The reason that photographers and clients hire professional models is because they have the look, but also because they have proven to show the characteristics of a good model. By developing these attributes and bringing them to every shoot you can make a name for yourself as being a professional model that is easy to work with and helps get good results. Better shoots and greater paydays await those that can make this kind of name.

Expression

Facial expression is a vital part of modeling. The majority of shoots will require a certain facial expression, and the preference is for a more natural look than a forced or contrived facial pose. You should practice regular facial expressions in the mirror at home and before you go to interviews or shoots. But, remember, they can look very different when done on camera so be prepared to take direction initially if you aren’t getting it quite right.

Poses

There was once a stock set of poses that models were required to call upon, but this is no longer the case. You should be in reasonable physical position to become a model and you should also learn to stretch and strike natural poses. Look in magazines or look at shoots of the type you will be trying to land to get the most relevant poses for your line of modeling. Again, practice is the key element to getting poses just right. Some shoots and some clients may want very different poses, so be prepared to learn as you go.

Make Up

Not every shoot will include a professional make up artist, and even when one is on hand you should have some idea or corrective make up techniques just in case. Make up for photo shoots is very different to make up for going out around town. While you can practice applying make up in various styles in front of the mirror, it is only once you’re in front of camera that you will see just how successful that practice has been.

Hair Styling

A hair stylist is another luxury that may not be available on every shoot. When there is no hair stylist you will be expected to be able to style your own hair. Magazines and photographs are the best place to look for ideas. Find the popular styles and try to emulate them. Keep practicing until you can quickly change from one style to another because this may be necessary in the middle of a shoot.

Wardrobe

For most professional shoots you will either have the appropriate outfit provided for you, or at the very least be told what you will need to wear. For your own zed card or portfolio, and even for some low budget markets, this may not be the case. For most shoots you should be able to get a good idea of the style of photographs that will be taken – pack some clothes (and an iron to get rid of the creases made from travel) that fit you well and are in keeping with the style of shoot.

Become Employable

These are a staple part of being a successful model and if you can perform all of these tasks at the drop of a hat then you instantly become more employable. Word will get around and clients will look to book you again and again for their shoots. Photographers will certainly prefer to work with you because you make their job much easier if you know what you’re doing.

sarah ferguson is the founder of sfviper.com america’s next top model website. her first product will be a 52 week national calendar with winners chosen to represent their state.

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