Questions about working with models

<p>1-If you take a clothed portrait of someone with their oral consent do you still need a model release form to use the photo non-commercially such as adding it to your online portfolio?<br>

2-Do you always have a third person present for a nude or lingerie photo shoot for legal protection? Does it have to be someone you know such as a makeup assistant or would model's chaperon be enough? Even with professional models?<br>

3-Is it possible to book a professional studio when travelling? <br>

Thanks. </p>

 

<p>In the US, you generally do not need a model release for any non-commercial (i.e., advertising) usage.<br>

A chaperon isn't required at any time, but is recommended whenever working with strangers.<br>

I don't see why you could not book a studio while traveling, it's obviously going to depend on location. </p>

<p>I don't dare answer the first questions - you'd need a lawyer to get the real story and even then, different lawyers might offer very different opinions.</p>

<p>However, question #3 is easy. With a bit of planning, you can book studios anywhere in the world. Many will also be able to introduce you to stylists and other resources too. Back in the days when I did this myself, it was always a thrill to walk into a studio in a new place and be welcomed.</p>

<p>For the second question maybe I should ask if you know of any incident when a photographer was falsely (or dubiously) accused by a (amateur or professional) model?</p>

<p>For the third one, how can I find one? MM? I live in a rather sparsely populated region where there is talent but not that much. I thought when I travel to a place like NYC there are many more models to work with.<br>

Here are two more questions I forgot to include in the first post.<br>

4-What resolution do you use in the photos you give to models, either for a paid shoot or for TFP. I think you don't legally have to give them any pictures as long as you own the copyright.</p>

<p>5-When contacting a model for the first time do you communicate to them what poses you are exactly or do you just mention "glamour", "fine art", "implied" or do you go into details? More specifically do you advise someone who is new to shooting models to do so? </p>

<p>Josh, Model Mayhem has a pretty good list of rental studios. Big markets like New York and London have their own resources (and play by their own rules). As for contacting models, simply write, speak and act like a gentleman and clearly describe the shoots you have in mind. Every model and every stylist (and every studio) will have their own way of interpreting and will ask follow-up questions. Always treat these responses positively, take a deep breath, and put on your biggest smile.</p>

<blockquote>

<p>4-What resolution do you use in the photos you give to models, either for a paid shoot or for TFP. I think you don't legally have to give them any pictures as long as you own the copyright.</p>

</blockquote>

<p>You don't legally have to do anything you have not agreed to. You should have a clear understanding, usually in writing, between you and the model that sets out what the model gets and what rights they have to use the pictures. As for resolution, I give a set of full resolution TIFFs and low-resolution JPEGs, with the right to use them for prints or web. </p>

 

<p>If you go to the expense of booking a studio, be aware that amateur or freelance models are notoriously flakey. I and other photographers I have talked to have had no-shows.</p>

<p>Al</p>

<blockquote>

<p>Does it have to be someone you know such as a makeup assistant or <strong>would model's chaperon be enough</strong>?</p>

</blockquote>

<p>Related experience that is relevant: in the 80’s~ 90’s we did many ‘first portfolios’ for those who wanted to enter into modelling: our Studio was recommended by the Model Agency. Quite a few were minors (here that is under 18 years old).</p>

<p>Even for those younger Clients, we did not allow the Model’s, Companion; Mother; Father or Chaperon to be in the Studio. It is just too distracting to the shoot. Those were our stipulated conditions, which were not and are not unusual – some swim coaches do not allow Parents on Pool deck; Piano Teachers do not allow Parents in the studio; Parents are not allowed to sit in on classroom lessons at school . . . etc. </p>

<p>WW </p>

<p>@1 : Especially nowadays having a model release signed when working with a paid model is IMO to be recommended.</p>

<p>Compared to the past (I'm an old hand as well who started shooting models for agencies as early as in the 80's) there now seems to be discussion on the use of the pictures.</p>

<p>This however can be IMO easily explained with the widespread use of Face book, Instagram etc., where posting an image basically, due the the User conditions, mean handing over all rights.<br>

Which of course may not agree with the model/agency, who, in the case of the model, may not want to have her pictures on a particular site or circuit, or, in the case of t the agency, does not agree with the pictures taken of the model and possible commercial use of them.</p>

<p>@2: To begin with, always double check that you're working with an legally adult person, simply to avoid any future problems in that respect.</p>

<p>And if you do, I would always insist to have a third person around when shooting nude and/or lingerie. Basically same reason, better safe then sorry, why risk gossip of rumors afterwards of sleazy or creepy behavior</p>

<p>In a commercial shoot this is more easy of course (make up artist, stylist), otherwise some kind of chaperone will do.</p>

<p>On a side note, I personally have no problems with parents being around when doing a 'start up' shoot for an aspiring model (just did one this weekend http://www.pbase.com/paul_k/recent_uploads)</p>

<p>Yes, the father was a GWC, so he initially was 'the photographer' while I started as the MUA. But during the day it became clear who had more experience, and I ended up taking pictures as well.</p>

<p>The mothers (2 models, 2 mothers :) ) were also busily buzzing around, proud as they were of their girls (14 and 15 years old, I know, very young, but after having had them in front of the camera I can only agree with their selection by their agency), 'helping out' with numerous clothing suggestions, advices etc.</p>

<p>My 'solution' for the possible tension that might give is make a funny, silly joke about it.</p>

<p>When I, before I start taking pictures, instruct the models on how to pose.</p>

<p>And in the form of a silly kind of pantomime, warn them not to heed the possible 'instructions' their mothers might be giving them behind my back. The rolling eyes, stuck out tongue and funny contortions I make help create a relaxed atmosphere (I think it's very important the 'photographer' does not take himself too serious) for the models, while they (the pantomime) at the same time are a subtle (I hope) and clear message for the mothers on how (not) to behave.</p>

<blockquote>

<p>2-Do you always have a third person present for a nude or lingerie photo shoot for legal protection? Does it have to be someone you know such as a makeup assistant or would model's chaperon be enough? Even with professional models?</p>

</blockquote>

<p>My dad was an OB/GYN in private practice for decades. Whether a patient was in his exam room for the 1st or the 1000th time, there was ALWAYS a female employee there too. <br>

Henry Posner<br /><strong>B&H Photo-Video</strong></p>

<p>Thanks for all your responses. One more thing: should I include the model's compensation on the release form (either TFP or the dollar amount)? The forms I find online just write "for valuable consideration hereby acknowledged as received".</p>