Photographs can be an important part of your audition process. Spending time in front of the camera provides can increase confidence. Considering you are considering a professional audition, you probably already got that covered:)
You've decided to audition for a Professional or collegiate cheer squad or dance team. That in of itself is an accomplishment. It reflects all the hard work you have put in up to this point.
At the level you are performing at, you deserve a level of photography that compliments your abilities. Look for a photographer with audition photography or even team experience
The audition landscape has become very competetive with candidates vying for multiple teams and traveling. It is no longer a local team phenomenon.
Give yourself plenty of lead time. Photographers that specialize in NFL and NBA are often booked during peak audition seasons to meet demand.
Typically, your shoot date should be a minimum of 2 weeks prior to your submission deadline. Check with each studio as delivery times can vary. If you have a particular studio in mind, schedule as early as possible to make sure you can reserve a spot that accommodates your audition(s) schedule.
If you happen to have something special being done with your hair like color. perm or extensions, you may want to schedule your session shortly afterwards to make the most of the look.
Unless there are specific requirements from a team, you should choose a color you like and a style of outfit you feel comfortable and confident in. It is a good idea to get photographs in the outfit(s) you plan to audition in.
Keep it on the natural side. You want your photographs to represent you as you are as a person. Not something to be objectified.
Look up some poses and find some you like. Not every pose is for everyone. Practice your favorite poses. It is important that your pose looks natural, not forced or a strained. Dance may be second nature to you and some photographs will engage movement but holding a static pose that demonstrates your athleticism can be difficult at first. The most important part of your pose is your connection to the camera.
First and foremost, your photographs should exude confidence. A friendly accessible persona with a smile, although a non-smile with a "smize" can work very well too. Good posture is an asset. It's a good idea to look at poses from the web and decide which you are most comfortable with some poses work better with some body types.
Your headshot is your "First Impression". Look into the camera like you own it. A real smile goes a long way. Imagine sitting down for your interview or greeting a group of fans at a team event. You want to take both straight on into the camera and shoulders offset to one side eyes looking into the camera. Best side? Which side do you usually selfie from?
This is where a strong power pose comes into play. Hands on hips and arms overhead are essential. Loosely crossed arms with body positioned about 45 degrees to the camera is also a good look.
Have some fun here. You really want to show some athleticism with your full length shots. Start with the hands on hips power pose from the 3/4 views. Try a Passé and even better with a Relevé. Make sure to get some solid images without props. Props bring that flavor of a pro media day shoot. Studios that specialize in pro cheerleader auditions will usually have props on hand. Pom, football, basketball... Check ahead of time so you can bring your own if necessary. Most likely though you will want to use photos without props for your audition submission. The focus is You.
Kneeling, sitting or even lying on the floor. Not usually part of an audition request but they are great to take and have. Also likely that you will be doing them at some point during team photo shoots. The experience is valuable in that regard.
Mark has had the privilege of working with clients who went on to make professional squads like the New England Patriots Cheerleaders, Boston Celtics Dancers, Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders, Las Vegas Raiderettes, Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders, Connecticut Sun and others. Many also made it to final auditions for various NFL, NBA and collegiate squads.
When you're looking to get the most versatility and option for multiple auditions.
Ideal for first time auditions or update for a new season.
Sessions do not include hair styling or makeup. Clients are asked to arrive hair and makeup ready. You are welcome to do hair and makeup at the studio or bring someone with you - just let us know ahead of time. A deposit is required to reserve your session.
The studio is situated in the Powerhouse Building in New Haven, Connecticut - a professional, accessible space in the heart of Southern New England.
New Haven sits approximately 75 miles from Midtown Manhattan and 140 miles from Boston, making it an ideal location for models based across Connecticut, the New York metro area, and Greater Boston who want access to serious professional-grade portfolio work without traveling to a major market.
The building is elevator-accessible and handicap accessible, with ample parking on-site. For those traveling by train, the studio is minutes from New Haven Union Station, served by Amtrak and Metro-North. Tweed New Haven Airport is also nearby for clients traveling from further afield.
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mark@markjohnson.photo | 203-298-8255
Studio Location: 458 Grand Ave, New Haven, CT 06513
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