A photoshoot day from the perspective of a model

Jan 1, 20243 min read

It takes a fraction of a second to take a photo. But it often takes 8-hour work day to create the perfect series of images for a campaign. In this blog post, I'll show you how such a day at the set looks like and how busy a photoshoot schedule can be.

7 AM: Leaving for the photoshoot

Having prepped my skin and hair the day before, I'm ready to rumble early in the morning. I only eat something small and sweet for breakfast, since a big breakfast may cause you to look bloated. Always make sure to arrive a bit early to the shoot since coming too late is a no-go.

9 AM: Meeting the team

Team work makes the dream work. Especially when working with a new, intercultural or big team, it's important to not only introduce yourself, but also bring good vibes and energy to the table. Make each other feel welcome and comfortable. Be confident that this shoot will rock.

9.30 AM Hair and make-up

While the photographer and client usually brainstorm specific shots and angles, the model's hair and make-up get done. This usually is the most relaxing part of the day for the model. Don't forget to eat a bit and drink while you're in the make-up chair since you may not be able to do so until the shoot is over.

10.30 AM First and second location: harmonizing

Collaboration-wise, the first look and location are the experimental phase of the shoot because the team is fusing their ideas and visions together, learning how to adapt to each other's input. In my experience, the least number of photos are taken at the first two locations since you want to make sure that you stick to your tight schedule.

Finding the right angle. lighting, pose, etc. takes time and effort.

11.45 AM Third location: getting to the core

Once the team has found its flow, its easy to work together creatively. That's why the third location usually delivers "it", the product you were looking for.

12.45 PM Lunch break

Finally some rest! Before you grab a bite to eat, make sure to talk to your MUAH if you're allowed to take off your lipgloss, for example. I recommend only eating a light lunch and drinking something sugary to keep the energy level up.

1.45 PM Change of look

While the first looks are usually pretty coherent, the ones in the afternoon are bolder, more out-of-the-box or are hard to undo like a wet hair look.

2.30 PM Fourth location and extra shots: going wild

After taking the final mandatory photos and putting checkmarks after all required looks, it's time to let loose. How about some spontaneous exercises which may result in cool photos? Or adding extra light, smoke or all of the props while the photographer rolls on the floor trying to snap the perfect image?

As long as it looks good on the images, anything goes.

4 PM Review

While the model changes back into their own clothes, the photographer loads their images onto their computer to quickly go through today's work. If you're lucky, the photographer even lets you have a say and choose your favorite images for them to edit.

4.45 PM Heading home

It's always best if your way back home is quick and easy or you can just stay in an accomodation nearby. I like to use the commute to decompress, relax my aching muscles and listen to calming music.

It's a great feeling to head home after a fantastic shoot.

6.45 PM Hot shower and hot dinner

After a long, fun yet tiring day, all you'll long for is hot food and an even hotter shower. I'm usually half-frozen with tired legs and a thick layer of make-up on when I arrive at home, so I'm craving intensive self-care and a hearthy meal. There's nothing better than treating yourself after a shoot day and then having a relaxing evening in your soft and warm bed.