Your First Shoot
So you’ve been contacted for your first photoshoot by me or another photographer. What does that mean, what do you get, what do I get and is there a catch?
I write this as I’ve been asked recently by potential female models for a deeper explanation that can normally be covered within a simple introduction message. It is easy to assume everyone who wants to model already understands ‘the system’ so hopefully this will clarify any confusion.
For the purpose of these comments, let us assume you have been approached by a male photographer suggesting a TF shoot.
TF, Collaboration or Test
TF, used to be TFP ‘Time For Prints’, when images were actually ‘printed’, now it is abbreviated to TF as everything is digital. The objective here is for the model and the photographer (sometimes Make Up Artist and/or Stylist) to invest their time and skills equally to achieve images that they ‘both/all’ can use for portfolio and promotional purposes (generally).
The copyright for ‘all’ photos taken always remains with the photographer and every TF shoot ‘arrangement’ will be approached differently by each photographer. This means that ‘unless agreed’ you will not get every image taken of you during the shoot. You may get ‘preview low res’ images for you to select your favorite images, but ‘unless agreed’ you can’t post these publicly.
You should/will get an agreed amount of edited images, but you need to confirm how many this will be and if these will be hi-res (print resolution) or low res (social media/website) resolution. (They should be both). You also need to confirm how long these will normally take to arrive. (The more complicated the edit, the longer the time obviously).
TF, is also sometimes called ‘Collaboration’ or ‘Testing’. Basically they all mean the same thing, a swapping of skills/time to reach a mutual benefit. This applies to beginner photographers/models who just want to practice, build their portfolio, get creative with ideas, test out new styles and so on. Normally no money changes hands.
Lightstories: Once I’ve contacted you and you like my style, we chat briefly about ideas and I send you a Pinboard of ideas for you to select what you do/don’t like so we both have a better idea of objectives and comfort levels (see below). I put everything in writing so there’s no confusion, agree a time, duration, date and location.
We meet, chat for a bit to settle the nerves, talk through ideas and what we are going to do prior to getting creative. After we may review images in the studio but I generally send you ‘preview’ images of everything for you to select 10-20 images to edit (depends on the shoot). I provide both hi-res and low-res images within 2-3 weeks (usually sooner).
Usage: We are ‘collaborating’ for ‘mutual benefit’. This means we agree to link (and promote) everyone involved wherever the final results are posted, be it social media or digital publication (Unless there are discussed limitations). If any images get used commercially all parties need to agree to this and any monies are split 50/50. Usually a quick email to check details prevents confusion and/or upset.
‘Levels’ refer to the various stages of clothing in a shoot
Portrait/Fashion – Clothed, normal everyday ‘respectable’ wear. Some fashion clothes can be revealing so check what you’ll be wearing.
Lingerie/Swimwear (18+) – More skin on show, semi clothed, tasteful. Some lingerie is see through, so check you are comfortable with this. Sometimes side boob, full cleavage are exposed but no nipples on show.
Implied (Topless)/Glamour (18+) – Similar to lingerie but with more raunchy confident posing, perhaps more of a sexual theme. No nipples on show.
Topless (18+) – As above nipples on show, generally more sexual in nature.
Implied Nude (18+) – Nude with objects, material, shadow covering nipples and groin.
Nude/Art Nude (18+) – Completely nude with groin area generally covered by posing, more artistic in style, rather than sexual.
Adult/Glamour (18+) – This is a huge grey area on it’s own. Provocative images that can involve one or more people, scenes of a sexual theme. It can include BDSM, bondage and other interests.
WARNING: ‘Glamour’ is open to many interpretations, so make sure you fully understand what the photographer means if he suggests it. (Ask for examples)
Lightstories: I shoot most styles except adult and glamour. I prefer confident attitude, beauty, body confidence and posing rather than revealing too much, especially as you learn your craft and improve your awareness. I keep to whatever levels we agree. However sometimes models want to try different levels during the shoot and I am always guided by you.
WARNING: Beware that certain photographers known as ‘level pushers’ will always try to push you beyond whatever you agree. Usually with beginner models, so if this happens make sure you are able to end the shoot and walk away. Do NOT shoot any greater level before you are ready to do so.
Chaperones
If you are nervous, apprehensive and need feedback from a supportive friend, then by all means bring one with you to a shoot. Generally I would suggest a positive friend who is interested in what you are doing rather than a family member or partner. The atmosphere created by a third person can sometimes make or break a shoot.
Someone to help with hair, adjust your clothes, hold reflectors, lights, fetch and carry things is a good person to have around. Someone who distracts the ‘vibe’ is not welcome and may be asked to wait in another room.
If you are under 18 you must have one with you at all times.
Lightstories: I am happy for you to bring a friend who will support you in whatever way you feel you need, certainly on your first shoot if you wish. However I have had many first time models arrive solo. It’s totally up to you.
WARNING: There are photographers who will not entertain chaperones under any circumstances. Some are perfectly fine, some are not. I would suggest avoiding these until you have spoken with others they have worked with and you are happy to still proceed.
Personal Safety
For any new model I would always advise to know where you are working, who you are working with and have all their details (address, tel no, car reg, location details, photo, contacts) to share with a friend before you go to shoot. Read their references and contact anyone they have worked with before where possible for peace on mind.
Make sure you have everything in writing agreeing what you will be doing, wearing, levels, styles you are working to and so on.
In breaks during the shoot keep in contact with your friend with a simple ‘all ok’ text. Do not put yourself in a situation in your first few shoots where you can’t stop, walk away and return home. Personal comfort and safety is vital and no one will criticise you for maintaining it.
Once you build contacts and confidence, you will know who is good and safe to work with and who doesn’t have the same reputation. Shoots take place in all kinds of weird and wonderful places, sometimes the more weird the better. Always be ready to ‘share your location’ have a Plan B in case you need it.
When you are new it is hard to say ‘stop’, however if someone invades your personal space uninvited and you do not feel comfortable, be strong and take a break. If the photographer gets aggressive then you have done the right thing.
Lightstories: You can have whatever information you require from me at any stage. We will take regular breaks and discuss progress throughout.
Changing Room
This is a vital area of respect for anyone. If the photographer has no place for you to do this privately, or hovers around while you do it, ask him to leave the room. If he won’t give you privacy then be prepared leave.
Lightstories: I provide a room with mirror, lights, and facilities to change.
Where’s The Catch?
There isn’t one. Odd I know, however that’s the truth. Just remember the purpose of whatever form the shoot takes is for personal development and mutual promotion. So it is in everyone’s interest for it to be fun and productive.
I like to keep my portfolio fresh with new faces and help others build their portfolios. I like mixing with new creative people from all backgrounds. I like the shoots to be fun, a giggle and relaxing atmosphere to work in. When a shoot goes well everyone comes away from it on a high and we all get great pictures and ideas for the next one.
I’m a firm believer that you get out of a shoot whatever you put into it. So time spent gathering props, clothes, practicing posing, studying others, building a ‘mental moodboard’ to work from builds great results.
Please note, the best models are not necessarily the ‘prettiest people’. They are the ones who can create a ‘moment’ on demand. A combination of a pose, an expression, a prop, certain lighting resulting in a story captured in a fraction of a second. The few that can do it well are always in great demand.
That’s about it – ‘collaboration’, ‘time for’ or a ‘test’, call it what you will. I do hope you’ve got this far and want to take the next step, you can contact me here or on any of my social media. If you have further questions please don’t hesitate to ask.