When you have the greatest fighter in mixed martial arts, three time UFC champion, and actor in so many cool action movies, you want to create fitness photoshoot that shows off all of that hard work and dedication that Georges St-Pierre put not only into his career but his life.
Understanding who Georges St-Pierre is
Like any person who is focused on their goals and committed to succeeding in what they set out to do GSP is a man of focus. Working with him we learned of his motivation to get into fighting and was able to see him train one on one. We met his personal trainer whose energy left us impressed.
Both GSP and his trainer Erik Owings were humble chill dudes who talked with us through sets. Creating an impression of how intense it is when they switch to fighting mode. Their understanding of techniques and explanation actually left us feeling as if we could jump into the ring ourselves.
While working with them on filming their launch of Rush Fit 2 we became so excited to personally attempt the workout routines ourselves! (We might need to stick with being expert photographers as his workouts are no joke. )
That is why we wanted to create statement photos that stood out and exemplified the power, strength, and attitude Georges St-Pierre carries with him everyday.
For the launch of Rush Fit 2 GSP sat down with Muscle and Health Magazine to talk about what motivates him and his formula for success; his motto is “Do a little a lot, not a lot a little!’ It’s all about consistency,”
In true GSP fashion he followed through with his consistency and brought out the intensity and energy we all expect from him during his MMA Photoshoot with us.
Creating the perfect Fitness Photoshoot
Working with other fitness experts we know how important it is to stand out and feel powerful. Fitness is about control. Hard work. Perseverance.
Getting to know our clients one on one throughout the years we’ve seen what motivates them and pushes them to be the best. Each story is different but one thing remains work out is not a passive hobby but a lifestyle.
It defines you, it motivates you, it pushes you further than you ever dreamed of.
It is something to celebrate.
It is all about YOU.
That is why we focus on creating photos that focus on our clients. That say “I am” powerful, determined, focused.
There is no need for background noise when you are in the zone.
There is nothing more powerful in this world than love and that includes the love you have for your best friends. Everyday we celebrate and empower women, so when we are asked if we will do a photoshoot with your best friends our answer is an absolute yes! Especially when you call your best friends your sisterhood.
The real question though is WHY do you want to do a photoshoot with your best friend? You might think it is silly of us to ask that question, after all you might just be looking for a photographer for you best friends photoshoot and unsure why it makes a difference of the why you want to do it. Who cares about why you love your friend or how they’ve been there for you and what the mean to you if you have photos, right?
Wrong.
Having a photoshoot with your best friend is meant to celebrate and honor your friendship, showcase how important you are to one another and what it really means when you choose someone to be family.
To honor something so beautiful and complex it’s important to know that your photographer is willing to take the time to truly see your friendship and what you love about one another, but more than that how you see one another.
You have shared so many late nights, long conversations, glasses of wine and ice cream. Been through so many big moments and small moments that when things are hard you know they are only a call away and they will be there for you. Your best friend is the person that you chose to be family, that these are the people who will always have you back no matter how much time passes or how far the distance is. And sometimes that distance feels far and the space between the late night laughters and going out for fun is time that’s been measured in how old your kids are.
As we get older we have so many things on our plate that we have learned that quantity time becomes quality time. So how do you take a moment and turn it into something that you will cherish for years to come?
Hiring a photographer to take beautiful photos of you and your best friend.
You are here which means this is something that has already sparked your interest and now you are trying to figure out the best way to do it. That is where we come in, we are more than just photographers we are story tellers, who care deeply about your story.
Think of your best friend, who are they to you?
How important are they to you?
When do you need them the most?
You and your friendship will be so unique that we cannot tell you exactly what that looks like through a blog post, but what we can tell you is we will be here to understand your needs and create an amazing experience. We are here to guide you through the entire process from planning the perfect location for your session, to wardrobe guidance, hair and makeup and so much more, if you still need more details keep reading but if you are as excited as we are and ready to get your session booked give us a call today!
Creating the best Best Friend Photoshoot
If you are still feeling uncertain of what it really means to have a beautiful empowering photoshoot with your best friend let us walk you through what to expect for your photoshoot.
1. Schedule a consultation with our studio
If you have yet to check out our portfolio (on our website or instagram) we highly recommend taking a moment to do so. As women we understand the difficulties and pressure of feeling good in front of the camera. We consistently hear from our clients when they first call they don’t feel photogenic or never like their photos even when they’ve done photoshoots in the past they still have those nerves and worries.
We are here to tell you it’s ok to feel that way but we are also going to tell you about 90% of the women you see in our portfolio said the same thing you did, but when they left our studio they realized none of that stress and fear should exist.
Our consultations are so important to our process in getting to know our clients, the real you, your beauty and soul. By understanding what you love about your best friend, how you spend your time together, what you’ve been through together, and what you miss about one another we are able to create a custom session just for the two of you so you can see each other through the eyes of a loved one.
2. What’s included in your session
It won’t be an amazing experience unless you get the royal treatment. Okay, yes royal treatment sounds a little cheesy, but we have no other way to describe it. You have enough on your plate, you do not need to go searching online for poses, locations, makeup artist, etc. We are here to help you!
At Ella Gagiano Studios we know are women are strong and live full lives and they deserve to have a day where they are taken care of. During our initial call and any calls leading up to your session will be about making your experience, fun, easy, and relaxing.
3. Leading up to your Photoshoot
We will get to know you so we can recommend the perfect location from outdoor to in studio we do it all. We will discuss outfit ideas and what will help create the beautiful look and combination for you and your best friend based on your personalities. We have hair and makeup included in our sessions and our team will customize your look to make you feel the best – if you want more natural keep it simple, if you want full glam we got you.
Our studio is a full service studio as well, meaning we not only take the photos for your best friend photoshoot, but we are here to help create the perfect keepsake from your session. All our product is handmade in Italy from handmade albums, custom wallart, portrait boxes, to fine art prints. All product is customized to our clients tastes and styles to create a beautiful keepsake as memorable as your friendship.
4. During your Photoshoot
During your session Ella will guide you through the perfect poses that not only make you feel and look amazing, but celebrate your friendship as well. Your photoshoot with your best friend is more than standing in front of a camera but your bond and love for one another. That is why day of session you will arrive at our studio for hair and makeup where we will have music playing and glasses of champagne available. This should be a fun day full of laughter and joy.
Once you are ready we will either go upstairs to our studio or go on location for beautiful photos at sunset. In either case we will have everything set up in a way that will tell your story. We offer the ability to do up to 4 looks in studio or 2 looks on location. If you are in love with the long flowy dresses seen throughout our portfolio those are also available, so just let us know!
5. After your Photoshoot
This is where the magic beginnings. Through this entire process you have been having fun and creating wonderful memories, but there was still a part of you still nervous and excited to see the final results. This is our favorite part of your journey with our studio; when you get to see your photos.
Everything we discussed has been leading up to this point, the moment you see yourself as beautiful and radiant as your friend sees you. It’s the moment when you see the love and joy you have for one another captured not only beautifully but profoundly. It’s the moment that you get to cry, laugh, and feel prideful for. The one where you cannot wait to share the photos with everyone.
The ultimate goal to a perfect women empowerment photoshoot is seeing the freedom our strong women feel in being completely and totally themselves.
This was no different for our stunning client Breanna.
Being the joyful, creative, and talented person she is we knew we wanted to help create something absolutely spectacular and breathtaking with her. A magical photoshoot that would stand out from the day to day and show the world the beauty of her soul.
A woman empowerment photoshoot is the best way to describe her experience, but ultimately it was photoshoot filled with adventure, laughter, and a few surprises.
While we arrived early, our maps kept taking us down dead end roads one after another, and usually we know how frustrating a situation like that can be, but it only made the trip more fun! Being able to laugh in the bad moments and trust that everything will work out is a life lesson for the bigger picture. Once we finally arrived it was amazing to see how busy the park was. It had been our first time at Rock Springs Florida (also known as Kelly Park) and we had no clue what to expect.
This was one of those moments where the true strength and confidence comes in of not only our team but our clients. We all marched into the springs, with our camera gear and hair and makeup done with a long flowy dress ready to start our photoshoot. We can definitely say we turned a few heads that day, and if you are one to be a bit shy about these things, trust us when we say you would of left your session feeling over the moon. At a certain point we had to eventually ignore all the amazing compliments and kind words thrown Breanna’s way, otherwise we would’ve had to be there for hours as each person wanted to tell her how beautiful she looked!
For Breanna’s women empowerment session we focused on two different looks. Her first outfit was a long red flowy dress that had a beautiful contract to the greenery surrounding her. Her second outfit was a white summers dresses that was perfect for being in the water.
We loved Breanna’s adventurous and creative spirit. As she was absolutely down to walk up stream to get beautiful once in a life time shots. Moments like these are not always guaranteed but made between ourselves and our clients. We ultimately want to create a beautiful unique session for each of our strong women and when our clients are down to have fun and creativity you get beautiful stunning strong woman portraits that will stand out and remind you of how amazing you truly are.
What is a Women Empowerment photoshoot?
For us we call Women Empowerment Photoshoots, Strong Woman sessions.
And they are more than just a photoshoot.
This will be a weird request, but we want you to take a moment to think about it yourself, but we want you to take out the word photoshoot.
Ask yourself what is a strong woman?
When you define what a strong woman is to you, you are already on the first steps of this journey of what we call a Strong Woman Photoshoot.
We have a feeling if you are reading this now you are in fact a strong woman.
Did that throw you off? If so that is absolutely okay, because the reality is being a strong woman isn’t always as easy as being what we think it is.
You are a strong woman, you might not know it yet, and you might be listing all the reasons that you could prove us wrong in that statement, but we are here to tell you you are.
You are a strong woman even though you are going through hard times. You may cry, you may scream, you may even pray to God for someone else to take care of you for 5 seconds but that doesn’t make you weak. In fact what we’ve learned about strong woman is they are usually the ones everyone has come to rely on.
We are here to say let us take care of you. You deserve a day to be shown how wonderful you truly are and be seen for all that you are.
Why do a Strong Woman photoshoot?
Remember that part about us taking care of you? Well we mean it, we have learned that sometimes you need to get out of your day to day routine and have some fun!
Let’s be honest, when was the last time you let yourself truly be you?
Where you’ve been able to put down all the expectations of what you should be; the perfect mom, the perfect daughter, the perfect whatever you want to call it. When is the last time you were free to be yourself and remember how awesome and amazing you truly are?
If you are saying “it’s been awhile” or “I can’t even remember” then maybe you should skip past everything we are about to say and just call us now, cause you really need to have fun and find yourself again.
If you want to keep reading though, then we are here to take you on an informative journey.
As female based studio filled will strong women, we’ve talked it over many times what it means and why this is important.
Ultimately, everyday as strong woman we rise to the occasion to lift others up and want to be our best. We are passionate, we are adventurous, we are wild. We can be loud, we can be bold, we tend to be “too much” and we’ve heard it too many times, we have to lower ourselves down so others will feel good enough.
But you don’t have to. You really don’t have to, you can be everything you are and shine as brightly as possible and still be loved. Those who love you will rise up and be proud of you. They will want nothing more than for you to see how truly amazing you are and how loved you are for yourself.
Can a strong woman session really be this empowering?
Yes. Yes, and a thousand times more yeses.
Everyday when you look at yourself what do you see? What words do you tell yourself? How often do you get to step out and see the best version of yourself?
A strong woman session is about bringing life back into your day to day. It’s about creating a reminder of all that you love about yourself. Showing you who you are and how others view you.
We once had a client years ago that we still think about so often, her husband said he loved the wild and free woman she was when they first married, that she had this light and life about her, through the years though he hasn’t seen it in awhile. Between the hard times and the day to day stress and responsibilities part of her was lost. All he wanted to do was see her again and have her be that happy again.
From the first call, to the photoshoot, and to the final reveal her photos he said he saw that woman again. The light in her eyes was back, the joy, the energy. But more than that a few months after her session she called us up to let us know that because of her photoshoot she applied for a job that she never would have felt confident enough doing and they hired her and that the job paid three times higher than her previous job. That her entire families lives had changed because of her photoshoot.
When your cup is empty you cannot pour into another cup. Let us help you refill yours.
Meet the women behind our Strong Woman Sessions
We typically try not to make a fuss about who we are, because our goal is to focus on you, but we also know how important it is to have the right people for something so special.
Our studio is an all female studio, with it primarily being two people; Ella and Sammi.
We are strong women who are passionate, a little stubborn, and a bit wild at times.
While Ella loves to create elegant and dramatic photos, she is nothing like our clients anticipate when they see her work, she is much more down to earth. She is originally from South Africa and grew her business in Las Vegas before moving to Florida. A lover of nature and being outdoors she has found herself living on a farm with her 11 mini donkeys and 2 dogs. She is a water baby at heart and will take any chance she gets at being outside in the water. She is talented with knowing how to light and pose for any client and in any environment. My favorite part that I hear from our clients is how fun and relaxed a session feels with her.
I am Sammi, the romantic heart of the two. I find that life should be lived to its fullest. That passion and love are things to be found even if it’s just for oneself. I’ve worked with Ella for 10 years now and truly never loved anything more, outside of work not only are we best friends but our dogs as well. Ella says everyone has a special gift, hers is being able to see people for who they are and she says mine is being able to understand people in a deep way.
Between the two of us we’ve created Strong Woman sessions to show woman like us that it is more than okay to be strong, bold, loud, wild, passionate, and loved. You deserve to see your worth.
How do you prep for a Strong Woman Photoshoot?
Having us understand your needs and desires is going to be the ultimate part of creating an amazing strong woman photoshoot.
Think about all that we’ve asked so far.
How do you define being a strong woman? When is the last time you truly let yourself be you? What does it look like when you see the best version of yourself, and we aren’t talking about looks, but what does it feel like?
Don’t worry if you don’t have the exact answer. If you give us a call we will guide you through finding out all the things that important to you and you want to see and celebrate.
Once we get a good idea of who you are and what makes you feel the best we will start planning your session.
Where, when, and what should I do to create the best women empowerment session?
The where, when, and what are all icing on the cake when you have finalized your call with our team. By understanding your needs we can help guide you through the best places and options for you.
We do offer in studio and out of studio sessions year round to give all our clients all a chance to create a life changing experience.
For our in studio women empowerment sessions we have an accessible amount of studio props from furniture pieces, to the outfits, we have dramatic robes, angel wings, and so many dresses. We also have many different backdrops to create diverse looks during your session.
Out of studio Ella is a skilled off camera flash photographer which allows us to create stunning looks in any location. Her style is known for sunsets, but we also make available sunrises for specific locations.
Since there are so many variables our best recommendation is to schedule a consultation, we take bookings a year out and help finalize all the details. Not only for place and time, but what outfits will look the best, we also offer the ability to use or rent certain dresses available in our studio. Most of our iconic photos are used with our studio dresses so if there is one you love in particular please don’t hesitate to ask about it!
If you are thinking “holy crap I am really turning 50” then welcome to the club. We hear it all the time, and yes you are not alone in feeling all these big emotions. The one thing we love hearing is how beautiful and confident women feel at 50.
And we hear it often! 50th Birthday Boudoir sessions have become one of our most inquired sessions and yes, while there are nerves and worries about inquiring to do a boudoir session, the moment we let our clients know they are actually on the younger side of our clients all of a sudden we get the truth; our ladies feel confident in who they are and want to celebrate it!
We’ve learned from our clients that you still got it at any age, and ladies let me tell you we’ve had 70 year olds in our studio who were rocking it better than the 30 year olds. (No shame at all to our younger ladies! We just know that the stereotypes are like for anyone 40 and over)And there is something so beautiful about confidence.
At 50 you know what you want and you aren’t afraid to say it!
And we’ve learned that there is nothing better than getting older and knowing what you want, feeling confident in yourself, and feeling great owning it, because “this isn’t what I thought 50 would like” doesn’t mean you can’t redefine it.
What is 50?
50 is a number that you define, not one that defines you.
Let’s be real honest with ourselves right now, you are wanting to do a 50th birthday boudoir session because you are feeling it, you know you still got it and want to celebrate it. You know that it’s taken you awhile, but you are confident in who you are, what you want, and not afraid to admit that you are still feeling beautiful.
And we are here to tell you we got you! Our goal is to focus on who you are, what you want to celebrate and create an experience that you walk away from smiling ear to ear cause you aren’t ashamed to own it.
So tell us, what is 50?
You are the only one who can define what your 50th birthday means to you, so don’t be afraid to shout it from the roof tops!
How to celebrate your 50th birthday
This is a time to live! You have been so many things in your life, from daughter, sister, mother, aunt, boss, grandmother, etc There are so many things we as woman are that it’s time for us to take a step back and celebrate the most important title of all, “me”
What do you love? What is fun for you? How do you want to honor yourself? These are all the questions we want to ask you and more. You have so much to celebrate that it’s time to let someone else take care of you.
Your birthday should focus on what makes you feel the best. Are you wanting to go all out and be bold? Do you want to see the softer side and feel free? What makes you you?
A boudoir session is the perfect 50th birthday celebration to give yourself something to feel good about not only now, but years to come. You not only deserve to be taken care of but you’ve certainly earned it.
At our studio our team focuses solely on you. From the moment you call to the moment you receive your photos everything is about creating a unique experience for you.
Before you even step foot in our studio we want to know what makes you feel the best, what your hopes are for your session, and really understand who you are.
Day of session we have make up and hair included where you will be able to be pampered and taken care of as you start off your day relaxing with champagne.
We recommend bringing 2-4 outfits for your session to create diverse looks that make you feel amazing. During the actual photoshoot, Ella will be guiding you through all the different poses, and creating custom looks that will capture what makes you feel the best.
Afterwards we will perfectly edit your photos and have you return to have another amazing experience to select your favorite photos to create the perfect keepsake to remember the strong, beautiful, confident, and still desirable woman you are.
What to expect from your boudoir experience?
Boudoir should leave you feeling confident, have you walk away smiling, and leave you wanting to do this again!
Leading up to your session from your first inquiry we want to understand your goals and who you are. The best way to prep for a session is by being ready to be vulnerable and honest!
We know that we talk about the confident, sexiness, and everything else that comes with being 50, but realistically we are women and we have our insecurities.
Boudoir isn’t about putting a mask on and hoping for the best, it’s about being honest and tearing down those walls and rebuilding. Boudoir is vulnerability in all accounts, but within that you find the freedom, the strength, and so so much fun in letting go of everything that’s held you back!
Your 50th birthday boudoir session will be the birthday celebration you will brag about for years to come.
When should I plan for my 50th birthday boudoir session?
Like any big celebration you want to plan it in advance.
Now, if you are reading this and your birthday is next week, please don’t let this deter you, as at the end of the day even if it doesn’t happen day of it is still worth being late on!
With that said, there will be a few variables in planning for your boudoir session that will be completely unique for each person.
Are you wanting to have your session done on your birthday or around it? Or would the goal to be have the photos ready by your birthday?
What is the goal of your session; would you want to have custom album, a stunning luxury wallart, digitals to share with friends?
Do you already have outfits ready or do you need time to shop?
These are the three biggest questions that will effect when you should plan your boudoir session.
If you are wanting to have a boudoir session on your birthday we recommend booking a session as early as possible to increase the likelihood of availability, we book sessions up to a year in advance so that will give you plenty of time to secure your boudoir photoshoot on the day of your birthday.
If you are a little more flexible on dates then we recommend typically reaching out two months in advance. Now that doesn’t mean if your birthdays in a couple weeks you shouldn’t reach out, we are always down to try to make something happen to help create an amazing experience!
If you want to have any physical product then we also recommend keeping in mind that all our product is handmade in Italy and typically takes 3-6 weeks to design, create, and ship. Meaning if you would love to have a beautiful custom made wallart from your boudoir session of you feeling your best and want to proudly display it by your birthday then we suggest booking2 months prior to your 50th birthday.
Lastly! Outfits! Yes, this does take in to account outfits, if you have no deadline and want to have fun, we recommend reaching out and giving us a call to help you plan your perfect session while on the phone we can also talk about dates and get your session in and make sure you have enough time to shop and plan the perfect looks. If you already have everything and are beyond excited to get your session going then we can absolutely get you in at our soonest availability!
What should I wear for my boudoir session?
This is where this gets fun! Picking out the perfect outfit for you for your boudoir session should be all about what makes you feel the best!
We are experts at understanding how to translate the feeling of what you want into the perfect outfits to make you feel the best. Our biggest advice to all our clients though is do not get caught up with advice from online! (Yes, we know you are reading this online too lol) But seriously sometimes there is so much technicality when it comes from advice online the biggest thing they forget is you should just feel good when you wear it and love it!
Some outfits will say one thing and others another. Do you want to feel bold? We typically would recommend black or red lingerie. If you want to feel soft and romantic stick with the softer colors and whites. Are you into the glam? Well, try some gold lingerie or something pink and feel like a goddess. At the end of the day the goal is to love what you are wearing and feel free in choosing to be yourself.
If that means you don’t even wear any lingerie then go for it! We’ve had clients bring in dresses, cowboy hats and shorts, even just loose sweaters for that cute and cozy look.
Everyone is unique so be yourself and be ready to have fun.
How to deal with the nerves of a boudoir session.
Feeling nervous before your boudoir session is completely normal and to be expected and to tell you the truth, we kinda want you to feel that way.
Yes! We said it, but it’s the truth, you should feel a bit nervous, that is what makes it so fun.
Haven’t you been on a roller coaster before? You spend the whole line super excited and anticipating it, but the moment you are on the ride and you start slowly go up the first incline you are praying to get off the ride? Yeah, we’ve all been there and that is what makes it so much fun, because once you drop it is absolutely worth the anticipation!
Nerves are just excitement that you cannot control and we need to feel that way again. When is the last time you stayed up all night waiting for Santa Claus, or couldn’t sleep because the first day of school was happening? It’s been years since any of us felt those butterflies and the feelings of firsts.
We are here to say enjoy the ride and know that by end of your session you’ll already be wanting to get back in line for another session.
What to expect after your boudoir session.
Post boudoir session is personally our favorite part of the entire experience. We know that sounds crazy, but there is a reason.
You’ve picked out your outfits, figured out what you want to celebrate for your 50th birthday, and now you’ve had an amazing boudoir photoshoot, what is next?
You might think all the fun is over and thats the end of it, but this is where everything you’ve planned comes into fruition.
You get to have the life changing experience that you absolutely did not expect to have. More times than we can count our ladies will come in to view their photos they end up crying in disbelief.
For the first time in their lives they’ve seen themselves the way others do, they see the beauty, their joy, their strength. They see all the things they never see when they look in the mirror.
It doesn’t matter if you feel good or feel insecure or nervous when you come through our doors, because it’s always absolutely thrilling to be so empowered by being yourself.
Is this the best way to celebrate your 50th birthday?
If you are asking this question right now, then we can tell you absolutely yes. A 50th birthday boudoir session is not only what you want but exactly what you need!
You’ve looked at our testimonials, you’ve read our blog posts, and you’ve seen our portfolio. You want to do this, but you are scared and that is okay!
A 50th birthday is a big celebration you’ve done so much in life and what to go big and celebrate in a big way. There are so many options out there, but we believe if you were already looking into this you know in your heart you want to do go bold and do something for yourself.
Schedule a consultation with us, there is no commitment to have a chat to see the excitement we have for you and what we can do to help create the perfect birthday present.
While you wait for your scheduled consultation look at our clients boudoir testimonials to see what real clients reactions were to their boudoir photoshoot.
Are you just starting out as a model and need a model portfolio that says WOW?
We understand how it is when you want to jumpstart your career in the modeling industry and feel confident in your modeling portfolio, and yet you don’t know how to get started.
There are so many amazing articles online that can say it better than us and are more in-depth when it comes to marketing yourself as a model, but we aren’t here to talk about marketing.
What we want to talk about specifically is BRANDING yourself as a model and how to achieve the best results with your photos.
What is a model’s portfolio?
The best pictures from your collection go into your modeling portfolio.
This portfolio is usually contained within a folder that is created after the first photo shoot and then is supplemented with the best photos after each photo shoot.
Modeling Portfolio Requirements
The main requirements for a modeling portfolio are versatility and professionalism.
A standard modeling portfolio should contain “test photos” and several different looks with a change of makeup, clothes, and hairstyle.
Likewise, a model should show that they can be different, can reincarnate into different looks, reveal their emotions, work well in front of the camera, feel their body, etc.
Model Portfolio Summarized
In essence, a model portfolio is a set of professional photographs that seek to maximize the model’s strengths and hide his or her weaknesses.
A modeling portfolio is made according to specific rules and consists of mandatory and optional elements.
A full-fledged modeling book should include snapshots, modeling tests, fashion and beauty photos, publications, and footage from fashion shows and advertising shoots.
With all this said, let’s look at the process of creating a model portfolio.
Think about what kind of model you want to be
There are many different types of modeling, and sure you can narrow them down into niches etc., but what we always ask our clients is, what do you want to convey?
Do you like to do dark, moody, abstract looks, or do you want to do high fashion?
Maybe your goal is to be more commercial and have more happy and casual shoots.
Whatever you want your brand to be, you’ll want to stylize your photoshoot accordingly to attract what you want.
With Melissa, we absolutely loved the energy she brought to her session and how important it was to her to have life, fun, and energy in her photos.
You can feel her energy from these photos, and you can tell how much of a joy it is to work with her. Her vibe in these photos is upbeat and positive, with undertones of rustic America.
What do you want to say with your brand?
Now that you know your brand, what outfits do you feel represent it?
A headshot, full length shot, swimsuit shot or lingerie shot (if you want to do these kinds of photos, of course), as well as editorial and creative shots.
Every established model will have these kinds of photos in their portfolio, so it’s important to do your photos well enough so that you stand out from the crowd.
Enhancing Your Model Portfolio With Outfits
Think back to what you want to say with your images and then figure out what outfits best do that.
With Melissa, she brought multiple outfits for her photo shoot since she had so many ideas and was so excited to create diverse looks and build her portfolio right away, and she absolutely needed it for everything she was doing.
If you are just starting out, we think 4 outfits is the perfect amount.
First Outfit
This should be something casual, yet tight-fitting so that it doesn’t distract from your physique. A tight, casual outfit is perfect for full length photos and headshots.
Second Outfit
Your second outfit can be a swimsuit or lingerie, and if you are not going for that kind of look, then think about something you are excited for and want to shoot. Maybe it is workout clothes or something more niche.
Third Outfit
We recommend that your third outfit be one that you can move in easily and express yourself.
Fourth Outfit
This is where things get fun.
Your fourth outfit should be a bold, unique statement piece that really strikes to the core of what you want to do, what you love, and what you imagine when you dream about the perfect gig.
Further Reading: Steps to make a great model portfolio in a photo studio
STEP 1
First, to apply to any agency, it is necessary to take pictures and pass some modeling tests.
Snapshots are taken on a plain background with soft light while your hair is kept in a simple style—usually in a ponytail.
When taking swimwear snapshots, the model should not have makeup on since these shots are designed to show their natural appearance.
Swimwear shots come with virtually no retouching.
Close-up photos cover the following:
Full-face (with and without a smile), profile (left and right).
Lump photos cover the following:
Full-face, profile (left and right), back view.
When To Take Snapshots
In principle, you can take snapshots at home in daylight against a plain-colored wall. But, of course, it’s better to take snapshots in a photo studio.
Model Tests
Model tests are photos taken with soft and/or hard (contrast) light, often in black and white.
They reveal the type of model the model is and their ability to pose, play, and reincarnate. In short, model tests reveal the model’s professional abilities.
Usually, model tests are shot in a minimalist style since there shouldn’t be anything unnecessary distracting from the model.
The model’s clothes should be tight and consist of leggings, T-shirts, shorts, swimsuits, etc.
Their makeup should be light and natural.
Good modeling tests also consist of at least three different looks.
STEP 2
Now you have to add fashion and beauty photos made in a photo studio to your portfolio (especially if you are going to work as a model).
Fashion photos will show the client how to advertise clothes, and beautiful photos will show cosmetics, jewelry, etc.
A photo with an accent on the most beautiful part of the body (lips, arms, legs, hands) is not redundant.
Here are a couple IMPORTANT nuances when creating a modeling portfolio in a photo studio:
It takes more than one shoot to create a modeling portfolio, which is built up throughout your career. Typically, unless you’re lucky, you can make only a few excellent shots in one shoot, which will be added to your portfolio.
You shouldn’t put weak shots in your model portfolio.
Your model portfolio should be updated periodically to keep it current and relevant to your current appearance.
For example, if you’ve changed your image drastically (for example, changing your hair color, getting a haircut, getting a cosmetic procedure, or changing your weight), this is a good reason to update your model portfolio.
To create a complete model portfolio, you must work with several photographers. Each one will have their own vision and style, and each one will express their image and personality in a unique way. If just one photographer photographs a model, she risks being portrayed one-sidedly.
You should be careful when choosing a photographer: do not do photo shoots with everyone, especially if they specialize in different shoots (weddings, reportage). Also, you should avoid beginners because you will not get good results with them. To add to your modeling portfolio, you need a smart photographer with the appropriate specialization (fashion, beauty, model tests, advertising) and a good photo studio.
TWO USEFUL EXERCISES FOR POSING
A photo model is NOT just a girl with good looks, clear skin, and a friendly smile who can pose in a photo studio.
Unfortunately or fortunately (depending on how you look at it), modeling is a little more complicated in reality.
To become an excellent model, you need to be able to do much more.
See below for more information about two exercises that will help you.
Exercise One
Stand by yourself in front of a mirror (anywhere from 30-50 cm from it).
You should position yourself so that the light that falls on one side of your face is slightly darker than the other.
Cold Look
Now look in the mirror and emulate a cold and arrogant expression. VERY cold and even haughty.
Looking at your image in the mirror should send shivers down your spine!
Did you try it?
Great, now close your eyes, relax your face (you can massage it a little with your hands), take a few breaths, and open your eyes.
Sad Look
Now look at yourself in the mirror again and emulate someone who is about to cry. You should try and generate emotions with your expression.
In fact, your expression should be sad enough to evoke pity in anyone who sees you!
Have you tried it?
If so, don’t take too long.
It’s all right if at the beginning you can’t capture the expressions that you would like to. You’ll get there in time.
Happy Look
Now try again and generate another emotion, this time a positive one.
Try the exercise at least 2-3 times a week (or better yet, every day for 5-10 minutes).
Performing The Exercise With Others
After you get some practice this way, you’ll want to make the exercise more challenging for yourself and practice generating emotions with other people in the room.
Ask someone you know to stand next to you and look (just silently and attentively to begin with!) at your facial expressions.
Next, arrange for someone who doesn’t know you that well to watch you closely and critique your performance.
Performing The Exercise Without A Mirror
Once you’ve had practice generating expressions in front of others with the help of a mirror, the next step is to do the same exercise without a mirror.
You’ll first want to do this in front of an acquaintance, then in front of a stranger, then in front of a group of strangers, etc.
Why Is This Exercise Necessary?
You may be wondering, why is this exercise necessary?
Well, everyone can “smile sweetly into the camera.”
But not everyone can powerfully convey emotions on command. Certainly, everyone can convey emotions when they feel emotional, but it takes a professional model or actor to convey any emotion on command.
An experienced model can easily create fifty different looks in a 10-minute shoot.
Trying This Exercise For Your Own Benefit
By the way, even if you don’t have any plans on starting a modeling career, you can still benefit from this exercise.
Learning how to command your expressions in any given situation can benefit you in your personal life and work life.
There will be times when you need to be careful about the emotions you convey, especially if you are feeling emotional or perhaps not emotional enough in a personal or business setting.
This isn’t a call to be fake with your emotions, but sometimes a small change in your expression goes a long way in helping someone feel like you’re listening to them.
Exercise Two
As a model, you should not just utilize only a few poses. Instead, you should master several different poses.
Of course, the poses you take are largely determined by the photographer. A skilled photographer will guide you on what’s appropriate.
Still, a good model knows how to quickly strike a dozen or two effective poses without the orchestration of a skilled photographer.
With this in mind, this second exercise is aimed at helping you develop the necessary skill to pose quickly and effectively.
To perform the exercise correctly, you will need a large mirror.
Positioning Yourself With Your Mirror
Bear in mind, you shouldn’t stand any closer than 8 feet from your mirror. You’ll want to be able to see your full reflection with some space to spare.
Regarding the lighting in your room:
You’ll want the light in your room to cover half your body, so that half of it is shadowed.
You’ll then want to take one of your standard poses (at the end of the text, there are some examples of standard standing positions), freeze, and look meticulously in the mirror.
Only, when you look, you should NOT criticize your body, i.e., nitpick about your weight or your hairstyle.
Instead, you should pay attention to how well you pose!
How straight is your posture? Are you conveying the proper mood? Is this a common pose?
These are questions you’ll want to ask.
Once you find an excellent pose (preferably one this is commonly used so that you can reference it), make a mental note of it and remember it well so that you can refer back to it whenever you need.
Replicate The Pose
Once you’ve made a strong mental note of your pose, you’ll want to return momentarily to a normal standing position and then quickly assume the pose again.
Maintain it for a couple of seconds, then relax again, and then once more, take the pose.
Expand Your Number of Poses
Working in this way, you can memorize many beneficial poses. The more you practice, the more poses you’ll master.
Transitioning From Pose To Pose
Once you’ve got the hang of multiple poses, you’ll next want to transition between poses. The smoother you make your transitions, the better.
You’ll want to keep practicing these transitions until they become automatic, and then you can start trying to “create” new poses that haven’t been used before.
Add Nuance To Your Poses
To add nuance to your poses, go from pose to pose without trying to perfectly replicate your learned postures. Instead, experiment with slight alterations to see if you can benefit from changing things up ever-so-slightly.
Second, try adding different emotions to each pose along with facial expressions that match various moods.
Remember that emotions are reflected in the body, so for instance, if you’re supposed to illustrate someone who has been suddenly and powerfully “taken aback” by something, maybe lean back involuntarily.
Whatever emotion you are trying to convey, do your best to illustrate it with your physicality.
Practice Your Poses Periodically
Practice your poses periodically and bit by bit you can think up and learn a whole series of poses with unique elements, which you can easily use when necessary.
Having several poses in your repertoire will increase your confidence and help reduce the modeling jitters that you sometimes get, especially if you’re a beginner.
Portraits
Portraits are photos that clearly show the model’s face. They are usually taken in 20×25 format and show the model’s face and upper body taken from a close angle.
It is essential that the headshot, as the portrait is also called, is focused on the face.
Portraits are also usually shot with minimal makeup, so facial features and skin color are visible. Every model should have such a shot in its portfolio.
Beauty Shots
On the other hand, beauty shots are artistic photos that, just like portraits, depict the model’s head and upper body. But unlike portraits, the model may wear makeup and be shot in a dramatic pose.
If you want to work as a model in print publications, this kind of photography is a must for you.
Fashion shoots are completely true to their name; the pictures depict models in different ways, and the main focus here is on the clothes.
Even the makeup of the model is chosen to accentuate the outfit. This is the kind of photo that fashion models need.
Swimsuit Photos
A swimsuit photo shoot is obvious designed to show the body of a model. This is another type of photo that you may need for advertising in print publications.
Another photo that you will probably need to start a modeling career in print publications is an editorial shot.
Make sure your costumes are ready at least five days before your editorial shoot.
Tips
It’s a good idea to keep extra copies of your photos somewhere safe. That way, you won’t panic if you lose your model portfolio.
Remember: A model portfolio is not a photo album! If a picture doesn’t sell you, don’t include it just because it represents a special value to you.
Ideally, your portfolio should not contain more than year-old pictures. You will need to reshoot your portfolio on occasion.
If you’re only making a portfolio to get accepted by a particular agency, think twice. Most agencies will ask you to do the shoot after you sign the contract, so you may have to pay twice.
Don’t use new, untested facial products before a shoot, as this can lead to some pretty lamentable results.
When getting dressed, ensure everything is worn correctly – no kinked straps and misplaced buttons.
It’s wrong to assume that the photographer with the highest price is the best. Yet it’s also true that you get what you pay for. Find the middle ground!
Practicing your modeling skills may seem like a strange activity at first. But it is necessary! What looks good in your imagination may not work in real life, and you need to figure things out before you go on a shoot!
Try not to tan before your shoot. Tan marks can be a problem.
Keep in mind that many photographers and makeup artists have rules about canceling arrangements. Usually, if you cancel the shoot less than 48 hours before the agreed time, you have to pay at least part of the amount, if not the full price.
Your model album should be organized and visually appealing.
Loose pictures and slides, no contact list, and torn or crumpled photos are signs of a poorly presented model portfolio.
Just as an accountant cannot offer her resume on crumpled paper, a respectful model should not have a sloppy portfolio.
Your model portfolio represents you! Make it sturdy. It will make a positive impression.
To get a quality model portfolio, we recommend adhering to the following tips:
Study other people’s experiences. Look at samples of model portfolios on the Internet. Examples will help you understand what your book should ideally look like.
Find a professional photographer with experience and a photo studio. A good professional knows how to show the model’s strengths. An experienced photographer will help you eliminate shyness in front of the camera in a photo studio and suggest good poses.
Build your model portfolio through time. Remember: a model portfolio is not made in one shoot. You’ll only get a few good shots worthy of a portfolio from a single shoot.
Quality comes first. You will get a lot of photos as a result of several shoots. But only the best of them should be included in your portfolio, taken in a good light in a professional photo studio. Weak photos, added for quantity, can play against you.
Black and white photos are always on trend. So don’t forget to add a few of these shots to your modeling portfolio.
Don’t get carried away with photoshop. Photoshopped photos don’t show a model’s potential but only the retouching skills of a professional.
Update the portfolio regularly so it’s always up to date with your latest looks. This is especially true for those whose appearance changes drastically, depending on their style.
Work with a stylist. An experienced professional will tell you how best to style your hair and what to wear.
Put what you think is the best shot at the end of the portfolio. In this manner, you will make a good impression
Where do you go next?
If you’re wondering what to do next, this is where we come in. Call us today for a free consultation!
You always want to hire an experienced photographer who knows how to capture not only the photos you need but the ones you want.
We will help guide you through poses and capture your best angles to create something that will leave you feeling inspired, confident, and wanting to go out a conquer the world!
If you are still struggling to figure out what YOU want, but you know for certain that you want to get your portfolio going, then don’t wait to contact us.
One of our favorite things to do in our studio is help our clients figure out what works best for them and create a custom experience.
We guide you, help you pose, and even have an amazing hair and makeup team available that can create the final touches for your perfect look.
For Melissa’s photoshoot in our Las Vegas Photography Studio, we use our wonderful team – Las Vegas Makeup Girl
Many of our clients love working with us since one of our superpowers is hearing what our clients want!
Are you thinking of getting married at Resorts World Las Vegas?
One of the biggest things our clients want to know prior to booking their venue is how does it look in their photos! If you are thinking of having your wedding at Resorts World Las Vegas take a look at the beautiful wedding of Zahra & Zain.
With this being a new venue we were absolutely excited for all the inspiration we could find for their couples photo after their ceremony. Ella and her second photographer Joe went a few days prior to the wedding to scout for the perfect locations. One of our favorite things to work with in a new environment is the architecture and design.
All the beautiful floral inspired Ella to create some wow photos that we are just in love with.
As a Las Vegas Wedding photographer the one thing we want to create for our clients is an unforgettable experience, we believe our photography should capture the beauty of each of our clients and the emotions they feel not only day of but what their love makes them feel leading up to their wedding day and what they want to celebrate for years to come.
When having a wedding at Resorts World Las Vegas it isn’t only about how beautiful the inside of the hotel is!
For our studio we absolutely love dramatic bold photos so of course we loved that you could capture a moment like this outside where you could see the Las Vegas Strip.
Let us know which photo is your favorite! And if you need a wedding photographer we would love to set up a meeting with you to hear all about your wedding day and what is important to you! Just contact us here
Looking for a creative way to make your desert engagement session stand out?
Here is how to upgrade your desert engagement photoshoot into something unique and perfect for you and your fiancé
One of our favorite things about having a studio in Las Vegas for our destination weddings is our clients have so much versatility for their engagement session. One of the biggest questions we receive from our clients who want to do a desert engagement photoshoot is what can they do to make their photos stand out even more!
It’s EASY you just need to add 1 thing to make your desert engagement photoshoot stand out
For our beautiful couple Caitlin & Tyler they wanted loved the vintage look and with our experience in doing many photoshoots in the desert with luxury cars we were so excited when they rented the 1965 Ford Mustang from Las Vegas Classic Car Rentals
And WOW, we were blown away when we saw how perfect their choice was. With Caitlin’s beautiful red hair and her classic Marilyn Monroe white dress we felt like we were transported back in time where you could just jump in your car and go where the wind took you. Such freedom, excitement, and happiness!
It was the perfect way to to symbolize their love for each other and them starting their future together. We cannot wait for their wedding day!
This is the gift he will absolutely love and one you will love to give. All our clients have said this was the perfect groom gift from bride. We know all too well that once you book your session you are guaranteed to to start out your fiance’s wedding day full of excitement but you will beginning the best self love journey for yourself leading up to your wedding day. (We will absolutely be talking about that in another blog post, so keep a look out!)
But let’s take it back to the priority of why a boudoir session is the perfect wedding present. It really comes down to one thing he is marrying YOU, he loves YOU more than anything else, right? So how can anything beat giving him a boudoir album full of heart stopping, jaw dropping, photos of yourself?
Nothing can beat that, but at Ella Gagiano Studios we make your boudoir photoshoot a life changing experience. One that will change the way you feel about yourself leading up to the wedding, where you know how beautiful you are, are confident in yourself, and so blown away by the whole experience that your only worry is not being able to keep this a secret until your wedding day!
As our beautiful Miss H says “The Hardest Secret I have ever had to keep!”
We cannot stop talking about Michelle & Christian’s wedding day, there is something special about these clients as they seem to bring in the most beautiful perfect day for photos. Their engagement photos are hands down the ones all our clients fall in love with, they had a spectacular sky that day that we haven’t seen before and it was just absolutely stunning. Which leads to why we can’t stop being in awe that on their wedding day they had such an equally beautiful sky. We are fully under the impression that they some how bring on a perfect day. We cannot wait to share the photos, but for now here is their beautiful wedding video sneak peek!
There is something about our brides who can easily make us cry. Being able to see all the love and joy they have and being a part of their day it just hits us to be able to witness all the love the are feeling in that moment. The one thing we can say for Marcia & Patrick is that their day was a day of celebrating. They had the kind of reception that you always want and anticipate as you are planning your wedding day. Everyone was having fun out on the dance floor and there was never a dull moment. You knew everyone was there to have a good time and to celebrate this amazing moment with Marcia & Patrick.
Makeup: 
What to expect after your boudoir session.
As a Las Vegas Wedding photographer the one thing we want to create for our clients is an unforgettable experience, we believe our photography should capture the beauty of each of our clients and the emotions they feel not only day of but what their love makes them feel leading up to their wedding day and what they want to 
It was the perfect way to to symbolize their love for each other and them starting their future together. We cannot wait for their wedding day!
But let’s take it back to the priority of why a boudoir session is the perfect wedding present. It really comes down to one thing he is marrying YOU, he loves YOU more than anything else, right? So how can anything beat giving him a boudoir album full of heart stopping, jaw dropping, photos of yourself?
