How to Photograph Models
In some of the oldest art we have, going back to the Venus of Willendorf and the cave paintings at Lascaux, artists have focused on the human form as inspiration. This holds true today, when the affordability, convenience, and increasing sophistication of digital photography technology means many more photographers pursue model photography. Model photographer Ron Davis stipulates that model photography differs from photographing portraits of people in general because models understand how to collaborate with a photographer to create a strong image. This experience on the part of the model allows the photographer to focus on the technical aspects of creating a good photograph.
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Instructions
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Preparation
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Formalize the concepts or ideas for a photo shoot. Some photographers like to work off a narrative story for the model to act out, while some may focus on design elements like color, style, or attitude. Write down several ideas, including thoughts about wardrobe, makeup style, and location. Consider the time needed to complete the shoot, and whether the idea requires props, specialized lighting, or a model of a specific body type or style.
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Contact potential models through local agencies or through websites like Modelmayhem.com, Onemodelplace.com, or Zivity.com. Share your ideas and concepts for a photo shoot with the model and solicit his feedback. Presenting several concepts to potential models allows them to chose their favorite idea. When a model personally connects with a concept, better images result. After agreeing on a concept, schedule a specific date and time to meet and shoot.
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Consider hiring a professional team to help during the shoot. Professional photographer Lisa Bettany recommends purchasing the services of a makeup artist, which average around $40, to create the highest-quality images. Some beginning makeup artists barter their services in return for images to use in their portfolio. Photographers can hire makeup artists by contacting local beauty schools, salons or modeling websites. Other useful staff include photographer's assistants and wardrobe and hair stylists. Photographer's assistants help carry equipment, set up lights, and run errands for last minute needs.
During the Shoot
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Professional photographers recommend maintaining a relaxed and comfortable environment during the shoot. Monitor the temperature, especially if the model is wearing very thick or thin clothes. Select music that suits the desired attitude of the shoot, and keep up a friendly, light conversation. When shooting digital photography, take short breaks to show the model the images.
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Decide which features to emphasize in the photographs and direct the model accordingly. Experienced models know how to present themselves for the camera in the most flattering way, and photographers should allow experienced or professional models to take charge of posing for at least part of the shoot.
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Make composition and focus your priority. Explore unusual angles or perspectives and experiment with manipulating the rule of thirds. Keep an eye on the background, and avoid shooting a cluttered or messy space unless this fits the intended concept. Don't be afraid to reshoot out-of-focus images.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask the model to bring his or her photo identification to shoot, and before taking any pictures, photograph the ID. This allows you to verify the model's age and identity.
Photographer Lisa Bettany tells photographers "don't be a creep." Proper etiquette demands that photographers not touch models during shoots or ask them out on a date. Do not pressure a model to shoot content that passes her limits.
References
- Deviant Art: news: Useful Tips While Photographing Models
- Mostly Lisa: Mostly Lisa's Guide to Photographing Models
- Digital Photography School: Digital Photography Tips and Tools
- Met Museum: Lascaux (ca. 15,000 B.C.)
- Outlaw Design Blog: The Future of Stock Photography
- Photographer and Model: Model Photography: What is It?
Resources
- Photo Credit photographer image by sasha from Fotolia.com
