Modeling is not just about a beautiful girl and a photo. Lots of pretty girls can get great photos taken of them and still not be a great model themselves. There are so many different things that make up a great model.




First of all you need to be responsible. That means being on time for the shoot, preferably early. You has to be ready to shoot when the time comes and if that means you need some extra time to prepare hair and makeup before the shoot, then you have to plan your time accordingly. Be in the proper outfit as needed. DO KNOW what kind of look the photographer is looking for. If he is expecting "punk" and you show up looking like you're ready to go to the Ball, then you just wasted time and probably money for both of you. When you get in front of the camera you must show a good attitude, and I don't mean have an attitude... You have to follow instructions and ask questions if there is something you don't understand. You are going to need to work the camera from various angles, move smoothly from pose to pose, and not be distracted by anything away from the camera and the photographer.



There must a connection with the camera and photographer. No blank stares here or photos that look like you are dead in your expressions. Think of an emotion from lust to hate to sexiness to happy, mad and so on. Make the look and feelings come alive. Don't just look happy - be happy!



A sense of humor is a great plus. You don't need to be a stand up comic but you do need to have some feelings that are pleasant and that show. It will make the shoot go easier for you and the photographer. If you are just there and plan to be "all business", the shoot is going to fall flat somewhere along the way -- and it probably won't take long.



Last of all when the shoot is over, thank the photographer and any assistants, hair and makeup people etc. If your photographer asks that you contact him after you get the photos and to give him your honest opinion, he means it. Don't just assume that because you get the photos and like them that everyone else will know your feelings. If there is something wrong, say so. It might mean getting some more photos done the way you thought they should be and it may keep another model from having the same problems. If there is something you did wrong, don't blame the photographer of the assistants. Take the responsibility and learn from it! Go on to do better the next time and each time after that too.



If you follow some of these simple rules, you're going to have a better experience, better photos and everyone involved will be pleased. They will remember you the next time they need a model like you. Chances are they will also recommend you to others and that can't be bad. Remember - you never get a second chance to make a good "first" impression!