Inspired by ’s fabulous article [link] I thought I’d dust off and share my own thoughts on being a model photographers want to work with.


1. Good Communication.

Good and clear communication is vital at all times. If contacted by a photographer re the possibility of a shoot, respond in timely manner. If you’re not sure about something, don’t be afraid to ask. The better the understanding between the model and the photographer, the more smoothly the shoot.

Good communication is a very important part of professionalism, and is highly appreciated.





2. Your word is your bond.

As a photographer not only do I want to create amazing images, I want to have fun too. A lot of this has to do with working with people I can trust to be reliable.

This means turn up at the agreed time. Arriving at the shoot clean and tidy, willing and able to work. Not having a hang over, dirty hair or skin. And bring any clothing/accessories etc that you have agreed to.

Yes, unexpected things can crop up. If you wake up on the morning of the shoot with a raging fever I don’t expect you to drag yourself to the shoot. What I do expect is a phone call as soon as possible.

I shot a fabulous model two weeks ago, who due to circumstances beyond their control, was late. The model rang me as soon as they realized they was going to be late, and rang several times with updates to let me know what was going on and when to expect them.

Was I irritated because they were late? No; because they did me the courtesy of calling and keeping me in the loop.



The absolutely worse thing you can do is a “no call-no show” – basically not turn up without letting the photographer know you’re not coming. Obviously if you’re in the emergency room of the local hospital you will be forgiven, but unless it’s something real and very serious you will be labelled a “flake”. And be warned, photographers can spot a fake emergency in a heartbeat.

*Halohid made the excellent point – models talk. And so do photographers. It doesn’t take long for word to get around about sloppy or diva-like behaviour. It’s not just a shoot, it’s your reputation too.



3. Be respectful of the space/equipment/environment.

Be respectful of the environment where ever the shoot takes place. If you’re in a studio don’t touch any equipment, props, costumes etc without direction from the photographer. With more and more photographers working from home studios, this is even more important. You’re not just in their working space, you’re in their home.

Whilst that might strike you as incredibly obvious, you’d be amazed at how many models just don’t get this. If you see a book on a shelf that looks interesting, ask before you start leafing through it. And don’t assume that just because someone else in the studio was using a computer that it’s fine for you to check your mail whilst you’re waiting.

Be polite - it only takes a second to ask.


If you're on location, it's just as important to be respectful. Out in public it's not just your reputation at stake, but the photographers too.




4. Attitude is everything.

In my experience, there are two basic types of models. Those who are serious about their modeling, and those who aren't.

It's all about having a professional attitude. Yes experience, and interesting and quirky looks help; beauty might even be a bonus [not an essential for me]. But you just can't replace the right attitude.

If I book a model I expect that booking to be honored. [See point 2].

Like many photographers a lot of work and planning [and sometimes a lot of money] goes into my shoots. Even if I've only booked you a few of days or a week in advance. Whilst there is a lot of spontaneity in my shoots, I'm not winging it on a hope and a prayer.

My shooting time is also very limited; like a lot of other photographers on DA I have a day job to support my photography and allow me to create the images I want. But don't make the mistake of thinking that because I only shoot part-time that I don't take it seriously. The time restriction makes it more so.

I'm happy to work with new as well as established models, and have met some wonderful models along the way. But basically this is the way it is.

If you're a "no call no show" you won't get booked again.

If you cancel at the last minute, you might get a second chance, dependent on other things [communication skills, reputation, recommendations from trusted people etc].

If you repeatedly cancel at the last minute, you won't get booked again, end of story.



I'd also like to take this chance to thank the wonderful models I have worked with, who show up on time, bring what I've asked, take direction well or need no direction at all, are polite, respectful of my equipment and my environment. Your very professional attitude is greatly appreciated.


In a nutshell...

Good Communication + Reliability + Respect + a Professional Attitude = A model photographers want to work with.

Complete model novice, or a seasoned veteran, stunning beauty or a quirky character, when it comes down to it looks, talent and experience will only get you so far. If you don’t have a professional attitude and professional behaviour then a hell of a lot of photographers are not going to want to work with you a second time. Or even work with you at all.

As *Halohid put it: be a friendly person. Because basically life is too short to waste being miserable in pursuit of that illusive image!

Kind regards
Morgana