How to Photograph a Model

Working with a professional model is a joy for any photographer. A good model knows how to do her make-up well and is natural at posing. Many of my photo shoots required a make-up artist and a hair stylist to make sure that the model had the look that the client wanted for the photograph.

In front of the camera a professional model will move with elegance and it is the job of the photographer to direct her movement to achieve the look he wants. Those who are studying to be models need more direction. Give real clear instructions as to the placement of hands, movement and angle of the body and the look that you are trying to achieve.

A photographer who is learning how to photograph models should study the pictures in fashion magazines such as Vogue, In Style, Bazaar or any others. Mimic what you see in some of these magazines until you start to develop a style that is uniquely yours.

For the beginning photographer find a student model that knows how to move in front of the camera and is very good at doing her make-up and hair. A professional model can be very expensive, but you may be able to save some money by offering a trade for a model portfolio or head sheet.

The more models that you photograph the better photographer you will become. Try offering your services at a reduced rate to a local modeling school. There are many schools in the bigger cities and many of them are looking for good deals for their students. Take the time to create an impressive portfolio before approaching any of the modeling schools. If your photographs are good enough, you may be lucky enough to get an exclusive contract with the school to do all their photographs.

It is important for the photographer to learn something about the proper make-up for photography. The better the make-up the better your photograph will be. Check out some of my other articles about doing make-up for photography.