Working With "Models"

Recently I have been adding to my family photography by working with models in various different arrangements. I’m a bit of a newb when it comes to modelling clients but over the past several months I have made a clear mental distinction between how to work with family clients and how to kick it with the models. This is what I have learned so far:

1) Communication is the key to ANY successful relationship! The more clearly you understand the expectation your model has and vice versa the less drama will be unleashed

2) Professionalism doesn’t actually mean the same thing to everyone. This goes back to communication; I personally recommend telling the model what aspects of professionalism are important to you and what YOU expect them to do in certain situations. “Common sense” would seem more unique than common from my experience.

3) Have a clear plan. Not only does this make the communication part easier but it makes it seem like you know what you are doing. Have a concept for the shoot, actual clothes or at least suggestions for wardrobe, make up, hair, etc.

4) Network! Get to know some fashion people, several makeup and hair artists, find people with cool backyards or house, find places to buy or borrow neat props and last but not least keep a circle of other model friends. This makes pulling people into collaborations a lot easier and social networking is a great way to do it.

5) Try to gracefully avoid working with divas and flakes. Having a clear outline of what you are willing to do is the best way to do this. If at first contact you give out information like: “I will likely need your help moving props on set” or “this shoot will require walking through mud” and “ this is my personal cancellation policy” are all reasonable things to say and will attract models who are willing to work within that.

6) As much as I personally believe the photographer is in charge of the image, be willing to collaborate and get feedback. This is the tight rope walk between being confident in your own art and being teachable and open to new ideas, but some other people have REALLY awesome ideas.

7) Stand your ground. If you have communicated something clearly don’t back down from it. This includes every policy you have, for example, don’t be pressured into shooting subject matter that doesn’t reflect your art.

8) Give direction. Some “models” are just beautiful people who have had their pictures taken a lot. So like the family photography clients you might to encourage them, build their confidence and help pose them. The better you can direct the model the closer the image will match you vision. So put down the camera, pose in a mirror and if needed take the yoga class to you can at least roughly demo when required!

9) Take more pictures than you think you need. I do burst shoots in each pose- the smallest changes in expression can change a photo! Plus digital is wonderful for keeping what you need and deleting the rest.

10) Have fun! Once things are organized and set up- relax a little. Even models make awkward faces when they feel awkward. Talk about interests, in between photos crack jokes and put each other at ease.

Models have added something new and interesting to my portfolio plus have really helped me gain experience working with some very different people. I'm not sure I will ever go back to defining myself and ONLY a family photographer