Author Archives: Dekilah

Dekilah’s Ultra Helpful Guide to Understanding the Escort Issue

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Escorts are a huge topic in the “internet” modeling world and I think a lot of the hubbub about them is due to misunderstanding and lack of education. Some of us have been doing this for so long that we see the topic of escorts as a totally beaten to death subject that we hate discussing, and this only serves to further confuse those newer to modeling and model photography. So I would like to give you a basic rundown to help you better understand this whole mess.

Note: I generally refer to models as “she” and photographers as “he” as it is shorter than “he/she” and the most common scenario discussed, but any combination of genders could happen, of course.

What is an escort?
The most common definition of an escort is a person a model brings with her to a shoot, but who is not involved in the shoot other than being a companion for the model. So if a model brings a make-up artist or hair stylist those people would generally not be an escort. Sometimes escorts are asked to help hold things at a shoot or be a look out, but generally they are only there for the model and those other things are secondary.

Common Reasons for Escorts
Let us take a look at a few of the common reasons a model might bring an escort. I think the two biggest ones are for safety and for comfort/confidence. Sometimes a model might bring an escort to drive her or carry her things, though this is more like an assistant. Some models also may bring an escort because they are underage and required to have a legal guardian or other adult present or because the photographer may have requested they bring someone.

The Qualms About Escorts for Safety
I think the claim that an escort is brought for safety is the one that ruffles the most feathers. On the one side we usually have a young woman, probably newer to modeling, who perhaps feels uneasy about meeting a photographer alone because she has frequently been warned about always being safe by many people in her life. On the other side we have a photographer who probably sees himself as nice and harmless and who probably also feels a bit of dislike for being assumed to be potentially dangerous. Moving on with this issue we have…

The Boyfriend Escort
Another issue is that very often times the model wants to bring a man as her protector of sorts, usually her boyfriend or significant other. The problem with this is not just a generalization, but unfortunately often proven true: boyfriends (or significant others) get jealous and can be overbearing, even if just in misguided attempts to protect their girl. Because this happens so often, word spreads and many photographers find it much simpler to just not allow boyfriends and significant others as escorts. This can be problematic for models who do not have any other form of transportation and who are not comfortable with the photographer driving them for whatever reason. Speaking from personal experience, this is not as uncommon as you may think.

The Escort for Comfort/Confidence
Some models are naturally shy, particularly if they are new, and some of them may feel more at ease with a friend or someone else they know present. This is something they tend to “grow” out of eventually, but I think it is a useful thing for photographers to know.

Often Proposed Solutions – Option A
Many photographers propose that the model bring a female friend to the shoot. This probably seems like a fairly reasonable request, and in many cases perhaps it is. But there are models who either do not have any close female friends or who do not necessarily want their friends to know about their modeling.

There is also a lot of talk by photographers about shooting a model’s “hot female friend” unexpectedly at a shoot which is certainly no incentive for a model to bring her friend. Why would she want someone else taking her shoot time? Or to be quite blunt and honest, the model may not want to share the attention.

I will get to more proposed solutions in a moment, but first I want to discuss a few other reasons why photographers may be opposed to escorts, male or female, friend or significant other.

Additional Concerns with Escorts
Along with drama from a jealous lover, there is a handful of other concerns photographers may have in regards to having an escort at the shoot.

Perhaps the most common, and this one does tie in with the jealous boyfriend/significant other at times, is the photographer’s safety. If the model brings an escort then it becomes the escort and the model with the photographer. If the escort happens to be a man (or even if not), it is certainly understandable that the photographer might feel a bit ill at ease. What will he do if the model and her escort are not as nice as he might hope they are? What if the boyfriend is jealous and does get physically violent? Thankfully I have only heard of this happening occasionally, but that is enough to concern someone, particularly if the shoot is taking place at the photographer’s home or a closed studio.

Another issue, unfortunately more common, is theft. For example, perhaps the escort is left alone in another room in the photographer’s home while the model and photographer go shoot. Other than common decency, what is really to stop the escort from taking something? The same could be said in a large studio. I know most people would be horrified at the thought that someone might think they would do something so dishonest, but it does happen.

Escorts can also be distracting. Some people do not function well with someone staring over their shoulder. Sometimes the staring may also make the model nervous. I have also heard of escorts who tried to take their own photos (without permission) during the shoot, or who talk either to the model and photographer or on the phone through the shoot, or who try to give their input without being asked. Even if the escort is quiet and playing a game on his or her phone, the noises could be distracting. Now I have been around people who were very respectful and silent, so they do exist, but it would be hard to know this without having met them before.

Additional Often Proposed Solutions
Another common suggestion is a pre-shoot meeting. This may be a good option for some, but if the model has a busy schedule this may not work. If it is a possibility, especially for models who may just be shy, it may be a good solution, or partial solution.

Sometimes the photographer will offer to provide someone else at the shoot in the form of an assistant. This is another solution that sometimes work and sometimes does not. If the issue is the model’s confidence, she may be even more nervous with another person around.

Another solution is to allow someone to drop the model off and walk her to the door, so to speak. This is actually a sort of compromise as the model might feel safer knowing that someone knows where she is, and the photographer does not have to worry about the person hanging around. In this situation, the person is usually considered a driver.

Other Solutions in Regards to Safety for Models
Models should not depend on an escort for safety. After all, if the photographer truly has horrible intentions, having another person present may not really affect things much and may just put that person in danger as well, in theory. The instances in which a photographer is a real threat are fairly slim. However, there are other ways to stay safe.

Checking references is one solution. I recommend finding a few other models in your area so you can exchange references. Getting involved in local groups on Facebook and such can also be another way to get a feel for people and to find people you can exchange references with.

Meet and greets are a great way to meet people in your area in a group setting. You can see how you get along and get a chance to get to know each other before you shoot.

Learn what red flags to look for. If pre-shoot messages leave you feeling uneasy, it may be best not to shoot with that person. As the common saying goes: go with your gut.

Be assertive. Learn to say no and to convey your limits professionally, but firmly. This is probably my number one tip to models. If someone, anyone not just a photographer, feels like they can push you into things, they may try. They may also simply misunderstand you limits. So if you can be assertive and professional, you can say no politely without being offensive if the person meant no harm or pressure in asking.

What if the model still wants to bring an escort?
Some models will still feel more comfortable with an escort and everyone should respect that personal choice. The model should also make sure that she makes it clear that she will be bringing an escort before any shoot is booked as some photographers may have policies that restrict type of escorts or do not allow for escorts.

I also recommend that models considering bringing escorts review my article on escort ettiquette.

Photographers & Escort Policies
Many photographers have an escort policy of one sort or another. Just as everyone should respect a model who choose to bring an escort, photographers should be respected in their escort policies. However, I do suggest that photographers keep the policy short and non-inflammatory. Here are some simple and to the point examples:
- “I do not allow escorts.”
- “I allow a female friend to accompany you as an escort if requested.”
- “I do allow escorts, but I prefer we discuss the topic beforehand.”
- “Please notify me prior to booking if you plan to bring an escort.”
- “I ask that you bring an escort to any shoots if possible.”
The main thing is that you tell models your policy and only the policy. There is no reason to go into why or your personal thoughts on the subject. This is where the disagreements and arguments usually come in, and who needs the extra drama?

DEAC 12: Clever9Design

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Every February and September, and often in the summer as well, there is a group shooting event in Detroit called the Detroit Erotic Arts Collaborative or DEAC. This past DEAC in September was DEAC 12 and the third one I have attended. And this time I got to work with Clever9Design along with several other photographers who I promise to blog about soon ^_~

Photographer: Clever9Design

I had been wanting to work with Clever9Design for quite a while and DEAC 12 was my chance, and it was most definitely a great shoot. Shooting with female photographers is a bit different than shooting with male photographers. Everyone has their own style, of course, but female photographers seem to often capture things with a different flair. In the case of Clever9Design, this was taken even one step further because she actually made the lovely headdress I am wearing in the shot above. I love the angles she shot and I hope we will be able to shoot together again sometime.

More photos from this shoot to come ^_^

Making Your Profile Effective

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A well written profile can make or break some booking opportunities for a model or photographer. Many of us are part of sites like ModelMayhem and ModelInsider where we have not only a portfolio, but a profile as well. The subject of various flaws in profiles comes up often, so I would like to share some tips with you on how to get the most out of your profile.

Fill It All Out
Make sure you fill out all the fields if you can. Having a partially completed profile can make you look lazy or disinterested in finding work.

Categories and Genres
Some sites allow you to choose the categories or genres you are interested in shooting. Make sure you select any options that you are interested in shooting, but only select those that you expect to shoot. Selecting everything can make it look like you just went through and clicked all the boxes without paying attention. You can always go back and add more later.

Keep Out the Negativity
Try to avoid negativity when you can. Here are a few examples:
- Instead of saying “I WILL NOT SHOOT NUDES! EVER!!!” say “I not interested in nude work.”
- Instead of saying “I do not allow escorts because models who bring escorts are like children and you would not bring an escort to your job would you?” say “I do not allow escorts.”
- Instead of saying “I must have an escort at all shoots because some people are crazy and I need to be safe” say “I prefer to bring an escort to all shoots.”
- In general, instead of saying what you will not do, try saying what you will do. If you do need to put a limit or rule out there, keep it short and to the point.

What Can You Offer?
If you have special skills or other things like a location, be sure to mention those. Maybe you have a studio space, maybe you can do hair and make-up, maybe you have an extensive wardrobe. A novel is not necessary, but a brief note on anything special you can offer can be quite helpful.

What Are You Looking For?
It will save you a lot of time if you outline what you are looking for. Do you have specific styles you want to shoot? Are you willing to shoot trade or only paid? I like to make a short general list of concepts I am interested in shooting. I also outline my compensation and such. These are questions that usually start off shoot communication so the quicker you can get them answered, the quicker you can get to booking.

Your Bio/About Me
The bio is the field that I think is the most important. I also think that there is no one way to write an effective bio. But there are some things that I think are pretty much across the board.
- let people know what you are interested in shooting, this might help spark an idea in their mind and get a shoot booked that might not have been otherwise
- if you have specific availability or location restraints or preferences, list them
- if you can travel, make sure to mention that
- be sure to include whether you are looking for trade/TF, paid, or some combination
- let people know about any special things you can offer like hair, make-up, wardrobe, a special location, etc

General Notes
Please spell check and use proper grammar, avoiding text speak and such. People are looking to work with you as a professional or at least a somewhat serious hobbyist.

Keep things focused on relevant things. In general, leave your personal life, husband/bf/wife/kids, etc out of it. Instead, try to mention why you are modeling or photographing models and what your goals are with those things.

Short and sweet is generally the best policy. You will also find that depending on what styles you shoot, you will need to include different information.

 

Dekilah’s List of Considerations for Potential Nude Models

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Becoming a nude model has been one of the most rewarding, satisfying things I have ever done. I love the art I am able to create because I am a nude model. I love the people I have met and the opportunities that have arisen from my modeling. But as an experienced nude model who has done over 1o0 shoots with the majority of those being nude and having talked to many, many other nude models and read plenty of blogs and forum threads, I can say with confidence that there are some things that I think all models who are considering posing nude should probably know.  As always these are my opinions and you may detect a hint of playful sarcasm.

1. Do not start posing nude in order to make money.
It is true that you can make money modeling nude, even if you do not have the stats for fashion and such, but every nude model I have ever spoken to agrees that posing nude just for the money is not a good idea. You should pose nude because you want to, not because you think it will make you money.

2. People will find out. Your mother/brother/boyfriend/husband/boss/etc may find out.
You need to be prepared for everyone you know to find out you pose nude. Even if you use a different name for your modeling, you still need to assume that people will find out. You need to be prepared for this to happen. If you are going to lose your job or  if your parents are going to kick you out of the house if you pose nude, you need to consider whether posing nude at this time in your current situation is a good idea.

3. You can always pose nude later, but you can not take it back once you do it.
If you are not sure, you can always wait, but once you pose nude, you can not take it back. So many times I hear of nude models who do a few shoots, then start dating a different guy or their parents find out, and they demand the photographers remove all photos of them. If a photographer does this, they are doing it out of kindness. They are not legally obligated to do so. If you think this may be your situation, you need to reconsider posing nude at this time. Many models do wait and I think most of them are quite alright with their decision to put it off until a better time.

4. You will be tempted to go outside your limits, but you really need to set hard limits that you will stick to.
Hard limits are limits that you will not break. They are not negotiable. At some point you may be tempted to break your limits for some reason (usually money), but this is not something you should do on a spur of the moment decision.

You also need to know which of your limits are negotiable and which are hard limits. Only you can make these decisions, and I cannot tell you what they might be. For me, I have the rule that I will not pose for spread leg and (pardon my bluntness) I will not show anus. Those are hard limits for me. People can offer me money as much as they want, but I will not shoot those things and I know that if I did, eventually I would regret it. Now on the other side, I have had limits that changed. For example, when I first started modeling I did not want to model nude. I liked some of the nude work I had seen, but I was not ready to do it myself. This changed in time when I was sure I was ready.

5. Many models do have relationship/dating issues that have to do with their nude modeling.
Some significant others are very supportive and understanding. Some are jealous. In general, I do not think you should be in a relationship with someone who does not support you. But I also think you have to decide what is most important to you.

If you are dating and modeling nude, most people agree that you need to tell the other person at some point. When you do this up to you. Some people think it is best to do so right away, some think you should wait until it is more serious, others see the right time as somewhere in between. I think you know your relationship best and you probably have the best idea of when is a good time for you.

6. People will probably make some weird/incorrect/annoying/inappropriate assumptions about you.
When people find out you model nude, some of them will assume some things that probably are not true. For example, I have heard/experienced people assuming the following based solely on someone being a nude model: that you are sexually promiscuous, that you are a party animal, that you are anorexic, that you sleep with some/all of the photographers you shoot with, that you shoot porn, etc. We all handle these differently. I choose to find them amusing most of the time. Sometimes I will simply state that I feel confident in what I do and give them a short bit on my reasons for posing nude and in the styles I do.

7. You have to be comfortable in your skin and learn your body.
As a nude model you are completely exposed, often to people you do not really know. You have to be comfortable posing in your own skin.

You also need to learn about your body. Learn what angles and poses work for you. This is something that comes in time, but you do need to work on it. You cannot control the angles and lighting the photographer shoots with, but you can make sure you do not do things that are generally unattractive, such as hunching over making your stomach fold (unless that is the point of the shot).

8. You will need to be comfortable talking about your body.
I have talked to people about my butt, my breasts, my pubic hair, and my labia. I do this straight-faced, and matter-of-fact. It is just part of being a nude model. You have to be able to talk about your parts.

I do not consider this to be quite complete, but I did want to go ahead and share what I have so far. This will be updated as I find time.

Dekilah’s Quick Guide for New MM Models

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I’m writing this article with the freelance/non-agency ModelMayhem (MM) model in mind, but this could be useful for other models too. Also, I may skim some topics on use of the site, but for the most part this is not a tutorial on actually using the site (tags, comments, etc).

Here are a few things I would recommend doing to get you started:

1. Make use of MM. Browse through photos and save the ones you like a list (upper right corner of the photo page should have a link to do this). Make note of what you feel you would be comfortable doing now as well as images that interest you but that may not be within your comfort zone.

2. Upload the best photos you have and avoid candids (shots of you at random parties or just standing in your living room), mirror shots, cell phone shots, and tons of shots of the same outfit (one or two is fine). Do not forget to credit the photographer either in the comments or with the Add Credits feature. You do not need a ton of photos to get started, but you do need at least one good shot of your face and a full length shot.

3. Fill out your profile, including all of your measurements as soon as you can. Your About Me section should let people know a bit about what you want to shoot, when you are available, if you can travel, and so on. Try to refrain from negativity or too much personal information.

4. Use the browse feature to find others in your area. Look for local models who are experienced and try to connect with them so you have someone to ask for advice. Add photographers you would like to work with as friends and send messages introducing yourself and asking if they would be interested in a TF shoot to the ones you really like. You can also check casting calls in your area.

5. If you do choose to venture into the forums (and you probably have if you are reading this), keep in mind that everyone has an opinion. Some people have experience to back up their opinion. Some people are just looking for drama. I recommend only posting in the newbie forum for a while and reading the posts that interest you in the other forums until you have a feel for how things work.

If you do these things, you should be on your way to booking more shoots and getting connected. I recommend your read a few of my other articles as well:
How to Act Like a Professional Model
Communication
Rates & TF Q & A
When and Why Might a Model Be Paid

I also recommend you skim this list of articles put together by Rachel Jay (a fantastic model). You will find articles on common misconceptions, model safety, posing help, and many, many more topics.

I also invite you to contact me on MM or via e-mail at Dekilah@gmail.com if you have any other questions.

 

Escort & Assistant Etiquette

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First and foremost the model should agree upon having an escort or assistant with the photographer before you plan the shoot. This article assumes you have done that.

1. The escort should know what they will be doing during the shoot. They should not simply be sitting or standing and staring at the shoot. This will make the photographer and possibly the model very uncomfortable. The escort needs to bring something quiet and out of the way to do unless they have been asked to help with the shoot.

2. The escort should not be talking during the shoot. Again, this is usually very distracting. This includes talking on the phone or playing games on their phone with the sound on.

3. The escort should not be the model’s jealous boyfriend or anyone else who may take issue with the shoot. The last thing anybody needs is a jealous boyfriend complaining because a pose is too sexy or too revealing. Discuss limits beforehand with those involved in the shoot. Limits should be between the model and photographer. If the model has some agreement with her significant other then she should consider that, but there is no reason to discuss this with anyone else.

4. The photographer has the right to cancel the shoot if the escort is being a problem. There is no reason the photographer should put up with any sort of poor behavior from an escort, particularly if the escort is making them uncomfortable or like they might physically harm them. Better safe than sorry. And models should realize that photographers will likely see it this way just as a model might choose not to shoot with a photographer who comes off as “creepy.”

5. The escort should not be taking photos during the shoot with a camera, camera phone, or otherwise. The only exception to this would be if everyone agreed they wanted behind the scenes shots, but that would be a very rare exception and not something I would push for.

Assistants should follow the same general rules. They are there to help out when needed and should stay out of the way otherwise. For example, some assistants might be there to help with wardrobe or posing. They might be there as a lookout, to help models up and down from higher places, to help arrange props or whatnot, etc.

I say this often and I think this is a good place to say it again: put yourself in the other person’s shoes. If you were the photographer and there was an escort on your shoot, how would you like that escort to behave?

Another issue I have heard of involving escorts (and assistants) a couple times is at group shoots. I feel it is particularly important to let the host of the group shoot know you will be bringing someone extra and to clear it with them. Many times space at these events is limited and it is better for the event to have as many models as possible versus having fewer models with escorts. It is also very important that your escort does not cause a problem because if you have issues at a group event just imagine how many bad references that could create. I would also recommend that your escort or assistant stays close to you (unless the event rules state differently) to avoid complaints that they are wandering or staring at other shoots.

Remember anyone associated with you can affect your reputation and the references people give on you. It may not seem fair at times, but that is how things generally work.

Rates & TF Q & A

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This article is primarily geared towards freelance (non-agency) models who are curious about when to make the transition from TF to paid work and how they can get a idea of what to set their rates at. I am also a little more focused on model-photographer shoots vs. shoots with a third-party client involved.

Let us lay down some basic firsts. TF can be replaced with any form of trade that does not include the payment of cash (with the exception of gas money in some cases). You may also see this referred to as TFCD. TF means trade for (or time for) and CD stands for a CD of pictures. You will often also see TFP which can stand for trade for prints, trade for photos, or trade for pictures.

Most people start out doing TF work, particularly in model photography. Sometimes in modeling, a model may decide to begin charging rates. Deciding to charge money for modeling and settling on rates, or more accurately a system for rates, takes time and a little guesswork.

How do I know when I can start charging rates? How much should I start at?

One key sign is that you are asked for your rates. However, this is not an indicator everyone can use. The best thing to do is to look at other models who shoot styles similar to you and are in the same area, or a similar area. For example, in my case I could not find any other fine art models in my immediate area, but there was a girl that did implied for $50 an hour. I started at $25 an hour.

If you would like to know more about when you might consider charging rates, I strongly recommend you read my article called When & Why Might a Model Be Paid.

How do I know when I can raise my rates?

As you improve or as you start booking more work than you have time for, you may consider raising your rates. I recommend keeping this increase small, perhaps between $10 and $25 an hour. You probably do not want to jump from $25 an hour to $75 an hour over night.

Do remember that you should never raise your rates for a specific shoot after you have been contacted about that shoot. Once you are booked, you are booked at that rate even if you decide to increase your rates for other shoots before that shoot happens. It looks very unprofessional and will you get a bad reputation very quickly.

Can I charge different amounts for different types of modeling?

There is a term in modeling that some people use called “stripper rates.” This refers to cases where the model charges more and more the less and less clothing she has on. For example: $10/hr fully clothed, $25/hr swimwear & lingerie, $50/hr topless & implied nude, $75/hr full nude. Some models seem to be quite successful doing this, but I do not know the specifics of what they are booking. I do know that some photographers supposedly refuse to shoot with models with this sort of rate system.

My recommendation to give a rate range (example: $10 to $50 an hour) and/or simply ask what the budget is for the shoot on a shoot by shoot basis. This means you do have to negotiate a bit, but this is what most of the freelance models I know do.

I’ve seen people charge half day or full day rates. What’s that about

I will be honest in saying that I do not have much experience in this type of rate. I have always been asked for an hourly rate. This has much to do with my area and they type of modeling I do, I think. I would recommend you look at other models in your area and see what format they are using (hourly vs day or half day).

I can tell you that in general a half day is 4 to 6 hours and a full day tends to be around 8 hours. The important thing is to either denote your definition with your rates, or ask the photographer exactly how long they would like to shoot. Communication is key.

Is there anything besides location, style, and budget that I should consider in choosing my rates?

Yes, and usage of the images is a big consideration. Will they be submitted to websites? Sold as prints? Sold to private sellers? The budget of the shoot will often reflect the usage. For example, if the photographer is going to sell prints or to a private buyer or website, they are likely to have a larger budget than if they are simply hiring you for artistic or portfolio purposes. This is not always true, of course, but often. Usage information will often be given in the release, but I recommend asking as you book the shoot and it never hurts to ask for specifics if they are not already given.

Should I charge more for nudes?

There are two “principles” that frequently come up with getting paid for nudes: 1) supply and demand and 2) the value of nudity.

Supply and demand simply means that there is a fairly high demand for nude models (a lot of people want to shoot nudes), but there seem to be fewer models willing to shoot nudes. So high demand, low supply. Because of this, photographers are more willing to pay for nude models then for some other types of models (because there are more models that do non-nude work, and more willing to do TF).

The value of nudity means that many people think that because they are getting naked that automatically entitles them to get paid. Some photographers will agree with this while others are very, very annoyed by this theory.

In general, if you are a good model, comfortable in her skin, and you know how to pose, then yes, you can charge for nudes. You might be able to charge more for nudes, but that really depends on your look and your  market.

I cover this point a bit more in another article called When & Why Might a Model Might a Model Be Paid.

Should I list my rates on my webpage/profile?

This is one of those points that people seem split right down the middle on. Some people say photographers want to see your rates and do not want to have to ask. Others say that if you list rates you might be missing out if someone would have offered you more. I personally give a rate range from the lowest I will take to the highest I have been paid. In the past I have also said something like “my rates start at $25/hr dependent upon content and usage of the photos.” And from those points I ask for the budget of the project and negotiate.

Now if you are set on a particular rate and you simply will not take less than that and you know people never want to pay more, then you can just set a rate. In that case there is no harm in putting that on your profile since you are not going to work for less anyway. I think this is a rare circumstance.

Or you can simply say “Please message me/send me an e-mail for my rates.”

Each one has its pros and cons. My advice is to look at other similar models around you and see what they are doing that works for them.

Should I keep doing TF after I start charging rates?

Most people agree that the answer to this is “yes, under the right circumstances.” The whole idea behind doing TF is usually to build your portfolio. And if/when you begin to charge rates, you will still want to update your portfolio, but generally when you are paid, you no longer receive images. There are exceptions to this, but in the general “rules” your payment is what you get out of the shoot. So when you want to update your portfolio you will either need to do TF or pay a photographer.

How to Act Like a Professional Model

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If you wanted to be treated like a professional model, you need to act like a professional model. And I am here to help you learn how to do just that!

Here are a few things that are always helpful and not too difficult to do either (in no specific order):

1. Give the photographer your cell phone number once you have booked the shoot. This has come in handy for me so many times. Sometimes you are running late, sometimes you cannot find the shoot location, sometimes emergencies come up, etc.

2. Be on time to your shoots. If you are going to be late, even 5 minutes late, text or call the photographer and let them know. Try to never be more than 15 minutes late, if that. If you do show up early, I would advise making it 10 minutes or less early. Photographers need time to set things up and get their equipment in order.

3. Bring a small modeling kit. This can be tailored to the style of modeling that you do. For example, I always bring a bottle of water, baby wipes, basic make-up, clear nail polish and a file, a robe, a hair brush and things to put up my hair (pins, clips, ties) and a bit of whatever product I use. If you model clothing, make sure to add basic underwear (tops and bottoms), plus basic heels to that list along with any other items you regularly use. I also might recommend items like cotton swabs, safety pins, Advil or similar, pads and tampons, leggings, plain tank tops, a pair of well-fitting jeans, shoes you can easily slip on and off, and some light snacks. Keep these things ready to go so all you have to do is grab it as you walk out the door.

4. Pack for the shoot the night before. This way if you are missing anything you have a bit of time to get it together before the shoot. It is much easier to schedule in a little extra time to stop by the store or wash an item or clothing if you have overnight to do so, versus just a couple or a few hours.

5. Communicate efficiently. Make sure you know when, where, what style, what you are responsible for bringing, and about how long the shoot is planned to last as you book the shoot. Do not leave anything to question. If you are unsure about a concept, or if you have one in mind, do not be afraid to share or ask for inspirational photos of the concept and outline what exactly you like about them.

6. Use your cell/smart phone if you have one. I use Google calendar with notifications for most of my shoots. It will set off an alarm at a time I can choose to remind me of the shoot. I also put the photographer’s number in my phone as soon as I get it. You can add in the address to the notes in the calendar event or the phone contact as well so you do not get stuck out without the address.

7. Act like a professional at the shoot. You are not there to flirt or socialize. You are there to create photos. Chatting a bit before the shoot is cool, and some people are totally fine chatting a bit while shooting. But do not take up half an hour talking if you can help it. And if you curb the flirting at shoots you are much less likely to run into issues of unwanted attention or advances. Sometimes the person is just that way, but if you act like you are just there to shoot, most of the time they will pick up on that.

8. Do not gossip at the shoot. It is perfectly acceptable to say brief nice things, but try not to spend the whole shoot talking about who you do not like or about rumors you have heard. I know it can be tempting, especially when the other person starts it, but try to keep your opinions minimal or at least non-specific. At the same time, do not spend all your time gushing about people you love to work with either as it can make the other person feel a bit uncomfortable.

9. Be physically prepared for the shoot. Show up well rested, clean, and well groomed. Do not go out and party late the night before. Make sure you eat something before the shoot. Make sure your nails are clean and the polish is not some crazy color, clear or neutral is always good. If you shave, make sure to do so in a time frame that does not allow for stubble to be showing at the shoot. Also, do not do some new crazy work out the day before that is going to make you super sore or anything like that.

10. If you do have to cancel, do so timely and with a good reason. It happens, but it should only happen for real, legitimate reasons. If you are sick, please contact the photographer as soon as you know and let them know what you are sick with and if you think you can still shoot. Many people would rather not get sick or spread that illness to family members.

11. Inform the photographer of any relevant changes to your appearance as soon as you can. This includes large bruises and cuts, hair cut and color changes, measurement and significant body type/weight changes, new tattoos or piercings, skin rashes, and so on. It is much easier for them to work around it or with it if they know it is there in advance.

12. Never, ever act unprofessionally. If someone cancels on you, ask to reschedule. If someone is rude to you, simply ignore them. If the shoot is going in a bad direction or if you feel uncomfortable, simply state that you no longer feel comfortable and leave. Report them to the authorities if you feel it necessary. But do not yell, scream, etc, in person or via messages or phone call. I do not care what they did or said, it will not accomplish anything.

Dekilah’s Ultra Helpful Guide to Approaching Models for TF

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Okay, so here you are amateur photographer and you want to work with a model on a trade basis. Or maybe you are an award-winning photographer who is new to working with models. Or maybe you have worked trade before and you are having a hard time finding more models to work trade with. Or maybe you are just reading this because you found it.

I wrote this in response to my time in MM forums and my own experiences being approached for trade work. A lot of photographers seem to have difficulty finding models to shoot trade with. Or maybe they have difficulty getting the models they want to work trade with to work trade with them. Of course, you cannot get every model to work trade with you. Maybe that specific model does not shoot trade at all. Maybe you need to improve your style or skills before that model is comfortable shooting trade with you. So please do not misunderstand and think I am saying you can shoot trade with any model you happen to want to shoot trade with. I am just trying to share some general guidelines for those who might be having difficulty.

So without further elaboration, let us get started. And please do not be offended with some of this. I am taking what I have read (and experiences I have had and been told about by other models) into account here. Not everything here applies to everyone.

1. We really do not care how awesome you say you are. But we do care about how awesome your work is. All most of us want is work we can put in our portfolios. We probably need you to be able to shoot work as good or better than what you see in our portfolios.

2. Do not be a dick/ass/bitch to us. Period. At all. Ever. We tend to respond poorly to this and nobody likes a condescending attitude. Do not tell us that we should feel lucky to work with you. Chances are, if that is true, we already feel that way.

3. Do not lecture us on escorts. If you have an escort policy, it should not take more than a couple sentences to explain. Please do not tell us what type of man we should date. Please do not give us examples of other situations that we would not bring an escort to and try to relate it to modeling. While some of it may be true, you really are not likely to change our minds.

4. Many of us have circumstances listed in which we will in fact shoot trade, even if we generally shoot only paid work. Some of us will trade or barter for various things. Wardrobe and shoes are a common one, but there are many of them and they vary greatly depending on the model. There is a group shoot event called DEAC where I shoot trade, and only trade, for example.

5. Tell us why you want to work with us (in a non-creepy way). Maybe you like our posing style. Maybe your like our face or our eyes and think having our look in your portfolio would be very beneficial. You do not have to say a lot, but something that lets us know you are not just droning through a ton of models sending them the same message over and over.

6. Pretty please read our profile/website. Many of the questions I get asked by photographers are already answered in my profile and while I do not mind answering them again, if the photographer does not like my answer sometimes they seem to feel like they wasted their time contacting me and that is not helpful for anybody.

7. Give us at least a brief little outline of what style(s) or genre(s) you want to shoot with us. It’s a bit confusing for us to try to figure out what you might like, especially if your portfolio is full of different styles.

8. If our profile says we do not do something, or do not do something for trade please do not ask us to do it for trade. Or if you absolutely must ask, please do so nicely and do not be offended when we decline.

9. Do not talk us out of working with you. Do not tell us that you should be paying us or that you are not that good, but maybe we will be nice enough to shoot with you. Tell us what you have to offer. Maybe you are a student and you are working on a project, maybe the images will be in a gallery, maybe you think you have a really cool style or concept. Tell us why we would want to work with you, not why we would not.

10. Do not expect us to travel long distances for a trade shoot. Some of us will, but it is not a given.

Hopefully my list will help you and, if nothing else, perhaps at least amused you a bit. Hopefully you picked up on the slightly sarcastic tone. And while this was written in a slightly sarcastic manner, it was meant to be truthful.

Dekilah’s Ultra Helpful Guide to Working with Nude Models

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Okay, so here you are an amateur photographer and you want to work with a nude model. Or maybe you are not really at the amateur stage, but you have not worked with a nude model before. Or maybe you have worked with one before and you felt all befuddled. Or maybe you are just reading this because you found it.

I wrote this because in my time on the MM forums and in working with photographers I have noticed a trend in some confusion and awkwardness in working with nude models. Of course, that is to be expected particularly given society’s apprehensions towards nudity and the mixed values placed on it. I think it is particularly sad that even those of us who shoot art nudes similar to work displayed in museums must often keep our art hidden from the general public and even friends and family because of the issues some people have with it. I also think those are some of the reasons people may feel awkward working with nude models.

Let us start with some basics, shall we? And please do not be offended with some of this. I am taking what I have read and experiences I have had and been told about by other models into account here. Not everything here applies to everyone.

1. Nude models are people too. Some of us are outgoing, some are very shy. Some are very comfortable with our bodies, some are not. Some can be very conservative, some are more out there. Just because a model poses nude does not mean she does porn, or is very sexual, or runs around naked all the time, or anything else.

2. While we are used to posing nude, we all have different limits in what types of poses we will do, what we would like showing in photos, and where we would like those photos to be shown. Please talk to us about these things before we shoot (preferably before the day of the shoot).

3. We may be a little apprehensive to you being really close or touching us while nude. Most of the really experienced nude models do not care, provided it is an appropriate situation, but please ask before you touch us. Trust me, it is appreciated.

4. Although we may pose nude, if you want to shoot us nude, please let us know that before the shoot. If you said you wanted to shoot fashion, we will come prepared to shoot fashion. Do not surprise us at the end (or at any other time) by randomly asking to shoot nudes if we have not already discussed it.

5. We are not perfect, and I am speaking of the physical. We have scars and little “flaws.” While it is perfectly okay to try to avoid certain angles, poses, or features, do not point them out unnecessarily. For example, if a model has a scar on her left hip and you do not like it, simply change your angle or ask her to turn. Some of us are aware of our flaws and will try to keep them out of shots for you, but that takes experience and knowing about them. Sometimes we already feel vulnerable (even though we are enjoying what we do) and having a flaw pointed out can put a damper on our self-esteem, if only for a moment.

6. If you need to refer to our “girly bits” please find appropriate terms to use. “Breasts” is generally preferred in place of “boobs,” “tits,” and such. “Butt” or “bum” or “rear” tend to be better than “ass.” And as for the genitals, sometimes it is just best to ask what we call it. “Lap” or simply saying “the area between your legs” also works quite safely if you do not want to ask. Some of us are totally cool with the slang words, but generally it is better to go safe than sorry until you find out what is good for us.

7. Understand there are different styles of nudes. Just because a model shoots art nudes, does not mean she will shoot glamour nudes (Playboy style, and others), or erotic. And just because a model shoots nude does not mean she wants all of her nudeness in the photos. Some of us prefer to keep our genitals out of the shots and there are plenty of easy ways to do that. Look at our portfolios, they are usually a pretty good indication of the levels we shoot. If you would like to shoot something else with us, please ask, and maybe show us some examples. Sometimes we will say “sure,” sometimes “no thank you.”

8. Please be aware that we are naked. That means we may get cold more easily. It also means we may not be comfortable with people going in and out of the shooting area, open windows if indoors, etc. Also, if we are outdoors, bugs may bother us more and things like that.

9. If you’re asking us to shoot outside, please let us know of the type of location. Is it private property? Is there a chance of us being seen by other people? And be aware of what can happen in that location if an outside person does see us (local laws, fines, etc, and if that will affect you and/or the model).

10. Please do not make weird comments. It makes you seem creepy even if you are not. Sometimes we like to joke around, even about being naked, but saying you would like to slap us on our butt or that we must be good in the sack is pretty generally unacceptable. I am not saying you have to only talk about shooting, but just use common sense.

Again, I know some of this sounds just ridiculous to even have to say, but I am trying to keep it light while giving you some helpful information. And I can promise you that for everything you just read and thought that there no way anybody has ever done that, that someone (probably more  someones than you think) has in fact done or said that. Plus, many of those rules apply to most model photography anyway, just maybe not in those exact ways.

Nude modeling can be a lot of fun and can be a great way to create art and/or awesome photos. It also gives you a chance to capture details, shapes, lines, and curves that are sometimes masked by clothing. It can be sexy or erotic or artistic or abstract or any combination or all of those things and more.