- Take loads of pictures. Professionals keep only between 1-10% of photos they take. Models don’t just walk on to the set, take a photo, and that’s it. They change angles and what they are doing. The greater the selection, the better.
- Posture and angles. Lengthen the neck, and tilt the chin just a bit. Do not slouch. Keep your shoulders back. If you are standing – turn slightly and rest your weight on your back leg. Don’t keep your legs together and shoulders straight. Lean toward the camera and angle your face and/or body. Ensure the lens is above you, if the photographer is shorter than you, move to an area where they can stand on something or you can get below the lens.
- Facial expressions. Laugh and smile. Look slightly above the lens. Try looking away from the camera and a few facial expressions. Candid shots are engaging and more interesting than the traditional front facing shots.
- Eyes. Your eyes are the key. Holding a pose and keeping your eyes engaged is difficult. So, close your eyes and then open them. Look away, then look back to the camera. Do something unexpected. Talk to the photographer. Face your eyes towards the light source: catch lights create sparkle and immediately add life to your eyes. If you are outdoors, stand in the shade, and face the light. If you are indoors, face a window at an angle.
- What you are wearing. Wear a colour that flatters you. Don’t wear clothes that have crazy patterns, it will distract from your photo. Also make sure your clothes aren’t wrinkled or bunching up, it can add weight if clothes are too baggy
- Hair and beauty. Make sure your hair is brushed, you don’t want a stray hair distracting. If you have a blemish or anything, try and cover it as much as possible.
- Lighting. Don’t take photos in direct sunlight. This is unflattering and will cause harsh shadows. Move into the shade, or make sure the flash is bouncing off the wall.
- Background. You don’t want your background to be a distraction. Take a look at what is behind you. You don’t want a tree growing out of your head. Aim for a clean and simple background that contrasts with you. If you have black hair, stay away from a dark black background. If you are wearing all white, you may not want to stand directly in front of an all-white background.
- Move around and dance. Try not to appear too tense and rigid. Dance around a little and shake out your body.
- Take advantage of props. Do something with your hands and use props.
