Hello readers,
My name is Katie Williams and I will be guest posting on behalf of Gabriella Anderson. Today, my post is aimed at the perspective of a model being photographed rather than photography itself. I will be talking about things I liked during photoshoots and what made me connect with my photographer.
As a kid, I always loved to have my photo taken. I would jump at any opportunity to be in front of a camera whether it was acting, dancing, or singing. This trend continued into high school where I became a senior representative for an Oregon photographer.
Being a senior representative for a photographer consists of photo shoots throughout your junior and senior years as a marketing tool for the photographer. Not only were my photoshoots free, I got to get my hair and makeup professionally done while having a stylist to pick out my outfits. I did about ten shoots over the year with thirteen other girls from all around the state. The goal of having a senior rep team is that the members post their professionally shot photos for other girls their age to see in order to market the brand.
One of the things that made my experience as a representative so amazing was my connection with the photographer. During my interview to become her representative, she held it at her house so we could see where she lived and how she decorated, etc. Once I made the team, we did a full glam introduction shoot. We all went out to lunch and got to hang out and talk about things we had in common. This set the stage for a friendship and connection that could be seen through the photos.
My photographer was a young women who based her brand off connecting with clients using TV shows, sports, music and sarcasm. Every shoot she had snacks and music playing while we got ready. She made it a goal to connect with each person she photographed and helped move the shoot along with compliments and encouraging words.
The most important tool when shooting is connecting with your photographer. Having a personal connection and friendship with them can make photoshoots more fun for both parties. When you trust and connect with your photographer, it feels less like work. Talking and hearing positive feedback from your photographer can make your photos turn out better.
Fast forward to freshman year of college. My senior photo photographer and I still talk and do photoshoots. The friendship we established three years ago still stands. I feel most comfortable with her and her design team. Whenever I want to get my makeup done for an important event such as Prom or graduation, I use the same makeup artist who I trust to do a good job.
As a model, establishing a connection with a photographer and glam team is the most important aspect of a photoshoot. In order to get good photos, you have to rely and trust your team. If I had never applied for her senior rep team, I may not have had such amazing photos.
Photographers, always make it a priority to connect with your models. The photos will be more pleasing and relating to the model makes them most comfortable. It benefits both parties and makes shooting so much more enjoyable!
-Katie (I also have a blog of my own which talks about health and food allergies if you guys wanna check it out… https://howtoallergy.wordpress.com)