Working with Models

 As a lifestyle photographer, most of my images are unplanned, so having to suddenly work with models can be quite the mind shift. Letting nature take its course makes for easy shooting, and unintentional wonder shots; so the minute I have to work with a model, I tend to rely on my lifestyle instincts, but not forgetting there are some very important "model rules" to remember.

 Match the model to the role.Directs cast their actors according to the required role they need to fill, it would be pointless having Woody Allan cast for a role as a tough biker gang member, unless the purpose was for comic relief. In the same way it would be more suited for a fit, tanned blond model to be cast as a "surfer chick". You can have the most incredible model, but if she is not suited to the role, it would make for an unrealistic final product.

Silence is not always golden, communicate with your models. Rather arrange for the shoot to be an hour earlier, than rushing into the shoot without explaining the theme and concept behind the shoot. your models need to be properly briefed before you start, they need to understand the mood; will it be sunny and fun, shaded and serious, dark and moody or light and elegant. Before I mentioned the film director, and working with a model is no different, you need to explain their roles, the story behind the image.

Always have your camera ready, even after you have finished shooting, remember your models are most relaxed while the camera is not snapping away at them. You may just get the best photo while they are not looking or posing, be prepared for that candid moment when they burst out laughing at a private joke releasing their most natural reaction, the making for the perfect image. often the perfect photo is the one where the model was not striking a pose, but showed off her perfect, unintended smile.

Let it go a bit; you may be working with seasoned models, but even the most experienced models can struggle to relax in front of the camera. If you have to act out the role in a weird or funny manner to get the shot across, do it, because making a fool of yourself may just be what your model needs to make a fool of herself for that wanted photo. Never be afraid to show your human side, and never let your ego get in the way of your work.

regular breaks are a must. Often we are so caught up in the moment, everything is just working the way it should, but if you don't take your breaks, that perfection will be short lived, and replaced by moody cranky models. In the same breath, know your location surroundings and be aware of the elements. The sun and cold can destroy a shoot in second, have shade, have warmth and have plenty of water. Don't send your model in to the long grass before you checked it out yourself, there could be an uninvited reptilian guest waiting to be stepped on. Just saying, this is Africa after all.

Make use of your available light correctly, if you can not, then do not be afraid to make use of an alternative light source. Always have a reflector or umbrella at hand; I prefer natural light, but if the occasion calls for it, I make use of my reflector or flashgun and umbrella. No one wants to struggle keeping their eyes open facing direct sunlight, it will either come out squinty or your model will look like a rabbit staring at headlights.

At the end of the day, you need to look back and ask yourself if you, the crew and models had fun? You are not trying to save the world, you are just trying to create some art. Relax, stay professional and you will have an amazing shoot.