Modelling

New to modelling?

Have you always wanted to be a model but don’t know where to start or how to get into the industry? Or maybe you have done a little modelling in the past but feel you are struggling to know to progress further? Everyone has to start somewhere and every highly experienced and successful model has been in your position at the start of their career. A great way to get into modelling is to book one of our studio days, we have selected studios we use around the UK. Or you might want to come along to one of our fun events for new and experienced models alike.

Why model?

It is important to stop and ask yourself the question....why do you want to be a model? Although shooting highly experienced models can make a photographers job very easy as they need little or no direction and have a very high work rate, there is no greater satisfaction in the job than working with new and upcoming models and watching their confidence grow as they learn how to pose and see the results of their work on the camera. A beaming smile communicates how they feel about the shot and gives them the confidence to try new poses and looks.

Professional photography

For some, becoming a model is a dream job but even if you don’t want to pursue it as a career, having a set of professionally taken images can help so much for those who want to gain a more positive self image. One lady recently commented after a shoot “thank you for making my dreams come true”. What better reward can a photographer have than that kind of feedback?
I offer a professional service which is focussed around the needs of the model. I shoot with a Canon professional R5 camera and have a range of lenses to choose from. Although I do use studio lighting where available, I own my own mains and battery lights and a range of light modifiers. All of my equipment fits in my car so can offer a full on location service when required.

Types of modelling?

There are many types and levels of modelling including fashion, fitness, lingerie, swim wear, and artistic nude. Some models will only do fashion, some fitness and some will be happy covering a spectrum of themes. Think about what is it you want out of modelling and what areas of the industry you would like to try out.
It goes without saying but it is really important that you do not feel pressurised by photographers, other models or friends to shoot in a particular theme or style if it doesn't feel right for you.
Whichever photographer and studio you decide to use, always ask for recent references and check them out to make sure you feel comfortable with them.

Can I really be a model?

Who can be a model? You can! The beauty of this industry is that because everybody is unique and irrespective of your gender, age, height, size, and physical ability, there is no reason why you cannot join the diverse range of models already enjoying what they do in front of the camera.

If you want to try out or develop your modelling there is no reason why you can’t. Your first step is to book a training day or a studio shot with a photographer who will talk through your options and advice on how to prepare for the shoot including clothing, hair and makeup. Although we often use professional makeup artists, you would not need this at this stage unless you really want to.

Where do I start?

Some studios will also provide professional coaching from experienced studio managers and models and I offer training days for new and less experienced models. It might sound simple but the most important thing to learn when you stand in front to the camera is to relax and be yourself. That is not as easy as it sounds, especially if you have a lot going on in your life at that time. Your mindset is crucial because unless you are a highly experienced model, any physical or mental stresses will be seen in your body posture and your facial expressions which everyone will see straight away in the images. That’s why most studios will play music, provide refreshments and encourage you to take breaks to relax your body between sets or poses.

What does it take?

Everyone is different and every body is different. Models come in all shapes and sizes and you do not have to have a size zero figure to be a model. Posing can be learnt and I offer modelling tuition days where groups of new models can learn 12 standard poses from a professional female model over a three hour period.

It is very important to me and other photographers is that you have:

A positive mindest and commitment,
A professional attitude to working with others,
Contientiousness,
Punctuality, and
Reliabilty

What is stopping you?

So if have always wanted to try modelling but never known how to, or felt worried that others may think you are not good enough, then you can do it and it doesn’t matter what other people think. Modelling is one of the most diverse industries and literally anyone can have a go, so what are you waiting for, book a training day and let’s get you in a studio and get you some fantastic shots to get you started.

Simon Bond Photography