Focus

Focus, Focus, Focus! I cannot stress enough the importance of clear crisp focus. The model on the left is stunning, but what has the photographer done?

There is no excuse for taking out of focus pictures.

Lighting

Trick arty Lighting. Use a light meter and meter for the flesh tones.

Pose

Look through the viewfinder and ensure the model is posed. Remember that girls who are not models do not know, so help them. Rig up a mirror behind you for them as this often helps.

Close Up

Please if you go in tight remember a standard lens will do really cruel things to a models nose. The model on the left is far more attractive than she appears here.

Foreshortening.

If you shoot a model from above her legs will obviously look quite short and dumpy. Think about what you are aiming for. You want long legs, then get down on your knees and those legs will just grow.

Models

I personally think if you spend ages persuading a girl to pose for you, but she really isn't keen, it's a waste of time and film. It just comes over so strongly in the pictures.

Use the frame

I assure you the model on the left is really lovely, but we wouldn't know. Use the frame, fill your pictures.

Backgrounds.

Cluttered backgrounds can be difficult, but use them to your advantage. Do not confuse the viewer with half images and messy detail. If you have got clutter use it as part of the set, as on the right.

Light Again

On the left this lovely lady looks lack lustre and has little contrast. Compared with the picture on the right which has wonderful colour and saturation.

Portraits.

When you are working with a beautiful woman the temptation to take a simple portrait is strong. Simply remember to keep it flattering. See rule 4

The Scene

Look through the viewfinder at the scene not just the model.