Guidelines For Freelance Models

Know your photographer, ask to see some of the photographers work. Know exactly what is expected of you and never be bullied into doing something you don't want to do. Know where you are going to be at all times. Always get a valid full address for the location of the shoot. If you have to stay overnight make sure accommodation is provided for you. Never stay overnight at the photographers home. If travel and hotel plans have been made by the photographer verify those plans.

Only give your phone number to people you can trust. It maybe a good idea to get yourself a pager so you can only be contacted this way.You should never give your home address and telephone number to anyone, unless you are certain it is safe to do so. Always check references. If you have to travel alone make sure you have told somebody where you are going and the address you went to. Have them call you at the address. If the location of the shoot changes (it can happen and for good reasons). Make sure you contact someone to let them know the location has changed.

• Credentials. Client references, agency references, tear sheets from real-world publications, etc.

• Permanent address and business listing in a telephone directory.

• Membership in any professional organizations, verifiable.

• Professional business manner, with willingness to provide documentation of the shoot and terms.

• Will support staff be provided, make-up / hair styling, photo assistant(s), garment stylist(s), etc?

• Is this a location or a studio shoot? If studio, is it rental or independent?

• Will meals be provided?

• Will wardrobe be provided, or will I need my own? If I need my own, what will be needed? What if I don't have those items?

• Is this a real paying job, with a real paying client, or not? If not, then what is the purpose of the shoot, and will others be present?

• Will I be paid in cash, or TFP (trade for prints) or TFPCD (trade for images on a CD). If paid in cash, what fee will I be paid? Will I be paid by cash or check? If the job is out-of-town, are you willing to provide a cashier's check? If paid in prints, what size prints, what quality of prints, and how many prints will be provided?

Remember: The real questions to ask are associated with whether or not this is a real business or not, whether this photographer is shooting for business purposes or not, and whether this photographer operates in a business-like manner or not.While there are no right or wrong answers to all these questions, asking them will get you a clearer picture of whether this is a serious person, or someone who just wants to get a model alone with them. Your chaperone is really a matter of not encountering surprises on arrival, without support.

Important: Never agree to do a shoot, then change your mind, without a valid reason. Most valid reasons are associated with medical problems/illness. Most other reasons are mostly excuses. Excuses are not acceptable. If you offer an excuse, that is genuine, then be prepared to back that up, so the photographer knows you were sincere and will be much more likely to try working with you another time.

Good Luck - Stay Safe!

Ken & Sharon