A lot of aspiring models and amateur photographers who are interested in fashion photography are asking me how I approach fashion photo shoots. In the following paragraphs, I will discuss the main aspects.

When a model calls me to book a photo shoot, I first of all ask if they want to do their own idea or concept, or if they want me to choose a concept for them. They usually bring 2 to 3 different outfits, or if they are wearing what the stylist brought. The models can use the services of the stylist, the make-up artist and the hair stylist for additional costs, depending on the concept chosen. The hair and make-up is done at the studio, so the model have to arrive sooner, usually an hour before the photo shoot.

For photographers
I always ask the model if she/he prefers that I tell them how to position, or if they want to do it themselves and improvise. If it’s the first time that the model does a photo shoot, you have to make sure that the model is at least a little bit comfortable with you. Usually if the model doesn’t have experience, she or he will be nervous or insecure – not knowing exactly what to do. That’s why you have to talk a lot with the model, make jokes and make the session more fun. You also have to tell them what to do as they will probably not know. Take their place and demonstrate the position instead of just telling them, that way, it will be more clear for them. If you’re working with models who have experience, your job will be easier. You can tell them what you want and correct them if they don’t do it right. You can push it until you have the perfection position / expression from the model. Professional models are good with expressions and don’t mind if you push them – it’s their job and from what I’ve seen, they are pretty much all the time positive. Doing a fashion photo shoot is different than doing a photo shoot with a person who is not a model and who wants photos that represent her/him. In fashion, the model plays a role, therefore the approach with the model is not the same. That is something to keep in mind.

For models
It is the photographer’s job to find new ideas of poses, lighting, composition, accessories and concept for every fashion shoot. No model wants to have a copy of another shoot done by another photographer, or by the same photographer. The photographer should always want to create something new, that’s never been done before, for each shoot. That is why it is important for photographers to keep looking at magazines or websites to get inspired before every shoot. Some preparation in advance is also always necessary. If you are a model and go to a photographer’s studio to do a shoot and he seems to be unprepared or not concentrated, you’ve probably chosen the wrong photographer and won’t get great pictures at the end of that shoot. You should always get a good vibe from the photographer, because otherwise, it will show in the photos!

Another thing to keep in mind: either you are a model or a photographer, you should always want to surpass yourself, and to become better and better. It is not always easy to work in fashion photography (I will get more into details on that subject in a future post), so you should take it seriously, as a real job. But, of course, have a lot of fun!

Tags: fashion photo shoot, Hair stylist, Make-up artist, Model, Ottawa photographer