How to prepare for your shoot.

Do you want to strike the right pose? Why not practice before the shoot?
You now have some striking poses.
You can also look on the internet for poses. Bring cheap black and whites printouts with you to your photgrapher.
Don’t simply copy a pose. Use it as your guide and add some imagination.

Arrive at the shoot dressed comfortably. Don’t wear tight underwear that might leave marks.
There won’t be time to get rid of it. A bra strap on an exposed back doesn’t look professional.

If a make-up artist is going to be present don’t wear any make-up. Removing it only waist time.
In the event of an own make-up shoot discuss the requirements beforehand.
Men please bring some base. Don't be embarrassed.

Most important of all. Enjoy and have fun.

Important
S a f e t y
Tips for Models

Choose your photographer wisely – especially if it’s your first professional shoot.
Anybody can walk around with a camera around their neck. You have the right to check out his/her experience – does he have a website (and not one registered with some funny,
long, free domain name and Hotmail address)

No touching. The photographer must tell or show you what to do. The makeup artist or stylist (if applicable) may do it within the parameters of their job.

Discuss the shoot before booking an appointment. Tell the photographer what you have in mind, and make sure he knows exactly what you’re prepared to do and what not – BEFORE the shoot.
Don’t let some dodgy guy smooth talk you out of your clothes when you’re on the spot. If you feel uncomfortable during the shoot – SAY SO. Never do anything you don’t want to!

Can some of my friends come with? No, it’s not a party, but do bring one good friend or trusted family member with to help you relax. A boyfriend or girlfriend is usually not a good choice,
because they might affect the atmosphere.

ALWAYS SIGN A MODEL RELEASE FORM BEFORE THE SHOOT. It’s in your best interest and the photographer’s.
Don’t forget to bring your Id, passport or driver’s licence as a form of legal identification.

If you’re under 18 – bring a parent or legal guardian with to sign the model release form. NEVER spend time alone with a photographer. According to law, the minimum clothing for children under 18
is lingerie presented in a non-provocative way. Despite this law no credible photographer will do it anyway. Provocative or not. It's a big NO.
A photographer who puts himself in this position is a fool. This is not negotiable.

Make sure someone knows where you are. Give somebody your cell number and the time and place of the shoot.
Keep your cell phone on during the shoot. It can be disruptive, but your safety comes first!

Inspect the changing area. Look out for hidden cameras and oneway mirrors. Many “nice guys” have been caught before. Make sure you get away and report the “photographer” to the police.
How many of you know for sure that the seemingly ordinary mirror hanging on the wall is a real mirror, or actually, a 2-way mirror (i.e., they can see you, but you can't see them)?\

Trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t right. Pack up and leave – rather safe than sorry.

How to smile?
Learning how to smile sounds ridiculous - surely everyone can do it? In fact, smiling 'to order' is a real skill, and one that professional models need to master.
To improve your smiling skills, position yourself in front of a mirror and practise the following steps.

Put your lips together without moving them. Look at your face in the mirror, concentrating on the eyes.
At first, they're lifeless. Now lift up the corners of your mouth and watch your eyes come alive.
To create a smile, say "MMM" without opening your mouth. No teeth should be showing.
Don't forget to turn the corners of your mouth up.
To create a broader smile, say "MMM" again with your mouth still closed and again, don't forget to turn up the corners of the mouth.
This time say "ME", whilst opening your mouth and showing your teeth but keeping it soft.
Next say "ME" again, this time with a big smile showing all your teeth.
When you say "HEY," you produce a very natural facial expression. Say "HEY" and hold it - you will notice your tongue is coming forward and your lips are apart.
Now try it again, saying "HEY" with a smiling expression.
Create a gaunt look by saying the word "POOR", keeping the lips very soft and sultry and holding for a few seconds.
To achieve an open and happy laugh try saying "HAA", remembering to focus your gaze on someone or something to avoid a "lifeless" look.