Model Etiquette, Meeting A New Photographer 101 Having been in this business for as long as I have, you tend to be asked a variety of questions on a fairly consistent basis. And one that seems to be repeated more often than not is how do I find such beautiful girls to photograph (a), quickly followed with, how do I convince them to allow me to photograph them (b)? While at the same time I’m asked by models a varying set of questions regarding how can they find a good photographer to work with and how should they act when first meeting them sort of thing. So I’ve decided to devote two separate Expose U’s to these separate, yet significant questions. With this first dealing with the models. Yes, you photographers will have to wait your turn I’m afraid, the ladies come first in my book. One of the most important elements that a photographer/model relationship can be based, is trust. And rest assured I shall mention that word time and again. And while at the same time the model realizes the significance of that word, she should also be aware of how it can be a two-edged sword for her as well. I mention this out of having had to deal with several instances in my past of guys actually impersonating me. Yes, calling themselves David Mecey, Playboy photographer, and sometimes getting away with it! And their intentions were not just those of photographing a pretty girl. So models make sure that the person with whom you interview really IS the person you think he is before making too many plans with him. And I say this with guarded reluctance since I don’t want to sound too alarmist about this subject, yet it’s definitely something to keep in the back of your mind as you slowly begin your search for a good photographer. Mindful caution is a good thing. Now to accomplish these safeguards will simply take a little effort and some common sense on your part. Ask other models you may know if they’ve worked with a particular photographer before, what was he like, where was his studio located, how was the neighborhood, and whatever questions you feel will help you get to know him. I would even ask other photographers if they know this new photographer as well. All simple checks of basic things that will certainly help put your mind at ease before meeting him for the first time. And if the photographer claims an affiliation with a certain magazine(s), don’t be afraid to call that magazine’s photo department and inquire as to whether that is a true fact or not! Think about it, you’re about to build a relationship with someone with whom you’re going to become quite familiar during your photo-shoots and with whom you will hopefully work with on an ongoing basis. It is the first step of putting your trust in this individual with whom you hope to shoot wonderful pictures. And you certainly want it to start out on the right foot. With your fears now laid to rest and you know the person you will be meeting is the real deal, now do you meet with him alone or with a friend? If you’re brand new to the business I’m not at all opposed to your bringing along a friend. Either another model or simply a girlfriend is a thought. I frown on bringing relatives such as mothers, brothers, and especially boyfriends. I’ll expound on that in a moment. In the case of being a seasoned pro or that special newbie with nerve, I think you will certainly be able to handle a one on one with a new photographer and should approach it that way as well (IF you’ve done your background work first). It will show you as being confident and professional. Just remember to be approachable and friendly. But don’t feel you need to be a flirt! Save that for when you’re in front of the camera. For now, you’re establishing yourself as a professional woman with a great personality and great looks. That should be enough, especially if you have a killer book. So now let’s touch on the boyfriend issue a bit. Though it may seem such an easy thing to do as to bring along the boyfriend, and innocent as it may seem to you, it tends to create a sense of distrust by you right from the get-go when meeting a new photographer for the first time. It’s just human nature. The same can be said for having your mother or brother with you. Here’s a photographer who wants to have you be the next sexy subject in front of his camera and you’re there interviewing with your “bouncer” in tow! Just think on that for a moment. In fact, if one of your girlfriends or another photographer you know happens to be someone with whom this photographer is already a friend or acquaintance, then what better person to bring with you than he or she. They could easily help open the door for you with this new shooter. Again, common sense prevails. Next, I would really try to have the very best photographs you can when going to meet with a photographer for the first time. And though it may sound a bit cliché, it’s true none the less. Impress him with what you can do in front of the camera and he will want to work with you. He’s looking for a subject that already has a track record for quality, now he can give it a shot himself when he sees all this potential. I think most photographers see the work you’ve already done as a challenge anyway. They want their work to stand out among what you’ve already accomplished, especially if you have a dynamic portfolio. So keep shooting new stuff and updating your work. And don’t be afraid to pull those shots that you “love” but are totally out of date and no longer represent the real you. They want to see who you are now, not two years ago. And that is especially true with your beauty headshot. Keep that current! A gorgeous beauty shot to open a model’s portfolio always gets my attention. With all that said, I’ve often heard stories of photographers getting in a huff when asked by a model to show them their portfolios. I find this laughable. I mean, here’s a guy who makes his living as a photographer and he’s not secure enough in his work to show it to a model? Please. My response to that is simple. If a photographer refuses to show you his work, be polite, thank him for his time and leave. You have just as much right to see the quality of his work as he has at considering you as a model. To me, that moment is simply a great first look into the deeper side of his personality and demeanor. And if he gets upset over simply being asked to share his work, one can only imagine what he must be like when he gets behind the camera as “the professional photographer”. I hope this has helped a bit about dealing with meeting a new photographer. In fact, there have been numerous books written about this very subject, I’ve simply tried to touch on some of the more important points, so do your research. Much luck and I look forward to meeting all of you in the future! DJM Previous / Expose U Index / Next Read more about David at www.davidmecey.com Read more about David's FotoFantasy Camp

All Photos by David Mecey