A good fashion model is a treasured commodity. The best way to find one is through modeling agencies.
Another great source is through your own social circle. Friends of friends may be willing to help out in your search for models. This is a very good way to save time.
1. Casting
You have a vision in mind for your photo shoot and are ready to start finding the right model. There are a few different ways to find a model that fits your needs, whether it’s an experienced professional or an amateur just starting out.
One way to get started is to make a mood board. This is a collage of images and photos that portrays the overall look and feel that you want for your photo shoot. You can use a variety of resources for this, including fashion magazines and websites. You can also make a mood board from scratch, using your own photographs or other pictures.
Another way to find models is to contact local modeling agencies. These companies can help you locate and book the best talent for your shoot. They also know the ins and outs of working with models so they can guide you through the process. They can also provide you with a model release form, which is needed to sign off on the model’s appearance and behavior in the shoot.
Finally, you can also search for models online. This is a convenient option because it can help you filter models by physical look and style. You can also read through their online portfolios to see what kind of work they’ve done in the past and if they have a specific look that you’re looking for.
Another way to find a model is to reach out to your friends and family. This can be a great option because it can save you money. However, it’s important to note that the quality of the model may not be as high as someone who is a professional. In addition, the model may not be as familiar with the photoshoot process so they may struggle to follow your direction. If you’re working with a friend or family member, it’s a good idea to meet up before the shoot and discuss what you both expect from the shoot. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the shoot will be a success.
2. Negotiation
Models are often contacted by photographers who want to shoot with them for free, claiming to be an up and coming model and just needing some images. This is a tactic that can quickly backfire and turn a model away from you and your brand. Remember that modelling is a professional service that should be remunerated as such.
Before contacting any models be clear on what you need. This includes dates, times, locations, how many shots you wish to take, your budget (more on this later), what styling you require and any makeup you are going to use. You should also provide the model with the theme of your shoot, so they have a better understanding of what you are trying to achieve.
Once you have a clear vision for your photoshoot, prepare a mood board which is similar to a collage of images that help you to build a concept for the shoot and how you wish the final images to look. Creating this before you start looking for a model helps you to shortlist the models that may be suitable and allows you to communicate with them in more detail about the project.
You should always ask the model what their rate is and be clear about any extra costs that you may be incurring such as clothing hire, hairstyling, makeup or travel expenses. Providing this information at the beginning of your conversation will avoid any miscommunication or misunderstandings down the line.
When negotiating, be polite and respectful and never be aggressive or dismissive of the models work. If you are unable to negotiate the desired rate then try offering a test shoot instead, so they can experience working with you and your team and have a great experience that will boost their portfolio and confidence.
It is important to remember that the fashion model you hire will need to sign a contract stating that they understand their role in your project and are aware of your intellectual property rights. This is to prevent any confusion over the images you will be taking and the ownership of them. This is a legal requirement and should be in place at the start of your shoot.
3. Preparation
One of the most important steps in a successful shoot is making sure that everyone involved is on the same page. This includes the model, stylists and makeup artists, and other members of the team. A good way to communicate is by sending out a preparation guide that clearly states all of the essential details of the photoshoot. This will help the model understand what you expect from them, including acceptable fashion poses, how many images to deliver, and how they will be edited.
You should also make sure that all of your models sign a model release form. This will protect you from any potential legal issues if you decide to publish or sell your photographs. This is especially important if you are working with children.
A model release form is also an excellent tool to have on hand if you are shooting on location. It will protect you in the event that someone gets injured or the location owner requires a permit.
If you’re shooting with young children, it’s a good idea to bring extra snacks and drinks in case they get hungry or fussy. It’s also a good idea to bring a blanket or pacifier for them to use if they become scared or uncomfortable. In addition, you should try to arrive a few minutes early so that the child can get used to the photographer and start to relax.
Before you start the shoot, it’s a good idea to have a quick chat with the model and introduce yourself. This will help you establish a rapport and feel more comfortable working together. You can also explain the shoot concept and what you hope to achieve. It’s also a great opportunity to find out what type of compensation they are looking for, either monetary payment or Time For Print (TFP).
4. Shooting
Once you’ve hired a model, it is important to keep clear communication throughout the entire shoot. Sheridan recommends sending models a message that outlines the date, time and location, their fee (more on this later), styling, clothing and makeup. She also suggests letting models know how many images you plan to edit and supply them with. You should also be sure to clarify whether or not the photographer will retouch or leave this up to the model.
Another important thing to consider is the model’s comfort level during the shoot. If the model is not comfortable, it will show in the photos and can negatively impact your shoot. Sheridan recommends planning out what you want to achieve and creating a shot list to ensure that all the desired elements are captured. She also suggests asking the model “how do you feel about this?” and “what do you think is going to be the best shot?”
When shooting, be aware that fashion modeling is a very intimate activity. Models have to trust photographers that they will pose them in a way that looks flattering, that they will conduct themselves professionally and that the photographs they take will be portrayed in a positive light. This can be especially difficult for young models who have yet to establish their careers and are still trying to build their confidence and reputations in the industry.
The most common way to find fashion models is through modeling agencies. Agencies can be expensive, but if you need a specific look or are working on a project with a tight deadline, they may be your best option. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Sheridan recommends using Instagram to search for models in your area and messaging them directly. Be sure to ask about their rates and what type of work they’re interested in. Be careful not to start asking too many personal questions, though, as this may make the model uncomfortable. If you do, it’s important to remember that a shoot is supposed to be fun and not stressful!
