So you want to shoot with models? Part II - The Don’ts

As I mentioned in Part I, unfortunately photography attracts some less than savoury types. There aren’t many hobbies that put people in such close contact as model photography even fewer where they could easily be naked and in the middle of nowhere.

This advice is for the protection of both parties and again should be common sense and basic decorum.

Don’ts

Refusing chaperones - there is absolutely no good reason not to allow a chaperone on a shoot. You should want your model to feel comfortable as this will give you the best shots - a chaperone makes the model feel safer and therefore more relaxed. Refusing chaperones is a massive red flag and will damage your rep

Level pushing - a model is allowed to set her own levels on a shoot by shoot basis. If they don’t want to shoot at a higher level with you that is up to them. Trying to bribe, blackmail or in any other way coerce a model into shooting at a higher level is disrespectful, creepy and just downright wrong. There are many models who work at the higher levels - hire one of them!

Haggling - a model also has the right to set their own rates. If it’s beyond your current budget either get saving or find a model within your budget. A models time and skill are as valuable as your own and they have a right to earn a living from them.

Touching - there is no need to touch or be within touching distance of a model. If something needs to be adjusted whether its hair or clothing ask the model to adjust or get their chaperone to do it. Some models are huggers and that’s fine but make sure you double check and always ask before encroaching on a models personal space. Being caught up in the shoot is not and never will be an excuse for contact.

Disrespecting - just because a model is putting themselves out in front of a camera for all to see does not mean you are free to comment on their appearance. Models tend to be their own biggest critics so chances are if you’ve noticed something so have they. Even what you think are “positive” comments might not be taken as such. Also remember that walls have ears and everyone gossips so these thing have a way of getting out even if you think your being discrete.

Being creepy - I have heard tales of incredibly creepy behaviour from photographers wanting to do the shoot naked, to following models into changing rooms, to trying to get chaperones to strip and join in shoots - Don’t be that person.

Cheers

Jonny