Working with new models
When a new model expresses interest in working with me, one of my initial tasks is to determine their level of commitment to modeling. This involves understanding whether they are seeking free photos or are genuinely interested in pursuing a modeling career.
Honestly, this is a trick ground to travel because they will not be upfront with you. So, I have to research the person by looking at their social media pages, and this
is what I'm looking for. Have they worked with a photographer before, and or do they have a lot of body photos on their page? So what if this don't?
I ask a couple of questions. 1. what type of modeling are you looking to do? If they don't or can't answer this first question. Then it's possible they are not interested in modeling. 2. What inspires you to model. 3. Do you know any models? 4. What is your budget for a photoshoot? This question will be your 2 or 4 questions on how they answer the first question. Okay, so, for example.
When I ask a potential model about the type of modeling they're interested in, I typically list a range of options to give them a clear idea of the possibilities. These include: Fashion, Promotional, Editorial, Glamour, Lingerie, Fitness, Cosplay, Pinup, and Runway modeling.
2. What inspires you to model? I love being in front of a camera, I love fashion photos, I have done a photoshoot before, or my friends are models.
3. Do you have a friend who is a model? If yes, the friend may recommend me. If not, they seen my work on social media or my website.
Another important question is about their budget for the photoshoot. This is a loaded question because it's best to get paid for a photoshoot. However, if you want to work with the model, it's important to understand their wardrobe budget. Most beginning models don't have the right items for modeling, like heels, nude underwear, etc. Understanding and considering their budget is crucial as they start their modeling journey.
Okay so, all go well, and I setup a shoot with the new model. I asked the model to send me inspirational photos they like taking. This is important for multiple reasons. One, if they want to do something that is not my style. 2 get an idea of what they are looking for from the shoot. Most of the time, they will not have inspirational photos, so I create some inspirational images that work with the model and ask them to pick what they like to do from the pictures. I keep the inspirational photo basic and not extreme.
On the day of the shoot. All models have to sign a release form before I shoot. I also give the models a little tour of my studio to explain how I run my studio.
On the Backdrop
Now the models are in front of my camera. I see if they go into some poses, take some shots of the poses, and adjust their poses by saying try this pose. But if they are nervous, which they will be. I will do some simple poses for them to try.
Okay, so here's something I will not do: stare at the model, touch the model, try to give the model 3 feet of space between me and the model, and say positive things without saying anything that will insinuate sexual preferences. Like, that sexy, that hot, and or wow.
After the shoot, let them review the photos and pick the ones they like to edit. I do this for all shoots, but I only do three basic edits per look for the TF shoot.
Once I send the edits to the model, I wish them success in their modeling career. If we had a pleasant experience working together, I would ask to work with them again.
