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Posted by: Michael McGowan (24.93.248.8) on August 22, 2003 at 05:09:29

Location: Ohio

In Reply to: Advice needed from photogs/ agents posted by Robin on August 22, 2003 at 01:22:06:

What you'll need to do and what you'll get out of this varies dramatically from location to location. Ask the folks to bring along comp cards that they're currently using, both their favorites and least favorite. If you can get copies of an agency "book" in your area, that would help, too.

Typically, commercial shots vary from, say, senior portraits, in that they are intended to "sell" a model's ability. While there's a variety of styles out there, headshots typically need to show a very direct gaze into the camera, a pleasant expression (generally a good, natural smile) and a clear view of the model's features. The shots should not be heavily retouched or soft focus.

Good, crisp lighting, uncluttered backgrounds and a clear view of the model's face and figure are other hallmarks of good portfolio shots. You'll find yourself shooting swimsuits, business attire, dresses and jeans on the same model.

But the specifics will really depend on a given agency, the kinds of models you're sent and the market they'll be in. That's why seeing what's acceptable to that agency is vital to your planning process.

Best of luck. After awhile, you'll figure out ways to do the "book" shots so they don't all look alike, and you'll spot the difference between family sittings and model headshots. Once you do a few, you'll get efficient. After all, the subjects are models, so they often will be able to produce good photos with a lot less mucking about than the typical family portrait.

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: What you'll need to do and what you'll get out of this varies dramatically from location to location. Ask the folks to bring along comp cards that they're currently using, both their favorites and least favorite. If you can get copies of an agency "book" in your area, that would help, too.

: Typically, commercial shots vary from, say, senior portraits, in that they are intended to "sell" a model's ability. While there's a variety of styles out there, headshots typically need to show a very direct gaze into the camera, a pleasant expression (generally a good, natural smile) and a clear view of the model's features. The shots should not be heavily retouched or soft focus.

: Good, crisp lighting, uncluttered backgrounds and a clear view of the model's face and figure are other hallmarks of good portfolio shots. You'll find yourself shooting swimsuits, business attire, dresses and jeans on the same model. 

: But the specifics will really depend on a given agency, the kinds of models you're sent and the market they'll be in. That's why seeing what's acceptable to that agency is vital to your planning process.

: Best of luck. After awhile, you'll figure out ways to do the "book" shots so they don't all look alike, and you'll spot the difference between family sittings and model headshots. Once you do a few, you'll get efficient. After all, the subjects are models, so they often will be able to produce good photos with a lot less mucking about than the typical family portrait.


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