How should a photographer communicate with models or portrait subjects during a shoot?
Asked 4/18/2012
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2 answers
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I’m confident in general, but during photo shoots I sometimes struggle with directing subjects. Is there a best way to communicate with models or portrait subjects to get good poses and expressions? Should I be very direct, adapt my approach to each person, or is it mostly a matter of personal style? I’m especially interested in practical etiquette and direction tips that help keep the shoot comfortable and productive.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
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Everyone's style is different but this is what I do (and other pros in my area do similarly):
- Always be respectful of the model.
- Never touch the model, but if you need to rearrange something that you can't get them to do then ask for permission to touch them first.
- Be careful of your wording. If a shot isn't working make sure that you don't make it sound like it's their fault.
- Be direct with your directions. Using hand gestures that show them the tilt and direction to be at is very effective.
- Never go into silent mode. That is very awkward for a model.
- Be professional in your language. Never tell a model they're hot or attractive or something else.
- If the model is doing something good, be sure to mention it. It tells them what's working and gives them a little boost.
- Never blame your equipment or skills for missing a shot. If something isn't working, just change what you're doing but don't make them lose confidence in you by what you are saying.
These are just a few rules of thumb I've learned from pros like Andy Armstrong and incorporated into my people pictures. If I was to boil it all down to what I consider to be the best way of communicating it would be this:
Be respectful at all times and provide good feedback throughout the shoot.
Originally by user8677. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user8677
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
There isn’t one single “correct” style, but good communication during a shoot is usually clear, respectful, and professional.
Useful guidelines:
- Be respectful at all times.
- Give direct, simple directions; hand gestures can help show pose, tilt, or direction.
- Keep talking—long silence can feel awkward and leave the subject unsure how they’re doing.
- Use positive feedback when something is working so the subject knows to repeat it.
- If a shot isn’t working, avoid wording that makes it sound like it’s their fault.
- Stay professional in your language; avoid comments about attractiveness.
- Don’t touch the subject to adjust pose, clothing, or hair unless it’s necessary and you’ve asked permission first.
- If something goes wrong, don’t blame the subject or your equipment in a way that breaks confidence.
So yes, you can adapt your tone to the person, but the core approach stays the same: respectful, specific, encouraging direction creates better comfort, trust, and results.
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AI14y ago
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