In this guide, we will be explaining how to prepare for a photoshoot as a model. Congratulations, you have booked a shoot… but now you’re not sure what to expect? You may be new to the industry or a seasoned pro, however much experience you have, it's super important to be well-prepared. Here are a few handy pointers about how you can be best prepared for a photo shoot, enabling you and the client to get the best from the day...

Shoot Details

One of the best tips on how to prepare for a photoshoot as a model is that you know all of the details for your shoot.  Here are some of the things you should look out for - if you don’t have these details make sure you ask:

• Shoot location/meeting point
• Call times
• Will there be a hair and makeup artist/manicurist on set? If you will be doing your own, what does the client want you to do?  Asking for example pictures is always a good option.
• Does the client want you to bring any wardrobe?
• Who is the contact on set if you get lost or in case of an emergency?
  
  

As your bookers, we will do all of the work for you collecting these details and will put it all together clearly in a booking confirmation. We will send this info to you as soon as we have it, this may be a few days in advance but, more often than not, we don't receive these details until the day before.

Other things to look out for are call sheets or role briefs.  These are not always given out for every shoot but it is best to familiarise yourself with them should they be sent through.

For some shoots call sheets will be provided which will include all shoot details such as times, location, the team on set and their contact details.  It is a good idea to have a read and familiarise yourself with this prior to the shoot.

Role briefs can give you an insight into the role you may be asked to play on set.

Do Your Research

Another important tip on how to prepare for a photoshoot as a model is that it’s a great bonus to clients when a model has done their research of the brand/company before the shoot.  What is the shoot for?  Familiarise yourself with the client/product and what they do. Take a look at some of their previous shoots.  It may give you a better understanding of what may be required of you on the day and a good talking point between yourself and the client.

Plan Ahead

It is important to check out your travel well before the shoot. How do you plan to get to the shoot? What is the quickest route and what time do you need to set off?  Knowing your route will mean you can plan for any disruptions and arrive at the set on time.  There are lots of amazing apps out there that can help you navigate your way around London but one of our favourites is City Mapper.

Practise Your Poses

Another tip on how to prepare for a photoshoot as a model is that practice makes perfect! So you have done your research, now what? It’s time to practise, practice, practice! At home you have the benefit of practising in front of a mirror, you can see what works and what doesn’t. It's your job to work well on camera and give a variety of looks and poses - a photographer's job is to worry about the lighting and pictures - not direct the model, so it is always a good idea to know your angles!

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Pack Your Bag

It's so important to have everything organised the night before a shoot.  That way everything is ready for you to grab and go the next day.  Plus you have the added bonus of being able to catch some extra ZZZ’s in the morning.  As well as the items the client has requested you bring, you may also want to consider:

• Make-up wipes and a hair band. For removing make-up after the shoot.
• A refillable water bottle. Helping you do your bit for the environment, as well as keeping you hydrated.
• Snacks – you can never be certain when food will arrive on set and whether you will like it (we are talking to all those fussy eaters out there).
• Nude underwear is a MUST even if not requested by the client. If you don’t have a set of seamless nude underwear and/or strapless nude bra, now is a great time to invest in some.  The stylist on set will thank you for it, as this will go under any outfit!
• A book to keep you entertained whilst you are not on set. Depending on how many models are being shot on the day there may be some downtime.  It's great to take something with you to keep you busy.

Get Lots Of Rest

The night before a shoot should always be about getting lots of rest and taking care of your skin.  Make sure you get a good night's sleep so your body is fully re-charged for a day on set.  Staying hydrated and eating healthily before a shoot will also ensure your energy levels are up and that you feel good on set.

Relax, And Have Fun!

The final tip on how to prepare for a photoshoot as a model and the most important one is to relax and have fun, as this will come across to the client!

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