Pre-shoot Preparation for Models

Thanks to Michael Murphy for putting this note together. I've tweaked it a little but the majority of it is down to Michael.

Week leading up to shoot

Shave legs, armpits and appropriate areas at least 2 days before the shoot to prevent rashes and inflamed areas.
Wash and iron clothes, polish shoes, boots etc and pack into a suitable case or bag. Creases etc. will make the shot, and therefore you, look bad.
Drink plenty of water and avoid tea, coffee and alcohol as much as possible.
Avoid fake tan. Even if you think it looks fine, the camera will magnify every little streak and flaw. Do not rely on the "it can be photoshopped" defence. Photoshopping fake tan (or indeed wrinkled / worn clothes, bad makeup, etc.) is laborious, painful, and for all but the best Photoshoppers, rarely completely successful. Most photographers prefer pale to poor fake tan. If you absolutely have to do it, get it professionally done at least 3-4 days in advance of the shoot.
Colour hair at least a week before shoot, if it goes wrong you have time to make it right.
Prevent late nights as much as possible, and get some sleep especially the night prior to the shoot.
Adopt a skin cleansing and moisturising routine to help prevent spots, blemishes, blackheads, and unsightly rashes.
Adopt a nail care routine, or buy and apply fake nails the night before the shoot or first thing on the morning of the shoot. Clean and manicure your nails.
Inform the photographer/MUA if you have any allergic reactions to specific makeup products.
Inform the photographer if you suffer from hay fever, dust allergies etc.
Pack and bring your own towel and makeup if preferred.
For outdoor shoots bring appropriate shoes for the journey to the location, bearing in mind thta this may involve hills, muddy fields, rocks, rivers, etc. I have known a few women who can do these in stilettoes but they are very rare.

Day of shoot

Wash, condition and brush hair.
Have a shower, bath and use a deodorant.
Moisturise prior to shoot.
Wear loose fitting garments to prevent unsightly indentations to waistline, ankles, breasts, etc.
Try to avoid wearing foundation that has high concentrates of titanium dioxide. Better still don't use any makeup until requested to do so or applied by the MUA.
Bring your own moisturiser and cleansing wipes to a shoot - products you are used to and unlikely to cause you skin issues.
For hygiene reasons, bring your own hair brushes and combs.
IF you are doing your own makeup, try to avoid having your face and body totally different shades.

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