My Process – For Models, Agencies and TFP

In order to maximize our time while shooting I have come up with an approach and process for working with models. The goal is for everyone to be comfortable, have fun and get some great shots.

How I work with Models:

The Initial Meeting:
Before I work with anyone, I like to meet them first, discuss ideas and brainstorm about the shoot. The goal of this initial meeting is to just become familliar with one another, get a feel for personalities and get aquainted. While our time together will be relatively short, its amazing how a simple meeting prior to a shoot can make both the model and the photographer more comfortable when working together. Generally, there are two types of this initial meeting:

Commercial Sessions:
If the photo shoot is for commerical work this initial meeting will be between myself, the model (the models agent) and someone representing the client. The goal of this meeting is to discuss the desired look for the piece, any particulars of the shoot and firm up the agenda for the day of the shoot.

Portfolio Enhancement / Personal Work:
While serving the same purpose as the commerical session, the Protfolio Enhancement or Personal Work initial meeting takes a slightly different approach. This meeting is about not only getting to meet your photographer, but the wardrobe, make-up and hair professionals that will be helping during the shoot. This is also the time to brainstorm and be creative. Weither this is a paid session by you the model or a Time For Print session, this first meeting is all about discussing the shoot, what we are trying to accomplish and setting expectaitons for the shoot. Its a time to share ideas, discuss how the images will be made and give everyone a chance to ask questions. This way when we arrive at the shoot we are organized, comfortable and ready to have some fun.

Coming out of this initial meeting, everyone should know who they are working with, who is doing what, where and when the shoot will take place as well as the concept and goals of the shoot. Depending on the nature of the shoot, there may be a need for an additional meeting prior to the shoot.

The Formalities

The Model Release
All models are required to sign a model release prior to the shoot taking place. In addition to singing this release, the model is required to provide identification indicated the models date of birth and legal name. This is usually in the form of a state issued ID (Driverse License). It’s best to download the model release prior to the first meeting. Please bring it filled out along with your actual state issued ID (or passport) and a photocopy of your ID for our file. For any models under the age of 18, you are required to have a legal guardian sign the release and provide ID and proof of guardianship prior to the shoot taking place. They are also required to attend all meetings, and the formal shoot. Please go to the downloads page and get a copy of the Model Release PDF. Have it printed, signed and a photocopy of your state issued ID attached to the document. This needs to be returned to the photographer either before the actual shoot or the day of the shoot. In addition to the form, you must bring your ID to the shoot for verification. If you are a minor or under the age of 18 your guardian must bring their ID as well as have the copy attached to the model release form.

As a benefit to working with me, I do something a little different. Generally, models sign the model release and the Photographer has the right to use the images as they see fit unless restricted otherwise by a client. I offer the model the first right of refusal on 10% of the images taken during the session. Meaning, if there is a shot you don’t like, or a look you don’t like you can strike the image (up to 10% of the total shoot)from the set while still signing the release. This way you have some say in how the images of you are used. Unless otherwise stated, I always offer models I work with the ability to stike images from a session. The process for this is simple. During the image review, if you see an image you do not like or want re-produced, you can stike that image. I will print a catalog of images (a black and white thumbnail with the images name and date) to be removed, you sign the removal catalog indicating these are the ones you want removed and I delete the files and lose my right to use them.

Please Note:
This clause may not be available in paid sessions (commercial or commissioned) as the paying client has right per the release and contract with you to full use of the images.

Escourts
I encourage models to bring an escourt, friend or family member to the shoot. For insurance purposes, all escourts will need to bring their state issued ID and a photocopy of that ID for our files. There is a bunch going on at a shoot and for some models it helps them relax if they have someone there with them. This is especially helpful to new or inexperienced models. There are a few requirements for being an escourt at one of my sessions:

• All models under the age of 18 are required to have their legal guardian present at all meetings, the formal shoot and any meetings with the photographer or supporting staff. IF YOUR GUARDIAN IS’NT PRESENT THE SHOOT WILL NOT TAKE PLACE.
• All Escourts need to be quite during the shoot. If the camera is clicking, they need to be quiet.
• All Escourts need to stay back and out of the way during the shoot. Models move, Photographers move and there is a bunch of cables, equipment and gear involved in a shoot. Its best to be visible, but out of the way at the same time.