Couples photoshoot - Muriwai Beach



This photoshoot was such a dream! so I thought I would share some thoughts and lessons.


This couples photoshoot was a model call that I did to try new things. Lately I have done couples photoshoots but they were quite reserved and private. This is something I can understand being Samoan and Pasifika couples are usually a lot more private and reserved when it comes to public displays of affection and getting intimate in front of the camera. Also since my husband and I are the same and when it came to our engagement photoshoot in 2016 we were pretty much the same. Regardless, I am glad that similar couples can trust me to take photos of them.


But I guess as a photographer, my heart wanted to explore more! I wanted to try things would a couple that was keen to kiss in front of the camera and get silly/wet depending on what pose I was wanting to try; so I decided to do a model call!


Pylisjtayr was one of the very first clients I had that I did not know personally so it was so great to see her and Abdul again. We had a very short time frame to get together because my initial model unfortunately fell sick. But we made it work!


So a few things to note;


  • Make sure that they still sign a contract that clearly outlines that this is a model call and that all images will be used for social media/advertising purposes.
  • As a photographer, you have more control over what they wear. I know at times you send out a client guide and the client turns up in something completely different! Usually I am ok with that as I do want a client to feel comfortable, but at the same time if you have a vision in mind its best you communicate that.
  • Talk to your client! I was sending emails back and forth asking for photos and sending clothing examples (so what colour and where to get it).
  • Important thing to note here; if you are going to suggest clothing from a local store that fits your vision, make sure its available in the clients size if possible.
  • Make sure they know what to expect prior to the shoot! my clients knew they were getting into the water so brought a change of clothes and a towel. Keep a checklist and let your client know.
  • Communicate your expectations! I sent mine a list of things to bring as well as examples of poses and inspiration I will be using for the photoshoot. By the time we met up at the location we had a plan of what poses we were going to try and how long we were going to spend at each location.


A lot of planning goes into model calls, but once you meet up and you see your vision come to life it is so worth it :)