Got my first shoot with a model that isn't a friend in a couple of weeks and I'll admit that I'm a bit nervous. Do you guys have any hints or tips that will make it enjoyable for the both of us, from what I can tell she has quite a bit of experience in modelling. Any ideas so I don't come off as a bumbling amateur?
What are you planning to shoot? Formal poses? Fashion shots? Stock material? Indoors, in studio or on location? I suggest you decide a definite direction for the shoot, then research to get a list of poses and/or props that you will need. Either way, if she is a seasoned model she will KNOW that you are new, no getting around that. But... it could work to your advantage. You could ask her to help you find the poses that work best for her body type - great chance to learn from someone who knows.
Get a gold or silver reflector, an extra set of hands doesn't hurt and just BREATHE. You will probably come out of the shoot faring better than you thought you would. Stay out of hard sun and see if you can find an area with diffused light (overcast sky or under a canopy of trees).
Thanks for the tips guys, We are shooting indoors, in what is essentially my studio (paper roll background and studio lighting set up in the living room) we are going for a Calvin Klein underwear style of shot. and then she wants to do some darker more directional lighting shots (like the ones in my portfolio with Graeme.) I should have added that its a shoot with her and Graeme so hopefully having a good friend involved with the modelling will help keep me grounded as I have worked with him a couple of times.
If you plan on doing model shoots/portraits often, get the cheapest most used Canon lens around... the 50mm 1.8. Brand new this thing is under $90. The 1.8 gets great bokkeh and is fast and sharp.
Do something offbeat.
Before actually shooting have a stare-down contest - twice.
It will be silly, but will break the ice, and after that, well, just let it flow. Don't be afraid to keep the ice broken by being silly between clicks. Natural body english, expressions, eyes and smiles can't be faked. (well they can, but look so wrong)
