On November 10th, I'm shooting my first music video. I'm spending a lot of time and energy planning it. Since it's my first, I want it to be spectacular. I've been in other people's videos before (I'm not a video vixen... don't go there,) and the experience is kinda like doing a photo shoot, except you get to sing and dance. Some people seem to have a natural talent for looking great on camera. Of all the gifts that I was born with, though, I have to admit that modeling IS NOT one of them (I learned that the hard way.) Yet, looking good on camera is not optional in my line of work.
If you're an up and coming entertainer, the overall quality and look of your pictures and/or video footage will have a major impact on people's first impression of you. And even if you're not in the entertainment industry and you're planning a photo shoot with your friends and family...who doesn't wanna look bad ass? (I mean that in the most wholesome way possible.) So, since I'm such a nice girl, I'm gonna give you a few tricks of the trade that I use to make sure that every video or photo shoot is a good one.
Rest up, or shut up.
Make sure to get a good night's sleep on the days prior to the shoot. And avoid getting wasted the night before, too. Although nothing is sexier than having bags under your eyes, you want to look as fresh and energetic as possible. The camera knows all and sees all, and isn't good at keeping secrets. Being well rested will also give you the endurance that you'll need during the shoot. Tired and hungover is not a good look.
Practice makes pictures perfect.
I am a firm believer in practicing poses and making various facial expressions in front of a mirror at home to prepare for a photo shoot. Sometimes I practice doing the intro for my celebrity interviews, too. Although it may feel silly to make faces at the man in the mirror, but it is a great way to prepare for a shoot and actually makes doing your shoot easier and more comfortable.
Wear your high heels.
I don't care how much you don't like heels, you can't deny the fact that high heels make a woman's legs look longer, they make your calves look more shapely by changing the angle of your foot, and they alter your posture by making you stand more upright, which can instantly make you appear slimmer. So ladies, lets utilize the advantages that high heels can provide. And fells... just try not to slouch.
Don't go overboard with the cosmetics.
If you opt to do your own make-up, try to keep it clean and simplistic. Mascara helps accentuate the eyes. Lip liner defines your lips and helps your lipstick or gloss last longer. A bit of blush and/or bronzer helps to contour the face and add some color to your complexion. And even guys can benefit from the use of a light powder foundation; it reduces imperfections, hides blemishes, and soaks up oils on your skin that can make you look shiny. Bring your make-yp kit with you so that you can do touch ups, if needed. Just remember... if you're doing your own make-up for a shoot, less is more.
Have fun, damn it.
Make a point of having fun at your shoot. When you do, it shows up in your pictures and/or makes for interesting and engaging video footage. If you feel uncomfortable, its likely you'll look uncomfortable. So be sure to wear a great looking outfit that you feel comfy in... unless you're really good at faking it.
And last but certainly not least...
When in doubt, hire a professional.
When I wanna look my absolute best, I have my make-up done professionally. A licensed professional make-up artist knows how to apply cosmetics that will look great under hot light, accentuate your facial features, and show up flawlessly in the final image. And if you really wanna go all out, hire a fashion stylist who will help you choose the perfect ensemble to make the impression that you desire in your pictures. I posted a video below of a photo shoot that I did with a hot stylist and a professional make-up artist. It was one of my best photo shoots EVER! The wardrobe and the shoot were sponsored by Akira Chicago. (If you've never been to Akira, you have NO IDEA what you're missing. Step your wardrobe game up.)
Check out how cute and picturesque I can look when I follow my own guidelines on how to look great on camera. The proof is in the pudding :o)
Filed under: friendly advice
Tags: modeling, photo shoot, tips, video shoot
