JADE’S TOP 10 TIPS FOR ACE PORTRAITS

1 Show the model your shots

A super easy way to boost interaction with your models is to regularly show them your shots. This can help show them the sort of style you’re aiming for too.

2 Note down locations

When you come across a new location you’d like to revisit and shoot at, make a note of the GPS coordinates on your phone to make them easy to find again.

3 Organize shoots regularly

Jade loves to arrange shoots weekly, even if it’s not a paid shoot, just to keep her creativity flowing and keep her shooting skills sharp.

4 Public and private property

In London and other built up cities look out for metal studs on the pavement that tell you which parts of the streets are private and public property, so you know where you can and can’t legally shoot.

5 Get on social media

Jade uses social media like Instagram (@jkgphotography) to put her portfolio out there, get seen by clients, and find new models to work with as well.

6 Model release

A model release is a contract between the photographer and model that outlines what the images can and can’t be used for. These are worth filling out for every shoot.

7 Start early

City streets can get busy, so Jade prefers to get up early and do all of her shooting before they get too crowded.

8 Invest in accessories

Accessories like a 5-in-1 reflector are inexpensive and open up a whole range of shooting options, helping you add light or take it away and even change the quality of the light too.

9 Keep the conversation flowing

Don’t let conversation dry up as this can lead to awkward silences and stiff poses from your model, so keep talking and make small talk to build a strong rapport with models.

10 Make a mood board

Jade will often create a mood board on Pinterest that she can then share with her models to give them an idea of the theme and aesthetic she wants to achieve on a photo shoot.