Communicating With Your Photographer
So I started a series on the Photographer/Model relationship, and I have committed myself to completing that series. So here we are. Part two of the communication part of the relationship. Though I suggest models and photographers attempt to understand each side of the camera, as it helps them grow as artists, technically this posts is for the models. We as models tend to be outgoing (if we were shy we wouldn’t volunteer people to create art with our faces), so we tend to think we’ve got the communication thing down. Still, I have some overlooked do’s and don’t’s to consider. So grab a cup of coffee and join me as we explore the second portion of the Photographer/Model relationship.
Do’s: Be sure you know where you’re meeting the photographer. And don’t be afraid to call if you get lost. Typically the photographer chooses the location and it’s okay to get lost. If you don’t know where you’re going leave a few minutes early to give yourself time to get lost. Be sure to communicate your insecurities and boundaries to your photographer (ESPECIALLY if you’re doing swimwear, lingerie, or implied nudes, but all the time). Talk to your photographer. Ask questions, answer theirs. The give and take of conversation allows for a comfort level that extends to the art you create. Make sure to keep your interactions professional. For example, shake hands when you meet. Last, and most importantly, stand up for yourself. If you feel uncomfortable, you have a right to leave. You’re not required to tolerate any harassing/objectifying behavior or conversation. You have every bit of control over this part of your life.
Don’t’s: (As I mentioned above) Do not tolerate unprofessional behavior. Also, don’t act like a flighty, brainless child. You are an artist collaborating with another artist. You have a say in how every piece of art the two of you create comes out. It is important that you remember that. Don’t be late. It’s unprofessional and annoying. If you have to show up early to not be late, do it. Things come up, and we understand that, but don’t make it a habit. Don’t forget to thank your photographer (they should be thanking you too). You are collaborating and without the other half of the equation you would have no art. Model photography is different from other types of art in the way bands are different from solo artists – they require more than one person’s input to create the finished product. Thanking the collaborators of a shoot is just good manners, but is also a very good business practice.
On the note of good practices, I’m going to conclude my soapbox of the week. Next week I’ll be back with the final portion of the Photographer/Model relationship series: Best Practices. We’ve got to remember that our work is a business arrangement, and should be treated as such (even though our business arrangements are tons of fun and we often lie to security guards and tell them our shoots are not business arrangements or professional in any way…).
I’d love to hear your feedback! Shoot me a message on this site or through FaceBook or Instagram!
(Photography Credits: Larry Sanders Photography, Corey B Photography)
