How to prepare for your first photo shoot

Posted by: Rowell Photography | April 13th, 2010 | Posted in: Modern Photographers

View Photographer Profile

Last week we shot Tori’s creative modeling photo session in Toronto, along with the head shots of 5 actors from the Fulcher Agency. I really love the soft look our amazing team of artists created for her, we really love these images.

For models and actors, spring is the best time of year to be updating your portfolio if you are a model looking to do a creative photo shoot or an actor looking for updated head shots. Photo shoots done in the spring can usually last a model or actor until the winter season. Its your best investment to re-new your portfolio in the spring.

When models and actors ask us what they should wear to their first photo shoots, we like to give them a little list that consists of 3 outfits, sporting 3 different looks.

1. Something causal: maybe jeans and a t-shirt, polo shirt. Keep it really simple for the casual look, no logos or text on shirts, no crazy patterns, solid colors work best.

2. Something dressy: I like to see guys in a dress shirt (with sleeves) and dress pants and shoes. Girls I like to see a dress, or skirt and nice top. Nothing too low cut, nothing embarrassingly short, and once again steer clear of too many patterns.

3. Choose an outfit of your choice. I suggest an outfit that you know you look good in. It can be casual or dressy, or a mix of the two (which is what most bring). Male models and actors usually wear jeans, a dress shirt and a trendy jacket. Girls will wear something form fitting and a color that really flatters their shape.

All clothes must be clean and pressed. Please bring shoes that go with EACH outfit you could wear. Bring options to go through with the photographer or stylist. Do not think for one moment that it is okay to wear “skate shoes” for a photo shoot. Unless you are a skate boarder, this is not okay.

Its important to understand that head shots are your first impression to an agent, or casting director. The images have to look like YOU! So don’t go curling your hair if you always wear it straight, or dying your hair a color you don’t intend on keeping. Keep it real, and natural. Also jewelery is a big NO. Its distracting, and when agents and casting directors look at your image they want to see you, not the giant rock on your finger or the friendship bracelets you got at camp. Take them off.

When it comes to make up, please hire a professional. We have spoken to many agents, casting directors, and various industry people who all agree that less is more with make up for your head shots, kids typically do not need makeup, and most male models do not require make up for head shots either.

So that is just a small note on how to prep are for your photo shoot. When it comes to creative photo shoots with themes and locations, discuss your ideas with the photographer ahead of time, and come in with a plan, and come ready to play.

If you have any questions regarding head shots, creative photo shoots or how to prepare for your upcoming shoot, please leave us your questions in the comments section below and we will be sure to answer it.

Enjoy these images of Tori!

Makeup by: Krystie Ann

Hair by: Michelle P.

Dress by: Shkank Inc. Toronto

model life How to prepare for your first photo shoot