Okay, so I'm looking to expand my skills as a photographer, and I was wondering if you guys had any tips on how to choose models. I was thinking of using a friend. Are there any traits, personality-wise or appearance-wise, that you prefer in your models? If you could provide any tips on coming up with creative poses for my model, that would be very much appreciated too. Thank you all in advance. :D

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ideally your new so it would be wise to get a friend who has done a photo shoot or two before. you can check any indy films most of the "Actors" want photo's of themselves. Friends are great because your already comfortable with them and it's a great starting point as you know them it's best to get to know the subject prrior to shooting so you can really refect their personality. you can get to know someone quickly why your setting up the camera and having normal chit chat. all traits all personalitys are great and a great way to test your skill of capturing that. If you know someone who is rather borish then you really want to point that out in the portriat shoot. if you want to make it easy on yourself find someone who loves to be center of attention chances are they will find their own poses and be easy to shoot.

I have to agree with the first post, get a friend. I would just start with bringing your camera along for trips to the city or park or whatever, when you are out with your friend, and be prepared to take some snapshots, personally, I think natural looks great. You can edit the colours or what-have-you in photoshop afterwards. Usually, the best pictures are taken when they're least expecting it. Hope that helps.

Using friends and/or relatives is a great way to start. They will often be more at ease with you. Once you move on to hired models the expectations will rise on both sides of the deal. As you develop skill you will learn how to put most anyone at ease in front of the camera. Another option is to locate another photographer and work out a trade - model for each other. Personality? Someone who would like to see you further your photography. Perhaps someone who has an interest in having copies of the photographs or files so they have an interest in the final outcome. Someone who is comfortable in front of the camera and willing to experiment with different poses and expressions. Someone who can give you good expressions in both smiles and serious looks. Someone who is comfortable with you. As for poses, study the photography of other photographers, magazines and advertisements. Also spend some time studying traditional posing techniques so you learn why the positioning of the entire body affects the look of a close up head shot. Good luck and enjoy! Working with models can be great fun. It's a time to experiment and try new things.