How to Look Like You’re Properly Laughing in a Photo

It might seem like a simple thing to do but genuinely laughing on cue can be tricky. Hands up anyone who feels the same. Plenty of our Models Direct models, be they teen models or senior models, can be asked by our clients to have a giggle on set for a photoshoot or filming.  

Showcasing a genuine laugh can ooze authenticity and make the atmosphere feel natural and authentic. If though, like most people, you find it a bit of a challenge to do so, here are some tips to help you:

Recall something funny

An obvious suggestion, we know, but an important one nevertheless! You can place yourself in a moment that makes you crack up. It could be a funny memory, a joke, something someone did or just something that always seems to make you laugh no matter how hard you try not to.

Relax!

When you might be asked to laugh on cue, you might find your facial muscles and body tensing up. Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, you’re not the only one! Genuinely laughing on cue is a skill and it’s easier said than done particularly if you’re feeling anxious…but try to relax.

Take care of yourself

Be sure to stay hydrated and to have had something to eat, albeit a small snack, so you don’t feel dizzy in front of the camera. This can happen quite often especially when our models are feeling nervous and would prefer to take on the day on an empty stomach. Take some deep breaths and go for it.

If you’re finding it difficult to relax, you can always speak to your MD coordinator [honestly, you won’t be the first to express butterflies in your stomach]. We’re trained to help you navigate through your modelling assignment as successfully as possible, helping to make it a positively memorable experience for you.

We’ve assembled a mini collection of model reviews where our talent has also expressed their pre-assignment nervousness, but where it’s all ended perfectly!

Jackie expressed her experience with our agency on a Nat West Bank campaign right here:

“Today was a big day for me. My first ever modelling assignment – and for Nat West Bank! I left home feeling excited but nervous about what to expect. It turned out to be a perfect fun day. Stephen Rawlinson and his team greeted me on arrival. They were all very friendly and immediately settled my nerves. I met the four other models I would be working with and found them to be really nice people. We did a mix of photos and filming throughout the day and it all went well. Thank you Nat West for a great first assignment.

Thanks, Molly for all your help. Looking forward to the next one!”

Anne left us this lovely and inspiring testimonial:

“I’ve just completed my first modelling job for Models Direct. Who’d have believed I’d be a model at 57 years old? I was quite nervous when I arrived in the car park but with such a friendly relaxed atmosphere, I had lost my nerves before we started shooting. The lovely team helped me every step of the way and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I look forward hopefully to many more jobs.”

Finally, our male model, Joshua, shared his experience with us:

“My First Shoot With Models Direct…

Yesterday was my first assignment with Models Direct, being a promotional shoot for Greene King Brewery. With it being my first shoot I was a little nervous, but everyone there was so lovely and we were certainly very well looked after, diffusing any nerves that I had. Overall, it was a lot of fun, it was a great atmosphere and I met so many lovely people. Additionally, Gemma had been amazing throughout the whole process, answering any questions I had and keeping me well-informed. Thank you for the experience.”

There’s more for you to read if you head over to our reviews section to see how our models have got on with their gigs.

Bottom line

Try not to overthink the process but do practise laughing on cue in your own time. The more you practise the better you’ll be at laughing naturally. However, if nerves get the better of you, do not worry as our MD team understands that being in front of the camera can be a nerve-wracking experience even for the most experienced of models.

Just reach out to us and we’ll be on hand to help you through, but most of all, try and have fun and enjoy the modelling experience!