VIDEO MODELING

VIDEO vs PHOTO

at soona, you may be offered a variety of shoot types in different media forms: including video, photo, or stop motion. modeling can feel very different depending on the needs and purpose of the medium. 

this article provides some strategies to help inform what additional skill sets or techniques should be used to ensure a great modeling performance for video content.

watch the video below.
then read on for more info!

FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCES

Fluid Motion + Posing

VIDEO

video modeling involves capturing a recorded period of time, often utilizing action or displaying expression with a model. 

because of this, video requires a more in depth understanding of pacing, movement fluidity, and transitions between poses or actions.

when filming, its better to start with a slower pace and speed up as directed. it's easier to edit a clip with slower movements than quick + fast ones.

also understand if the end goal is to capture everything in one take, or if there will be edits + jump cuts.

"one-take" videos will require extreme precision and consistency in execution. whereas edited videos will require more pauses or "beats" in between actions or motivations.

PHOTO

photo modeling focuses on freezing singular moments, creating impactful and aesthetically pleasing poses that translate well in a single frame.

because photos demand capturing a single moment, it does not require seamless transitions and allows for more spontaneous movement + experimentation.

because photography focuses on one singular moment, photo shoots may concentrate on perfecting small details (like poses, angles, and negative space) to capture the perfect still.

Detail Awareness + Consistency

VIDEO

modeling for video often requires a heightened awareness for details especially when demonstrating product features or functionality.

small gestures, hand placement, movement patterns, or expressions can significantly impact how the product is perceived by the audience. 

personal mannerisms can help or hinder a performance. we encourage practicing either channeling or mitigating those behaviors for video performances.

lastly, the same action or motion may need to be executed several times for multiple "takes." it's imperative that the actions + performance in each take is consistent. 

this will help when adjustments for small corrections are needed or if the customer plans to edit several clips together.

PHOTO

because photo modeling concentrates on perfecting poses and angles for the camera within a single frame, small adjustments can still make a large difference in photo shoots!

however, it is less likely you'll need to repeat motions over and over again. actions also usually do not have to be as rehearsed as they would in video. 

in most photo shoot scenarios, if you are asked to perform the same task over and over again, there is actually an expectation of variety in the performance in order to get several image options.

Production Time

VIDEO

video shoots move at a slower pace than photo shoots, because video has additional technical elements that require more time to set up and reset for each take.

for this reason, it's imperative models on video shoots fully understand their blocking, choreographed movements, and/or script to ensure consistent performance.

what is blocking?
body positioning in relation to the camera, props, models, etc.

PHOTO

photo modeling concentrates on perfecting poses and angles for the camera within a single frame.

once the scene is set, likely only small adjustments will be made between shots, allowing for a seemingly faster pace.

small adjustments in posture and angles make a large difference in photo shoots and they do not have to be as rehearsed as they would in video.

Storytelling + Engagement

VIDEO

video modeling often involves storytelling or engaging the audience through a narrative arc; and models play a pivotal role in conveying this through actions, expressions, and sometimes words.

in some soona shoots, there will be a script that must be understood and read via a teleprompter or memorized.

but with or without a script, it's important to understand the purpose of the actions and what message it's supposed to convey to the audience in order to tell the story well.

PHOTO

the storytelling in photos is conveyed within a captured moment of activity or action. it's still important to understand the purpose of the image's message. 

however, one photo will have one static motivation. whereas in video, there's a  series of actions, motivations, and etc. within a single take.

🎬 ACTION!!

always wait for the crew to say "action!" before starting your movements or script.

and always continue acting until you hear "cut!" 

9 TIPS TO MASTER VIDEO MODELING

TIP 1:
understand the purpose

models must adapt their performance to suit each style, whether it's showcasing product functionality, portraying a lifestyle, or following a narrative. 

fully read and understand the shoot details and shot list before accepting the assignment, and once more the day before the shoot. this will help you gain as much clarity as possible in the goals of the shoot.

TIP 2:
get familiar with the product

when reviewing shoot details, take extra time looking at the inventory information on the booking. this will give you a basic understanding of what product(s) you will be working with on set before you arrive.

when you arrive (at least 15 minutes early!), ask your creative team for some time with the product to locate and understand all of it's features.

TIP 3:
practice movements

for e-commerce videos, your movements should emphasize the product without overshadowing it. 

before the camera rolls, practice subtle yet engaging poses that showcase the item from various angles. there is a mirror in each studio that you can use to practice and experiment different facial expressions, body postures, or other movements that work best for the product.

TIP 4:
focus on the details

e-commerce videos often require close-ups to highlight product details. pay attention to your hand and body movements to ensure they complement the product. 

small gestures like adjusting a sleeve on a coat or showcasing a product's functionality can enhance the video's appeal.

TIP 5:
natural + authentic presentation

authenticity sells. 

maintain a natural demeanor and let your personality shine through while keeping the product as the focal point. 

to help enhance the authenticity, find features on the product that you genuinely enjoy and think of ways you could actually see yourself using the product. hold onto those thoughts as the camera starts rolling.

TIP 6:
dress + groom accordingly

our appearance standards are even more important on video shoots, as video does not have the opportunity for photoshop. be sure to take great care of nails, skin, and hair before video shoots.

the standard wardrobe guidelines ensure that your attire doesn't distract from the product. make sure to wear and bring well fitting and tailored items for your shoot.

some shoots need a bit more character than what our standard wardrobe provides in order to enhance the content's appeal.

we encourage bringing any items from home beyond standard wardrobe that could fit the product, brand, or setting. doing this can help make a great impression with the client which can potentially lead to a consistent working relationship.

TIP 7:
collaborate with the team

effective communication and collaboration with the production team are key. 

discuss ideas, ask for feedback, and be open to suggestions from the customer, photographer, or other collective members. 

working together ensures a cohesive and successful video shoot.

TIP 8:
stay energized + hydrated

video requires full body activation from head to toe. not to mention they are generally are longer than photoshoots (whether they are scheduled that way or just feel that way).

stay energized by eating healthy snacks and staying hydrated throughout the day. 

keeping your energy levels up will help you maintain enthusiasm and deliver consistent performance.

TIP 9:
be confident + have FUN!

this is probably the most important one ... enjoy the process and be confident in your abilities!! 

you were chosen by the brand because they want you to represent their product. show them everything you are capable of and don't leave anything behind. 

your confidence will translate into a captivating presence on camera, even if you have to fake it till you make it 😉.