Looking Good

First, be aware what you see in a fashion image is not real life. Looking your best for your own photos is not the same as looking good in the eyes of a model scout or a photographer. The picture you send an agency needs to be clear, clean and uncomplicated. You need very basic make-up (just mascara, lip balm and a good night’s sleep), and you need to take a variety of pictures including one close up, a side profile and a full-length shot. Don’t pose, just make it clean and basic so people can see your features.

In contrast, looking good for yourself, your friends and your blog is all about deciding how best to present yourself. The camera doesn’t lie, but you can.

Look right into the lens. It’s your moment to shine, never be afraid of the camera.

Work that flash. Try it bright and straight at you — bright lights are your friend.

Never be afraid to smile and laugh, people rarely think a smiley picture is a bad one. Even if you hate your smile others won’t.

Tilt your head down a little when looking straight at the camera — this helps with chin shape and enlarges eyes.

Do try lots of different ideas with the camera, play around with all the different ways you can look, see what works.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to experiment with how you look.

I have maybe photographed around 300 models, and the one thing they all have in common is they’re not afraid to be in front of the camera. It’s just a box.

Competition!

Want to know if you've got what it takes to be a great fashion photographer? Well, over next month I will be looking for new talent at stormstyle. So if you love taking pictures, send in one of your best shots and I will post my favorite of the bunch on the site on the 1st October.

You can email your picture to me at: david@stormstyle.com
So get snapping and I look out for your work online here very soon!