Model Tips by Benita von Sass
Having worked full time as a professional international print and commercial model for a number of years and part time later, I learned a lot about taking risks while not selling myself out.
Here are some tips I wish I had received when I started:
#Modeltips: Tip 1. You’re in front of the camera and the photographer is saying “Go!”
Always ask before the clicking starts what expression they want. It’s what only you can control - the most meaningful aspect of you. Mystery and depth? Delicate femininity? Lightness and fun? Take a breath and imagine it deeply… NOW go!
Confidently alternate between looking at the camera from various angles or even looking away. Develop the feeling as you work with the photographer, but remember: the flirty connection from behind the lens is between the work and you, not the photographer and you.
#Modeltips: Tip 2. Learn to dance! Magic happens when you are not trying to strike a pose. The best shots occur in a flow of moves, not remembering poses.
Find your natural rhythm with and without music. A swaying of the hips is a good start, then a hand moving upward and so on.
Slow down as your reach a pose naturally, offering a slight tilt of head, a glance with the eyes or a shoulder variation to ‘work’ that angle. But continue moving. The photographer will know when to click.
#Modeltips: Tip 3. Collecting pictures of poses you like and seeing how your body looks with them is a great way to observe and learn your best angles to create body memory. Incorporate these into your dance so that they become who you are.
#Modeltips : Tip 4. Modelling on set or on location with others is not a competition. Once you’ve learned what expression the photographer wants, take a breath and imagine that deeply… Your confidence in your own expression and flow of moves (Tip 2) will convey your unique beauty.
Never worry about outshining anyone. Alternate between working closely next to others and keeping distance. Remember, only you can be you. That’s why you were chosen for the job.
#Modeltips: Tip 5. When the outfit tells it all, your job is easy. Don’t fight the obvious. It’s great to just stay immersed and work the main expression with subtleties.
This was a campaign with a commercial, posters, literature and so on. One general look and feel for the whole thing. Sometimes a big job like this turns out to be the easiest. It was a great job! A day of catalogue on the other hand, figuring out a different mood for every single outfit, hour after hour, all day long…
#Modeltips: Tip 6. Your body is a beautiful thing. Take care of it. Be gorgeous without exploiting it. Love that you are a woman. Give your own femininity the loudest voice, not what you think a man would say. The easiest trap to fall into is overselling what is already lovely. Stay confident. Wholesome is sexy. Keep your dignity.
#Modeltips: Tip 7. On film or commercial sets, no one likes a prima donna. Being temperamental wastes time and good energy. Make connections, take your work seriously, learn about the industry as a whole… audio, lighting, grips, sets… Lots to take in during the long wait periods in between takes.
#Modeltips: Tip 8. It’s so much fun filming movies and commercials. It’s not about keeping a fake smile. It’s about keeping your eyes open, attuned to what is happening and what is expected of you, and responding from the best that is you moment to moment. Stay in the moment, be fresh, keep it real.