Types of modelling; beauty - in the fashion industry
“When modelling the product, it's vital to understand what it is you are wearing, why and the whole concept of what the photographer, client and creative team are wanting to convey.”
Beauty modelling and photography
In the world of modelling, there are various branches that cater to different aspects of artistry and creativity.
One of these branches is 'beauty' modelling. In this blog post, I will delve into the captivating world of beauty modelling and explore the significant role that make up, hair, the product, brief and lighting play in creating mesmerising images as a ‘Beauty Model’.
The role of a model
The role of a model in beauty photography is to use their unique features in the style of the shoot to enhance and showcase the product they are modelling. Beauty photography is all about capturing the intricate details of what the model is creatively displaying. This could be a hairstyle, makeup, jewellery, flowers, hats, accessories etc.
Tip: Beauty modelling involves close up shots of the models face so it is crucial as a model that you have clean and looked after skin, well manicured and healthy hair.
It's also important to understand as a model, your own facial expressions. Learn how you can have a soft look and the ways you change to a more dramatic feel. Also play with how your hands can be involved to creatively tell the story of what you are modelling.
Every detail, composition and expression tells a unique story and adds depth to the overall image. Professional photographers aim to capture these close-up details to showcase the beauty and individuality of the model and product. The focus on close up details allows the viewer to truly appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved in the product the model is modelling.
The creative team
Working with a professional and experienced team or hair and makeup artists will achieve stunning and detailed images. Helping to create flawless photos straight out of camera with minimal retouching post photoshoot.
When modelling the product, it's vital to understand what it is you are wearing, why and the whole concept of what the photographer, client and creative team are wanting to convey. It's not ideal modelling something that is being hidden because of a pose you thought would be good but completely misses the brief. So learning, researching, understand and practising with wearing hats for instance and the different ways you can pose with a hat will really up your modelling game. Of course photographers and creative directors are there to direct your poses, but they are really wanting a model who can show up, follow a brief and pose based on the direction they are told at the start. Then make it there own.
Lighting
Lighting is an essential factor in beauty photography. Different lighting techniques, such as softbox lighting or natural light, are employed to create specific effects and highlight the model's features. The direction and intensity of light can dramatically alter the mood and atmosphere of the photograph. Whether it's a soft and ethereal look or dramatic and high-contrast, lighting plays a crucial role in capturing the desired effect and enhancing the beauty of the model, the product and story. So again understanding the brief, knowing how the lighting is being used will allow you to use posing that fits the brief.
Beauty modelling is all focused on detail. Understanding expression and how the camera intends to capture that detail is what you as a beauty model must understand when heading into a beauty photoshoot. Work on all these elements and if they are missing from your portfolio, seek out to invest in a photoshoot purely on Beauty Photography to showcase your understanding in this genre of modelling.
With my modelling photoshoots I dive into your current portfolio, discuss what's working and what's missing. During the photoshoot I explain in detail what I'm creating with you and the direction I'm giving. Helping you understand what to expect when going into a professional environment on a commercial photoshoot.
