Advice

[amandajilesse]

I'm helping out a couple new models get their feet wet with shooting, and wanted to get some advice from photographers. What makes a "good model" in your opinion? What makes you want to shoot with them again? I thought giving them some tips from photographers, rather than just myself, might help. Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me.

[photosbymorgan2]

What makes a good model in my opinion is one who can somewhat pose without being told everytime. Also a model who has great facial expressions makes for a great model.

[ImagineTNT]

Great models are ones that make out with me... Wait, did I say that out loud?

Seriously though the modlels I prefer are ones that can go through poses (that fit the scene/setting) without prompting but can also take direction well in terms of altering their pose. It is great when they know how their body and facial expressions look and can change them to fit your direction (give me sexy, or give me sweet, etc). There is also a 'non-flaky' factor as well. I personally work well with models who can push/pull--they can make suggestions of their own while being able to take suggestions. This also comes down to having a good attitude and not moaning/complaining about every little thing. Yes, please bring it up but if we can't do anything about it then be professional and pose away like it doesn't affect you.

That's what I can think of off the top of my head.

[jimmyd]

1. models who have already seeked out professional/psychological or credible help before deciding to pursure modeling as a full-time career.

2. models who have taken long, hard, and numerous looks in the mirror (i.e., a full-length mirror) before deciding they have what it takes to pursue professional modeling careers. second and third opinions are highly recommended, especially professional opinions.

3. models who have taken the time to learn as much as possible about the business of professional modeling before calling themselves professional models or embarking on said careers.

4. models who understand the concept of "paying one's dues" and all that it includes before calling themselves professional models and demanding professional rates even though they might be entirely inexperienced.

5. models who understand that, no matter how beautiful, sexy, or incredible they might appear, there are always other models who are more beautiful, sexier, and appear more incredible. also, that being beautiful, sexy, and incredible are simply base requirements and other factors--sometimes more important factors--will contribute to their success.

6. models who have some basic and aesthetic appreciation for the art of photography, allowing them to determine which photographers might actually help them build a professional-looking portfolio.

7. models who truly understand the phrase, "don't quit your day job just yet," before embarking on full-time modeling careers.

damn... i could go on and on. and i've only just touched on the the most basic things.

[lobofw]

Although I've worked with very few "professional" models, The ability to relate to what the ideas presented and go with it. Being part actress helps I guess. She or he should be personable and willing to take direction and constructive criticism. I always enjoy models who can come up with ideas they want to play out which falls in line with what where doing.

[Jon]

Uh...What Jimmy Said (man, I hate it when he beats me to stuff haha)

In addition:

A "good" model can listen, take direction, understand, and follow through.

A "great" model can look at the setup and know what it's about without being told anything. In other words, a mindreader hehe.

[Zairia]

I work with a lot of beginners. I personally like the ones that come prepared. Personal hygiene is a must! Get the eyebrows and other hair waxed, the nails done so they match everything. Bring the correct clothing and the accessories to match. Practice poses and expression before you come. Plus everything the others have said.

Z

[fantasiesimage]

mmmmmm I usually like the ones that dont run away when they see my work!!

[Jon]

Yah...That's always a plus...

[mikew]

Originally Posted by jimmyd

1. models who have already seeked out professional/psychological or credible help before deciding to pursure modeling as a full-time career.

2. models who have taken long, hard, and numerous looks in the mirror (i.e., a full-length mirror) before deciding they have what it takes to pursue professional modeling careers. second and third opinions are highly recommended, especially professional opinions.

3. models who have taken the time to learn as much as possible about the business of professional modeling before calling themselves professional models or embarking on said careers.

4. models who understand the concept of "paying one's dues" and all that it includes before calling themselves professional models and demanding professional rates even though they might be entirely inexperienced.

5. models who understand that, no matter how beautiful, sexy, or incredible they might appear, there are always other models who are more beautiful, sexier, and appear more incredible. also, that being beautiful, sexy, and incredible are simply base requirements and other factors--sometimes more important factors--will contribute to their success.

6. models who have some basic and aesthetic appreciation for the art of photography, allowing them to determine which photographers might actually help them build a professional-looking portfolio.

7. models who truly understand the phrase, "don't quit your day job just yet," before embarking on full-time modeling careers.

damn... i could go on and on. and i've only just touched on the the most basic things.

Jimmy said it all...

Mike