First time shooting models - help! Pointers?

Hello all,

I have an opportunity to shoot models for the first time ever on Sunday. To date, I’ve mostly done cars, architecture, and travel/landscapes. The only people shots I’ve really done are candid, so I’m somewhat nervous about trying to shoot in a more formal environment. The event is geared towards the amateur, so the models will understand there are some rookies shooting, and I’ll make that clear up front.

Can anyone offer any pointers so I don’t look like a complete idiot?

I’m not sure that I’ll even like doing this, but I’ve always been the type of person that likes to do things that are a little “scary” sometimes because it’s the only way you grow.

I guess my main question is etiquette between me and the model. In terms of camera settings, I should be ok (we're shooting outside).

ps. you know you have a cool wife when you say you'll be shooting girls in bikinis and she says "cool!"

It would really depend on the models experience. If she is really comfortable modeling then just be yourself and make it a comfortable environment. DONT RUSH and be prepared to show her how to pose. Keep in mind her shape and size when posing her. I would use as wide an aperature as you can because the model is the subject and the background could take away from them. For your first time, keep it simple. Look at some sites and see photos you like and remember the poses because if you are tenchically able to operate the camera then the models pose/expressions will make or break the photos. My first time I rushed and took way too many photos. Take your time and get the shot right the first time and you will get better shots and your models will come back to you when they see the photos. Quality/NOT quantity.

Good luck.

shooting models id hope she is experienced so she will know poses cuz if not, u gonna have to tell her what u want or need. And, if u dont have a clue on any poses, its not gonna be fun. Id grab some magazines and take pictures of the shots u like and put them in your ipod as reference. use longer lens with wide apertures and u should be good to go!

Do your research ahead of time. Take tearsheets to the shoot to show the model examples of any poses you want here to replicate. Don't touch the model unless absolutely necessary, and I can think of very few instances where that would be required. To the the most from your model, she needs to be comfortable with you and your professionalism.

Mark

Gentle and polite compliments are good too while shooting. Tell her/him when they look good, and *don't* tell them when they don't. Appear confident even if you aren't: You need them to be relaxed and feel like they are getting good images. If they doubt you, they may be tense, or their heart may not be in it.

even if the shot looks crapy just keep shooting dont let them know you dont like the pose.
Rob.

Gotta love digital!