Part 1 Pre-Shoot Communication For models (and photographers)

Working with experienced and inexperienced models is fun but there are a lot of pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them. The key to a successful shoot is communication. So what do we photographers say? What do models want to know?

Firstly, what is the aim of the shoot? Even as an amateur photographer you should have some creative ideas you want to explore. Professionals will have a more, well professional, approach. They may well have specific markets or publications in mind. In pre shoot communication never assume that the model (or photographer) knows what you are talking about. Explain terminology. I want to shoot a few ‘glamour’ shots could mean tasteful lingerie to one model and full frontal, legs apart, raunchy mens’ mag style to another.

So What Are These Photography Modelling Levels I Keep Hearing About?

• Lingerie: which is fairly self explanatory but remember a lot of lingerie is see through
• Topless: also self explanatory
• Figure Nude: generally taken to mean non explicit nude and often considered to be quite ‘arty’. Can also include Implied Nude which generally means nude but not showing anything – check your models definition.
• UK top shelf magazine: legs apart letting it all hang out.
• Continental or US magazine: Often stronger than UK magazine and may include use of toys etc.

I always like to work with models one level lower than they are comfortable with. So I’ll use a figure model for topless and lingerie. We can always go up a level if the shoot develops that way and I don’t have to worry that everything is continuously hidden.

Free downloadable Photography Modelling Guide PDFs

Modelling Advice and Pre-shoot and Posing Guide

I always advise models, ‘Work to a level that you are comfortable with but remember, these pictures are going to end up on the internet and they are going to be there for a very long time.’

What makes a good model?

• Reliability – if you are not there you cannot photograph you
• Acting Ability – The ability to strike a good pose is useful but if you look like you had a row with your partner last night it’s going to ruin the photo.
• Attention to detail – Everything from making sure underwear matches to remembering shoes and skin care.

Model Releases

What is a model release?

A document you sign that allows the photographer or his agents to publish, distribute, sell, give away or do anything they like with the pictures anywhere and anytime.

Legally in the UK a model release is only required if the photos are published in an advertising context so any photos of you could pop up in magazines or on websites unless you have a written privacy agreement. Note: All my portrait customers are covered by a privacy agreement that forbids publication or distribution by the photographer.

Still keen? Models wanted in East Anglia

Leagally, in the UK, a model release is only required if photographs are published in an advert. Many publishers will still ask for one plus proof that a model is over 18. I generally take a photo of the model holding the signed release and ID plus scans of both.

See more of my Published Work

View Portfolios

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• 
  The Concept – Take Better Photographs of Nudes
• 
  Victorian Style Portraits & Nudes
• 
  Scrap Yard Nude Glamour – Out Takes
• 
  Nude Photography Composition
• 
  Photography Modelling Guide
• 
  Writing With Light – Nude photography lighting
• 
  Creating The Scrap Yard Nudes Calendar
• 
  Photographing Nudes – A Different Point of View