gabriel_solis

<p>I'm with Bob H. Cropping the head keeps the focus on the eyes. This works well for totally bald men. However, guys with thin hair up top might not like it, as it will make them look completely bald. </p><div></div>

<p>To build on what Dave says, hands can make or break a photo. In that first photo her right (lower) hand has a lot of tension. It doesn't look elegant. From this angle, it appears lumpy and awkward. Guide your model to soften those fingers, and make sure the perspective doesn't make the fingers look weird. I suggest you study up on Sue Bryce to learn about "ballet" hands. It has helped me immensely! </p><div></div>

<p>Have people had issues with Model Mayhem? I don't think there is any reason to be scared off by that site. My experiences with models from Model Mayhem have been somewhat limited but very positive. I think Henry's suggestion of a local college is right on the money. Craigslist also may yield positive results, but when I first started using it (before I had a portfolio) I experienced lots of flakes/no-shows.<br> Ultimately I think finding models willing to pose nude will depend heavily on compensation. Are you offering fair pay? If so, there are plenty of striking models willing to do nude work on Model Mayhem. Craigslist will also yield a lot of hits, but you won't be able to "vet" them, meaning you will probably get a lot of responses by people who don't fit the look/vibe you are going for. <br> If it's a trade for print deal you are hoping for, models are (understandably) hesitant to do this, even if you have a rockstar portfolio. If you are limited on funds, I highly recommend joining up with another photographer or two to put together enough money to hire an experienced model and take turns with the camera (a female photographer on hand will help to ease any tension!). It's a wonderful investment in your future. From my experience, the better your portfolio looks, the more willing models will be to do TFP shoots!</p>