Once you have your idea or concept that you want to highlight or focus on, you have to select your team and your model (s). A recent beauty photography shoot I captured, I wanted three models of different ethnicities, facial features and personalities. I was very lucky to have three models from State Model Management, NY. I thought it was important to select a model that has experience, can evoke a mood or inner light and works well with others. I would look at their portfolios the modeling agency emailed to me, very carefully. Did each girl have good skin? Did each girl know how to use their face and body in their modeling work? How would they "look" when photographed together?
The creative team and I wanted to showcase clean beauty and spring makeup looks that were fun and playful. I wanted to use lighting for some of the images that was dramatic while also using simple, gorgeous light for a majority of the work.
Talking with your model before shooting helps with your intimate experience of beauty photography. Photographers get close, the model generally does not wear a lot of clothing and the model is really exposing her inner self to you. It's important to have your model connect with you, have life behind their eyes and create a visual dialogue with you. I love these beauty images! They could be used for a lingerie advertisement, skincare, makeup or anything else. Having that diverse potential usage, is very important. You also want to have images the modeling agency can use without a ton of makeup.
Leading the team to change makeup and hair is a key element to a successful photography shoot. Displaying examples of poses help your models project for you. Try different versions of your favorite pose. Dramatic lighting adds an painting element to this image. I wanted to add seduction to our spring makeup looks. It is important to instruct your model to turn their heads in a way that is flattering and showcases your beauty story. Try photographing a beauty story this summer. Use different lighting and poses to express yourself. ©LisaRamsay all images copyrighted.
