my first photoshoot

[ritchieroy]

a friend of mine invited me to benefit photoshoot in a golf course this coming saturday. im really excited about it as this is my first photoshoot with models but it also frightens me coz i really dont know what to do...or what to say. though i can say that these models do know how to pose but still i need to say something or give some instructions to get a good pose and have a great portrait...but what are those words? should i use 18-55 or 55-200 lens?please guys i do need your help..

[oldwolf]

Models put their pants on one leg at a time just like the rest of us do. Be polite with them and treat them the way you'd want a stranger to treat you. Don't ever touch the model unless they specifically give you permission to. Talk to them like they're normal people, which they are.

For posing and stuff, show them how you want them to look. Show them the pose and have them copy it. Out of ideas for poses? Go to a bookstore or library and grab a few magazines. Look through them to see how people are posing. Buy a few magazines and rip out the pages to take with you in a little folder in case you run out of ideas. I put poses on my iphone in case I run out of ideas. You can also google poses and make a pose sheet that you can take with you.

Let them know how you want to take pictures. Do you want them to change poses after every shot you take or after every two shots you take? I normally like after every two shots so I can get two different angles of the same pose.

I normally shoot with a 24-70mm or a 50-135mm. In your case I'd probably put the 55-200 on there and just move further away from the model if you're 55 is getting too close.

Oh, don't hit on the models. Complimenting them is great but don't be a creepy photographer that hits on all models. If something is wrong (i.e. exposure is off), don't say outloud, "That's not good". They'll think they are not good. Instead say, "The exposure is off; let me fix it" or "I screwed up with the exposure; let me change it real quick."

Make them laugh and don't take yourself so seriously. Most models appreciate that. If you smile then they'll smile. If they see that you're enthusiastic and having fun then they'll pick up on that vibe. If you can have music playing then bring some music to play.

[ritchieroy]

thanks for this great advice oldwolf...i would definitely abide by those rules.

[GuruBhai]

Treat them the same way as you would like to get treated from a Stranger.

[Glayva]

A tip I have found really works is to spend 5 to 10 minutes talking about anything that you feel qualms both you and your model. Try to show, in your voice, your keenness to get some great shots and do tell them, female or male, that they look good. I do reiterate what has been said before, never blame the model for mistakes made - it is always your fault. Laugh, be happy and enjoy the experience. Good luck!

[Pichead]

A few things:

First, search for photos online that feature similar situations which you'll encounter. You'll be at a golf course? I'm sure there are tons of images online of photos taken in vast, outdoor areas. Make a list of poses/shots that you like and have it on hand during the shoot. Write down potential camera settings from the sample image EXIF Info. Don't be tied to those, but use them as a starting point. I even will sketch the scene, using rough figures, light positions, etc.

Next, don't be afraid to throw it back to them. Meaning, they're models. They've done this before. They will probably feel comfortable initiating poses, expressions, etc. Keep control and provide guidance, but also don't be afraid to get their opinions or to let them recommend certain shots.

And, try to have an assistant. It's often hard to have your eye to the camera, ready to take the image, while also coordinating all the poses, etc. When I have someone with me who can hold a reflector/flash, or watch for people getting too spread out, etc., the shoot always goes more smoothly. The person doesn't have to be a photographer. They just need common sense and the ability to listen to your direction...

I think if you follow those guidelines, you'll do fine...

[ritchieroy]

thanks guys...

12 photographers & 20models showed up for the benefit event...5-10mins for each model. got only 8.

i did prepare enough for the shoot as what you all suggested but it was all gone when i was there...most of the photographers had great gears...far beyond what i have..but still i was trying to be calm and pretend to be a good photog. what really intimidates me was my first model...she was experienced and maybe didnt like a newbie to take her photos...so i just do what i have to do...shoot!!! the rest was awesome.. i was able to give instructions abit.

heres what i took...

[dannyrich]

Excellent advice Wolf. I concur with all that he said and just be generally, polite sincere and make the models at ease. You'll get the more relaxed pictures that way.