Published: 5th Feb 2024
There is no greater feeling of excitement than attending your very first modelling shoot!
And to steady your nerves a little it’s always a good idea to find out as much as you can about what will happen when you are there before you go.
Your point of contact within our Models Direct team will give you as much information as possible about the assignment itself – where you need to go, when you must arrive and what you should wear.
And, of course, they can answer any other questions you might have.
Photo and film shoots do vary greatly, depending on the client, as well as the type of promotion or campaign, but these are some of the crew or production team members you might meet on the day:
The director:
This is the person in charge of the photo or film shoot. Sometimes, it is the photographer or camera person who takes control – at other times there is a director or creative director who oversees the production on the day. The director may be your main point of contact or there may be someone else who assists them who liaises with you. The director will instruct everyone else on set as to what to do and will always have the final say.
The photographer or camera person:
On smaller shoots, this person may also be in charge. It will always be someone who is highly experienced and again it is important to follow their instructions. Like the director, the photographer or camera person will be experienced at working with child models and indeed models of all types. They will be patient with those who are not experienced but expect models to listen carefully and to be on set when required.
Sound, lighting and props:
Depending on the size of the shoot, there may also be people whose jobs are dedicated to sound, lighting or props. They will work closely with the director and photographer or camera person to ensure the overall success of the shoot.
Make-up and hair:
You may be asked to attend the assignment with your hair in a particular style or to go to someone on set who will do your hair and make-up in the look required for the shoot. It is essential you go to these people at the time given as any delay could slow the entire shoot.
Costume or wardrobe:
These are the people who oversee the clothing worn by our models. Models are sometimes asked to arrive dressed in particular clothes but for larger shoots – or shoots where something unusual or special is required – costumes or clothing will be supplied. The head of wardrobe or a dresser will help you to dress and ensure your outfit looks as it should. This is why it is essential your measurements are kept up-to-date on your e-portfolio.
Set design:
For bigger or more elaborate sets, there may be someone – or even a team of people – in charge of set design. These people will work closely with the props person and, of course, with the director and photographer or camera person.
Catering:
Snacks, refreshments and even meals are often provided for those working on the set. If so, there will be someone in charge of this. The food may be pre-prepared or you might be offered a choice. We always suggest taking something along with you to eat anyway, especially if you have special dietary requirements.
