Modeling Questions Answered - How do I prepare for a photo shoot?

The easiest way I found to answer that question was by using information from the people doing the photo shoot, the photographer. If the photographer does not tell you exactly what you should do than some common sense and research may be in order for new models.

Many photographers and agents have websites now that answer this question in depth and to their own specifications, so make sure you read all the information they supplied plus some

Preparation

Although the photographer will instruct the model in what he/she wants, a model should have a good amount of practice in front a mirror to be sure he/she knows what they look like at all times and be able to replicate the facial expression on command.It may feel silly to practice such things in front of a mirror, but it is a great way to prepare for what it will be like in front of a camera and should actually make doing your shoot easier and more comfortable.A few days priorTry things like pouty, happy, serious, angryand any other emotion you can think of and replicate it as best you can in the mirror so you can see the result. Do not feel silly, this is the career you want and doing such things is part of the job.
Practice your smile, see how much gumline you have and practice showing less or more.

Pat attention to the position of every limb, legs, arms, hands, feet, and facial expressions while doing so.

Make sure you have taken care of all your shaving needs, including bikini line if there is a chance it may show and be sure to manicure your nails in a natural color. Do not apply false nails or acrylics unless asked to do so, most photographers expect short, natural nails in a clear polish.

Whiten your teeth if they are stained.

3 days prior to shoot

Be sure all the details are worked out and all arrangements are finalized. Eat healthy and get some rest.

48 hours to go

Call and confirm location and time. Make sure you have the correct directions and know how long it will take you to get there.

Night before

Get a good nights sleep and touchup you nails and shaving. Make sure all hair is removed without stubble and your hair looks healthy. Do not make any drastic changes such as hair color.

Pack everything you need into your bag and be well prepared to where you can just walk out the door and know you have covered everything.

Shoot day

Eat a light breakfast, anything heavy or too filling and you may feel a bit bloated.

Call and confirm that you are on your way and will be there as scheduled.

Make sure you plan to be there at least 30 minutes early and leave early enough to give yourself time for unexpected traffic or accidents on the road.

NEVER arrive late, and if some unexpected thing happens that makes you late, be sure to call and tell them. Photographers and their staff do not expect to wait for models and if they do, they may never cast the model again… time is money.

If bringing a make-up artist with you, make sure you are there even earlier.

Good Luck