On 01/08/2013 8:29 PM, Walt wrote:
I decided to go ahead and sign up for an account (currently awaiting
approval) over there to see if I might be able to find a local model
or two to pose for me. As it happens, there seems to be quite a few
lovely ladies looking for photographers to pose for in order to build
up portfolios.
Then, after reviewing a few models, I decided to see what kind of
photographers I'd be competing with. Not that there aren't any good
ones to be found; there is some real talent in the area. But, on the
whole, the experience left me feeling much, much better about my own
work.
So, once I get my account approved by the gatekeepers, I think I'll
start contacting potential models to see who might be willing to pose
in exchange for pictures.
Any suggestions on how to approach potential models? I figure it would
be best to arrange to meet them in person in a public place before the
shoot to discuss any ideas they may have and what they're looking for.
Also, are there any basic cosmetics or other beauty supplies I ought
to keep on hand just in case?
I've been on Model Mayhem for a few years (wrphoto). I've found that the
best approach is the most forward approach. I'm up front that this is a
hobby, and that I am pretty much a GWC (most of the togs on MM fit the
same description), after that, if I find a model in my area that I like
the look of, I get in touch (presuming their bio agrees with what I
want), and ask if they want to shoot. Make sure you have some sort of
theme in mind, even if it's just a glorified lighting test and all
you'll be doing is head shots (it's amazing how few models on MM have
good head shots in their bio).
Remember, most of the models are not professionals, they are in it for
fun and because they just want some nice pictures of themselves.
I wouldn't think about cosmetics unless you are a qualified make up
artist. That is a pretty specialized art unto itself. I supply lights,
camera and location, and I let the model supply the action. If you need
an MUA, either find one in your area that you like, or let the model do
her own with her own supplies.
I think the biggie with MM is to not be an ass about stuff. If you
promise 10 images from the shoot, deliver 12. If you promise to deliver
them in a couple of weeks, make sure you have them to the model in 10 days.
As far as meeting in advance to set things up, I'm on the fence. I'm 55
years old, and I don't have ANYTHING in common with a 20 year old girl
other than we are both interested in how she looks. Meetings in advance,
for me, are really awkward affairs. Meet for coffee, try not to be too
creepy, and try not to scare the girl off.
I don't do meetings in advance.
YMMV.
Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn't. If it works, I get to
spend some time doing something I really enjoy doing, if it doesn't, I
find something else to do.
Either way, keep whatever ego you have in check, don't be a pompous ass,
and do what you say you are going to do, and a little more. Remember
that even if its TFP, the model has a stake in the shoot.
For me, it's all about the model. If my photography gets in the way of
the shoot, I'm not doing my job.
bill
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