Photoshoot Tips for Aspiring Male Models.

preparing for the shoot

6 weeks before -If you haven't started yet (which you should have done a long time ago) now is the time to start firming up and toning your body. If you can't build muscle before the shoot, then at least look fit. Cardiovascular exercise will help you get rid of excess fat and as a bonus, you'll even get healthier looking skin. Don't be afraid to lift weights, it won't kill you (trust me). Better still, enroll at the gym. Your gym instructor should know how to help you get in shape just in time for your shoot. Don't underestimate the power of diet plans. I believe a combination of an exercise program and a healthy diet at least six weeks before your shoot will yield much better results than chewing weight reduction pills one week before your shoot.

2 weeks before - Start avoiding the sun. Sure, you love the beach and the outdoors, but now is not the time to expose yourself to harmful ultraviolet rays which can lead to dry skin, uneven skin coloration, freckles and even sunburn. If you really have stay under the sun (let's say you're addicted to wakeboarding), use sunscreen. Get a facial (and if you plan to show some skin during the shoot, get a body scrub as well); it pays to have really healthy looking skin on the day of your shoot.

48 hours before - Continue avoiding the sun (or keep using sunscreen) Avoid consumption of red meat, nuts, chicken skin, alcohol, or anything with nicotine or caffeine - these things trigger oil production Drink lots of water to moisturize your skin.

24 hours before - Do not party, or drink alcohol. It is also important that you get a lot of rest because if you're tired on the day of the shoot, or if you have hangover, it will show in your photos. Exfoliate your skin; this will get rid of dead skin cells and reveal smoother, more youthful skin. Continue drinking at least 2 liters of water Oh yeah, don't forget to wash your hair. Use shampoo, okay?

On the day - Be at the studio early. Based on the little experience that I have, most photographers (perhaps all) don't like to wait. Besides, it's really unprofessional to arrive late. Also, arrive wearing the clothes you'll wear for your first layout (this saves you and your photographer lots of time).

Other tips:

• Don't get a haircut before the day of your shoot
• Remember, your finger nails should be short and clean
• Trim your facial hair, or get rid of it
• For men with really light skin (read: pale), choose a makeup base two shades darker
• For men with really dark skin, don't bother trying to get fairer. Instead, emphasize your color (there's always self tanning products in the market)
• Puffy eyes? Try placing an ice bag over them four hours before the shoot.
• Before your shot is taken, try to extend your neck to avoid double chin
• Tilting your head to the far shoulder will give you more masculine look
• Do not squint in front of the camera
• Your smile should never be toothy; your gums shouldn't show either
• Shifting weight on one leg has a slimming effect
• Avoid clothes that will take attention away from you

by: oryxprieto
resource.