Looking for a creative way to develop your photography skills and connect with models or friends who aren't nearby? FaceTime photoshoots might be just what you need. If you've got a smartphone or a device with a webcam, you can use these to take photos of your model from a distance. It's a great way to polish your portrait photography skills, and to learn how to communicate more effectively with your models. Plus, you can use your online photography skills to capture subjects who aren't located near you — no matter where in the world they are. It's a win-win!
Keen to try this creative photoshoot idea for yourself? Read on to discover our 6 top tips for nailing a long-distance photoshoot.
Last updated: June 2026
1. Sort Out the Technical Details
As with any photoshoot, to ensure things run as smoothly as possible, you'll want to iron out any technical issues before you start shooting.
First and foremost, confirm that both you and your subject have access to a fast and secure WiFi network. A speedy WiFi connection on both sides will help you give clear and concise instructions in real-time, and with as little lag as possible. It'll also allow you to capture special moments as they happen — and reduce the risk of those frames freezing or disappearing due to technical issues.
Once you've sorted out WiFi, turn your attention to your device. To capture your images, you'll need to take a screenshot of the feed. If you're using FaceTime or a video conferencing platform, you can simply press the shutter icon when you're ready to snap a photo. If you're using a device that doesn't offer an easy way to capture stills, learn how to take a screenshot before the shoot.
Top Tip: You may need to crop out icons and buttons while editing FaceTime photos, so bear this in mind while directing your subject on where to stand.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
Obviously, the pictures you take during your online photoshoot won't quite match the quality of those you capture on your DSLR camera, and that's okay! After all, you're using a phone or webcam instead of a high-end camera, and you can't be in close contact with your model — you can only do the best with what you have.
With that in mind, consider this creative photoshoot as an opportunity to learn and develop your skills. It's a great way to practice communicating with your model, which is the key to any successful portrait photoshoot.
You can also focus on keeping your photographic eye sharp and using your shoot to tell a unique, compelling story. Many brands and photographers are sharing unconventional images shot remotely — meaning there's plenty of inspiration out there!
3. Chat to Your Model in the Lead-Up to the Shoot
Just like any other shoot, it's a good idea to connect with your model beforehand and make sure you're comfortable working together. Try to set up a call a week or two before the shoot and work your way through these topics:
- Your goal for the shoot. You won't be there for on-the-spot creative direction, so let your model know exactly what you're envisioning. You could even send them images to use as examples, so they can select their outfits and practice their poses.
- The location of the shoot. Chances are, the shoot will take place at your model's home. Ask them to hop on a video call and give you a tour of their place so you can scout locations. Remember, indoor photo lighting is king, so look for areas that let in plenty of natural light.
If you and your model live in different regions, factor in the time zones when you schedule your shoot. Typically, the early morning and late afternoon is best for clear, crisp natural light photography.
4. Give Clear Instructions on the Day
On a regular shoot, you can easily move photoshoot props around or adjust your composition. During a FaceTime shoot, however, you'll need to communicate these changes with your voice alone.
Your model will understand that this shoot will be trickier and slower than a standard photoshoot. You're relying on them to adjust their angles and poses, so don't be afraid to give instructions and advice about all elements of the shoot, no matter how small they may seem.
This is a true collaborative effort between you and your model, and you can do your part by being clear on what you want and keeping your tone of voice friendly and encouraging.
5. Brush Up on Your Portrait Photography Skills
The portraits you capture in your remote photoshoot may not be outstanding from a technical perspective — but there's a lot you can do to boost the quality of your FaceTime photos!
To create interesting portraits, follow these tips:
- Shoot from unique angles. Ask your model to place their phone on the floor and pose above it, or instruct them to find a higher vantage point and angle their phone down. The best portrait photography sparks curiosity, and a simple change in angle can make that happen!
- Set your model up with a phone mount or tripod. It'll be a lot easier for you and your model to experiment with composition if they don't have to clutch their phone in their hand.
- Play around with lighting. If the model's home has low or harsh lighting, try working with those conditions, instead of against them. Shadows and extreme contrasts can lead to ethereal portrait shots.
- Look for interesting props and textured backgrounds. These elements may help you to weave a narrative into your images.
6. Leave Time for Editing!
Because you have less control over your image, you'll need to invest a little more time into the photo editing process. Depending on the FaceTime live photos you end up with, you might convert your images to black and white, or crop a little more drastically than you're used to. You can also experiment with filters and presets to achieve an unusual effect.
There's no getting around the fact that any photos captured by webcams or smartphones will be lo-fi, so embrace this at the editing stage. Try adding grain effects or borders to your images, or present a few online photos side-by-side to convey a narrative. Have fun with it!
Boost Your Indoor Photography Skills at Home
Shooting remotely is a fantastic way to keep your photography skills sharp and experiment with new creative techniques. Experimenting with FaceTime photos is a great place to start — and the skills you develop in directing, lighting, and composition will carry over to every shoot you do.