There are times when you might need to work with or book a freelance or agency model. The process is straightforward. However, if you are new to working with a model or the model is new here are some tips to make the process easier.
First, you should know your camera and equipment. Working a model the first time or when the model is new is not the time to fumble around and learn the settings of your camera or lighting. Come prepared. Consider what settings you want to use, what speed, what ISO, what WB, what about lighting, etc. Be prepared and then adjust from there.
Learn how to direct or pose your model. Unless you are working with an experienced model or your model is following a moodboard then it is helpful if you have skills directing a model. You should talk with the model throughout the photoshoot on the posing and expressions you would like him / her to achieve. Use your moodboard as reference. Refer to the back of the camera or if you are tethering and occasionally review progress. If you have specific set of poses in mind then tell your model what you are looking for. If the model has experience and is posing without coaching it’s still a good idea to provide directions to make sure you both are getting the looks you need.
However, don’t surprise the model by asking them to do any style of posing that has not been previously discussed or significantly off the moodboard. Also, never touch the model when giving posing tips.
Slow down. Working with a model the first time or with a new model can be a stressful or awkward time. Slow down. Think about what you are doing. Take time to talk to your model and let them know you are new to this. Relax. Also, be careful about shooting your camera in a burst mode. You will just be getting many of the same image. Take your time between shots. Look at your image. Is the posing what you want, is the lighting what you need, are the camera settings correct, is the clothing how you want it, are the model’s eyes open. Take it slow.
Observe the model and make sure everything is where or how it should be. It’s better to catch things like buttons not buttoned, tags showing, things that aren’t supposed to be in an image, flyaway hair, smeared makeup, clothing not laying correctly BEFORE you take the photo or immediately before you take the next photo than when you are editing. It is sometimes helpful to have someone else on the team watch for things like this. It will save lots of time editing.
By the way, it’s not a good idea to look at the back of the camera after each shot as this slows down the model’s flow IMO. However, you should take a look at images after a few shots. Also be observant while shooting.
Think about your lighting. This is obvious but you should think about how you want to light the scene. Study your moodboard and determine how you want to light your photoshoot. I recommend that you have your lighting / modifiers set up and tested in advance. Obviously, this is more difficult if you are using natural light but, in the studio, you should have everything ready to go before the model is on the set. Check how the lighting hits the background, how it lights your model (before and during the shoot), is the power too strong or too weak, etc. If you are not getting what you want there is nothing wrong with taking a break and changing up your lights.
Determine how the model is to be compensated and how many images you will be providing in advance. Whether its TFP, a collaboration or the model is paid you need to work out the details in advance. Make sure there is agreement how the model is to be compensated and how much. Do not leave the details to be worked out at the last moment. If you are hiring an agency model all of this will be agreed before the model arrives. If it’s a paid shoot with an agency model the agency will bill you … you do not pay the model directly. If you are working with a freelance model and he / she is being paid then I recommend you pay them on arrival. If it’s a collaboration, honor your commitment. Leaving this to the end or not agreeing at all will create a stressful situation during the photoshoot.
Have a place for the model to change clothing privately. Nothing more to be said here
Talk to the model throughout the photoshoot. Ask them how they think the photoshoot is going. Just chat. Make them feel at home and relaxed. This is especially important if the model is new. The only caveat is I do not talk to my model while they are in makeup. Not only does this distract from getting makeup done, but this is often the time that the model is relaxing.
Agree what fashion / clothing you want the model to bring. Unless you are providing the fashion or have a stylist then you will need your model to bring clothing for the photoshoot. You should be specific as possible if there are items you need. At minimum you should have the model "bring clothing consistent with the moodboard”. Unless you are providing the fashion don’t be surprised if the model does not have clothing, you are looking for. If you have booked an agency model, they will ask you about fashion in advance.
Remember if the model is new, he / she may be nervous or feel clumsy. Put him / her at ease (see comment above about communication) by talking throughout the photoshoot. However, this is not a social event, it’s a photoshoot so the conversations shouldn’t interfere with getting the images you need. Also, if it’s a paid shoot respect everyone’s time.
Be professional at all times. No touching the model, keep the conversation light and off sensitive topics, respect everyone’s time, honor your obligations, give the model a place to change clothing, respect boundaries, etc.
Allow escorts or chaperones. If a model is new or you’ve never worked with a model it’s best to allow them to bring a friend or chaperone. This helps them feel safe and gives them a familiar face. I have always allowed this, but I do make sure the chaperone knows they should not interfere with the photoshoot.
Bottomline, use common sense and you’ll have a great experience.