A Photographer's Point of View
by John Alden

   As a photographer, I expect certain things when it comes to working with professional models. While some are better than others, like anything in the world, those that put forth a 100% will always find work in one form or another over the long haul.

Be prompt

This is perhaps the most important thing a model can do. Since deadlines hang over the heads of photographers, models will do the photographer and themselves a favor, if they arrive at the studio or location in a prompt fashion.

The night before syndrome

Watch out what you do the day and/or night before. I have seen severely sunburned models that looked like something from Mars and I am sure they often regret those photos from that shoot being out there. Heavy drinking and the wild party life can also be another drag on your shoot. Remember you are a thoroughbred and have to be able to go the distance while looking the best you can. You know, be all you can be.

Drop the attitude

When a crew consisting of the photographer, stylists, assistants, lighting etc. are all revolving around the model, it is not because he or she is the most important person on the set. Every person present is a vital link to having a successful shoot. If you work as part of a team your image will always be enhanced by a more caring and attentive crew. They can also be a valuable resource for future work.

Listen intently

Concentrate at all times so that when instructions are given they do not need to be repeated. However, if a direction is not understood perfectly, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. As long as intelligence is being displayed, you will earn respect and getting it right is job Numero Uno (#1).

Eat correctly

Since modeling requires endurance due to its rigorous demands, ensure the body has sufficient energy to complete the shoot. Learn how to have some nutrition always available if the need arises. What I call Plan B. We always hope that we are considerate enough to stop for a break or a meal but things do not always go perfectly in the real world. You know your body so stash a snack and plenty of water is always a good bet.

Be the model and only the model

Since the photographer is the creator of the photograph, he has a vision in his mind's eye. The model is part of the image but may not be fully aware of the nature of this vision. If you want to annoy a photographer, start suggesting ways in which he should shoot. Like any artist, a photographer immerses a great deal of personal energy into creating a photograph, the keyword being "personal". However, if and only if, the photographer asks for input or posing suggestions, you may do so accordingly and concisely. I always like to give the model a "go for it" session after I capture the look that I had envisioned.

Yours or mine?

There is a lot of misunderstanding about who owns the copyright to a photograph. A model may think since he or she is in the picture, they must own it. What about if the model buys a print from the photographer, do they own it then? I'm afraid not.

To simplify a complicated issue, as soon as the photographer releases the shutter on the camera, and light is exposed onto the film or digital device, an image is created. That image belongs to the photographer and will always belong to the photographer, protected by U.S. Copyright law. Having said that, the only time that image is no longer owned by the photographer, is when he or she signs over the copyright to another individual or company. Current law requires this in writing and no verbal permission will hold up in a court of law.

So when you buy prints off a photographer, what you are actually doing is paying for the right to use his or her images for your personal benefits. Model release forms are usually signed to put all of this in writing and ensure everything is understood. A photographer has every right to use an image of a model for his own promotion.

Depending on the level of experience the model has, I will obviously have lower or higher expectations. But from the above list I have written, there is no excuse for any model, regardless of the level of training or expertise, not to follow these simple suggestions.

For the many models I have worked with, it has always been a joy and a privilege to create fantastic images with them. The bottom line to all of this is -if people like you and they know you are focused, they'll want to work with you again. They will also refer your name to friends within the industry especially when showing off your special picture(s). You have heard the old saying you cannot live by bread alone, so is the fact, that you cannot succeed with just a pretty face.

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