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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