Photo Shoot Preparation & Model Kit
Okay ladies, you know you want to look good for your shoot or
you wouldn’t have an interest in modeling. Follow these steps
and you will arrive at the shoot fully prepared to deliver amazing
shots. How much time you have to prepare will vary, so adjust
accordingly.
2 Months Before the Shoot
You will almost never have this much time to prepare so
consider this your “always” list. Models must be in top shape at
all times in terms of physique and grooming. These are things
you should always be doing to maintain yourself.
• Spend 5 minutes every day in front of the mirror. Practice
smiling, practice intense looks, practice every face you see
in magazines. Do it until you know what your face feels
like in each expression so you can do it without the mirror
and still nail the right expression. Then, get naked (totally
naked) and practice full body posing. Clothes are a crutch
and to really master the art of posing you must be able to
do it without them. Close the curtains! Copy the models
in magazines and find your most flattering poses, the ones
that show off your assets and minimize your “flaws.” You
may also want to spend time modeling different accessories
such as shoes or purses so that both you and your prop look
good - this will pay off later in ad campaigns!
• Everything that goes in your mouth - food and drink affects your skin, your teeth, your hair, your weight, your
everything. Use your head and eat things as close to their
natural source as possible (fresh fruits & veggies, whole
grains, etc.) and avoid processed foods. Two general rules
of thumb: more packaging = more processing (and less
nutrition) and the longer the ingredient list, the less you
should eat. Want guidance? Go to www.modeldietplan.com
• Alcohol leads to weight gain, a tired and dull complexion,
and spotty skin. Cut back or quit.
• Drink water! You’ve heard it a hundred times but that’s
because it’s so true. A hydrated body has less food cravings,
glowing and clear skin, faster metabolism, detoxed organs,
and much, much more.
• Hit the gym. You won’t get huge, bulging muscles so forget
that old myth right now, you don’t have the testosterone
required for that. Trust me or do some research. Once
you’re done looking that up, begin thinking about your life,
schedule, habits, finances, etc. and figure out what kind of
fitness plan best suits you. If you have tons of money lying
around then feel free to hire a trainer at a gym - or your
house. If you’re like the rest of us, build a plan that fits your
budget. You can get in shape without spending anything
at all, trust me. My favorite resource is www.shape.com,
they have tons of plans for every fitness level and schedule.
Do this and you can strut your hot body for the camera
with confidence. A healthy, toned body looks amazing on
camera and is worth the sweat.
• If you have trouble with your skin start clearing it up now.
Everyone’s skin is different so see a dermatologist or do an
honest assessment of your skin and use reputable products
to correct those problems.
• Make sure your pearly whites are white.
12
NM CliQ Magazine | March 2016
1 to 2 Weeks Before the Shoot
Model: Sierra Dubois
• If you haven’t seen the
Model Release form that
you’ll likely have to sign
after the shoot, ask the
photographer to send it
to you so you can look
it over. If necessary,
have it reviewed by an
attorney.
• Don’t start using any
new makeup or skincare
products, they could
lead to a breakout.
• Keep out of the sun,
it dries your skin and
leaves tan-lines.
• If you want a tan, try
out any self-tanning products at least two to three weeks
before the shoot and make sure you know how to maintain
it.
• Consider your wardrobe. Remember that the focus should
be on YOU, not the clothes, so don’t select wild prints,
bright colors, or anything too baggy or too tight. For
headshots, dark colors and textures show up best.
• Make sure you’re getting lots of sleep to avoid bags under
your eyes.
• Whiten teeth if needed.
• Stop wearing dark nail polish, it leaves a stain on nails and
will show through when you are wearing clear polish.
• If you are going to wax anything (legs, eyebrows, bikini
line, etc.), do it about one week prior to the shoot to allow
any redness and swelling to subside.
2 to 3 Days Before the Shoot
•
Call your photographer; confirm time, location,
wardrobe,and ask any last-minute questions.
• Avoid greasy, spicy, and salty food.
• Get your hair trimmed by your regular stylist if you need it.
This is not the time to try a new style!
• If you dye your hair, make sure your color is good and roots
are not visible. Get a touch-up done if necessary.
• Get a manicure and pedicure or do one yourself. Short
to medium length nails with just a clear coat of polish is
what you want for any job you are doing. If you are doing
a portfolio shoot and prefer something different, make
sure it coordinates with your wardrobe and try to stick to
light, neutral colors. For a do-it-yourself mani/pedi, do
the following:
• File nails to an even, uniform length
• Push back and clean up cuticles
• Apply cuticle oil
• Exfoliate hands/feet and apply deep moisturizer, leave
on overnight
• Use a pumice stone to remove any rough areas on your
feet
• Apply clear or neutral polish