eXpress yourself

My uncle is a photographer, and as I was recently out in Ohio for holiday, Nicole and I ventured to his studio. We had such a fabulous time dressing up, taking great shots and simply having fun being ourselves.

I am no model, although I have been addicted to America's Next Top Model since the first season it aired. However, I feel like there are some general things I could recommend. (advice coming from Tyra, my uncle and general techniques noticed through years of magazine flipping)

1. Work your eyes: It is important to pierce the lens. You don't want to look half-asleep.
2. Try to look natural: It is not necessary to over-pout your lips or things along these lines. You are beautiful without making a 'plastic surgery face.'
3. Posture: Watch your posture. Of course for some high fashion shots, a deconstructed look is very appropriate, but usually this is something that should be kept in mind.
4. Preparation: Get a good nights sleep. This is something that we should do for our health, let alone attempting model status in photos.
5. Mix it up: Smile. Serious. Look Away. Pierce the Lens. Do Something Weird. Be Symmetrical. Play With Your Hair. Laugh. (you get the point).
6. Let there be light: Know where the light is. You will want to expose at least a portion of your face to this source. This goes for a studio session or frolicking outside. Know where the light is!
7. Have fun: Please, don't take yourself too seriously.

xx

Courtesy of Mark Poulton

Nicole and I- Courtesy of Mark Poulton

Original Picture