Getting To Know Your Model - Introducing Natalie Ciufo Green

Knowing your model is an important part of your photo-shoot!

Making great images that have that WOW factor can really only be achieved if you have a great rapport with your Model, and an understanding of how he, or she works best. This genre of photography is a collaborative process, and building a relationship with your Model fosters a positive working environment. Collaboration can lead to better ideas, improved creativity, and a more enjoyable experience for both the photographer and the model.

By establishing trust you will build the rapport needed to create a sense of trust and comfort. This is crucial for capturing natural and authentic expressions, as a relaxed and comfortable model is more likely to open up in front of the camera.

At Welshot, we do the hard work for you – We get to know our Models first, before we introduce them to you, the photographer. We make sure the Models we bring to Welshot are going to be the right fit – for them, for us, for you!

This is a new blog series where we introduce you to the Models we will be bringing to our new range of photographic events for those photographers who are wanting to take photos for camera club competitions, serious about their own personal continued professional development and building a photographic portfolio.

Introducing Natalie Ciufo Green

Natalie spent a Weekend at the Welshot Creative Hub – Watch Natalie’s Adventures Here!

We asked Natalie:

How did you get started in your modelling career?

I wanted to try something new! I had a friend who had done a fair bit of modelling and went along to one of her shoots to see what it was like, I got involved and the rest is history!

Do you consider yourself a Model first or something else?

I started dance classes at the age of 2 1/2!

I was an extremely shy child so it helped me gain confidence. As the years went by I became more involved in performing arts. At the moment I am a full time event singer (Instagram: @natalieciufo) but I do a range of creative work on an ad hoc basis also.

I think my experience in performing arts really helps me with my modelling.

There’s a lot of skills that crossover the disciplines, creating shapes, depicting emotions and telling a story etc.

What do you think your greatest achievement has been so far?

Lifting myself out of a difficult place, asking for help, getting better and continuing to look after myself.

We live in such a fast paced society and there’s pressures put on us from various places, there’s always going to be challenges, that’s part of being a human being living a full life, but I really think we must remember to look after ourselves and prioritise our wellbeing.

If you could say just one thing to a photographer, what would you say?

More than one thing!

I think mainly be kind and be respectful, oh and also be organised! Don’t be afraid to learn and experiment. Bring ideas to the table. Have an idea of what you want to achieve and communicate with me, (this is a big one, I know it can be daunting but communication is key) that way I can be much better equipped to help you achieve your goal.

On location (outside) or studio?

It’s hard for me to choose!

Some of my favourite images have been taken outdoors. I do love location shoots if they are organised well and the model is considered. It depends on conditions, if the photographer and the model are both freezing, that discomfort definitely translates into the images.

I can’t do my job properly if I can’t feel my fingers and it’s not an enjoyable experience for anyone!

I also really love shooting in the studio. One of the main things I enjoy is the control you can have over lighting. Lighting is such a big factor in creating a successful image. You’re not at the mercy of the constantly changing natural light. There’s time to test and tweak, among my favourite images are high key studio portraits experimenting with unusual makeup and lighting.

Favourite snack?

Crisps 100%

What would your dream shoot look like?

I’m always up to try ideas, I love the wacky and wonderful. My favourite kind of shoots are the creative ones where it really feels like you are a team. A dream shoot is about the atmosphere for me. A day where all parties have a relaxed, creative, productive, supportive and most importantly fun time!

With regards to styling and themes I love a studio shoot, simple and striking, with strong styling and makeup, interesting posing and lighting experimentation.

Or

An outdoor shoot, natural light, floral, dreamy, soft and fairy-tale like, exploring emotions and a narrative.

If you could give one bit of advice to a dancer/model just starting out what would it be?

One, spend time to learn from people and hone your craft. It takes time, get yourself to a certain standard, know your worth (but know that learning never stops), understand what you bring to the table and as hard as it can be at times try not to compare yourself to others.

Please do your research. There are many amazing creatives out there but there are also those you want to avoid. Know who you’re working with and keep yourself safe.

Don’t be afraid to say no. If you are not comfortable with something when shooting, no matter what it is, you do not have to do it. Also I have learnt not every job can be a good fit, I know what it’s like to feel I have to say yes to everything, it’s ok to turn some opportunities down.

Sweet or savoury?

Savoury

Back of the camera images, Yes or No? (Do you like to be shown them?)

Yes. I am very visual. Sometimes I can be posing and it looks a certain way in my head, the reality can be very different! Seeing back of camera images helps me to know what you are capturing, what is working and what isn’t, so I can adjust myself accordingly and get the best image possible!