I work with models, makeup artists, hair stylists, and wardrobe stylists for portfolio development. I am available for trade work when the shoot will raise the bar for my portfolio. Packages for portfolio shoots starts at $300 for a studio shoot. Makeup, hairstyle, and wardrobe are critical to a professional portfolio. I strongly recommend that a serious model engage a professional for these services. A commercial license will be granted to models/agencies in exchange for an unrestricted model release.

A selection of my model shoots can be quickly viewed and navigated using the following link: MODELS (click to view)

Casting Calls
Casting calls are your first piece of information about what type of model is needed. It is important that you understand what is expected of you and that you both fit the call and are up to the job. When a specific body type, hair color, ethnicity, or size are specified there is usually a reason. If you don’t fit then don’t waste anyone’s time – your not going to get the job. Additionally, understand whether you are being asked to shoot runway, studio, location, or be a promo model. Make sure you are comfortable with the poses, wardrobe (or lack of wardrobe), and concept. Finally, if you are a good match for the job, be serious about the job – the casting director (or photographer) will rarely book a model that is perceived to be flaky.

Communications
Communications prior to the shoot are critical. Makeup artists, hairstylists, and wardrobe stylists may need to contact you before the shoot. You should be accessible by phone and email. It is also important to understand the schedule and know where you are expected to show up. Make sure you have the cell phone number of your contact in case you have trouble finding the shoot or for any reason are delayed.

Reliability
Showing up early is always appreciated. There are several other people who must get you prepped for the shoot and being early helps reduce the stress level on everybody — that means they’ll do better work and you’ll look even better in front of the camera. Hygene is important. As a model, you are expected to keep your hair in good condition, your nails filed, shaped and polished, and your skin exfoliated. Most models should also consider removing facial hair for a clean beauty look. When asked to bring wardrobe items, make sure the items look new. Shoes should be polished, clothes should fit well, be wrinkle free and without stains.

Safety
Model safety is always a concern. There are some creepy photographers out there and we’ve all heard horror stories about “guys with cameras” who think models are call girls. Check out references and look at the work of the photographer before you book a shoot. If you are concerned for your safety – don’t book the shoot. Many models bring an escort with them when working with a new photographer. This seems like a good idea but many times becomes a disruption when working with a real photographer. Most photo shoots will have other people like a makeup artist and hairstylist present and as such an escort is not needed unless the model is a minor. If you bring an escort, your escort should never offer direction during a shoot and it is preferred that they wait in a different room so as not to interfere with the model-photographer interaction. Models should also beware of photographers who ask models to show more skin than was discussed in the casting call and not allow themselves to be compromised. It is perfectly OK to say, “I’m not comfortable with that pose or outfit” if it is beyond the scope of the casting call. On the other hand, don’t sign up for a body paint casting call and tell the photographer “I look too naked” after three hours of hair and makeup.

At the shoot
Listen carefully to the creative director or photographer about the concept to be shot. Listen to any coaching you may get from the MUA/Hairstylist/wardrobe stylist as they explain their vision for you and how they want you to express that vision. On the set, understand how the lighting is set up and how the photographer wants you to work in the light stage. Be careful with all wardrobe, props, and accessories – many times these items are borrowed and can be costly to clean or repair. If you are a freelance model, you will be expected to sign a model release to allow your image to be used for commercial application.

Posing
The term “posing” implies a false state of appearance. The best poses are natural, not staged. Natural poses express moods that are evoked through interaction between the photographer and model. If the model (and photographer) are not engaging each other the poses will look fake and unnatural. Initially the photographer and model get to know each other’s style during some warm up shots where the mode works through her repertoire of practiced poses. Eventually this interaction transforms into a dialog between the photographer and model as they work together to create the mood and energy for the desired shots. It is important not to allow yourself to fall into your repertoire of canned poses after the initial warm up shots. Stay engaged with the photographer and explore your emotions – feel the energy and let them flow as you embrace your character.

After the shoot
You should receive your compensation at the end of the shoot before signing the model release unless the model release specifies that the release becomes effective upon receipt of compensation. This is also a good idea when your compensation is images from an unpaid test shoot or trade. Pass out your comp card and exchange contact information with other people on the team.

If you are starting out as a model, you may be interested in reading my series of articles “Tips for Early Stage Models“. This series is targeted to models with limited to no experience and covers everything from self marketing to preparing for a shoot and getting your images after the shoot.