Doing your first modelling shoot can feel huge—new environment, camera in your face, and that little voice saying, “What do I do with my hands?!”

That’s exactly how Sophie (13) felt when she arrived at Hobart Headshots today. She was nervous at first (totally normal), but it didn’t take long before she relaxed, found her rhythm, and started having an awesome time. By the end, she looked confident, comfortable, and completely herself—and that’s when the best images happen.

If you’re a parent of a teen who’s keen to explore modelling, here’s what a first portfolio shoot looks like and why it can be such a confidence-boosting experience.

What a modelling portfolio shoot is (and why it’s worth doing properly)

A modelling portfolio isn’t about looking “perfect” or overly done-up. It’s about showing agencies and clients what you really look like—plus a bit of range.

A strong first portfolio includes:

• clean, flattering images that look like you

• a mix of expressions (natural smile, calm/neutral, a little attitude if it suits)

• variety through simple outfit changes

• confident body language without awkward posing

That’s what we created with Sophie: a set of images that feel natural, age-appropriate, and polished—without looking forced.

“I’m awkward in photos” (said by almost everyone)

Most first-time clients—especially teens—think they need to know how to pose before they arrive.

You don’t.

My job is to guide you through the whole shoot so you feel comfortable fast. We keep it relaxed, we chat, we move step-by-step, and I’ll coach you through:

• easy posing that doesn’t feel stiff

• how to stand and move naturally

• what to do with your hands (the universal struggle)

• tiny adjustments that make a big difference on camera

Sophie is the perfect example: nervous at the start, then smiling, laughing, and absolutely owning it once she realised she didn’t have to “perform”—she just had to be herself.

What to wear for a first modelling shoot

Simple wins every time. The goal is to keep the focus on the face and shape, not the outfit.

A great starting point:

• plain tops (no big logos)

• neutral or solid colours

• fitted but comfortable clothing

• 2–3 outfit options for variety

If you’re not sure what to bring, I’m always happy to point you in the right direction before the session.

The real result: confidence (plus images you’re proud to share)

A first shoot should feel supportive and fun—because confidence shows in every frame.

Sophie walked in nervous… and walked out buzzing. And the images reflect that shift: relaxed, natural, and full of potential.

Ready to book a modelling portfolio shoot in Hobart?

If your teen is curious about modelling and needs a strong set of first images, a portfolio session at Hobart Headshots is a great place to start.

Book your session here: https://hobartheadshots.com.au/book

Well this doesn’t happen everyday here but DAYM I wish it did!

When drag queen Heide Hole walked into the Zanzo Studio, I knew we were in for something special. And boy, was I right! What followed was one of the most fun, creative, and downright fabulous photoshoots I've had in ages.

Heidi Hole the Hobart based drag performer looking elegant and fabulous in her black on black 80’s inspired number

A Different Kind of Portrait Session

After photographing over 2,000 families here at our Liverpool Street studio, I'm always excited when a unique project walks through our doors. Heide came to us looking for promotional images that would capture her artistry and personality – and let me tell you, she brought both in spades!

The energy in the studio was electric from the moment we started planning. This wasn't just about taking photos; it was about creating art together. We spent time discussing each outfit, the story she wanted to tell, and how we could bring her vision to life through our lens.

The Art of Collaboration

One thing I absolutely love about portrait photography is the collaborative process, and working with Heide was collaboration at its finest. She arrived with multiple stunning outfits, each telling a different story and requiring a completely different approach.

We had everything from dramatic 80's glam vibes to a breathtaking Mother Mary ensemble – talk about range! For each look, we carefully considered which backgrounds would complement the outfit and what lighting setup would best capture the mood she was going for.

80's Glam and Wind Machine Magic

The 80's-inspired outfit was pure fire! Black on Black, dramatic silhouettes, and attitude for days. We knew immediately that this look called for some serious glam lighting – the kind that creates those gorgeous, dramatic shadows and highlights that make everything pop.

But here's where things got really fun: we brought out the leaf blower! Yes, you read that right. Sometimes the best wind effects don't come from expensive equipment – sometimes they come from thinking outside the box. Watching Heide work with the artificial wind, hair and fabric flowing dramatically, was pure magic. The movement, the energy, the sheer joy of creating something beautiful together – this is why I love what I do.

When the Photographer Becomes Part of the Show

Now, here's where things got really interesting (and slightly embarrassing for me!). Heide brought along some extra wigs, and somehow – I'm still not entirely sure how this happened – I ended up trying one on. And you know what? I looked absolutely fabulous!

Don't believe me? Check out the reel on our Instagram for proof! It was one of those spontaneous moments that perfectly captured the spirit of the entire shoot. When you're having genuine fun with your clients, it shows in every single image.

We had moments of strutting, posing, laughing, and creating. The studio was filled with music, laughter, and the kind of creative energy that makes you remember why you fell in love with photography in the first place.

excuse the dodgy screen grab quality 🫣

More Than Just Photos

This shoot reminded me that while Zanzo Portraits is known for our family and pet photography, creativity knows no bounds. Whether I'm capturing a toddler's giggle, a family's love, or a drag queen's artistry, it's all about connecting with people and helping them shine.

The promotional images we created for Heide aren't just photos – they're a celebration of artistry, creativity, and the joy of being exactly who you are.

Behind the Scenes and Beyond

Keep an eye on our Instagram for more behind-the-scenes content from this incredible shoot. Trust me, there are plenty more laughs, creative moments, and maybe even a few more funny situations to share!

Sometimes the best shoots are the ones that push you out of your comfort zone and remind you that photography is about so much more than just pressing a button – it's about creating magic, one frame at a time.

Ready to create your own magic? Book yourself in or contact us for obligation-free consultation today!

Every now and then we’re asked to create some portraits on site. This is important when a brand wants to tell the story of the type of work they do and the feeling clients will get when in their space.

The Team from SILK wanted some beautiful professional portraits in studio where we have 100% control of the lighting and environment to get the best results. They came in as a team and had a great time together! Each one of them was able to review their images on the screen and choose their favourite so everyone left completely satisfied that we’d done a great job together.

They also required some images for their marketing that showed what it’s like to be welcomed into clinic, having a consultation and getting some treatment done.

It was important to capture the friendly and welcoming vibe which was easy with such warm and caring people. All up we spent about 3 hours together creating these images across 2 locations plus the studio.

Reach out of you and your brand needs some images like these to portray your brand in the best light possible. I’d be more than happy to help. :)

Dean.

For information on rates visit the FAQ page here.

Old mate Steve from Scala brought in his team of legends for some new branding headshots JUST IN TIME to win the award for the best training institute in Tasmania! So… obviously… they put them on a Metro Bus!

Such a powerful way to celebrate such a huge accolade and get some pretty epic use out of their new images. I’ll insert a bus picture here if I can find it staying still!

They wanted to create a warm and approachable feel whilst maintaining a level of professionalism and expertise. All agreed… we all did a pretty good job!

You can find out more about Scala and the amazing training programmes and services they offer here