Fitness Model Photography Shoot & Interview with Zahra
Had an amazing professional fitness model porfolio photography session in the studio recently.
As well as that we had a great discussion about the modelling industry in general and Zahra also gave some really useful advice (from a models perspective) on what to look for when searching for a photographer you can trust to work with.
What inspired you to get into modelling?
What is unique about you and would like everyone to know about you?
What have you been up to recently?
What’s been your favourite modelling job to date?
What are you currently working on or towards – What’s next for you – The Future?
What’s your top advice to someone who would like to get into modelling and working with photographers?
- Not having any links to their work online whether that be a website or social media account with a good following and quality images
- Only sending you individual images as examples (which could have been pulled from anyone’s website but their own)
- Fresh profiles set up within the last few days with minimal information about them and their work
- Very vague details about the shoot (e.g. No specific date, location or time)
- Offering extremely large sums of money (possibly in different currency) for the work involved e.g. 8hr/ full day portfolio building shoot with compensation of $5000
- Claiming they are scouting on behalf of a well-known brand but are using inappropriate channels (such as Facebook groups) to source models rather than reputable casting agencies
- Stating a specific job in their public casting brief but offering something completely different when you enquire by email or message
- Casting by video only (often Skype or similar) where you can be seen and heard but you can’t see or hear the caller due to “system errors”
- Refusing to provide – or simply not having any – references from other models and creatives that have worked with them
- Not offering the option to bring a parent/ guardian or chaperone to the job or responding negatively when you mention you’d like to bring a trusted person with you
- Becoming defensive, ignoring messages or blocking you when you begin to ask more probing questions rather providing contact details and their requested images straight away
Who’s been some of the mentors/key people who are instrumental to your success/starting/Inspiration?
“Is this where I get to give a huge shout out to myself? Lol! In all seriousness, my friends, family and agents definitely have a large part to play in my journey so far. However so do the agencies, casting directors, photographers, MUAs and even fellow models that have been… not so positive or encouraging over the years. Being treated so unfavourably has just meant that I’ve pushed even harder to strive for success as a model, which is ultimately a job that I thoroughly enjoy.”
What did you learn from working with Graham Baker Photography?
“Firstly that searching for a local, professional and amicable photographer wasn’t so difficult!
With a straightforward introduction and booking process, I was able to look forward to my shoot in no time at all. However there are two main things I took away from my session, one being the different ways in which we could “create space” in the image despite having limited studio space to work with – I am a tall lady!
Additionally, I grasped a better idea of how tiny changes really affect the mood of an image e.g. the way I fold my arms, rest my fingers or hold my head – not all photographers point this out and I won’t always realise until the images are done.
Graham is clearly very knowledgable when it comes to portrait photography which he shows modesty.”
How are you going to use your new images?
“I’m looking forward to sharing them across my social media platforms and website. I will also be sharing them with my various agencies as part of my portfolio refresh. In turn they will be sent to sports/ fitness clients when being put forward for relevant castings in this genre.
Any final thoughts about the modelling industry you would like to share?
“As a final note for aspiring or indeed experienced models: Having a much-coveted profession in an industry with so many twists and turns makes it fairly easy to be led astray or down an undesirable path, all in the name of making it big. It is important to stay true to yourself, your morals/ beliefs and happiness.
Always.”
Thank you!
It’s been more than just a client case study, Zahra has given an excellent insight into her experiences as a professional model as well as offering some fantastic advice for new models and what to look for when looking to work with photographers.
What my clients say.
I appreciated the honest feedback which helped to to learn a few things along the way. At the same time, his open-minded approach allowed me to feel comfortable experimenting with a few of my own ideas also and it was great to be able to freestyle a little. That being said, Graham seemed to have a good idea about when to call it a day. As such, the shoot didn't drag on and our time felt very productive. There are two main things I took away from my session, one being the different ways in which we could "create space" in the image despite having limited studio space to work with - I am a tall lady! Additionally I grasped a better idea of how tiny changes really affect the mood of an image e.g. the way I fold my arms, rest my fingers or hold my head - not all photographers point this out and I won't always realise until the images are done.
Graham is clearly very knowledgeable when it come to portrait photography which he shows modestly. The high quality images I received completely met my expectations and I am very pleased with the final results! In summary I think StudioGB Photography provides a harmonious combination of a business-like approach, being professionally informal/ relaxed and showcasing great skill.
Thank you Graham!"
You can find out more about Zahra in the links below;
Click here to book your no-obligation phone consultation with me
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