Finally, you’ve landed your first fashion shoot. But the problem is, you don’t know what to do and you don’t know what to expect. I was the same when I first got a project. Believe me, before I was this confident, I was such a nervous little puppy too. It took me quite a while to get all things done without being awkward in front of the camera. I always had a “warm-up” time before I can finally unleash the sexy beast in me that wanted this job all my life. I have to remind you though that your nervousness will definitely show up on cam, so you have to do whatever it takes to calm your nerves and look as confident as possible.
First things first: Be on time. It’s a constant reminder that you should tell yourself. Even if it’s just 5 minutes of being late can affect you. It doesn’t matter if you’re 10 minutes early or 30 minutes early, as long as you’re not late.
Long Day Ahead
Be prepared to spend the entire day for that shoot. Your call time may be early and pack up time may be late, but you have to remember that in order to produce great results, it may take time and an ample amount of sweat to have things the way they should be. Sometimes, you may even have to work into the night depending on the urgency of the shoot and if they get the shots they needed or not. The trick here is to really work together with the production team and take note of what they want the outcome to be. The earlier you are able to get the good shots, the earlier you can all go home. Let’s just say that it all depends on how you manage to do it right. That’s quite a heavy weight to carry, right?
Your day can last 12 hours or longer. But it is advised that you ask your agency about the overtime policies just to make sure.
Makeup or No Makeup?
This isn’t for you to decide all the time, but you should be told about specific instructions like this. Sometimes, you would be required to wear no makeup if there’s a makeup artist on set. Most of the time, they do have them on set so don’t go through the hassle of putting on a face full of makeup before going to the shoot.
However, it is advised that you know how to prepare for a photoshoot, such as making sure that your skin is prepped the night before and it’s in its best condition.
The Crew
Fashion shoots and other modeling sessions usually involve a photographer, lighting assistant, hair, and makeup, a dress stylist and for bigger shoots, more crew members. You may take the time to talk to them if you want to. It doesn’t hurt to get to know the people around you and to possibly make friends. Who knows, they might have bigger connections or that you’ll get to see them next time. It’s easier to feel comfortable in an environment wherein there are familiar people around.
Break Time
Everyone gets tired. You may be given a few minutes break especially if the shoot is expected to take long. Normally, there’s a catering table where you can grab a few bites and something to drink. Most of the time, they provide breakfast and lunch. For me, I like taking this opportunity to have a few snacks while I rest and listen to my favorite music. Getting a break is better than no break at all, so I really try and maximize the minutes that I have.
“Weather” You Like it or Not
The shoot could be anywhere! It can be a parking lot, a factory, on the streets, a park or anywhere else. Expect the weather to not always cooperate. It can be scorching hot, raining or even be extremely cold. That’s just one of the not so glamorous side of modeling, but also one of the things that we have to endure. Make sure that you bring water to keep you hydrated throughout the day especially if it’s hot outside. Personally, I like drinking lemon water with cucumber slices just to keep me feeling refreshed and hydrated all day.
Reminders
You have to listen carefully to what the photographer wants you to do. Although sometimes, you just have to go with the feeling and vision of how he or she wants it. However, if you are being asked to do something that makes you uncomfortable, such as something that is sexual in nature or to wear a revealing outfit and you did not sign up for something like that, you don’t have to comply. Contact your agent as soon as possible and let them know about the incident.
While these reminders may not exactly arm you for the best, the rest is up to you to find out. Learn to enjoy the pros and cons of modeling, and you’ll find yourself loving the job twice as much, just like I do!
Tags: fashion shoot, how to become a model, modeling advice
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