Although photos of models looks glitzy and glamorous, photo shoots are not always a breeze. In fact, it’s sometimes freezing and windy. Models Francesca Petra Mizzi and Martine Vella share some behind-the-camera secrets with Veronica Stivala.

On snow queens and accountancy

Francesca Petra Mizzi. Photos: Valentina Lupo for Vervemagazine.Francesca Petra Mizzi. Photos: Valentina Lupo for Vervemagazine.

Francesca Petra Mizzi

Francesca Petra Mizzi, a big-eyed beauty with gorgeous cheekbones and a petite chin, started modelling when she was 16 for a local calendar. This led to more shoots – her most notable achievements include being nominated at the Malta Fashion Awards, being chosen as the cover girl on FM magazine and featuring on international magazines including Vogue Italia.

Although she currently works as an auditor and accountant, modelling is still her passion.

“Although I cannot dedicate my full time to modelling, I still manage to squeeze in fashion shoots in my free time,” she says.

Her plans for the future are to read for a Masters degree in business administration, undertake a part-time course in fashion design, and attend fashion week in London and Milan.

So what is it like to be professionally photographed?

On set

I always get very thrilled and excited prior to a photo shoot. A fashion shoot is the best way to pamper ladies, giving them a taste of the lifestyle of the rich and famous.

On a good photo

Getting good quality photos depends largely on the subject and lighting, which is key to creating professional images. Too much or too little lighting can create shadows, which work against a picture’s shape, texture and detail. I prefer natural light and outside shoots to studio shoots as the light is softer. Also, a shoot must be original. A good photo has to leave an impact on its viewers.

The most difficult parts about being photographed are:

• Extreme weather conditions. Excessive heat smudges up your make-up, leaving your face looking sweaty and greasy, while high winds mess up your hair.

• Strenuous and exhausting poses.

• Heavy make-up. I prefer a natural look and when I am dissatisfied with the make-up I’m wearing, I end up lacking the necessary confidence.

Photo: Bernard Polidano, Make-up: Natasha Polidano, Hair: Chris Mifsud at MAF HairdressingPhoto: Bernard Polidano, Make-up: Natasha Polidano, Hair: Chris Mifsud at MAF Hairdressing

My most memorable photo shoot

For one particular shoot, I was dressed up as a snow queen. It was only when my look was completed that I was finally allowed to look in the mirror. My hairstyle was so bombastic and big with clip-in hair extensions and pieces that I could barely fit in the car. Although the shoot was in winter and we were freezing, I had a blast.

Francesca’s tips

Tilt the chin slightly upwards to avoid casting shadows under the eyes.

Identify your best assets and find the best way to flatter them in photos.

Focus on what makes you unique and let your personality shine through.

Instead of trying to hide what you think are bad features, embrace them. Self-confidence is key. Don’t let anyone damage your self-esteem and confidence.

Make sure you have good posture for a relaxed neck, body and eyes.

A natural pose is always the best.

Lights, camera

Martine Vella. Photo: Alan J. Darmanin, Make-up: Justin Brincat, Hair: Clinton Chetcuti at Vigorous, Coordinator: Jeff Francalanza.Martine Vella. Photo: Alan J. Darmanin, Make-up: Justin Brincat, Hair: Clinton Chetcuti at Vigorous, Coordinator: Jeff Francalanza.

Martine Vella

Martine Vella’s thick and straight brown hair, together with her stunning oval-shaped brown eyes and olive skin make her look like an Indian princess. Many will know her as the winner of Face of Malta in 2012 but she has been modelling for eight years, since she was 14 years old.

Admitting that it was not easy in the beginning, Martine has gained confidence through the diverse range of shoots she has taken part in, from beauty shoots for hair products, make-up and fashion editorials on magazines to adverts, numerous fashion shows modelled in designer clothing and working with high local as well as foreign photographers.

Martine has just graduated and works as a kindergarten teacher. Apart from work, she is busy preparing to contest in Miss World Malta in May. She also plans to pursue her studies in child psychology and would like to model abroad.

On set

I love every part of a photo shoot, from the preparations to the actual shoot. Although it can be a hectic experience, it’s very rewarding when I see the outcome.

I love trying on glamorous dresses and different, stylish outfits, together with jewellery and accessories. I also get very curious to see the final photos.

On a good photo

A good photo is the result of good work between the photographer, coordinator and model. You also need the right atmosphere.

The most difficult parts about being photographed are:

Sometimes it’s hard to get in character. When the photographer doesn’t explain well or I don’t fully understand what is wanted from me, I find it hard to portray the desired shot. It’s also uncomfortable and hard to focus when the weather is not good.

My most memorable photo shoot

I have done a lot of shoots so it’s really hard to choose as they were all unique. A shoot I will always remember will be the beauty shoot I took when I won Face of Malta in 2012. I remember the preparations and shoot as if it were yesterday. My hair was done very early morning and make-up right after.

Once the preparations were done we went on location by the sea. I remember wearing amazing outfits including my crown which made me feel like a million dollars! The shoot went on till the evening and we moved from one location to another capturing various types of scenery. Apart from having a great time shooting, I was surprised to see that, when the magazine came out, I had made my first front cover.

Photo: Virginia and Susanna Schonberger, Make-up: Natasha Polidano, Hair: Natalie and Morena at e Hair Room.Photo: Virginia and Susanna Schonberger, Make-up: Natasha Polidano, Hair: Natalie and Morena at e Hair Room.

Martine’s tips

It’s very important to know exactly what is wanted from you. This helps with confidence during a shoot.

Make sure you know what message you need to transmit through the photo so as to get the required result.

Modelling may be hard sometimes but never give up. Keep strong and be ready to try new experiences and challenges. Confidence is what makes a good model.

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