fashion vs model photographer part 1

people think that model and fashion photography are the same but they’re very different. both fashion and model photographers shoot models but the similarities stop there.  in this two-part article, we’re going to examine what makes them different. first, let’s look at model photography.

models like most people in the fashion industry, need photographers. a model starting out, needs to advertise her skills to potential employers. if you want an agency to consider you, you can visit their office, if you’re in the same location. if you’re lucky, a scout may find you. the other option is to send photographs. you don’t absolutely need to send professional headshots but it can help. in the old days you would do fine sending polaroids of yourself to be considered. these days, an iphone picture would do just fine. the only thing that a photographer brings in, is his expertise. a model photographer knows what agencies are looking for. he will make sure that the snapshots he takes follow their guidelines.

most modeling agencies request a full facial shot, a 3/4 profile and sometimes a profile shot. in addition, a half body shot and a full body shot will give a good idea of a model’s shape. before a single shot is taken, he can offer you consultation to determine if you have what it takes to be a model. the purpose of the photos is to ‘sell’ you. so the focus is on your figure and facial features. a girl just needs to wear some form-fitting clothes like a tank top and jeans to give a good idea of a her figure. you can wear a bikini though you don’t have to. you cannot take modeling photos shrouded in piles of clothes. the focus should be on you.

the fashion industry is always looking for fresh faces. contrary to popular belief, a model doesn’t have to be beautiful. attractive is good enough but you need to have the look they’re going after.  that’s why your headshots should reveal your most important facial features: eyes, lips, cheekbones… the fashion ‘look’ is something that’s hard to define. the look changes according to trends but if you have it, that gives you extra chance. another important aspect is posing. good poses can show comfort in front of the camera. striking the right poses play up some part of a model’s physique, like a flat stomach, long straight legs, etc…

after the images are taken, it also helps to know which agencies to send them to, a good photographer will follow up by providing links to top modeling agencies’ websites or any other ones in your area. there are quite a few websites where models can get more industry related info. best of all, the photographer can help you steer away from all the shady outfits out there ready to prey on innocent victims. the rate that most photographers charge is minimal. considering the benefits, it can be written off as the cost to launching your modeling career.

websites where you can get more info about models, photographers and agencies are:
models.com
fashion model directory
modelmayhem is a very popular website where models and photographers can network but there are not many opportunities to get paid photo shoots.