Take Control Before You Pose: Lessons from Next Top Model

Remember that episode from Next Top Model where water was poured over the models, and one girl struggled to keep her eyes open for the perfect shot? It’s a vivid reminder that modeling can sometimes push you into uncomfortable situations-especially if you don’t know what to expect.

The key to avoiding this? Preparation and control.

As a model, your job isn’t just to show up and look good. It’s to own your experience by learning as much as possible about the shoot before you say yes. Knowing the conditions-like water effects, weather, wardrobe demands, or physical challenges-helps you decide if you’re ready and comfortable. It also means you can better prepare mentally and physically, making the shoot smoother and more successful.

How to Take Control of Your Shoots

• Ask detailed questions upfront: What’s the concept? What physical demands will there be? Are there any tricky conditions, like water or wind?
• Request references or past work: Ask to see images or videos from previous shoots by the photographer or brand to understand the environment.
• Set your boundaries: If there’s something you aren’t comfortable doing, say it early. Professional teams respect confidence and clarity.
• Prepare yourself physically and mentally: If you know you’ll be working with water or challenging lighting, practice poses and expressions in similar conditions.
• Bring your own creative input: Showing initiative helps gain respect and can influence shoot direction positively.

Empowerment Through Knowledge

Taking charge of your shoot experience is not just about avoiding discomfort-it positions you as a professional in command of your career. It builds trust with clients and photographers who appreciate models who come prepared and self-assured.

You also have to remember that the photographer doesn’t always know what looks best for you and your body type as a model. While you hope they do, the photos they output are not just for their portfolio, they’re also for yours and you should feel proud of the images that are put into the world.

Your career is your story to shape. Equip yourself with knowledge, set clear boundaries, and step into each shoot empowered, not uncertain.

Have you ever faced an unexpected challenge on set? How did you handle it? Share your story in the comments below.