How to Tell If Someone Is Serious About Shooting
This article is written by a member of our expert community. It expresses that member’s views only. We welcome other perspectives. Here’s how to contribute to MM EDU.
This advice is geared towards new models that use social networking sites like Model Mayhem to find people to shoot with. If you are new to Model Mayhem, you will get messages from other members about setting up a shoot. Here are a few things to consider to determine if they are “for real”.
Photographer: Shimon Karmel, Makeup artist: Nightshade Beauty, Hair stylist: Eriko vmx
1. They do not use text-speak
The original message should not read like, “Hey u. I luv ur work. Want 2 shoot sumtime?” That means that the person did not take the time to send a proper message. This translates to not caring, which is generally the attitude that they will take towards your shoot.
2. They give a description of the concept or project
They don’t have to write a long essay about every aspect of the shoot. However, they should at least state if it requires nudity, special props/wardrobe, elaborate makeup, or its intended usage. How can you say “yes” or “no” if you don’t know what is required?
3. They have worked with many Model Mayhem members (if they have been a member for a while)
If someone has been on Model Mayhem for four years, has only worked with five people, and only has four photos (with no website/other portfolio links), then chances are they are not serious. They might rarely shoot, have flaked on shoots, have not been active on Model Mayhem, or have some other reason for having few shoots.
4. They are up front about compensation
Whether looking for TFP or wanting to hire you, serious people will let you know what they want. If they want to hire you, they tell you how much they can spend and what they are willing to pay. If they would like to do TF, they also let you know up front.
5. They do not promise big things
The only things that are guaranteed are death and taxes. Even if you work with one of the best shooters or models, you are not guaranteed publication or fame.
6. They do not write anything sexual
That may indicate an agenda beyond wanting to shoot.
I hope these points will help you spot the B.S. when members approach you to shoot. If you have something to add to this list, please do so in the comment section. If you disagree with me, I would love to read what you think.
AvivaH
AvivaH has been a model for 2 years and track athlete for 6 years. She lives in Victoria, BC, and specializes in fitness, promotional, bikini, lingerie, and commercial modeling. www.ahlifeandstyle.com/
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July 23, 2015 at 6:39 am, David Sondered said:
I have issues with point three. As an artist, I joined MM years ago, to have access to models “should I need it”. Up until now, I have found local models fitting my needs at all times, and rarely even that, since my main body of work has involved non-human-related art.
I do, however, plan to do work with a model at some point, and at that point, the model in question will look at my profile and think I am not serious, simply because of this article, and the fact that I have been on MM for several years, without a single model shot to show for it. :/
I understand that I need to be polite, and respect the person I wish to shoot for reference, My intentions, as well as my behaviour, would be completely professional, but if they take this advice, I wont even get to that point, as I will be summarisly briushed off simply for having been a MM member for a long while without any real activity.
July 22, 2015 at 4:39 pm, Photography Studies said:
Certainly some good points. Nothing worst than planning a shoot and people pulling out. You need to make sure that this runs as planned!
July 22, 2015 at 4:09 pm, Daniele Gravel said:
I’m a Hair Stylist and only have a few pics…that does not mean I’m not for real when I contact people to help me with updating my portfolio!
July 22, 2015 at 12:46 pm, t gale said:
I take issue with point 3 (photographer having worked with few models, rarely shoot, not active on Model Mayhem) – for example in my case I persue Art and Philosophy as a way of enabling Communication, which is an important keyword for me in what I do. I write, I photograph not only portraiture but also landscape, always with a particular ‘theme’ or other.
I have a number of projects in my planning, and these concern particular themes such as the phases of Life, the way we project our meanings, feelings and intentions, how our attitudes change, how we learn through experience and so on…
I have had 5 photo exhibitions to date each having a number of such ‘series’ (projects) forming the collection exhibited with a central theme: all of this work takes time to think up, plan, set, and produce – very often with valuable input from the model included, that’s part of the relationship built up with the model and makes for a positive experience for all.
It also means that I might go some years without any significant shooting so I will not have been active on e.g. Model Mayem for such periods. It does *not* mean that a shoot I do is not ‘serious’, indeed I will always have a session with the model (paid as agreed) with discussion before final shoot(s) so that we can look at what I’m trying to convey in this ‘series’, the expressions I’m looking for, why I want any particular dress or nude work (I have only 2 ‘themes’ where nude work would be involved), how I’d like the model to act (here it’s often a great idea that the model herself will bring into the result).
So together with all this it’s quite possible that I’ll not have been ‘active’ doing shoots or on Model Mayhem for a while, and I also don’t publish much of what I do on the Web either (a hangover from the days of 120-rollfilm work pre-digital!).
Regarding other points, I have absolutely no problem if a model prefers to have an ‘escort’ along as long as he/she does not interfere in the shoot or our dicussions/ideas for it, it’s not surprising since a model will often see me as an ‘unknown’ before but hopefully our contact pre-shoot will at least provide some reassurance that I’m not some sex offender with a matress instead of a backdrop. It’s important for me that the model is totally comfortable and this is a two-way thing with clear understanding and good communication the key points.
Two models I’ve worked with came along with escorts, one came to the second and third shoots without hers as she found it unnessecary.
— Trevor Gale.
October 25, 2012 at 10:38 am, Rochelle Jona-Anatey said:
just got contacted by an american company, they have a website but used slag text speak and didn’t say how much they would spend but that they would pay for everything, food, travel, and hotels to paris. confused as to whether I should go? It’s also only a month until I go (if i go) is this normal? really need your help. please reply.
October 25, 2012 at 10:38 am, Guest said:
speak and didn’t say how much they would spend but that they would pay for everything, food, travel, and hotels to paris. confused as to whether I should go? It’s also only a month until I go (if i go) is this normal? really need your help. please reply.
January 14, 2012 at 5:50 am, Kathy Chin said:
Yeah, it’s annoying when people start messaging me offering pornography and prostitution jobs :/
January 07, 2012 at 3:03 pm, Richa said:
actually i want to be part of modelling.can u please help me.please do a favor for me.
December 05, 2011 at 5:25 am, Noveena said:
sometimes there is a legit reason for a gap, or not much action in recent yrs on mayhem, I had a baby and didnt model for a while due to my changing body – so i disagree with one point…
December 05, 2011 at 4:24 am, Kayla Nault said:
New to MM and modeling in general. Would love some advice as to whether an approaching photographer is for real! Please find me at modelmayhem.com/ailurophile
December 04, 2011 at 11:49 pm, Chelsea24rose said:
I may be wrong in this thought process but, I at least want the driver/friend/whoever I brought to meet the photographer before I tell them to leave. I HAVE been taken advantage of and I do not want it to happen to anyone else. If the photographer has a problem meeting this person then I wouldn’t shoot with them, I don’t care if it causes me the booking, at least I was careful.
November 29, 2011 at 7:41 pm, ralanscott Mayhem #2125874 said:
Good well written article
November 21, 2011 at 6:15 am, Laura Unbound said:
While the points in this article are well-intentioned, they’re almost all poorly stated and possibly not true in many cases.
1) text speak. It CAN mean a person is not serious about shooting, but what’s more important is WHAT is written, not necessarily how it’s written. “I would like to shoot you” = “I would like 2 shoot u”, if written by someone who truly wants to shoot you. I receive plenty messages in the queens English that do t actually pan out into a shoot taking place, I receive just as many poorly written text speak messages that result in me landing a gig.
5) I agree with. Generally if it sounds too good to be true, it is.
6) I agree with. If they’re hitting on you through messages they’re probably not too focused on the images
2) discussing concepts/themes/ details are certainly important, but all of this info does not necessarily need to be conveyed in the first message, nor does it in most cases. You certainly shouldn’t confirm a shoot without knowing important details, but the article sort of implies that if a person does not open their message to you with these things, they are not serious.
3) if this advice were followed, no photographer newbies would ever get anywhere. What’s more important than 1000 shoots, are a handful of quality photos that resulted from the shoots. A photographer who shoots a model every day but isnt producing anything worthwhile isn’t impressing anyone.
4) again, not necessarily something that is prevalent in the initial message. If they don’t answer or are vague about it when they are asked what the compensation will be, yes that’s a red flag, but I don’t expect everyone who messages me to tell me what they’re going to pay me before I even answer if I would have the slightest inkling of interest in taking the gig.
November 21, 2011 at 12:20 am, Aubrey - VyL8 said:
This article is ridiculous.
-Do you know how many photographer whose second language is English use text-speak?
-Who hire models with only a vague idea of what they want?
-Who have only 4 pictures up because their work hangs in galleries and they don’t really care about MM?
If some one is serious, they almost always discuss date/time/location and give their contact info within the first few emails.
November 16, 2011 at 7:28 pm, IMS said:
100% bang on!
Great information for beginning models for weeding out the weirdos and saving your valuable time dealing with inexperienced photographers!
This info could NEVER cost you a booking and will save you time dealing
with flakes and time wasters in general.
Usually, the bigger the talk,the more bs you deal with!
Obviously,on a commercial shoot,things are contracted and businesslike from the start but by the time they get there,they know the nuts and bolts.
Well written!
November 11, 2011 at 4:41 pm, Jsteck said:
I am new to MM and a photographer. I think your points are valid and it has started a great discussion. I don’t mind escorts as long as they don’t interfere with the shoot. I am pretty direct about what I’m looking for in my shoots, but am also interested in having models contact me with ideas. I’ve heard that MM has a number of people who aren’t serious but I do know I’ve already met some amazing models that I’ve had the opportunity to work with.
November 16, 2011 at 8:10 pm, IMS said:
I don’t agree that turning the comment section of an edu article into a frothing at the mouth thread on escorts is good.They can get that in the forums.
No one ever agrees and everyone thinks they are right,no matter what their agenda is.
November 11, 2011 at 3:15 pm, Nina Maryanovich said:
Escorts, I allow them to be there as long as they don’t disturb the model or what is happening at the shoot, but 90% of the time I will ask the escort to leave the shoot after (the most) 30mins and to come back at a certain time to pick-up the model (if needed). If a model is underage an escort is required to stay at the shoot the whole time. I believe that this way a parent can feel safe with their underaged childs safety and will keep my team and I free of any responsibility for the underager. But again the parent must be seen and not heard during the shoot.
November 11, 2011 at 4:26 am, Adain@ said:
This is a terrible article, highly suggestive, and should not be presented, even with the disclaimer, as an “Expert” opinion.
#1 – If you’re 40 you are less likely to use txt speak. But a serious 18 year old photographer is far more likely to use it. It’s a culture thing, not a professionalism thing.
#2 – Maybe, or maybe they just want to see if you’re interested before thinking about different ways to shoot with you? Or maybe they prefer to find out what YOU want to shoot? Or maybe they are very easy going and will shoot anything and everything and it doesn’t matter what specifics are?
#3 – As others said before, there are plenty of reasons people do not post a lot of photos. I personally do not link photos to MM #s. Some people don’t like that, but I have my very good reasons why I don’t. So what?
#4 – Again, maybe. Maybe not. Compensation can be talked about after interested parties are involved in some cases.
#5 – A lot of scams promise big things. But not all big things promised, are scams.
#6 – Erotic shoots should talk about sexual things. Although, specifically non-shoot related sexual talk is probably a red flag.
November 11, 2011 at 1:16 am, Sean Connolly said:
Nice articles, great idea giving a basic overview of the whole process and giving advice to keep everyone safe and doing the right things on here.
Have to say on the escorts thing, with me if a model, MUA wants to bring an escort that is totally fine, I am more than happy with that. Its more important for me that everyone is happy on the shoot, and if bringing an escort means that, thats fine with me.
I never can understand people asking escorts to leave the set, after all doesn’t that kinda go against why they are there in the first place. Also most of my shoots have had either lots of people on set in the studio, or lots of people in the location I am shooting. I mean do some photographers ask everyone to leave the park just because they are shooting.
But again, thanks for taking the time to write this.
November 10, 2011 at 9:36 pm, Eric Flak said:
All good points. Except for one. I’ve been here 4 years and have only worked with 3 models (one of whom I’ve worked with 5 times). In my case, it’s because I have very little money and can’t often afford to hire a model.
But that brings up another way to tell if a photographer is serious. Check out their portfolio and see if it’s any good. You can also try contacting the models that the photographer has worked with and ask them for a reference.
November 10, 2011 at 6:59 pm, Brandileigha Robin Stracner said:
Really good tips. Thanks!
November 10, 2011 at 6:56 pm, Phoenixofmiltown said:
It’s a good thing I don’t take this whole thing very seriously. In fact, I have generally found that “serious” people totally suck to work with. Some of my very best shoots have been completely spontaneous with first time models and absolutely no creative direction going into the shoot. Of course, some of these shoots have also been my worst.
As an artist, I find the constraints of needing all sorts of “criteria” met a grave hindrance to the possibilities of what can unfold during the meeting of two minds.
Just sayin..
November 10, 2011 at 3:33 pm, David Dean said:
Sorry, I have a problem with escorts, and I’m for real, Never bring an escort, I, at the minimum, have my own female assistants, so the models are never alone with me, I don’t need some clown telling me how to pose my models, interrupting the flow, and having the model glancing at them every few shots, If you don’t know the photographer and they are on Model Mayhem contact other models they’ve worked with or ask for references. If all else falls remember if it sounds to good to be true…….
November 11, 2011 at 3:42 pm, John E. Klein said:
Two points, David:
1. I would never let the escort interrupt or interfere with a shoot – they should be seen and not heard. I’ve had escorts as several shoots without any interference…and I don’t expect and wouldn’t allow interference, either. Just be polite about calling them off.
2. If you see the model glancing at the escort or that the presence of the escort is having a negative effect on the models performance, it’s time to ask the escort to step outside. “Sorry, miss/sir, but it seems to me that model X is distracted by you…could you please wait outside? Thank you.”
It’s really easy if you’re respectful, but direct.
November 10, 2011 at 2:45 pm, UrbanDecayChris said:
This article is laughable. Seriously people, start submitting WORTHWHILE articles.
November 16, 2011 at 9:05 pm, IMS said:
They don’t just take submitted articles,you have to qualify to submit.
If you disagree then that is entirely your choice and only your opinion.
I tend to go with what the professionals and moderators think and decide to post.
November 10, 2011 at 7:25 am, Anonymous said:
Good article. Note: not everybody is good or nice in communication. Doesn’t say anything about their qualities as model. mua or photographer. But I agree; being clear and respectful is an important start of good teamwork.
November 10, 2011 at 7:11 am, Prmass1 said:
Number 3 hit right on the spot. I label these as time wasters. Stay away big time. They say yes to a photoshoot and when time approaches they tell you they are sick or discontinued contact all together. They have the same pictures all the time. If there were a rating system these will have not even one star.
November 10, 2011 at 6:46 pm, slp said:
Wow…..
November 10, 2011 at 3:54 am, Greg Cobb said:
Epic Fail. If someone “has” to have an escort, please save yourself some time and trouble and find another hobby that’ll make you feel more “safe”. It’s BS when someone suggests that to potential models. Peter, not everyone likes distractions at their shoots, real or not. I have allowed them but when I don’t it doesn’t keep me from being REAL. Please take the information and white knights in this with a grain of salt.
November 10, 2011 at 2:57 am, Jomjav said:
Wow! This is a terrible article. A mix of some common sense advise and paranoia.
November 10, 2011 at 2:08 am, Noel Grigalunus said:
I took some time to look at your website and your profile here, just get a sense of your background and level of experience with the industry. And I have to say that while I agree with some of what you have stated, from my experience with the world of commercial, advertising, and editorial fashion photography, I have to disagree with or correct other suggestions you offered. By the way, the advice and comments I make here, should be for ALL models, whether you are just starting out or are seasoned veteran. As for me, just to validate my background, after nearly twenty years being in and out of the business I am only now becoming part of the ‘digital age’. Consequnetly, images from my portfolio will not be made available here until after the holidays.
Point No. 1: If you send me a message with text speak, do not expect a reply. I’m ‘old school’ I guess you could say, and I expect the model, make-up artist or client to treat me with the same level of respect and professionalism they are looking for with me.
Point No. 2: Nudity. If it is required, it is stated up front, or should be, before any other description of the production job is included. If a photographer is hesitant to tell you that at the start of a request for services, ignore or block them immediately.
Point No. 3: Model Mayhem is not the end all, and be all of professioanl modeling sites. Many of the clients and agencies I have dealt with in the past, in Chicago and New York, had/have no idea what ‘Model Mayhem’ is. And of the ones that do, their opinion is not highly favorable. But there are a number of people, photographers, make-up artists, and models who I can tell are professionals from the information and links they provide on their profiles. If the model or make-up artist does not have any actual ‘tearsheets’ of their work, or from assignments they were hired for, it makes me question their level of professionalism. But I also believe that Model Mayhem can be a good starting place for some, and has the potential to be a highly respected site by the commercial world. So I will continue to look for people in the event that I am in need and cannot locate someone through the regular channels.
Point No. 4: If I am doing a self-promotional shoot for my portfolio, I generally do not pay the model for his/her time unless he/she can give just cause. (Meaning, they have invested expenses in clothing or other items prior to the photo-shoot. In that event, I will cover the cost of their expenditures. I will though, give them as many images from the shoot as they need. The model needs to promote themselves just as I do). The only time a model gets paid, is went the photo-production job is for an actual client. In regards to the make-up artist, I will pay for his/her time, as well as any expenses they have incurred prior to the photo-shoot. It has been my experience that they generally have expenses whether they actually work or not, or in the event a model cancels or fails to show up, which I have expereinced a few times.
Point No. 5: Agreed. There is no guuarantee that the work we do together, will lead to more work from other photographers or a contract from an agency, if you are an aspiring or ‘independent’ model. It all comes down to your level of professionalism, attitude, and conduct even after a photo-shoot is over.
Point No. 6: This isn’t or should not be a dating site. Unfortunately, I know of even a few veteran photographers who have used sites like this to go ‘online trolling’ for an escort or date. It degrades whatever respect a they may have established for themselves, and in the long run, makes ALL photographers look bad. This is one of the reasons why the notion of ‘anyone can do your job’ still exists.
November 12, 2011 at 2:33 am, Robert Burton-Photography said:
One other point I would like to make is about the “One-Liners”. If a model can’t manage to type more than one line in response to my messages, she is telling me she doesn’t care to shoot with me, or she simply has a disrespectful attitude.
I understand many models have a lot of messages to sort through, but if I take the time to explain an idea I am working on, I would expect at least some type of response that is appropriate to my message.
Not responding at all, or simply ignoring someone is absolutely disrespectful. I have had that happen many times in the past, and then months down the line, when the model hasn’t been able to set up shoots with any other photographers, she will remember I had a great idea and attempt to reply to my message. Nice try…
I spend a lot of time working on my ideas, and I spend a lot of time going over models’ Lists of images to see what they like. I shoots nudes, but I don’t insist on them. Nudity has to actually go with the idea we are discussing. If it doesn’t fit, we don’t do a nude shoot.
I am very respectful of other people. I do not like escorts, and I always meet a model before working with her, but if she insists on having one, I won’t say no. If it’s a paid shoot, where I am the one paying, and the model brings an escort, it is no longer a paid shoot. I do not see the logic in paying for distractions. When money is involved, it is considered a job. I don’t take my wife to work with me, so I don’t expect a model to bring an escort to a paid shoot.
These are only my opinions and feelings, and I may be way off mark, but that is my side of it.
November 10, 2011 at 1:55 am, Derrick G. said:
Well said in all!
But also the photographers need to be smart about shooting on-location shoots that are unfamiliar with thousands of dollars worth of equipment.
Just think: It is hard to split quick with equipment scattered around a set!
Strobe over here… Strobe over there. You get the idea.
November 10, 2011 at 1:31 am, Mars Aday said:
P.s it can be a dangerous game unfortuently! Be safe girls!
November 10, 2011 at 1:30 am, Mars Aday said:
I read it and found it very useful and true! A lot of this I was aware of,and have a bf that warns me of all the bs! But thanks for letting other new models the ins and outs! So the are aware of what’s real and not! 😀
November 10, 2011 at 12:30 am, Tony Lawrence said:
Hello OP,
As a long time member of MM I agree with much of what you’ve written. Sadly though some people write like they Text. A good ideal is to ask a model if she/he has been on MM for a while yet has few images, why. I pay attention to what models say in their profiles. Those that mention God, devotion to him or their boyfriend, escorts for their safety and things like all the images at the end of a shoot. I avoid.
In general, find that people revel themselves not so much in what they say but how they say it. Even models or shooters who are serious aren’t always a good fit for each other. One example: A recent model asked that, I send her a copy of my release and when, I asked why said she didn’t want to see her photos on a billboard unless she were paid. I told her, lets not shoot. While her request wasn’t perhaps unreasonable it suggested to me some issues and I like to avoid drama best, I can.
November 10, 2011 at 12:24 am, WNCPhotography said:
In regard to Point #3:
> or have some other reason for having few shoots.
How about some photographers:
1) Are selective and more interested in quality than quantity.
2) Have limited time.
3) Find extremely few of the models on MM to be photogenic.
4) Are repulsed by facial piercing, tattoos, raccoon and skunk hair, dark roots, tacky or tasteless photos in a portfolio, the promotion of tobacco use, pornographic images, insistence on bringing an escort, wanting to be paid without any experience nor range of “looks”. These factors can eliminate a lot of the account holders on MM from consideration.
5) Have come to realize that many MM models:
a) Do not know how to say “thank you” or to express any appreciation.
b) Do not know how to communicate.
c) Are unable to express themselves in a direct and open manner.
d) Had their profile created by a photographer or boyfriend.
e) Were on MM for a few weeks in 2007 and have not been seen nor heard from since.
f) Never do a shoot with anyone other than the photographer that created their profile.
g) And in regard to d through f, are nothing but flakes. And, add a few additional flakes.
So, in spite of 600,00+ profiles, some photographers find the actual number of potential models within a reasonable driving distance to be very few, indeed.
Note that I use the term “photographer” in the same loose since as the term “model” is used on MM. It generally means someone interested in photography and someone interested in modeling — and not working photographers nor models.
November 09, 2011 at 11:42 pm, Markman said:
The best way to tell if someone is serious is if, after the initial contact (no matter how it’s initiated) that person maintains contact and is responsive to questions re: shooting. If that person’s communications relate to setting up a shoot (and are NOT filled with personal nonsense) then that person is likely serious about setting up a shoot.
For what it’s worth, some of my best collaborations started with me posting nothing more than a Tag on a model’s page, which read “Wanna?”
November 09, 2011 at 11:38 pm, Drmuz2000 said:
Highest priority should be to check out the folio. Second is to check any lists they may have. These should give an indication of what inspires/motivates the tog. Can’t agree with the idea that rarely shooting should be used as a negative. Perhaps a tog is too busy doing other things and only selects models from MM when they find time for personal projects? I wish I had more time for shooting personal projects……
November 09, 2011 at 9:33 pm, PhotoGuru said:
Not everyone has the same approach to booking/shooting. Some of these rules will make it harder to shoot, and possibly alienate those you wish to work with…the key is to communicate with the people you want to shoot with, and make sure each party understands how the other operates. Just because someone does or doesnt do things a certain way does not, however, mean you ought to immediately label them as ‘not serious’ about their craft. Use common sense. If you talk to them and -then- find out you dont like their working methodology, fine. You dont have to shoot with them…but automatically writing someone off beforehand is short-sighted.
#1. The escort thing for shoots involving legal adults: There are way too many threads about it already. Some photographers accept them, some do not, niether way is ‘wrong’ as a personal prefernce but if you insist on bringing someone who will run roughshod over the shoot, create problems, distractions, etc., you will not be asked back, even by the most laid-back photographers, and run the risk of being dismissed right off the bat. If you need to feel secure with a photographer who does not accept escorts, have someone drive you to the shoot, hang out nearby, and check in at regular intervals over the phone to make sure you are ok. Some photographers who accept having them present use escorts as assistants, or in other capacitis during the shoot, some dont care if they are hanging out in another room, watching TV, yaking a nap, or whatever. -All- photographers agree that no one but the people directly involved in the shoot need to have any input artistically or otherwise, unless invited into the mix beforehand.
#2. When attemptoing to initiate a shoot, sometimes it helps to say ‘Hello’ and make an introduction first, before launching into the specifics of a shoot. It is more an attempt to be polite than anything, and can improve your chances of having a meaningful conversation about the work you want to so, what the model feels she could benefit from, etc.. I wouldnt advise discounting the credibility of someone who asks a model what their thoughts are about specific types of work, or genres they might want to work in before spilling the beans that they want to do XYZ concept, especially if the model in question does not yet have any examples of that kind of work in his/her portfolio yet. It is one thing to get carried away with endless communication, hitting on a model inappropriately, etc. but it helps to feel out a situation before putting forth the ‘big sell’ to a model of a certain concept that might otherwise not be understood quite as well with out other contextual information, or indicate that the two working philosophies are not a good match.
November 11, 2011 at 4:59 am, winnie said:
Well you have to realize that alot of models are under the age of 18 and there four have to have an escort /parent to be at the shoot and then you have some models that have disabilties that need a escort/parent to be at the shoot and this day and time you can never really trust someone unless you have done a shoot with them before and you always hear of people getting assulted so if you someone wants to have a escort they dont have to be right there near by as the shoot takes places but could be somewhere they can at least see what is going on and staying out of the way …..My daughter is a model and I have not once had a photpgrapher even care if she had other people with her and invited her back to do more shoots……I do agree however that if you have a escort with you and if they get in the way that they should be asked to leave or not come back but to me SAFETY is always the best
November 09, 2011 at 8:30 pm, Michael Clements said:
Hmmm. The text speak suggestion is a little heavy handed, I’ve had models use text speak yes it’s bloody lazy and annoying but it is what it is and hasn’t always been a reflection of what they’re like face to face and in the studio!
November 10, 2011 at 7:12 pm, Enfirephoto said:
sometimes they are answering on their phones…just saying
November 09, 2011 at 7:40 pm, slp said:
I have been very serious about shooting, and I have had very little luck in setting up shoots with models from here… so I am going to disagree with the point obout the amount of shoots having anything to do with anything. I have done shoots with 3 model mayhem models…. 2 of which I knew outside of this site prior to our shoots… I have tried setting up shoots with some models only to have them cancel or brush me off… I like to shoot…. I am not a big concept person although I do like to get creative from time to time… it just seems that unless you have a big production going people don’t want to get involved…. and getting a production together? I offered to pay a MUA for a shoot I planned last year and I couldn’t get a commitment from anyone for that either, I had to look outside the site. So maybe it is where I live…. but it is not always the photographer who isn’t serious…. (and maybe I missed the point of this article which is fine! lol )
November 09, 2011 at 8:09 pm, Niallbarker said:
It is a bit like going into a dance – either everyone will dance with you, or no one. It either clicks or it dosen’t – money is not an issue, it is all about the future prospects.
November 09, 2011 at 10:57 pm, Soni Bajaj said:
[email protected] Hit me up plz!
November 11, 2011 at 2:16 pm, Rick said:
I also could not get a commitment from local models after contacting them, some have not even the common sense to reply to say that they are not interested after reading your request. My shoots are mostly outdoors with tfp as pay. I have had better luck approaching co-workers and people who are casual aquaintances (girls working at local shops). At least a reply saying “No Thanks” would be refreashing.
November 09, 2011 at 7:30 pm, Niallbarker said:
What I noticed was that some girls who were starting out and looking for a portfollio where paying for a model shoot to get good pics. What they were not told was that the pics were cosmetically edited to make them look more perfect than they were – fine if your friend is the photographer and is bringing in the work – useless if you rely on the pics to get work. And these girls didn’t have that kind of money to be ‘conned’.
November 09, 2011 at 7:29 pm, Maggie said:
I disagree with 1, 2, and 3. The rest are pretty accurate, in my experience, though, which is better than most of these articles.
November 09, 2011 at 7:18 pm, Steve said:
Thanks for the reinforcement on how I attempt to construct messages to potential models. I appreciate sharing my budget as a Photographer. It seems this is often the sticking point in negotiations. Courteous behavior is always appreciated. If you are a model reading this, please consider sending a reply to those requests you receive that are sincere. Even if you are not interested. Help me to be a better resource for you by suggesting what about my communication you appreciated and what set off your warning bells.
November 09, 2011 at 10:59 pm, Soni said:
[email protected]
November 11, 2011 at 12:00 am, Steve said:
How about a MM#, Soni
November 09, 2011 at 7:15 pm, Figphotography Gus Miller said:
Checkout the photographers website and see how good the images are and it should tell you a bit about the photographer. Google them as well !
November 09, 2011 at 6:51 pm, alex said:
This is seriously an article?
I would write something about how this is all weird subjective non-sense… but hey, let’s let the MM community re-enforce misguided ‘industry’ standards, to make it even less of a viable source for legitimate bullshit free talent.
I guess I’m a perverted, flakey, hack, so if I contact you, run!
November 10, 2011 at 2:29 am, Billiechiasson said:
Alex, just checked out your website and your work is phenomenal. You capture the models essence beautifully and only a fool would not collaborate or work with you!!
January 15, 2012 at 7:32 pm, Yusra said:
Love your work!!!! Fantastic
November 09, 2011 at 6:43 pm, Niallbarker said:
Why would someone hire a model if they are looking for a prostitute? The street girl would be cheaper, and I would expect would let you take a pic with her clothes on if she was paid.
November 09, 2011 at 6:51 pm, Christine said:
What does prostitution have to do with anything in this..? I don’t see that mentioned here at all.
November 09, 2011 at 6:57 pm, Niallbarker said:
Is that not what the models are afraid they might be mistaken for?
November 09, 2011 at 8:10 pm, RLM said:
no
November 09, 2011 at 6:35 pm, Anonymous said:
Finally an EDU article that makes sense. I agree on all points, especially the text speak.
November 16, 2011 at 7:35 pm, IMS said:
I agree,never met a professional who does kiddie-speak(textspeak) in communications,phone or otherwise! It just has no credibility .
November 09, 2011 at 6:32 pm, Peter Sjödin said:
Great comments.
I have one more suggestion (told from some of my models): Always ask if it is ok to “bring a friend”. If the shoot is for real, the photographer have no ploblem with this.
November 09, 2011 at 6:37 pm, Christine said:
Getting involved in the escort discussion is never good 🙁
November 09, 2011 at 6:40 pm, Mearle Gates said:
Nonsense!
November 09, 2011 at 7:07 pm, Niallbarker said:
A girl I hired on two occassions took first her boyfriend and then her mother with her on the shoot which was fully clothed in busy parts of Glasgow. I felt it was off putting when I wanted to ask her her to show a certain expression.
November 09, 2011 at 7:37 pm, terms reader said:
No. No. No. No.
No.
November 09, 2011 at 9:41 pm, Adam Sternberg said:
A guaranteed method of weeding out amateurs from professions are the AMATEURS are the ones who need an “escort”/sluggo to come with them to shoots. Any intelligent professional has a no-escort policy and if they don’t now, they will once their next shoot is ruined by one.
November 10, 2011 at 10:52 am, Bobkova Lu said:
Oh wait a moment here, what about Brianna Robertson. Model Mayhem Model of 2010. She brings an escort to every shoot,and she is agency represented….it does not seem to be ruining her career …
November 11, 2011 at 3:51 pm, John E. Klein said:
All the escorts that have ever accompanied models to shoots with me have been women, not ‘sluggos’.
November 09, 2011 at 9:45 pm, PhotoGuru said:
This information is just plain wrong, and can cost you bookings. If you dont feel comfortable going to work on your own, you ought to find a different line of work. Agency models do not bring escorts to shoots….
You want to feel safe, do the ‘driver’ thing. Have them wait nearby, and check in with them on breaks, but under no circumstances do you bring any disruptions to a shoot. If you suspect a shoot is ‘dangerous’ or there is the potential for you to come to harm, dont book the shoot in the first place. Common sense.
November 11, 2011 at 1:21 am, Cindy Santiago said:
You are right. As a model I have never brought someone to a shoot. If I worry then I don’t do it. Stick toyour gut. But if it’s my first encounter and I’m unsure I have a friend drop me off. Go in, check in with photographer and let my friend know it’s ok to leave. If I ever don’t come back out within 15min. They should worry, but I’ve never had a problem. Real photographers are honest the onesyou have to worry about are the ones who aren’t clear of what they expect to get out of the shoot
November 22, 2011 at 6:12 pm, Jayleeds said:
i agree! – there is nothing worse than having a model constantly looking over at her mum or boyfriend, who are usually either looking bored and uninterested – or in boyfriends case – uncomfortable – which makes the model uncomfortable, then the images go bad! – wasting time and money, I’m happy to show chaperones around the studio and chat with them before we commence – then politely ask them to come back at a pre determined time. I don’t take my mum to work – i don’t see why they should. If in doubt – don’t take the booking – do your homework first!
July 23, 2015 at 12:46 pm, CreativeXposures said:
agreed totally…
July 18, 2012 at 10:40 am, KayleighKay said:
I actually worked with 3 agenecy models a few weeks ago. Two of them came with their mothers.
July 22, 2015 at 11:37 am, Silverstream said:
I have had many people I’ve shot bring friends or family. Particularly if its an outdoor shoot, I ask them to as they become assistants. On a commercial shoot, its generally unnecessary as I have someone around to help. Generally it makes people more relaxed and comfortable to have someone around and thats important for a shoot. On the other hand I did have an underage agency model who felt more comfortable with her mom not tagging along but it was a big shoot and there were others there.
November 09, 2011 at 11:52 pm, WNCPhotography said:
WRONG! All of my shoots are “for real”, but I prefer to work without an escort. I have never had a professional model bring an escort to a shoot; even when I was in other states. And, if a professional model did, she would not get paid.
Escorts can always be a distraction, but especially when the escort has a “love” interest in the model. Too often the escort is a boyfriend that has more interest in the photo shoot than the model.
I nearly always produce better photos when it is one-on-one. It is much easier to develop a rapport with the model when there is not the distraction of an escort — whose behavior is a complete unknown — and whose presence cannot be ignored. There is been more than one reported case of escorts walking off with equipment.
With that said, I often encourage models to bring a escort when they are from out of town; and especially if they will be traveling after dark.
It can also be said that I do not shoot nudes, I do not ask models to take their clothes off, and I nearly always shoot in public locations; locations where an escort is completely unnecessary for any model to feel both safe and comfortable; unless, of course, the model is too shy and timid to be modeling.
For nudes, or near nudes, in private locations, then the rules have to favor female models. For there have been more than one reported case of models being sexually assaulted.
But, your statement is too restrictive to reflect reality and the various situations and conditions. The need for an escort ought to be evaluated based upon many factors; situation, type of shoot, location, distance (local or not), reputation of the photographer, paid or non-paid, and other factors. I am never favorably impressed when a model says “I ALWAYS bring an escort”.
November 10, 2011 at 10:32 pm, JS photography said:
I can completely understand why a lot of photographers don’t allow escorts. I have one model in particular yes she brought an escort twice after that never again. Never ever once have I had a problem if they would like one with them. However I tell them one problem at all and we are done. If there is a problem which has only happen once I will stop the shoot and tell them goodbye. I’m very honest twards my models as they are with me. Communication is key. I try to just encourage the models to check refrences if they do that it give them a lil idea if they would feel safe or not. If need be ask to meet for coffee first if you have never shot with eachother before.
Most importantly not every artist will agree, and I’m sure all of our styles and work is different. Which also all of our experience has been very different.
November 10, 2011 at 12:02 am, Melswebb said:
Not true. I have done many mag shoots and the photographer doesnt like me to bring a friend. The photographer and I have worked together many times and are great friends but she doesnt like anyone to distract the shoot. Like any job you do not bring your friends to work with you 🙂
November 10, 2011 at 2:14 am, Noel Grigalunus said:
On a commercial shoot where a model is required, or in regards to a make-up artist, a ‘friend’ or and ‘escort’ is never, and I repeat myself NEVER allowed on set. It goes beyond being a distraction. Many times the acutal client, art director or representative from the company or magazine who you are working for is usually there. And if they see someone just standing or sitting around, meaning not directly involved with the production, they start to question the photographer’s level of professionalism. I cannot have that, and I do not personally know of anyone working in this industry who would.
July 22, 2015 at 4:17 pm, James Douglas said:
The escort doesn’t have to be “on set”, they can be in the lobby, office or anyplace.
Experienced models can usually size up a photographer, an inexperienced model, not so much, so if I want the model to feel comfortable, I always encourage they bring some one as long as its mad clear up front, they can’t be a nuisance
November 10, 2011 at 2:40 am, John E. Klein said:
I would never suggest that a model bring a friend/escort. However, I don’t refuse the model’s request to bring one. I can’t see why this should really effect how a photographer works. It’s occurred enough times with me that I see it doesn’t effect models’ performance, so why should I care? Once the shoot begins, the presence of the escort fades away into the background for me.
One the other hand, I tell the model straight-up, upon her request to bring someone, that I will ask the escort to leave for a portion of the shoot. This is because, frankly, it’s my shoot and my model and I feel I have the right control the shoot. I also feel I have the right to a certain amount of one-on-one privacy once the trust and rapport is established.
Obviously, this is about trust. Isn’t a lack of trust the reason for the escort? I understand the lack of trust and am willing accept it at the outset. Eventually, however, the model should be willing reciprocate in that trust. I’ve found that all models will eventually do so.
Trust is essential between any model and photographer so it’s worth going slow to establish it, if need be.
November 10, 2011 at 7:09 pm, Enfirephoto said:
no friends allowed. you don’t need a friend to protect you from me. and if you think you need a friend, you don’t trust me enough to have the emotive type of work that i do
November 11, 2011 at 10:52 pm, Akynos Shekera said:
i don’t know about this. as a model i’ve noticed that sometimes a friend can be a problem. particularly if it’s a boy-friend. they tend to want to control the shoots in an effort to “protect” their mate. they can be more of a hindrance.
November 30, 2011 at 10:05 pm, Todd Burgess said:
I will always encourage models to bring escorts if they have personal safety issues. I always tell them to bring their girlfriends as opposed to boyfriends because girlfriends offer constructive criticism. When all is said and done only about 10% of my models bring escorts. Most models tell me that because I am so willing to accept escorts they correctly conclude I must be a legitimate photographer so an escort is unnecessary.
I think if you are a legitimate photographer who is confident in their abilities and can run a shoot then some person sitting in the corner should not be a problem.
January 16, 2013 at 7:31 pm, Myshell said:
My fiance has come to every shoot to date and no photographer I have worked with has ever had an issue with this – but rather enjoyed having the extra helping hand around. My partner does no serve as a distraction and when he’s not doing something helpful he minds his own business on his phone out of the way or something. No harm for him being there what so ever.
Every single shoot runs a risk of getting an odd ball, so simply saying don’t do the shoot if you may be uncomfortable is incredibly biased. There is no way in hell I’m going to jump straight into the deep end in meeting someone for the first time off of the internet who I cant judge from a bar of soap.
Unless this photographer has maaaaaany references it can even be hard to judge whether or not some model’s words are true when we live in a word of free/fake accounts being so accessible.
Long story short – I’m not going to be one syllable short of a dead model cliche; my safety comes first. If my photographer has a problem with this, than I have a problem with what they expect from me – after all why would a person be SO insistent on working alone if they are not doing anything wrong.
January 16, 2013 at 7:33 pm, Myshell said:
(BTW: This was in regards to all comments saying not to bring someone, not specifically directed at you Peter – I agree completely with what you’re saying)
July 22, 2015 at 1:27 pm, SyDnEy284 said:
I completely agree with you, but I have heard horror stories of how awful some escorts can be. Your fiance seems to be an exception. But I do think a model’s safety is important. I worked with a photographer who was insistent that I come alone, and if I wanted to learn “the business” I had to be trusting. However, that same man offered my $2,000 during the clothed shoot to get naked and shoot for his personal collection. People can be very shady, always be careful!