The world of modeling is competitive and every photo shoot is an opportunity for you to present yourself in the best light possible. These sessions also provide photographers and executive staff the opportunity to assess your preparedness for advancement in the industry. While modern photo retouching techniques can correct a multitude of flaws, it is your job to show up at the photo shoot in as flawless and natural form as possible to demonstrate your professionalism and fit in the industry.
Present a Clean Canvas
Have a shower at least a full hour before the photo shoot, leaving plenty of time for your hair to dry. Wash out any hair gel and wash off any makeup or temporary tattoos. Arriving at the photo shoot with a fresh face provides the makeup artist with a clean canvas on which to work. Hairstylists will also appreciate freshly washed hair. Remove any nail polish prior to the shoot, unless otherwise requested. If you color your hair, make sure you keep up with root color treatments.
The Tan
Take a look at your body in the mirror, at least 24 hours before the photo shoot and consider what tan lines may be evident in the clothing you will wear during your session. Discuss with the photographer ahead of time any recommendations he may have to even out skin tones. For example, some may suggest you apply a high quality sunless tanner to lighter areas, while others may request that you leave your tan lines alone and correct the lines through digital retouching.
Stubble and Stains
Some male photo shoots may request an unshaven look, so be sure to check with the photographer ahead of time. However, most photo shoots for women require smooth, stubble-free skin. If you wax or use a cream hair remover, be sure to take care of hair removal at least two to three days ahead of the shoot. If you shave, you can do so the morning of the shoot as long as you are not prone to irritated skin when shaving. If you are, shave the night beforehand with a high quality razor and shaving cream or gel.
Ditch the Underwear
For models preparing for a lingerie, nude or swimwear photo shoot, leave the underwear at home to avoid any tell tale lines leftover on the body when they are removed just before the session. Leave any tight fitting clothing at home as well and wear loose fitting clothes with no cinching elastic waistband. These lines can take up to 60 minutes to disappear, leaving the photographer irritated or providing the photo retoucher with more work than should be necessary.
Do Eat
While adding even an ounce may seem counterproductive O-neck Bandage Dress when heading off to a photo shoot, these sessions take a great deal of effort for the model and can sometimes last several hours. To begin with, drink plenty of water in the 24 hours prior to your photo shoot to keep you well hydrated inside and out. Eat a light, healthy meal prior to leaving for your session. However, avoid foods and drinks that can encourage water retention, such as salty foods, alcohol and fatty foods, for at least 24 hours prior to the photo shoot.
The Bag
Discuss with your photographer prior to the shoot any items that you are required to bring. Find a bag or backpack large enough to accommodate your needs and have it packed the night before your session. Do not leave packing to hours before the shoot because you will not have time to purchase any forgotten items. You may be running late and forget to pack those needed things.