For "Photographers":

1. Always respect a model and she will respect you!

2. Make sure that the objective of the shoot is explained in detail, so that there are no questions later.  Write out a “concept” page, list creative ideas, the background, any props, etc.

3. Always get references from other photographer's that the model has worked with.  Ask the model for references.  There are some real “head-cases” out there, share good information with a colleague that asks.

4. Try to keep some extra un-opened make-up on hand just in case he/she has forgotten theirs.

5. Always provide a separate changing area that has a lock on the door.

6. Try not to enter the "model's safe zone"....meaning not touching he/she if it can in any way be avoided. Feeling safe to a model can mean the difference in a good or bad shoot.  I say never touch a model below the neck and above the neck use the back of your fingers.

7. Send references yourself, and contact information such as studio and cell phone numbers, address, fax, etc.

8. Try to have as much communication with the model as possible. Whether it by via e-mail and or phone. Print out these communications, put them is a file.  I print out the Modeling Releases before hand with any agreed upon changes.

9. If for some reason the shoot is delayed or postponed let the model know as soon as you can.

10. Never put a model down unless it is warranted, this could hinder he/she from obtaining work in the future.

11. Always make sure that the model is exactly what you wanted for the specified shoot. Don't wait for he/she to get there and then decide they weren't the right match for the project.

12. Always act in a professional manner.

13. If the model did a good job in your eyes, tell them.

14. Never present yourself as something that you are not.

15. Always have two copies of your Modeling Release for the model to sign, I suggest before the start of the shoot.

16. Try to always let the model know where the images are going to be displayed.

17. Make sure that the model has what they will need for the shoot, changes etc.  If you have the right clothing etc. let them know ahead of time, and make sure that the sizes are appropriate for the model.

18. Try to be as clear as possible on every aspect of the shoot as you can be.

19. If the shoot is time for prints tell them ahead of time, make sure that they understand this.

20. A good photographer will be as professional as they can be and this will come through to a model.

21. If you have a home studio let the model know this in your first conversation with her.

22. In a TFCD shoot, if the model has worked hard and produced some good images, offer to cover their, travel costs or lunch/dinner

23. If you promise a model prints or a CD, etc. on a specific date, be sure to deliver.  Never say you are going to do something and not do it.

24. Credibility is a valuable commodity, strive to achieve this, and maintain it.

25. If a model e-mails you about a business matter and/or a prior shoot do not take days/weeks to respond. You would expect the same courtesy from the model.  I hope that these tips have helped you. I can only speak from experience. But, experience is the best teacher. If you have other "tips" that can be added. Or, comments please let me know. Good shooting!


                                    revised 0/30/10


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