Prepare For Your Photo Shoot

It all comes down to Practice, Practice, Practice!

Even the best models spend time in front of the mirror practicing their expressions and poses, and so should you! It is important to know how your face feels when you smirk, chuckle, frown, or even pout.

If you have a tendency to show a lot of your gumline while smiling, practice smiling without showing as much.

Practice a variety of different looks so that you are at least somewhat prepared should you be asked for a specific expression, such as "sexy," "intense," or "serious." Practicing in front of a mirror helps you know how your body feels when standing in front of the camera.

Practice your poses in front of a mirror naked!

Practice your poses in front of a mirror naked. Clothes give you an easy out and hide your lines. You can hide your hands in pockets, grab a belt loop, etc. Without clothes you have to learn how to place your hands and pay attention to your natural lines. The most common comment made during a shoot is "I don't know what to do with my hands..."

Anyone that has shot with me will tell you I'll twist you into a pretzel during the shoot. In fact, many complain about being sore the next day! Of course I will help guide you into poses; however, you will be more confident if you are able to do some basic poses on your own. Grab a magazine and look through it for ideas on poses or expressions to practice.

Be well-rested. I know you will be excited and geared up the night before the shoot, but be sure to get plenty of rest. Go to bed early, even if you don't feel you can sleep. The rest will do you good, and you'll be more refreshed the day of the photo session.