MODEL PHOTO SHOOTS

The different kinds of photo shoots for a model and what they involve
If you are aiming to become a professional model who wants to work in front of a camera, there are a few things you should know in order to perform to the best of your ability and to prosper in your career as a model.

Test shoots
Test shoots usually refer to the practice of a photographer wanting to try out a creative idea, test new equipment, wanting to build their own portfolio, or the photographer might just want to try out how a photo shoot would go with the set-up of the photo session. The other side of test shoots is for models who need test shots for their portfolios. This can be organized by the model themselves so they can get professional shots to show to agencies, or by an agency who wants to represent a new model. Test shoots are usually a simple trade of services. Do not expect to get paid for a test shoot. View it as friendly set-up of one professional helping another, which works both ways.

Model photo shoots
Firstly, you should know how to make the photographers life as easy as possible. A model, who knows what he/she is doing and who does not need so much managing, will definitely take a nice stand with the photographer. If you show flexibility and you can adapt to the setting easily, this will make the photographer feel much more at ease, and will consequently allow for the photo shoot to go according to plan without delays or disruption.

Secondly, keep yourself healthy and energetic. You should never arrive to a photo shoot looking tired and exhausted as this will have an effect on the photo shoot in a variety of ways. So remember to always get a good nights sleep before the photo shoot and come to the shoot with energy and eagerness to work hard, as expected.

Thirdly, when you have a photo shoot scheduled, always come well prepared. Usually all details relating to a photo shoot are discussed and set beforehand, therefore coming to a shoot with all the necessary items is vital. This is a good representation of your own reliability, so in order to appear as professional as possible, make sure you come fully prepared.

Keep to time
Always make sure you arrive on time. Nobody appreciates waiting around, especially as Studio time is often based on hourly fees. So its always better to come early rather than late.

Communication
Your ability to communicate with the photographer is key as it sets the tone and speed of the shoot. Listen to the instructions of the photographer carefully and try to make his/ her job as easy as possible. Naturally, the more a model and a photographer work together, the smoother the photo shoot, but whether its your first or tenth time working together, you should always aim to ask the photographer what he or she wants in order to facilitate for the most effective working environment.

Warning
You should always make sure that you are dealing with a professional photographer, especially when it comes to test shoots. There are lots of people luring and scamming young, impressionable models, and for this reason you should always consult a professional photographer for taking your photographs, especially if you are just starting out in the business. GoodLife Media offers professional and reliable Photo Sessions with approved photographers, which provide models with professional photos at a very affordable price. So its worth to invest a bit of time and money in finding a professional to work with.

Best Regards
Paul Okuk

5 IMPORTANT THINGS EVERY UPCOMING DESIGNER SHOULD KNOW

1. IF YOU HAVE A JOB THAT PAYS YOUR BILL, DON'T QUIT TOO SOON: Almost everyone, especially in Nigeria, want to be CEOs. In as much as this is a positive idea, you have to be sure that your label/brand has got all it takes to stand alone. Don't be in a haste to quit your day job because you have just acquired a new skill, stay on your job while you develop your brand.

2. GET SOME BUSINESS EXPERIENCE FIRST: Don't just dabble into business because you can design. Without knowing some business ethics, your outfit is doomed for a crash. It's important to understand the market so you can select your target audience. Read books on business development, marketing strategies, and goal attainment. Books that will help you achieve success in your business are not a waste of time to read.

3. FIND MENTORS: Pick professionals from the crowd of professionals. Learn their rise and falls, their styles and why they get big clients. Don't try to become them, strive to ride on the knowledge you have of them and how they run their businesses. This will place you above the position they enjoy, giving you more opportunities and business experience.

4. DON'T TAKE AN ORDER IF YOU CAN'T DELIVER WITHIN THE CONTRACTUAL TIME FRAME: I know how exciting it can be when a designer is contracted, especially when the profit is high. But as a designer/entrepreneur who aspires to frontline a career, you must be time conscious. Delivery is as important as getting the job. You must discipline yourself to deliver on or before the agreed delivery date. If you are known for this, you will be surprised how your clients turn into marketers.

5. FIND THE RIGHT SALES PARTNER: You cannot do it all by yourself. Make a list of the sales outlets around your city of operation. Entice them with some incentives. Don't just think they will do it for you based on relationship. Let them know what they are making from partnering with you. You have to decide what they get after ensuring that your cost of production is secured and you have made some profits too.