Friday Photo

The team at Whiskey & Rye Photography.

Friday Photo

Play around with your props and see what poses you can come up with!

How to brand yourself. An introduction for pinups and models.

There's a lot of talk around these days about the importance of branding yourself. I think this is particularly relevant to pinups and models as YOU really ARE the brand.

What does your brand say?

Your brand is a story that you tell about yourself. Everything you share online influences how others see you. Most models have separate personal and professional accounts so that their private life can be kept separate.

Know your style

You may already know your style or you may still be finding it. Are you a cheesecake pinup? Or a saucy pinup? Whatever it is make sure it is something you are comfortable with, and if something doesn't fit with your brand - don't do it.
Your style should be reflected in your avatar/cover page, so whenever someone visits, they can quickly see what you are about.

Be professional from the start

If you are starting a Facebook page or blog or some other form of modelling page to get exposure, be professional from the start. Don't post photos on your professional page showing you drunk or flipping the bird! Always be thinking that a potential employer might be looking at your page and start out as you intend to go on.

Post only your best photos

If you do a tfp shoot and the photographer gives you all the photos - you don't have to post them all! Not all of the shots are going to be flattering, so don't use them. It's ok to use behind the scenes photos or selfies, just make sure they are flattering.

The perceptions of others

A big part of your brand is how others see you. How do you behave at a shoot? Do you turn up on time, act professionally and speak of others in a professional manner? There's no point in spending lots of money and time on building a professional looking website/portfolio if you don't act professionally.

Do you have any tips about branding or using social media?

Friday Photo

Photo  by Whiskey and Rye Photography

Do I look cool, calm and collected? It was actually over 40 degrees (100 F) on this day! I must remember to plan all my latex shoots in the cooler months!

How to overcome your nerves and fears when having a photoshoot.

We have a lot of ladies that say "I'm nervous" or "I've never done this before" when they visit us for a photoshoot.
First of all, let me say that this is quite normal. It's not unusual to feel anxious or nervous when you are doing something for the first time and it can even be a good thing. Nerves can help you focus on what's important and when you are done you will feel a great sense of achievement!

You should ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable before the shoot, so that you know what to expect.
 - Who will be there?
 - What should I bring?
 - Will someone help me with posing?

I like to make sure the client has all the information she needs beforehand. Don't feel like any question is a silly one!
You can also check out my "How to prepare for your photoshoot" article for more information.

Here are some common concerns people have;

"I don't know how to pose."

I don't expect you to, and that's why I am here!
I really enjoy helping ladies with their poses and giving advice on how to use props and seeing the wonderful pictures that are the results of our work together. I like to know beforehand what your ideas are and I do a lot of research to find poses that will suit you, your outfit and your theme.



Assisting with posing ideas.

"I need to lose some weight."

It seems there are many women that are unhappy with their bodies, even professional models. We are here to show you in your best light and know the best lighting, posing and angles that will flatter you. And any pictures you are not happy with can easily be deleted!

"Do you use Photoshop?"

Make sure you discuss this with your photographer so that you are comfortable with the level of retouching that will be done. We like to use retouching to make you look like you at your best, but any degree of 'Hollywood enhancements' are possible - just ask!

"Does boudoir mean I have to go nude?/I'm not sure if I want to go nude?"

Boudoir is French for a lady's private bedroom, sitting room or dressing room. Boudoir photography aims to create an erotic or semi-nude portrait where the nudity is generally implied rather than explicit. It is totally up to you what you choose to reveal.

Boudoir style photoshoot

You can have some fun with 'implied' nudity, where placement of props, fabric or limbs hides the fact that you are actually still wearing your underwear/swimwear.

'Implied' nudity!

If you decide you want to try this, make sure you are comfortable with the photographer and know who else will be there. At Whiskey & Rye I am always there to assist with posing and to help you feel comfortable.

I hope this has answered some of your questions. If you have any others, please let me know.