Modeling is a difficult job and it requires the ability to communicate feeling through a camera.
After being on countless shoots I often find myself thinking about what it’s like to be the person in front of the lens. New or inexperienced models can struggle with posing and moving freely and that uncertainty shows. Being beautiful is not a requirement for a model.
Photographers we are always looking for strong poses and variety. Getting stuck on one side or one angle leads to flat, boring images. I’ve put together a list of videos that show behind the scenes footage of models who do this really well. You can see how they move with ease, creating interesting shapes and angles with their bodies and faces.
Makeup artists will usually want behind the scenes videos that often filmed quickly on a phone to show off their work. If a model looks bored, uncomfortable or like she wants the camera to disappear, that energy comes through immediately and no one wants to watch it. Practicing your behind the scenes expressions is just as important. Engage with the camera, show off the makeup and create footage that actually feels exciting.
I made this list to send to new models I’m working with so they can get inspired and practice before stepping on set.