Now that we have covered what to look for in a photographer, let’s discuss what to look for in models. Searching for the right model can be very… I wont say hard, I’ll say challenging lol, it can be very challenging. Using the right model can make or break your entire picture. As you search for models, you will find that not every “model” can model.
The model is just as important as the photographer, if not more important than the photographer. The model helps to sell the service or product for you. Think about it for a minute. Take a look at magazines and social media, the way the model wears the outfit or makeup will create the desire for you to have that same look. Social media is as big as it is now because people love to see who’s wearing what, who did so-and-so’s makeup, what did they use, who does their hair, are those her lashes or lash extensions… the questions can really go on and on. But the question that is the most common is, “where and how can I get that look?” It matters who you use. The right model can help you create a burning desire for others to seek you out for your services. The right model can give you more eyes on your business and convert them to a client.
When looking for a model, a pretty face is NOT enough. There are many beautiful people in the world, but if they do not know their angles and how to portray a different emotion other than “sexy and I know it”, it is pointless to use them. Don’t choose someone based on their appearance, choose them based on their skill. You will be disappointed if you choose based on looks and you will feel like you’ve wasted time.
Some models are great at certain things. When I browse a model’s Instagram, I pay close attention to the styles of makeup she does well. Models, just like any creative, will try many different genres of makeup before they find what works for them. Do not choose a model that models beautiful everyday makeup for an editorial avant-garde makeup shoot. She ain’t gone know what to do with herself! Some models model best with things that are within their comfort zone, if you take them two far left, their discomfort will show and the result you were looking for won’t happen at all. Now don’t get me wrong, you may find one that will knock it out of the park on their first try, but gamble at your own risk.
You can also ask the photographer you’re working with for suggestions. Photographers work with so many people and they also have a list of people they would love to work with. Getting suggestions from the photographer is a great way to know a little more about the model and how they are to work with. I have worked with some models that weren’t timely, didn’t show up at all, or just a pretty face. Believe me, it made my job a lot harder because I’m not a model coach so I wasn’t great at giving direction. A great model helps you out a lot! If you’re like me, you love people who need little to no direction.
Lay out your expectations early! Let the model know what kind of shoot you’re doing, how they should arrive on set, what things they need to bring for the shoot, and that it is a Trade For Print opportunity. Be very clear from the beginning so that there isn’t any misunderstandings on the day of. I can not tell you how many times I have requested specific things and models show up with broken nails, chipped polish, full faces of makeup from the night before, hair styled in a way that wasn’t suggested for the shoot, and/or have a poor attitude. I have learned to speak up for myself and make mental notes of everything.
Pinterest is a great way to prepare for the shoot. When giving the model details about the shoot, you can send them pictures of the suggested hair style you would like them to have for the shoot and suggested poses for the shoot. This helps to put a picture to the description you’ve given them. Even though I have grown to be very specific, I have learned to show pictures of what I expect. Errors slow down how quickly you can get the job done. When a model comes in with a full face of makeup, that takes away time from you starting their makeup and shooting on time. When they come late, that takes away from you starting on time. When they do not show up, that wastes your time because it’s hard to find a replacement model last minute.
Keep in mind the theme for your photoshoot and choose the model and photographer based on that. If you find one good model, roll with her until you can find others. Don’t get discouraged, your career is counting on you to keep trying! I hope you all enjoyed this blog post. Please let me know in the comments your experience with finding models!
-Love, Peace, & Beauty
ylps 
Leave a comment