Model Tips to Prepare for a Beauty Photoshoot
Your first beauty shoot is around the corner, and you’re wondering what to expect and how to prepare. This time around, it’s all about embracing the fiery, sweet, sexy bits of your soul. To achieve this successfully, you have to leap into your shoot feeling prepared, confident, and ready to follow direction while still finding your own flow. With the tips and lessons I’ve learned along the way as a beauty photographer, I’ll help you master what it takes to have a successful beauty shoot from start to finish.
What is Beauty Photography?
Beauty photography consists of tightly cropped or close-up frames that showcase clean, natural beauty to dramatic, creative makeup looks. By adding beauty shots to your modeling portfolio, you demonstrate your editorial and commercial range.
Beauty Prep Before Your Shoot
FACE & SKIN
Exfoliate. Show your best face by removing any dead and dull skin. Try grabbing a cleansing scrub or make your own DIY scrubs at home. Take breaks in between exfoliating sessions, and add a few days of rest after so your skin is relaxed and baby smooth for your shoot.
Use Face Masks. Wear a face mask every other day, especially on the day of your shoot. Try one with hyaluronic acid if you want to bring out a glowy moisture to your skin, or an aloe and green tea mask if you’re looking to soothe some irritation or redness on your face. Face masks will nurture and calm your skin, while also encouraging you to enjoy a moment of tranquility before your big day.
Get a Facial. Another option is to book a facial. Depending on the treatment, at least a week of preparation is needed to allow your skin time to heal properly before your shoot.
Moisturize. Use products with SPF to protect your skin from the sun. On the day of your shoot, moisturize your face and body. Quenching your skin and locking in moisture makes for a silky smooth glow.
Hair Removal. To aid in the retouching process and become a clean canvas, consider removing hair from your upper lip, chin, or eyebrows at least two days before your shoot. This will give any noticeable irritation time to heal. Consider waxing, shaving, or threading.
Pimples. If you have any pimples before a shoot, do not pick — I repeat, do not pick! It’s much harder to work with scabs or flaky skin than it is to cover a tiny mountain that will move soon enough.
Whiten Teeth. Visit your local dentist or just opt for some whitening strips instead! Give yourself a few weeks in advance before the shoot to start prepping.
HAIR & NAILS
Fresh Hair. Try touching up your roots, getting a deep conditioning, and seeing to it that your ends are not frayed.
Styled Hair. Find out what hairstyle will bring out the vision you and your photographer have formed for the shoot.
Clean Nails. Manicure your nails before the shoot with a neutral or clean polish unless decided otherwise. You can also utilize press-on nails if you’re looking for color or length without the commitment.
CLOTHES
Bandeau and Bras. When you pack your model bag, bring nude and black bras, especially strapless options. Bandeaus are a great way to go — a lot of shots will focus on just your face but will also include your neck, shoulders, and collarbones.
Outfit Options. Bring options that reflect your personality but also feature different tones, textures, and minimal patterns. Try creating a mood board for inspiration! Pin your favorite makeup looks, outfits, colors, and quotes together on a board to help with visualization and expression.
What to Expect During Your Shoot
Arrive on Time. Make sure to arrive on time, well-rested, prepared, and confident!
Multiple Makeup Looks. You will probably go through more than one makeup look, so be ready to step in and out of the frame when necessary. Some looks may be simple while others may be dramatic and extra glamorous. You will usually have a makeup artist at hand unless discussed otherwise, so no need to worry about coming in with your face already done.
Emote & Pose. Be prepared to express specific emotions during your shoot. Maybe your vision is to be happy, sensual, or playful. Use your poses and expressions to match the set mood. Imagine you are taking on different roles or simply focusing on these specific qualities within yourself. Remember that some shots will focus on certain facial features, such as your lips, eyes, or profile. Additional shots may include your hands, so searching through particular beauty poses on Pinterest can prove resourceful.
Take Direction. Pay attention to any directions given during the shoot, as the photographer may want to switch it up every now and then. You may be asked to look directly at the camera with a fierce gaze, or even create a soft, somber pout. A couple of three-quarter or side profile shots can also be expected. Be ready to switch angles when necessary.
Find your own flow. Direction is important to follow, but it's just as important to bring your own rhythm and flow! Move organically and allow your soul to pour out through your eyes and with your every movement. Once you feel confident in your ability to perform in front of the camera, the best images will be captured.
Final Checklist
Facial Cleansing Routine
Manicured Nails
Clean and Styled Hair
Choose Outfits
Pack Model Bag
Be Confident — Channel Your Inner and Outer Beauty!
Now that you have everything you need for a successful beauty photoshoot, go out there and speak your modelesque truth. Embrace your bold, sensual side by firing a wink paired with a bitten lip or share that sweet, whimsical sparkle in your eye by setting a light, playful tone. Whichever it may be, just strut into that shoot ready to take on the world of beauty with a heart that’s already filled with it.
