What does the photographer expect from the model?
The photographer wants to take exceptional photos. So he or she will have chosen a model that he or she considers to be - on the face of it - suitable. But apart from good looks, what else is important from the photographer's point of view?
Punctuality and reliability!
Figure 9.1: Good (and cool) looks are important, but even more important is reliability, because if the model simply doesn't show up for the shoot (and doesn't even cancel beforehand), even the best looks won't help. However, I have found that this is more of a problem with very young models. From their mid-twenties, with increasing life experience, the girls (and guys) usually become much more reliable. Nikon D3S with 1.4/85 mm Nikkor. 1/160 second, Blender 8, ISO 200.
(Photo © 2011: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
That agreements and contracts are kept!
Figure 9.2: I expect my models (and they expect me) to keep our agreements. It's not for nothing that everything important is included in the model release. This contract is then signed by both parties and the model receives a copy. If the model release states, for example, that the models are not allowed to post the photos they receive from me on facebook (because facebook gets all rights to the content published there according to the terms and conditions), then I expect them to adhere to this!
I also make sure that the models also mention my name as the author when they publish my photos for their own advertising. This is also written in my modeling contract, although it's not really necessary because it's the law anyway ("right to be named", § 13 UrhG).
(Photo © 2009: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Well-groomed appearance!
Figure 9.3: When I book a model for photos, especially when it comes to beauty photos, I expect a clean, well-groomed appearance. I then assume that the model has well-filed fingernails, neatly painted. That the eyebrows are plucked. And that the hair is clean and neatly styled. Nikon D3S with 2.8/24-70 mm Nikkor at a focal length of 66 mm. 1/125 second, Blender 4, ISO 2500.
(Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Clean, well-fitting, neat clothing!
Figure 9.4: If the model's clothes are used for the photos, I tell the model beforehand. But then I also assume that only clean clothes will be brought to the shoot. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. However, this shoot was different: the male model had brought only clean and tidy clothes. Nikon D3S with 2.8/24-70 mm Nikkor at a focal length of 58 mm. 1/100 second, Blender 11, ISO 640.
(Photo © 2011: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Mission!
Figure 9.5: Only motivated models who enjoy the beautiful results show full commitment! I always try to only work with models who enjoy the shoot and are happy about the (successful) results afterwards. Here, for example, the model lay in the cold water on hard, sharp rocks for almost three quarters of an hour. But the result justified the agony! However, those who only model to earn money often only put in the time, and that with moderate commitment. But it is precisely this commitment that often decides whether the photo is "nice" or an eye-catcher! Nikon D200 with 2.8/20 mm Nikkor. 1/250 second, Blender 5.6, ISO 100.
(Photo © 2008: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
A likeable, open-minded, friendly character!
Figure 9.6: For me as a professional photographer, photographing models is work. This usually takes place within a tight time frame (in this photo shoot I was given a time slot of only 45 minutes for the model) and there are also financial restrictions (the budget). Of course, I prefer to book models who are not only good, but also as pleasant to deal with as possible. No photographer books bitchy models a second time! Nikon D3S with 2.8/24-70 mm Nikkor at a focal length of 44 mm. 1/100 second, Blender 11, ISO 1600.
(Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
What does the model expect from the photographer?
The models also expect the photographers to do a good job and the photo results to look great. However, the form of cooperation also plays a role, as it determines whether the model feels comfortable with the photographer and is happy to do further shoots with him or her. The following points contribute to a pleasant working atmosphere:
A friendly greeting!
Figure 9.7: It doesn't have to be a kiss on the hand. But a friendly greeting with a handshake and introduction by name is simply a must. The models think so (and rightly so!). Many photographers, especially at workshops, are intimidated and don't dare to approach the models. But it is absolutely clear that if you want to take great photos, you should start with a few friendly sentences and not immediately pull up the camera with your finger on the shutter release. Nikon D3X with 2.8/24-70 mm Nikkor at a focal length of 70 mm. 1/60 second, Blender 4.5, ISO 160. (Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Speak loud and clear!
Figure 9.8: When the waves crash and the water roars, your model won't understand a thing if you don't "shout" loud enough. It may take some getting used to shouting at the model at first, but given the noise level on the beach, this is the only way to communicate. But the following also applies otherwise: speak loudly and clearly! Because if the model has to make an effort to understand something, she will concentrate on understanding you - and not on posing. Which would be a shame! Nikon D3X with 2.8/14-24 mm Nikkor with 14 mm focal length used. 1/250 second, aperture 22, ISO 100. (Photo © 2011: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Show a photo from time to time!
Figure 9.9: Models are curious, of course! You would be too if you stood in front of the camera for hours! Everyone wants to see how they come across in photos. The sooner, the better. Because then you might discover mistakes in your posing that you can correct afterwards. Or you can see how to pose better, whether the hair is still in place, whether the stretching is sufficient, whether the clothes fit correctly, etc. Showing the model a photo from time to time means that it's not just you, but four eyes checking whether everything is going well and whether anything needs to be improved. However, don't get involved if the model says "show me!" after every photo. That would be too much of a good thing ...!
(Photo © 2013: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Say exactly what (which section) you are photographing!
Figure 9.10: In some photos, it's not the leg position or where the hands are that counts. The facial expression of the model on the left is also irrelevant here. If the model knows your picture detail, she doesn't have to make an effort to present her whole body in a photogenic way. Because that takes energy and is a drain on your stamina. So always say what you are photographing and how. Even if it seems perfectly understandable to you - the model will not recognize whether you are using a telephoto lens or a wide-angle lens. Nikon D3S with 2.8/105 mm Micro Nikkor. 1/13 second, Blender 10, ISO 1600.
(Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Demonstrate poses!
Figure 9.11: Exemplary how Christoph - a multiple participant in my Ibiza photo workshops on model photography - shows the model the exact pose on the beach. Because sometimes, if the model doesn't understand exactly what the photographer means, it is simply much quicker to demonstrate the pose. It also loosens up the atmosphere, especially with erotic poses.
(Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Be direct and honest!
Figure 9.12: Models don't like it when photographers beat around the bush, i.e. just hint at things instead of saying what they mean. This is especially true for nude and erotic photography. Put yourself in the shoes of a model who doesn't know how to act and has to interpret the photographer's hints ...!
I have also found that as a photographer you can (and should) address problem areas. For example, it's perfectly OK for the photographer to say "please put your hand on the side of your thighs so that you cover up the cellulite". Although the models know that they have a great body, they are also aware of their weak points. And they appreciate the fact that the photographer is so professional and trained to make sure that the weak points are concealed.
After all, the aim is to make the result (the finished photo) look as perfect as possible. And a photographer who is attentive and pays attention to every little detail is highly regarded by the models. However, it is also necessary for the model to prepare herself professionally, which includes taking care to avoid pressure marks (unfortunately not done here, pressure marks can be seen on the foot) in the run-up to the shoot.
If something like this happens, then the photographer is also powerless, because pressure marks can remain disturbingly visible for up to 2 hours and you don't always have that long to wait before you start shooting. Nikon D3S with 2.8/105 mm Micro Nikkor. 1/160 second, Blender 4.5, ISO 1600.
(Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Be prepared!
Figure 9.13: When the shoot or workshop begins and the photographer has no (picture) idea how to start, it's a stupid situation - for both sides! Models feel more comfortable and taken seriously when the photographer has prepared (at least mentally). This manifests itself at the beginning of the shoot in the fact that some models are much more determined to get started or tell the model their picture idea directly or even unpack the props and items of clothing they have brought with them. "Proper preparation on the part of the photographer is crucial for the quality of a photo." (This is also the opinion of Sofie, one of my best models).
(Photo © 2002: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Ensure a pleasant working atmosphere!
Figure 9.14: Everyone likes to work better, happier and more efficiently when the (working) atmosphere is right! This is the main task of the photographer, who should endeavor to create an atmosphere in which the model feels comfortable. Laughter, for example, lightens the mood, music ensures a good mood. Food and drink prevent exhaustion and pleasant temperatures are a prerequisite for the models to perform with full commitment. Praise helps enormously to motivate the models. But criticism is also perfectly OK, as long as it is appropriate and not on a personal level. And: "Every photographer should be able to assess and accept the model's personal limits. An anxious type, for example, will be less suitable for action-packed shoots, just as a conservative type will be less suitable for full nudes." (Quote from Sofie , longtime model).
(Photo © 2011: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Take breaks!
Figure 9.15: Modeling is usually very strenuous. At least if the model makes an effort! Because almost every pose takes place under tension. Taking breaks helps the model to hold out longer (overall). Many models don't dare to ask for a short break from the shoot. They therefore hope that the photographer will repeatedly take (short) breaks.
And very important: Even if it sometimes looks really great when the model is relaxed and sipping a glass of water or talking on the phone: Leave the models alone during the break so that they can really relax! Nikon D3X with 1.4/85 mm Nikkor. 1/160 second, Blender 8, ISO 100.
(Photo © 2010: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
Send promised photos!
Figure 9.16: Even if the models receive money for the photo session or for the publication - they are most happy about successful photos! Provided the photographers send them to them, which unfortunately is often promised but then forgotten. So: Schick your models the best photos - but edited! - to your models within a week of the photo shoot. The models will then be happy to work with you again in the future! It doesn't have to be a lot of photos. The best 5 are enough. They should only be (at least slightly) edited. Nikon D3000 with 2.8/105 mm Micro Nikkor. 1/320 second, Blender 4.5, ISO 100. (Photo © 2013: Jens Brüggemann - www.jensbrueggemann.de)
The model contract - the written record of the mutual agreements made
To ensure that the good relationship between model and photographer is not damaged after the shoot, it is necessary to record all agreements in writing in the model contract. Especially when it comes to the publication and commercial exploitation of the photos, discrepancies can otherwise - unnecessarily - arise. Below you will therefore find three model contracts that I have drafted (and which have been checked by lawyers). The first two are for pay shoots (1st: percentage share; 2nd: fixed one-off fee); the third is for TFP shoots (TFP = "Tim For Pictures").
Commercial use of the photos by the photographer (percentage share)
Model release
Contract between:
Last name, first name: ........................................................
Artist name, if applicable: ........................................................
Street, house no.: .......................................................
Postal code, place of residence: ...........................................................
Phone no.: .....................................................................
Date of birth: ..............................................................
e-mail address: ...........................................................
(as model)
and
Surname, first name: ........................................................
Artist name, if applicable: ........................................................
Street, house no.: .......................................................
Postal code, place of residence: ...........................................................
Phone no.: .....................................................................
Date of birth: ..............................................................
e-mail address: ...........................................................
(as photographer)
The above-mentioned model, as the person depicted, hereby transfers to the above-mentioned photographer without restriction*) and irrevocably all rights to the image, in particular for commercial use (i.e. in particular for advertising and publication purposes) of all photographs taken on .................................... (date) by the above-mentioned photographer. Claims against third parties are excluded. Further agreements must be made in writing.
The model shall receive a share of the net profit from the photographer's publication fees from the commercial use of the above-mentioned photographs at .............. % .
The model must pay tax on this income herself. Settlement shall take place at the end of each calendar year. In order to ensure invoicing, the model must inform the above-mentioned photographer immediately of any changes to the postal address and bank details.
The model is entitled to use individual photos selected by the above-mentioned photographer from this shoot unchanged (with the exception of image size adjustments) for the purposes of self-promotion (in the portfolio, on sedcards and on the Internet on her own or model pages). The reference to the authorship of the above-mentioned photographer must be made in the following form for each photo publication: ..............................................................................
The model is not permitted to publish ("post") individual photos on www.facebook.com and other sites that restrict the sole exploitation rights of the author (i.e. the photographer) in their terms of use.
*) Without material, temporal or spatial restriction. The transfer of rights hereby also includes the possibility of modifying individual images by digital or other means.
......................................... (place), the ......................................... (date)
Signature of the model:
_______________
Signature of the photographer:
_______________
Bank details of the model:
Account no.: ........................................
Bank: .............................................
SORT CODE: ................................................
Commercial use of the photos by the photographer (fixed one-off fee)
Model release
A contract between:
Last name, first name: ........................................................
Artist name, if applicable: ........................................................
Street, house no.: .......................................................
Postal code, place of residence: ...........................................................
Phone no.: .....................................................................
Date of birth: ..............................................................
e-mail address: ...........................................................
(as model)
and
Surname, first name: ........................................................
Artist name, if applicable: ........................................................
Street, house no.: .......................................................
Postal code, place of residence: ...........................................................
Phone no.: .....................................................................
Date of birth: ..............................................................
e-mail address: ...........................................................
(as photographer)
The above-mentioned model, as the person depicted, hereby transfers to the above-mentioned photographer without restriction*) and irrevocably all rights to the image, in particular for commercial use (i.e. in particular for advertising and publication purposes) of all photographs taken on .................................... (date) by the above-mentioned photographer. Claims against third parties are excluded. Further agreements must be made in writing.
The model shall receive a fixed flat-rate model fee of ............................... euros in cash and confirms receipt of the full amount by signature.
The model must pay tax on this income herself.
The model is entitled to use individual photos selected by the above-mentioned photographer from this shoot unchanged (with the exception of image size adjustments) for self-promotion purposes (in the portfolio, on sedcards and on the Internet on her own or model pages). The reference to the authorship of the above-mentioned photographer must be made in the following form for each photo publication: ..............................................................................
The model is not permitted to publish ("post") individual photos on www.facebook.com and other sites that restrict the sole exploitation rights of the author (i.e. the photographer) in their terms of use.
*) Without material, temporal or spatial restriction. The transfer of rights hereby also includes the possibility of modifying individual images by digital or other means.
......................................... (place), the ......................................... (date)
Signature of the model:
_______________
Signature of the photographer:
_______________
Bank details of the model:
Account no.: ........................................
Bank: .............................................
SORT CODE: ................................................
TFP- (time for pictures) contract
Model Release
The contract between:
Last name, first name: ........................................................
Artist name, if applicable: ........................................................
Street, house no.: .......................................................
Postal code, place of residence: ...........................................................
Phone no.: .....................................................................
Date of birth: ..............................................................
e-mail address: ...........................................................
(as model)
and
Surname, first name: ........................................................
Artist name, if applicable: ........................................................
Street, house no.: .......................................................
Postal code, place of residence: ...........................................................
Phone no.: .....................................................................
Date of birth: ..............................................................
e-mail address: ...........................................................
(as photographer)
The above-mentioned model, as the person depicted, hereby transfers the rights to the image to the above-mentioned photographer without restriction*) and irrevocably to the extent necessary for the above-mentioned photographer to publish the photos non-commercially (e.g. for his/her website or on photo forums such as www.fotocommunity.de or www.model-kartei.de). This applies to all photographs taken on ................................... (date) by the above-mentioned photographer. Claims against third parties are excluded. Further agreements must be made in writing.
Publication of the photos in a pornographic context is hereby expressly excluded.
The model is entitled to use individual photos selected by the above-mentioned photographer from this shoot unchanged (with the exception of image size adjustments) for the purposes of self-promotion (in the portfolio, on sedcards and on the Internet on her own or model pages). The reference to the authorship of the above-mentioned photographer must be made in the following form for each photo publication: ..............................................................................
Publication ("posting") of individual photos on www.facebook.com and other sites that allow commercial use in their terms of use is not permitted for either the above-mentioned model or the above-mentioned photographer.
*) Without material, temporal or spatial restrictions. The transfer of rights hereby also includes the possibility of modifying individual images by digital or other means.
......................................... (place), the ......................................... (date)
Signature of the model:
_______________
Signature of the photographer:
_______________
Note: These sample contracts are taken from my textbook "Modelfotografie - Profiwissen Beauty-, Fashion- und Erotikfotografie" published in February 2013 (mitp-Verlag, 2013, 256 pages, with accompanying DVD with over 8 GB of making-of videos, ISBN 978-3-8266-9212-3). Chapter 10 contains detailed explanations of the respective points of the model contract.
