This is the perfect post for all of you aspiring portrait and fashion photographers. There's one thing you can't do a photo shoot without: models.

'Wannabe models' are everywhere these days. And they need a photographer to help them set up their portfolio.

All you have to do is find them and persuade them to pose for you. I recommend here if you want to find models for free.

1. Work with Amateur / Inexperienced Models

There are pros and cons to finding amateur models for photography. They are free, but they are not always as good.

I have experienced both good and bad photography models. Getting started can be a little difficult. But once you've taken a few pictures, the model starts to 'warm-up' the camera. And you will also be able to direct them as you wish.

The thing I'm still struggling with is studying them while taking photos. I can transfer them to the computer, look at them for a few minutes and know what I need to do differently. But when you're in the moment, you're focusing on taking photos, changing lighting, and more. It's hard to get enough attention on the actual photo.

The more pictures you take, the easier it will be. Silly mistakes like hard shadows on the face will be a thing of the past.

You can look for amateur models in Facebook groups. Or contact model agencies to see if anyone needs a starter portfolio.

Photo Friend

That's probably how most people manage to find a model when they're just starting out, and it's pretty easy to do. We all have some good looking friends.

One thing I've found is that people who agree to do it tend to like themselves a little bit. It's really not that hard to convince them.

If it's too reassuring, you're talking to the wrong person; They will not be comfortable in front of the camera.

Find a Friend's

This is where I get most of my models. Thinking about your friends' friends actually increases the number of possible models you have.

I only approach them in a social setting or ask for an introduction. If there is any doubt, my friends will always vouch for me.

I would say that I have about a 50% success rate of getting people who actually agree to model for model. For whatever reason, they can change their mind and that's okay.

If they fail to respond, I don't even bother to contact them again. You don't want to come across as a predator.

Look for Strangers

It's pretty self-explanatory: find someone you think would be good at modeling and ask them if they'd be interested.

It can be a little scary but fun if you connect with the right people. This is a great way to meet people. But it requires a lot of confidence.

If you lack it, either bluff or make up for it.

Carry business cards. This point is important for the two options above, especially when you're talking to strangers.

Explain what you do and provide them with all the other details on the card. This will make you look professional and the ball is in their court now.

Photograph Yourself

Self-portraits do not include photos you took in the mirror or at arm's length. Use a tripod and a timer or remote to take photos for yourself.

This is a great solution if you are struggling to find people. Or if you don't want to waste other people's time while practicing.

My thumbnail image at the bottom of the page was set up by me in the camera. Then I instructed a friend how to compose the shot and when to take the photo.

Someone else did the snapping, but it was still a self-portrait.

2. guide the model

The standard difference between a free model and a paid model is quite significant. Still, there are ways to help them relax and take better pictures during photo shoots.

Directing models are really important because they can't see what you can do. Even if they are professionals, they will require you for minor adjustments. As a photographer, you need to guide them to find the best possible pose.

Practice helps a lot. If you don't have time for this, take some pictures in front of a mirror to see how they look when posing.

Often they think that the way they are seeing is not really what they are seeing. Learn some common poses that work for models.

My best advice is to take your time to find out what works for the model. Amateurs often get nervous in front of the camera. Find a way to help them relax. You can play music, tell a joke, or ask them to do silly poses.

It can also help if you let your models choose their own outfit and makeup. They will feel more confident dressing their way.

Last but not least, when you experience

l for both of you. They will have professional photos, and you can practise photographing models.

Plus, people who are used to being in the spotlight are more confident in front of the camera.

If your work shines through, you will be able to make money from taking the same types of photos in the future.

Use Model Releases

One thing you should watch out for is using model releases. This is very important because, if they’re getting something out of it for free, you should too.

If they sign a model release form, it means that you can do what you like with the photos. And you won’t have any problems in the future, should they become super famous.

Talk to your models before the shoot to understand their requirements and what they want to get out of it.

When you approach them, make sure you show your portfolio, if you have one already. People like to see your style before they agree to pose for you. You can do this by showing your website or a social media platform.

Dancers and actors might have experience in posing and modelling. Even though you are the photographer, be open for collaborating with them.

Find a way to involve them during the shoot. Maybe they know a good posture or even a location to use.

3. Search for Models on Websites

This is a route that I’ve recently been looking into. I’ve managed to find some really good models who I’ve already set up some shoots with.

You can search by age, location, style, gender, experience, etc. while viewing photos and emailing them, all for free.

The site that I like to use is called Model Mayhem. There are plenty of alternatives, such as Net-Model and Model Management.

You can also try to join TFP/TFCD groups in your local area via Facebook.

When you do find someone you want to work with, send them a friend request and a little message explaining what you’re trying to do.

Half the time, you won’t hear back from them. Especially if you’re not offering to pay them anything. But you will soon find people who are willing to do it for free.

"Aspiring Models Click Here for More Information on the Modeling Profession."