Most photographers will at some point in their careers have to work with models. It is therefore important to know what to expect when working with a model.
The modelling world can be broken down into three categories:
(i) Models that operate in major cities and work for agencies that put them forward for in-person castings.
(ii) Standard agency represented models.
(iii) Independently represented models.
With the new influx of photographers, there has also been a huge increase in the number of models in the industry as well. Long gone are the days when the only way to hire a model was through a modelling agency.
Here is a modelling photography guide for beginning photographers and where you as a photographer can find free models for photography:
1. ASK YOUR FRIENDS TO MODEL.
By photographing people you know, you will improve your communication skills and quickly learn to control the shooting subject. In the future, you will be able to better communicate your ideas and requirements to professional models.
2. SEARCH FOR TALENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA.
There are many non-agency and freelance models ready to take part in photo sessions and their services are cheaper.
Look for talents through specialist groups on Facebook and browse the feed of your favourite Instagram photographers; they often tag the person they’ve photographed. Contact people, you like and offer them a Trade for Print (TFP) shoot.
3. USE MODEL NETWORKING SITES.
You should consider specialized websites such as; Model Mayhem, which is a platform that provides a great source of information for photographers, models, fashion designers, Make up artists and agencies.
Other modelling websites include; One Model Place and Port box which you can use especially if you’re new to the industry.
4. OUTSOURCE THE EDITING FOR QUICKER TURNAROUND.
If you have no experience in editing but still want to achieve professional results, you can hire professional post-production services to do the task for you.
5. CREATE A MOODBOARD BEFORE THE SHOOT.
You can use Moodboard apps like Pinterest, Moodzer or MilaNote to create it. Experts advise using about 15 pictures.
6. DEMONSTRATE POSES FOR YOUR MODEL TO REPEAT.
Find interesting poses on Instagram or Pinterest and show them to girls so they know what you want to see.
7. LEARN THE MOST POPULAR LIGHTING SCHEMES.
For a modelling photo shoot, high-key techniques are the most suitable. They help get fewer shadows and contrasts.
When working on a low-key photography project, you should pay special attention to the shadows as they can both emphasize a model’s outfit and ruin everything.
8. CREATE A PORTFOLIO TO BE EASILY FOUND ONLINE.
You can use Squarespace and Wix which are popular portfolio website builders to create a simple and user-friendly gallery.
Don’t use too many pictures; use 20 pictures utmost.