You probably grew up seeing those famous models in the pages of your favorite magazines. You can picture in your head the glossy pages of “Vogue” or any of your other fashion magazines, and it always brings a smile to your face. It may very well be what you got into modeling for, because it involves such memorable work. So now here you are working as a model and you’ve found yourself with your first portrait modeling job. Though you are undoubtedly very excited for it, you are also working hard to swallow that nervous lump in your throat as well.

The best advice comes in the most simplistic form when it comes to preparation. First and foremost, follow the direction set by those around you. If you are told to dress a certain way, then do it. If you are told that you should wear your hair and makeup in a certain manner, then follow that direction. The most important direction comes to you through the photographer and related staff. They will usually walk you through the process and help you to get the shots that work best. If you listen carefully to them and portray the poses that they recommend, then you are sure to have a winning photo shoot.

It may sound silly, but you really need to practice your poses in advance. Though you are sure to be asked to strike a few poses that you aren’t prepared for, some basic ones can get you through. If you are asked to pose in a seductive way and you’ve never practiced that, you are in for a rather embarrassing chain of events. Likewise if you are asked to pose with a male model or to look pouty, you want to be prepared for that as well. Any practice well in advance can pay off big time when it comes to portrait modeling. If you combine a bit of practice with following directions, you are sure to have a winning combination. Put yourself out there, be open to the advice and words of the experts around you, and essentially make yourself a sort of clay in their hands. All of these efforts will pay off and result in this being the first of many portrait modeling jobs that you land.