Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to work with non-agency “traveling” models that visit specific cities for photoshoots or participate in workshops / shoot-arounds. Traveling models usually arrange a series of photoshoots in a specific city, provide fashion and arrange their own schedule. This has given me a chance to discuss the genre with the models, discuss safety tips, and get an idea of the general rules for a successful photoshoot (for both the model and photographer).
Here are some suggestions:
Discuss BEFORE a photoshoot your boundaries and type of posing / images you are willing to do
Don't wait until the day of the photoshoot
Be specific – different terms mean different things to different people
Get photographer's agreement
email for future reference
You should expect and get a moodboard whenever possible
Don't insult or belittle a photographer's request
If a photographer can't / won't tell you want they want to shoot, then you tell them what you are will / won't do
Some photographers just want to go with the flow and create
If in doubt, clarify
Especially if nudity or implied involved
If you get red flags, lack of commitment or mixed signals - pass
Agree on rates, payment or consideration IN ADVANCE
Provide your rates in writing
Know your value but be reasonable
If you receive compensation with $$ then it is generally not expected that the photographer provides images unless they chose to do so.
If reaching out to a photographer be aware some expect to be compensation (professional photographer)
Ask when reaching out
Be respectful with photographers that don’t collaborate or are paid professionals
If photographer can't / unwilling to pay your rate be professional
Thank the photographer for their interest
If traveling get a deposit
There is a risk to the photographer - DON'T flake
Get payment when the photoshoot starts
There is a risk to the photographer - deliver
Research the photographer or event
Ask for / check references
Review social media
No socials, models not tagged or private - red flag
If meeting photographer in advance, do it in a public place
A photographer should not touch you
If clothing or hair needs adjusting request that your chaperone or HMUA do this
You should be able to bring an escort / chaperone to a photoshoot
The chaperon MUST respect the photoshoot & not get in the way
Don't flirt
The photographer owns the image copyright; however, this does not give the photographer rights to use your imagery for commercial purposes without your written approval
Get a model release if your images are to be used for commercial use
Read the model release
Keep a copy of the model release
A photographer can NOT monetize your imagery without permission (commercial use)
Do NOT ask for RAW or unedited images
NEVER edit a photographer’s photograph
If you want a specific look / crop, ask the photographer to edit for you
A photographer my not be experienced or may be nervous
You may need to help the photographer
"Are you getting the shots you want"
"Are there other poses you'd like me to try"
Be prepared to pose undirected
Change expressions & poses actively
Be interactive and talk to the photographer
If nudity is involved wear a cover-up until session starts
Come out of changing room wearing the cover-up
Put cover-up back on when shooting is over / between looks
Tell the photographer if you expect / want / don’t want to be tagged in any posted image
No alcohol or drugs (before or during)
Bring your own drink / snacks
Be careful / don't accept drinks or drugs
Separate your personal life from your modeling life
Modeling only phone number and email
Minimize personal information on socials
Use a separate model name
Avoid giving out your real name even if pressured
Avoid confusing or whimsical model names / social media names – what does the photographer call you?
Avoid communicating on socials exact travel dates or when you are heading to the airport or arriving
Ask in advance if other people will be at the photoshoot
You should let the photographer know if this makes you uncomfortable
Ask in advance if hair / makeup / styling services will be provided
HMU services should be paid by the photographer
If not provided make sure you are willing to provide your own
Be wary of promoters or "agents"
No photographer can guarantee to get you signed, work with a brand or in a magazine
That's not how the industry works
If at any time, you are uncomfortable – leave
However, don’t overreact – if uncomfortable politely tell the photographer why
Don’t feel pressured to stay if uncomfortable
Don’t make a big deal of it, just casually leave and follow-up after you leave
If traveling leave your agenda, contact information and where / who you are working with a friend / family member
If doing implied or nude work be prepared to show ID to confirm your age.
Deliver / have fun
If you have other suggestions or recommendations please let me know and I’ll update.