I recently shot with a brand-new model who had never been in front of the camera before. No prior shoots, runway experience, nothing. Just raw potential and an open mind. Instead of hiding the awkwardness that comes with a first-time model shoot, I did the opposite—I let the camera roll and documented everything, hoping it helps other photographers.
These tips are in the video, but the real value is in seeing them play out in real time. Hit play when you’re done reading. Here are three things I discuss in the video to help newer photographers work with new models. I hope they help you.
If You Feel Stupid… You Probably Look Great
This one’s for the models: if you’re standing there thinking, “Oh my god, I feel so dumb right now,” chances are the photos are fire.
Why? Because what feels stupid often means you’re stepping out of your comfort zone, which is where magic happens on camera. When you let go, loosen your jaw, lean too far back, or hold a weird pose that the photographer suggested, you’re giving the lens something to work with—real shapes, movement, and real vulnerability.
The opposite is also true: if you’re thinking, “I look so good right now,” you probably look like you’re acting. And the camera doesn’t lie. It snitches, and you’re holding back. A model is hired because of their emotions.
This is a tip that I present to every new model. Something that helps them have a successful photoshoot is not only saying it once but reminding them of it throughout the photoshoot.
My Thumb Trick (Lighting Tip for Photographers)
If you’ve ever walked onto a location and weren’t sure where the best light was hitting your subject’s face, try my thumb trick. It’s fast, it’s free, and it works every time. I use it on every single job, whether it’s paid or a test.
Here’s what you do: hold your thumb up and imagine it’s the model’s nose. Then rotate it slowly while observing how the light hits the “face” you’re pretending to see—the nose, the eye socket, the shadow under the chin. It gives you a quick read on how your light source is behaving and where you want your subject facing.
Photographers often waste time dragging models around the space looking for “better light,” when all they needed was their thumb. I use this before I ever start posing. It saves time and gives you more control over the final image.
Make Your Model Look Powerful (Angle Matters)
If you want your model to look like a force, shoot from below. That slight upward angle makes people look larger than life. This is a branding tip that will help elevate almost every person in front of your lens.
On the flip side, if you shoot from above, you’re shrinking them. It can be great if you’re going for vulnerability or intimacy. But if you’re trying to make a new model look like they belong on a magazine cover, keep that lens lower. Political campaigns do this. Want your opponent to look weak? Photograph them from above so they appear small and insignificant.
This is especially helpful for new models who don’t know how to project confidence yet. You do it for them through the camera angle.
This session was packed with little takeaways just like this. Improving as a photographer or learning how to coach your models better is something we all need to work on. If you can relate, watch the full video. You’ll walk away with tricks you didn’t even know you needed.
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