5 Ways To Improve The Amateur Model – Photographer Experience

There are an increased number of photographers that are working with models these days, most often amateur models that haven’t had much, if any, real world modeling experience. Currently we are compiling stories from models to build “Things not to do when working with models.” But in the meantime we are going to discuss how to work with models to make your shoot better. If you are working with models, you should already know, a great image is a compilation of the photographer, the model, the make up artist, and the attitude. If you do not know this simple piece of information, get a mannequin and start with that.

The basis of this article is to educate amateur photographers on how to make a model more comfortable in front of a camera, and with you. Most of this is common sense if you are a respectable human, but the scumbag GWC’s out there don’t have a clue, and will more than likely ignore this anyway.

Our purpose is to enlighten you on ways to make your shoot better before the model even shows up, and keep the momentum going throughout the shoot. These techniques are especially helpful for models you have never worked with before.

1. Look like a professional.
   This does not mean you have to dry clean your suit so relax. You should, however, have everything set up and ready to go when your model gets there, you wont distract her by fumbling with light stands while she gets dressed.
2. On the subject of escorts.
   This seems to be a touchy subject for a great number of models and photographers. One thing models need to be aware of, if a photographer had killed or attacked someone in the past, you would have heard about it, if you want to bring an escort do it, just don’t bring a man. I don’t care if you think he will be okay, or if you think you will be okay with him there, you won’t. Men are judgmental, and you will have in your mind that he is looking at you, judging you while you are modeling. As if that wasn’t enough, you will always look at him to see if he is judging you. Bring a girlfriend if you have to have an escort, or the shots will turn out like crap. If for some strange reason you MUST bring your boyfriend, bring him in so he knows where you are and introduce him to the photographer, and then send him on his way until you are done. 99.9% of shoots with amateur models that have a male escort present, are failures.
3. Music.
   I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH! Music is the key component to making a model relax (it can help you as well). Usually I try to ask the model ahead of time what kind of music she likes the most, (some will tell you “everything” but try to narrow it down.), and set up a playlist that follows that genre. If you are feeling ambitious, and have half a brain, you can control the ambiance and direction of the whole shoot with the right playlist. It doesnt matter if you have to bring an ipod and some cheap speakers, or open a car door. Don’t shoot without music, ever.
4. Don’t be a jerk.
   So… You think you’re God’s gift to photography? Sorry my friend, if that were the case you wouldn’t be shooting amateur models without pay. None of us are God’s gift to anything, and we all have something to learn from each other. The model does not care about the snowplow that buried your mailbox, or that your puppy had to potty on your shoes, leave the attitude at home.
5. Don’t hit on your models.
   Chemistry does happen, and we all make mistakes, but to maintain a professional atmosphere it must be controlled. You cannot make advances at models, ever. If you have a working relationship with a model, and it gets personal, the best course of action is to terminate the working relationship. “But what if she hits on me?” Fine, decide which relationship you want to sacrifice.

Whatever you do, be professional and protect your reputation, some days its all you have to count on. Stay safe, have fun and… Happy Shooting!

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