If you have an upcoming shoot, you want to make sure you know these seven top tips to help you prepare. Not only will it help save me a tremendous amount of time in post-production, but it will also result in better images for your portfolio.
When I photograph models who have “problem” areas such as dry skin, body hair or tan lines, they will ask me to fix these issues areas in post. While it is possible to retouch these issues, it can take hours as opposed to minutes to edit to ensure the texture of the skin looks perfect.
So whether you are new to modelling or a seasoned pro, I have put together my top tips on how to prepare for your photoshoot, so you can look your very best, straight out of the camera.
#1 SKINCARE
Skin takes the longest amount of time to edit in post-production so I always advise models to take care of theirs as much as they can before their shoot. To get clear, even skin, get a good nights sleep (at least 8 hours), stick to a clean diet, drink plenty of water and try to avoid large amounts of alcohol leading up to your shoot. You want your skin to be as hydrated as possible, so it looks plump and radiant on camera.
#2 EXFOLIATE & MOISTURISE
Dry skin can look very ashy on camera and makeup does not sit as well so remember to exfoliate 2-3 times a week and moisturise your face and body twice daily. Your skin will be glowing within a matter of days.
#3 SMOOTH LIPS
Lips are surprisingly tricky to fix in post so to avoid chapped lips, exfoliate with a sugar scrub and keep hydrated with a great lip balm. I went on Isotetrenion (otherwise known as Roaccutane) last year, and my lips were so so dry and split. The only thing that got me through the six months of lip hell was Blistex as it was a really thin balm I could tap into my skin. I now use Lanolips, and I use it everywhere – lips, hands, elbows and knees – it’s my miracle balm!
#4 TANNING
Avoid sun exposure a few days before your shoot, so your skin is not red or peeling. If you are planning on getting a spray tan, exfoliate and moisturise prior and please ensure you go steady on hands and feet. Avoid using oil-based moisturisers as this will break the tan down.
#5 HAIR
If you dye your hair, make sure your colour is right, and roots are not visible. Get a touch-up done if necessary. Avoid using oils or leave-in conditioning treatments; otherwise, your hair will be too soft to work with, which will affect the longevity of the style.
#6 HAIR EXTENSIONS
To add extra volume to your hair, bring clip-in hair extensions. Please make sure they are colour matched and have been cut into your hair by a hairdresser to make them look more natural.
#7 ARRIVE COMFORTABLE WITH CLEAN HAIR / FRESH FACE
Wear a comfy outfit to your photoshoot, preferably something loose (to avoid leaving marks on the skin) and can be easily removed without messing your hair or smearing your makeup. If you have booked a makeup and hairstylist for your shoot, arrive freshly showered with clean hair, no makeup and well-manicured nails.
