| When planning a fashion shoot there are a few elements that can help you get great shots instead of good ones.
Always suggest setting up a studio atmosphere. If you can work in a studio it’s always best but if not then a front room or dining area cleared out will do just fine. Using things such as bed sheets or fabric for back drops is great for a first time shoot.
Having a friend or relative pose for you is great for setting up, but it’s easier for you to learn as a photographer if you are working with a model who knows how to move without to much direction from you.
If you do not have any connections for makeup or hair, you can always inquire to local beauty schools. Many students are willing to work for free to gain experience and make connections within the industry. I usually make my connections over the web. I like to use www.onemodelplace.com. Here you can view models past photos as well as get a feel for their experience and personality. I exchange websites and let them call me if they are interested in working with me.
When starting out recommend that you offer a TFP situation. TFP means time for prints. Some models and artists work TFCD which means time for photos on a cd so they can print them out themselves. While it is cheaper to offer the photos on a cd rather than you printing them, once you release the photos to them on CD you are giving permission for your images to be reproduced at the models or artists discression.
Usually only do time for prints ( 3 prints per model). This keeps my costs down and still allows me to work with high caliber models.
Another thing to keep in mind that many models are under age and always insist that EVERY model under 19 bring an adult and every model over 19 brings a friend or relative. This keeps the model and you safe, as well as offers a feeling of safety and security when a model has yet to meet up with you. Try to arrange meetings prior to the shoot but this is not always possible.
You can use many sources of light including lamps, or studio lighting, even natural light. Use different types of light and do not be afraid to experiment with different things. Get to know your camera and your light before the shoot. Try to set everything up a few days before and have those friend or family come over to make sure your ready to go when the time for the shoot comes. Nothing is worse than everyone being ready to go and they are waiting for you to figure out why the camera is shooting all black or your flash is firing at the wrong time.
Let your model know that you are new and that you would appreciate any tips or ideas they can offer. Models that have been around for a while have working with photographers and can usually offer great ideas for the shoot and even help solve technical issues should they arrive.
Once the shoot is finished make sure to have everyone’s contact information. Usually tell the team members will have the photos available for them within one week. Try to get them done within about 3 – 5 days but given peoples schedules this is not possible. It is important to make sure that you complete the photos and do get the models their prints as soon as you can. Nothing is worse than getting a bad reputation for not giving back photos or taking months to get back to the members of your team.
Another important thing is to make sure you ask the makeup if touch ups are allowed. Many artists need the photos in a raw form with no air brushing or Photoshop done. You may need to make separate prints for each of the team members.
A shoot such as this will usually costs around $30.00. This is for 2 models, makeup and hair. Like to work with the makeup artist and model and do our own styling. Started my collection of props, wardrobe, and accessories by searching the local thrift store and outlet stores. Many times you can get vintage designer clothes for only a few dollars. These can be used over and over by adding different accessories or backdrops and of course different models. Having a huge supply of safety pins and all purpose clips is the best way to get all the clothes to fit every model.
Many times models will pose with eh back of a dress open or even with it almost folded in half and clipped and pinned at the back to make the fit look perfect.
Building a book of contacts is the most important thing to do. Make sure to be happy, positive and easy to get along with. Then getting your name and your work out into the local industry will be a piece of cake.
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