Models employ various techniques to achieve the perfect smile, depending on the context (e.g., runway show, photoshoot, commercial). A simple, genuine smile isn't always the goal.
The "Smize" and Other Techniques
Professional models often utilize a technique called smizing, which involves smiling primarily with their eyes. This creates a captivating and engaging look, even without a wide, toothy grin. Smizing is achieved by practicing crinkling your eyes while maintaining a subtle mouth position and a correct chin tilt. [Reference: Professional models are all about smizing to get a genuine-looking smile in their photographs. If you're trying to model, or just want to improve your headshot or profile picture, you can master the smize. Practice crinkling your eyes and then put it all together with the right chin tilt and mouth position].
Other techniques include:
- Subtle Smiles: A slight upturn of the lips can convey confidence and sophistication, particularly in high-fashion photography or runway shows. This avoids a look perceived as overly friendly or distracting from the clothes. [Reference: Typically, they refrain from smiling during runway shows as it could divert the audience's attention from the clothes they are modelling.]
- Controlled Expressions: Models often practice controlled facial expressions to convey a desired mood or emotion, which may or may not include a smile. This allows for versatile imagery. [Reference: Why Do Runway Models Always Look So Grumpy?]
- Relaxation Techniques: Some models find that deep breaths and relaxation exercises help them achieve a natural, relaxed smile for photoshoots. [Reference: I will close my eyes and take deep breaths then count to three open my eyes and smile then get my picture. Relax it really helps you look… ]
Why Don't Models Always Smile?
The absence of smiling in certain contexts (like high-fashion runway shows) is a stylistic choice. Smiling is believed to:
- Distract from the Clothing: The focus should be on the clothing's design and presentation, not the model's emotions. [References: Smiling is believed to distract attention from the clothes, which should be the focal point of attention during a fashion show.; Typically, they refrain from smiling during runway shows as it could divert the audience's attention from the clothes they are modelling.]
- Convey a Specific Aesthetic: A serious, neutral expression can project an air of sophistication, mystery, or high-fashion detachment. [Reference: It has become the convention for models in the high fashion trade to adopt what the industry calls the RBF, the Resting Bitch Face.]
It's important to note that not all modeling situations require a serious expression. Commercial modeling, for example, often involves more approachable and friendly smiles.
