INTERNATIONAL MODEL MAGAZINE

 On a recent episode of "Americas next Top Model" Fashion Photographer Nigel say's the number one rule is, You must be act playful, upbeat and positive! It really comes across in your photos and makes it easier for the photographer to catch that one perfect shot that will make you stand out for your clients.

TIPS BEFORE A FASHION MODELING SHOOT.     by Steven Gardner

1. Look in high fashion magazines or catalogs for poses. pay attention to your hips, hand and arm placement then practice those poses in front of a full length mirror.

2. Pay attention to your head tilt, Your hair position and facial expressions. Remember, model see, model do. Attitude sells.

3. In fashion modeling, Practice showing your pockets, collars, belts and shoes. Try to draw attention to them. Remember you are modeling a clients clothes and products not yourself.

4. Attention to lipstick and makeup is very important. Great makeup will give a high fashion look to your photos. Delicious glosses, wet shining pinks, red lipstick, and eye makeup that opens and draws attention to your eyes will pop in your photos. Study the looks on this website and high fashion magazines for examples then practice your makeup in the mirror.

5. Its very Important to get a good nights rest the day before a shoot. keep partying to a minimum. Being tired will definitely show in your photos. Not only in your face but in your energy.

6. If attending a portfolio photo shoot, wardrobe is generally not in included. Dress as fashionable as possible, Select three outfits that best show your waistline. Heels will make you appear more slender and help your pose by making it easier to arch your hips and chest & shoulder's.

7. The only way to learn fashion or photo modeling is to get in front of a camera with actual shoots. Experience is still the best teacher. Avoid portrait & mall photographers, they generally will not give you the look or style needed for a professional portfolio. True fashion photographers for new models are not easy to find but can be found by searching the web or other sources If you do find a fashion photographer willing to use you for a test shoot ask for as many test shoots as possible to build your portfolio. Most photographers love what they do as well and tend to build a relationship with favorite models that know how to work the camera. Trying different looks and locations make the job fun and exciting. After all, that's what modeling is all about.

8. Some test shoots are free and are valuable to gain experience in modeling. The photographer generally has rights to your photos and will have you sign a simple release form outlining those rights. Your finished and edited photos will be yours to keep after a few days. These photos are now yours to reprint anytime you like to add to your portfolio or give prospective clients in order for you to find work. A paid and contracted test shoot can cost from $150.00 to $1200.00 or $75.00 to $250.00 per hour depending the photographers reputation, how many photos, looks and locations are used.

9. T. F. P.

or T.F.C.D (Trade For Prints/Cd) This is a standard term you will here often in your modeling career. This is when a photographer see' s a special look that you have, and is willing to trade his time in exchange for prints or a Cd so that you both can build your portfolio's. This is a rare opportunity for you, If you find a really great photographer you should ask for as many sessions as possible to build your portfolio of looks. if you truly want to find modeling work, you must keep your portfolio fresh and up to date with as many varieties of fashion styles as possible. If you only model sexy clothes and bathing suits the only modeling work you'll find is bikini and men's magazine style work. If you want to be a real fashion model and truly taken serious as one, Its important capture as many photos styles as possible in your portfolio. Think of yourself as the person wanting to hire you for work, what type of photos would impress you? Beauty and high fashion sells.