Glamour Models – How to find and choose the ideal glamour model.

Glamour models are generally somewhat different from the models I would normally work with for beauty or fine art nudes. They tend to have a more rounded curvaceous form with larger breasts and a more overtly sexy look. They are also generally found in different kinds of model agencies than the typical fashion models.

Originally the term glamour photography evoked a much more sophisticated image but over time the lines have blurred to cover all sorts of areas including fairly brazen sexual images that can range from powerful erotic art to the downright tacky and vulgar. Then you  also have more commercial ones like the one above.

The model you see above is a girl I shot in Prague a few years ago and she is pretty much ideal for a wide range of general glamour photography. First of all she has a knockout figure with good clean skin, which makes my life far easier on the shoot because she will look good from just about any angle.

Something else you’ll notice about the model and the way I’ve photographed her is that it creates a sort of “girl next door” type image. In other words I’ve deliberately worked on creating a feel that is friendly and approachable. N.B From a commercial standpoint an image like this is far more saleable than all those images of hard angry looking glamour models.

There is no specific ideal hair colour for glamour models, but a good looking blonde is always a safe bet. Redheads are fairly rare in glamour photography but practically any shade of brunette can work and a light suntan is invariably helpful.

One of the key characteristics I look for in glamour models is a happy, confident attitude so they work with enthusiasm to create the required images for the shoot. Another point I look for is natural grace, which you can tell just by seeing how she moves and holds herself but needless to say you should also be looking for these points when you view her portfolio.

Some of you will already know from my book that I’m not a big fan of models found through the internet because they tend to be less reliable than models with established agencies, however I realise that many photographers are quite happy to work with models found on through any of the various model/photographer websites. Ultimately you have to review your options and see what you can do.

On a commercial job the client should ultimately be covering the model fees, so you way as well save yourself some time and stress by dealing with a good agency and an experienced model. It goes without saying that you should also be cultivating good relations with a wide range of agencies who can help when you need a model either for an assignment or personal work.

You can find a range of agencies with glamour models here.