t find an agency to take you on, it might be that you are chasing a dream and spending more money on portfolios, will not help.

Useful websites for aspiring models:
http://www.starnow.co.uk
http://www.modelmayhem.com

Here you could find many aspiring and established models together with photographers, stylists and make up artists who collaborate and create beautiful photography. The sites also offer you plenty of advice.

For more information about certain type of photography please visit:

- London Photographers
- Actors Headshots
- Fashion Photographers
- Modelling Portfolios
- Beauty Photographers


(c) All rights for this article belong to Headshot London Photography at Portrait Photographers
(Any copying or distribution unauthorised by the owner is strictly prohibited)