There is a distinct difference between the types of modelling required for a photo shoot than for the type needed for a catwalk show. Although it is likely you may be asked to do both kinds in your career, most models specialise in either one or the other, due to the specific requirements needed for each one. Most models are more suited to one than the other; so it is worthwhile to determine which one you are most suited to, and try and focus your efforts in applying for those types of jobs.
To be a catwalk model it is imperative that you have long, sleek legs, an elegant neck, good posture, stance and gait, and that you are able to walk and pose well. Catwalk shows are nearly always used for modelling clothes, so therefore you must have an excellent figure for modelling clothes, and a perfect shape to fit the standard sizes produced, which tend to be very small. You must also be able to change clothes quickly during shows, and present a variety of different looks within a very short space of time. You will have many people working on you a once changing your look for various parts of the show, and the atmosphere backstage at a fashion show is always continually one of high pressure and intensity, so you have to be willing and able to work under these conditions. Fashion shows also require preparation and rehearsals, so you have to be willing to devote a lot of time and energy in being a catwalk model.
Photo shoots may be for modelling clothes as catwalk shows are, but they may also be for beauty products, hair products, makeup or many other commodities, and you must be adaptable and able to move between genres and present anything you are asked to model well. Although there is more time available for hair and makeup to develop a specific look, you must still be able to take a wide variety of looks, in order to give the client what they want. To be a photo shoot model it is imperative that you can create a wide range of facial movements and poses, that you can take focused direction from the photographer and apply it, and that you are able to promote the product appropriately. More attention will be paid to your face in photo shoots than in catwalk modelling, as your face will be in close-up on them. Therefore you must have excellent skin, facial symmetry, and grooming to be a photo-shoot model.
Decide which of these traits you have more of through a critical analysis of your look and personality, and therefore which type of modelling you are best suited to, and focus on that type of modelling in particular. However, it is unquestionable that both types of modelling are tiring, stressful and demanding, but with the right determination, drive, and knowledge about which type of modelling you suit best, modelling can be a very interesting and rewarding career.
Tips on how to arrange successful photo shoots using models The first thing any aspiring model needs is photographs. A portfolio of ?test shoots? or promotional shots is an essential component of the model's CV for finding jobs. If you're with an agency, they may arrange a test shoot for you, but if you're working freelance and doing everything on your own, it's up to you to arrange it.
Test shoots are good not only for building a portfolio, but for giving you experience in front of the camera and helping you understand how a photographer works, what a shoot involves, what a set or location looks like and what's expected of a model. Don't be conned into spending lots of money on test shoot packages from photographers. Although it's true that the better the portfolio, the better the job prospects, this doesn't mean that you have to go to a great deal of expense. All you need are a few well chosen photographs to get you going. Go for a small selection of varied prints that show off your flexibility in different locations with different styles, rather than a suite of studio photographs taken all at once by the same photographer, which will all look very similar and won't give a good impression of your full potential. Vary your clothes, make-up, hair and poses as well as the backdrops for your photos, which should ideally be from a range of different photographers. Often photographers want to arrange test shoots themselves to check out new equipment or experiment with new ideas, so if you can find a willing photographer, you could trade services and both get a good deal out of it ? free or reduced-price photographs for you and a free model for them. Bear in mind that it's normally beginners or photographers with little experience who tend to offer such deals, but this shouldn't really be a problem when you're just starting out yourself. The photographs don't need to be of the absolute best quality, as long as they show off your features clearly to give agencies and potential employers a good idea of what you have to offer. If you've got any friends or family who're keen amateur photographers, you could always ask them to take some snapshots for you. Alternatively, find out if there are any photography clubs in your area and approach them to offer your services as a model in return for some prints for your portfolio. Or you could even put up a notice on the bulletin board in the photography department of your local college or university to look for willing student volunteers. Once you've found a photographer, you'll need to think about how to handle the photo shoot. Photographers are like directors ? they're in charge of the shoot and can be quite demanding, so it's important to understand what to expect and how to behave in the shoot. At least a few days in advance of the shoot, speak to the photographer to discuss the plans for the shoot and what it will involve, in case there is any preparation required on your part. Ask whether you need to bring anything of your own ? props, clothes. It's particularly important to check what the situation is regarding make-up. If you've to provide it yourself, it will save the photographer a great deal of time if you're already made up before you arrive. Put it on (or have it done) freshly just before you leave for the shoot for the best results. If the photographer will be providing the make-up, it's best to arrive without any make-up on, to save the make-up artist time ? so that they don't have to first remove your existing make-up to get a clean base.
If you've to provide your own clothes, don't wear them on your way to the shoot. Get changed after you arrive so that the clothes are fresh and uncreased. On the day, make sure you arrive in plenty of time, looking your best and in the most relaxed state of mind for a successful shoot (no big parties the night before and no flustered last-minute dashing to the location!) Shoot schedules can be tight, especially if the photographer is hiring the studio, which is normally let at an hourly rate. You want to get off to the best start possible so it helps if you feel calm and confident. It also helps to get into the right frame of mind for the shoot if you have time to chat with and get to know the photographer a little first. When the photographer is ready, get in front of the camera and listen carefully to their instructions. You'll need to pay attention constantly as the photographer will be snapping away rapidly and will expect you to be able to change pose or position in an instant. Try to understand what the photographer is aiming to achieve in terms of lighting and effects so that you can work along with their objectives and get yourself in the right positions and poses. Think of yourself not just as a prop, but as a partner. Know the purpose of the photograph so you can capture the right mood, and know what types of shot the photographer is taking, for example full body, portrait or close-up, so that you concentrate on getting the right look in the right area. After the shoot, check with the photographer when the photos will be ready and say goodbye politely. This is also a good opportunity to check other upcoming projects and whether there may be any work for you. Don't linger too long though, as the photographer may have to tidy up in order to rush off to another job and could be pushed for time.
Taniamachowska has sinced written about articles on various topics from Modelling, Beauty Tips and Modelling. Author bioTania Machowska is a former model with experience of catwalk and catalogue modelling. For the past four years she's been contributing to websites such as