Working with Models

Working with models – whether experienced or first-timers – is about clear communication, direction and a comfortable, professional atmosphere. The key is collaboration: you guide, they perform, and you both build the shot. Here’s how to work with models effectively.

Sitting someone down in front of your camera for the first time can feel quite daunting – let alone talking to models! Many new photographers clam up and concentrate on the shot – while it’s not a bad thing to do, it’s important to remember they’re human too.

I’ve prepared a little guide on talking to models – new and experienced – to get the best expressions possible. Whether you are shooting with an agency model or just a family friend, all these points are useful.

Research Your Model Before the Photo Shoot

I am an experienced portrait photographer and have spent years shooting with models, new and pro, and the stories I’ve heard about new photographers coming to the industry and clamming up after 5 minutes are cringeworthy.

Portrait photography requires an affable personality to talk to your model. With that said, if you’re meeting someone for the first time do some research on them.

Things to Talk to Models About

Many models will have an online portfolio of previous images. There may be a bio about their career, what they like etc. Make a little note of this and use it for points of conversation.

For example:

‘I’ve seen from your portfolio you’re into painting?’

Simple openers like this show you’ve taken an interest in their work and you want to break the ice. But this may not always be the case, so how do you otherwise start from scratch?

For example:

‘How long have you been modelling for?’

‘What type of modelling do you want to pursue?’

‘Do you have other creative hobbies outside modelling?’

If your model is more of a friend, simply adapt the conversation to things you know about them or give them an opportunity to talk about themselves. This allows you to concentrate on the composition.

Working with Beginner Models

Talking to models who have never posed before requires more effort from you as the photographer. If it’s your first time too then you need to do a good amount of prep work beforehand.

Scour the net, places like Pinterest are amazing for model poses based on your subject and theme. Take lots of screen shots and refer back to them during the shoot. If you get stuck don’t be afraid to say something.

For example:

‘Right I’m just going to take a second to have a look at what I want to do next’

Talk to the model and share with them your ideas. The more involvement they have, the more relaxed and understanding they’ll be.

If they’re struggling to understand a pose, then demonstrate it for them. If you’re not the most graceful then it could make for a comical expression on the model’s side – if so, get the camera ready.

Take regular breaks, add in props, costume changes and above all – remember to show them your shots. Of course, hide any weak ones you know you’ll get rid of, pick out one or two that look brilliant. This helps build confidence in your model. The more confident they are the easier the expressions will be.

How to Get Expressions from Models

If expressions aren’t coming naturally though then you’ll need to offer some prompts.

For example:

‘Think about the last time somebody cut you up at a roundabout’ (for a flash of irritation)

‘Close your eyes, imagine you’re on holiday, lying on a beach’ (for that peaceful look)

‘Think of something you got away with as a child, but don’t tell me what’ (for a cheeky glint)

Or crack a joke – make it appropriate though. It’s not rude to talk from behind the camera as long as you’re audible.

How to Stop ‘Dead Air’ in a Photo Shoot

If all else is failing in terms of talking to your model, then fall back on the tried and trusted technique – of talking about yourself.

I’ve done it many times, not because I’m egotistical, but because dead air during a portrait shoot kills energy, rhythm, atmosphere and concentration. Don’t be afraid to talk about other shoots you’ve got coming up or other ideas you’d like to try in photography. You never know it may prompt an interest or response in your model.

Even make it more sociable and ask, ‘did you see that movie last night?’.

Tips for Shooting with Professional Models

Working with more seasoned models or friends who are comfortable in front of the camera does honestly ease the awkwardness of conversation. But while they may know more about posing and expressions, it’s still important to chat to keep the tempo and atmosphere upbeat.

Modelling is 99% confidence based, so you need to keep praising your subject where possible. Use the talking points I’ve outlined earlier for general chit chat. I bet they’ve got lots of funny stories they can tell about other photoshoots they’ve been on.

Keep control of the photoshoot too. Experienced models can naturally repeat poses and looks they’ve done before, but that may not be what you want. While it’s great for a new photographer to just practise, if you’ve got a certain look you want to achieve remember to jump in and make suggestions.

For example:

‘Can you just try that again, but this time do….’

‘Would you mind changing your position a little bit and doing….’

This just shows you care about the images you’re creating, and it helps you build confidence too when controlling your shot.

If you aspire to go further into portrait photography – wedding photography would be a great example for this – then learning to talk to and direct subjects is vital to success.

Consent, Paperwork and Safety

None of the above works without this part, and it matters just as much when your model is a family friend as when they came through an agency.

Agree the shoot in writing before it happens. What you are photographing, where, roughly how long, who else will be there, and what the pictures will be used for. A short email counts.

Use a model release for anything beyond your own portfolio, and always for commercial or stock use. If the model is under 18 it has to be signed by a parent or guardian, and a parent should be present throughout.

Shoot somewhere neutral where possible – a hired studio, a public space, a village hall – rather than your home or theirs, and tell your model in advance that they may bring somebody with them. Most professional models expect to.

Say out loud, at the start, that they can stop at any time, for any reason, without explaining themselves. Then mean it. Show them the back of the camera as you go, and delete anything they ask you to delete.

Working with Models: Final Words

Fingers crossed we’ve helped squash the nerves of how to talk to models to bring out the best expressions for your portrait photos.

If you’ve got any further tips based on your experience, then let us know.

For more, read our guide to portrait photography tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I work with a model on a shoot?

Communicate clearly, brief them on the look and mood, give direction and feedback, and keep the atmosphere relaxed and professional. Treat it as a collaboration and show them shots to build confidence.

How do I direct a model who is new to posing?

Give simple, specific instructions one at a time, demonstrate if helpful, offer constant encouragement, and show flattering results early. New models relax quickly when guided clearly and kindly.

How do I make a model feel comfortable?

Be professional and friendly, explain the plan and any poses in advance, respect boundaries, keep a relaxed atmosphere, and check in regularly. Comfortable models give far better expressions.

Do I need a model release?

For commercial use, yes, a model release gives you permission to use the images commercially. For personal or portfolio work it is good practice. Agree usage clearly before the shoot.

How do I plan a shoot with a model?

Agree the concept, location, wardrobe, timing and usage beforehand, share references for the look, and prepare a rough shot list. Clear planning makes the shoot smoother and more productive.