Zero Dean

Make-up artists at your photo shoot.

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Make-up artists are something that should be discussed with a photographer before your shoot.

Models who are adequately skilled at doing their own make-up are typically welcome to do so. Understand, however, that using make-up artists can be a huge advantage when attempting to capture compelling and attractive imagery. Using a make-up artist does not mean you have to wear a lot of make-up. Oftentimes, a little can go a long way, depending on the type of look you are trying to achieve.

Make-up provides ways to substantially accentuate your features, even out your skin tones, and hide any potential problem areas. If you are not extremely confident in doing your own make-up, but are serious about capturing professional level photographs, it is always a good idea to consider hiring a professional make-up artist.

Hiring or arranging to have make-up artists at your shoot is often the client’s responsibility — but this is something you should discuss with your photographer.

What aspiring models should look for in photographers

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Professional photographers are the greatest resource for aspiring models. However, being a “professional” does not necessarily mean the photographer is good or reputable. And having lots of experience does not always translate to having lots of “skill”.

Some “professionals” that have been in the business for 20 years still take only average quality photos. Be sure to take a good look at the work of the photographer you plan to work with. The quality of the photos is what’s most important, not the number of years the photographer has been pushing a camera button.

When comparing photography photo shoot packages, it is again important to place more emphasis on their skill and style and the quality of the photos than it is to be concerned with the number of pictures they may provide with a given package.

Yes, of course, price matters and we’re all on a budget, but it makes little sense to spend money on a cheap photographer to only get a lot of average prints that are of little value to your career.

Remember, your portfolio is not a scapbook. One excellent print in your portfolio is much more valuable than several mediocre ones.

So remember, you should always be looking for photographers who will provide you with the best prints — not the most prints.

Images are forever, so before you decide to step in front of the camera, remember that you can’t take it back. Getting experience in front of the camera is important, but so is working with photographers that have the skill to make you look good.

What to Expect At Your Photo Shoot With Zero Dean

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MY PERSONALITY:

Friends & people I’ve worked with would tell you that I’m an easy-going, friendly, fun, and creative person. Working with me should be productive and fun. (For those interested, you can read actual comments from other people I’ve worked with in the testimonials section of the site.)

As your photographer I will not only strive to have your shoot be an enjoyable, positive, and comfortable experience, but to also provide you with high quality photos that you’re extremely pleased with.

While I may suggest different ideas during a shoot, I’m not the type of photographer that has anyone I work with do anything they’re not entirely comfortable with.

MY SHOOTING STYLE:

My style of shooting tends to be inspired by the location, the subject, and any exchange of ideas. I love learning, collaborating, experimenting, and trying new techniques.

I tend to shoot very “fluidly”. I like to have my models be “loose” and free to pose as they wish during a shoot (and I shoot as this happens). During this process, I may offer some suggestions and direction to try to get the best photos possible (and I continuously take photos while we work). For me, photo shoots are a very collaborative process and I enjoy discussing different ideas and trying new things with the people I work with.

If you’ve looked at my work, you’ve probably noticed a distinct lack of fake smiles and stiff poses. That’s intentional. When posed pictures are necessary, I do them in a relaxed, easy style that translates into fluid & natural looking photographs.

HOW LONG DOES A SHOOT TAKE?:

I like to shoot for a minimum of two hours. Most unscheduled shoots that I do tend to average around four hours (and it usually flies by).

The length of a shoot is generally dictated by who I’m working with (and that is often determined by the number of wardrobe changes & the specific goal of a shoot).

I love to shoot, so unless I have other obligations, I’m always happy to continue shooting for as long as a model wants. I’ve shot for 12 hours over the course of a single day.

THE BEST SHOTS COME LAST…

I’ve noticed that the majority of the best shots from photo shoots nearly always occur at least an hour after shooting has begun (and most often get progressively better until the end of a shoot). I suspect this can mostly be attributed to everyone getting warmed up, used to each other’s style, temperament & method of work and communication. I also believe it has tons to do with a model’s confidence. Having confidence while shooting is a huge advantage in capturing great photos.

This is why I always suggest (when a schedule will allow it) that regardless of what we’re shooting, that we start out conservative and leave the best and most interesting components of a shoot for the latter half. This includes elaborate make-up, exciting outfits, and exquisite locations.

What you should do before working with a new photographer.

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Do your homework before booking any assignment. Always ask for references from people the photographer has worked with if the photographer is not well known.

When you are working with a new photographer who isn’t well known or an experienced professinoal, it is recommended that you take an escort to a shoot. However, you should not expect a photographer to pay for your escort’s travel expenses

Prior to a shoot, tell someone where you will be, provide the contact information of the photographer, and tell them that you will contact them during the shoot. When you get to your shoot, you should then make a point of checking in with that person to let them know exactly where you are, what the plan of action is, and when you expect to be home. If you don’t have a cell phone, then use the photographer’s phone. If he doesn’t let you use the phone, maybe you shouldn’t be there.

Photo shoot locations

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You should discuss photo shoot locations with your photographer beforehand.

Some questions to consider:

Where will you be shooting?

  • In a studio?
  • In a building (non-studio environment)?
  • Outside?
  • Both?
  • If outside, how much walking will be involved? (know what kind of shoes to bring and how you are going to transport your clothes or props between shooting areas)
  • What is the back-up plan if the weather does not cooperate?
  • Will there be easy-access to a bathroom?
  • Is there easy-access to a private changing room?