How to kickstart shooting agency models by using...Model Mayhem - a soup to nuts post
The website links in here that I used as examples, may be NWS
So. You want to shoot models be them male/female fashion, headshots, beauty, nude, alt? The first question people ask is "how do you find models", so, I'll attempt to answer that in this wall of text.
Intro/Disclaimer:
These are just some notes from 'my' experiences. Yours may be different. This is what worked for me and, of course, may or may not work for everyone. I'll also disclaim that I'm not a great photographer and I'm always striving to be better in both business and technical photography. I'm no where near the level of even some of the local guys in my area when it comes to this, so I don't want to come off as if I am. I'm also not some professional, working for Vogue, photographer. I do, however, produce a decent income from my photography and run a pretty successful business.
My advice relies on a few basic assumptions:
- You're somewhat social and have some friends
- You are somewhat experienced in photography
- You have inspiration, drive, and passion for whatever photography you want to get into. You've studied these inspirations and know them. For instance, before I even started I knew just about every photo by Helmut Newton, Ellen Von Unwerth. I could pick out a Richard Kern photo from 100ft away. I studied Avedon's lighting.
- You actually have a passion and are not just some guy who wants to shoot pretty girls for some sort of novelty.
- My advice applies from fashion to nude models. I shoot models fashion style, I shoot models edgy/nude.
- Use he/she interchangeably in the below.
- I'm really bad at writing. I'm sorry. I never went to college (Which is why I have to hustle at this!)
- You have some equipment (I could do every bit of my work with a D300, a 35mm, a speedlight, an umbrella, and gray wall. So, don't fret about that)/
- You have some locations. Either a studio, rental studio, a room converted to a studio, or just locations if weather is great by you. (AirBnB is great in a pinch)
- I'm assuming you're not a superstar photographer who can shoot Vogue covers already, but aspire to.
- I will not tell you how to convince people to let you photography them naked, if you're looking to go that route. I've never asked someone to be naked. Never.
- Also, there are a few local photographers that lurk these boards that have been doing this much longer than me. Cheers, and thanks, I've learned a lot from you and have a lot of respect for you. You all know who you are.
I'll break this down into 3 main phases. Phase 1 - The bottom of the barrell Phase 2 - Climbing the ladder and weening off Model Mayhem Phase 3 - Now you can poo-poo Model Mayhem
My phases will get less detailed as they go on, as trust me, you're going to figure out a lot for yourself by the time you get to Phase 3.
PHASE 1 Where do you start? You're a guy with a camera. Yep. You're that guy.
Now, you need some models right? Not so fast. You need a portfolio to get models! But, you need a model to get a portfolio!! What a bogus Catch-22 eh? Well, you have to start somewhere. The place that I'd recommend is Model Mayhem. Oh, that place filled with guys with camera and models with no experience? Yep. Guess what! You're a guy with a camera and no experience! Perfect! Poo-poo it all you want later, but it's a pretty great tool for kickstarting your end goal. Use this tool to your advantage.
Sign up for Model Mayhem. I'd suggest getting whatever their highest membership is. Don't worry, you'll make this money back by the end of the year. Don't skimp on this. It's silly. Why, you might ask? Well, because then you're not only just a guy with a camera, you're a guy with a camera who's too damn cheap to pay.
Boom. Now you're there. The models will be lining up to shoot with you the minute you sign up right?! Not so fast. You need at least a little bit of a portfolio, no? A profile? This seems to get people hung up. You already have 1 model. Yourself. If you're not comfortable getting in front of your own camera, how comfortable are you going to be directing a stranger in front of you! Do a few shoots in a style that you'd do for models. Doesn't have to be awesome, you'll get there. Do the best you can. You need something. Then, ask a few friends. How do you ask?
"Hi Jennifer! I'm trying to change directions with my photography and photograph more people than cats. You have to be about the most photogenic person I know! Would you be interested in helping me out for a few minutes and shooting a portrait to start my portfolio? If she's interested, bring Sarah along, I saw the last time she did your hair and it came out awesome! Attached are a few photos I'd like to give a shot at recreating. I'd also shoot any ideas you may have!"
Now, there are two strategies to this. Sending the inspiration photos before she commits, or sending it after. You send it before if you think she may be apprehensive and the photos will be sort of an "oh, OK, it's nothing crazy pretty basic". And. DO make those inspiration photos easy, basic, simply. Not racy.
If the answer is no, then move on to the next one. Then the next one. Then the next one. Do this until you get 5-10 images you can use to start your Model Mayhem account. Don't worry about having 5-10 models, just 5-10 images. This could be 3 of you, in different looks, and 3 of a friend you bribed with beer. Remember, these are likely going to be the best photos they've ever gotten of themselves (and, if they aren't what the hell are you doin!?)
If you're getting hung up on this initial speedbump, you need to get over it. If you can't manage to wrangle a friend or 2 behind a camera, as harsh as it sounds, either get with the program or keep shooting cats.
How this started out for ME was, my wife bought me a cheesy "Boudoir Photography" class that was being given by the local photography store. There were two models, Male and Female. Here were my images I started with. You can see that my models are me, my wife, and 2 models from the class I took. Eek that was embarrassing! But, it doesn't matter, you just need something.
So, that's how you get your initial photos for your portfolio on Model Mayhem. Now. You need to create some text for your profile.
"Hi, my name is Joe and I'm new to Model Mayhem. I'm not new to photography, but I'm looking to expand my interests to include more people! I'm interested in shooting portraits/fashion/beauty/model/nude/alt (pick one, or a few) and I'm looking to network with other photographers and models in the area to help each other out in building our portfolios!
I can usually shoot on the weekdays after 6pm or on weekends. I have a few locations I shoot at, pictured below, as well as I'm open to traveling and shooting at any locations you'd like to!
Some of my inspiration comes from these photographers: http://insertaprettybasicbutawesome/popularphotographer
You can check out more of my work and follow me here: http://www.websitename.com[1] http://joe.tumblr.com[2] http://instagram.com/Joe[3] http://facebook.com/JoesPhotography[4] and finally http://twitter.com/Joe[5]
EDIT: Actually this may help. Here is mine: http://www.modelmayhem.com/robtimko[6] - I wouldn't start out so rigid though....
Make all of those fairly consistent/same name, if you can. I regret not doing that. I want to just say 'I'm robtimko on all social media' I'm going to work on that.
A few tips:
- Have a photo of yourself somewhere and don't look like you're going to chain someone up in your basement well and drop lotion in a basket. Behind the scenes type photos work well. So do self-portraits.
- If you have a studio, be it make-shift or you rent one, have a photo of that
- If you have access to a female assistant. Be it a wife, or a female friend who'd help out from time to time, list it "I usually work with a female assistant and I also welcome you bring a friend/escort with you on your shoot"
Sweet. Your profile is made. You hear all those inexperienced bad models people complain about banging on the door? No. Of course you dont. You're still just a guy with a camera, with a hack-job portfolio!!
Ok. So, now you have a profile with some shitty photos in your port.
(CONTINUED BELOW)
(....Continued part 2) Now it's time to go look for models, because they aren't going to find you. Booking a model who you don't have to bribe with beer, isn't a friend. (but, you might have to pay). Browse the models in your area. More importantly, browse around for the photographers in your area. Figure out how to use the search/browse. Here's a summary of a few different kinds of models on Model Mayhem:
- Models who make a living getting paid by photographers to take (usually) nude photos. Many of these girls are in porn, cam girls, promo girls, go-go dancers etc. You can tell these girls as they usually have a huge port, don't work for free and are pretty decent (subjective tastes in overall looks aside) models. They usually have a traveling schedule, etc... This is NOT a negative. They are not lesser people than you.
- Alt models who aren't that experienced, but they have tattoos and are looking for a sense of community/want to be Suicide Girls. They'd love to be the above and sometimes charge. Their ports are usually not great and you can tell they really aren't making money at it. but they do love to be in front of the camera.
- People looking to legitimately get into mainstream modeling or models who started out on MM, but have now graduated to signing with a lower level agency. Their ports are pretty good, hit or miss, and models are pretty hit or miss as far as experience and skills. Usually have more of a traditional model look.
- Random people testing the waters - their port looks a lot like yours. Someone told them they should model or, they just really like photos of themselves and being in front of the camera. I've found some of my best models ever here with just a few photos. A few real clunkers too.
They each have pros and cons and each can be flakey.
You have a few options now. My first option may be controversial to many photographers, however, if I had to start all over again, I'd hire, as in pay, a few experienced models before anything. I've never paid/hired a model directly just for my port, I, like other photographers, poo-pooed that idea, but now looking back, it was stupid NOT to. ESPECIALLY if you want to shoot nude/edgier work and have no experience. DO NOT think you are 'better' than models charging on Model Mayhem. You're a guy with a camera, with no credibility, and a shitty port. I think this money spent is going to save you a lot of time dealing with flakey, inexperienced models and you're going to learn a lot. Are the models for hire on MM Kate Moss? No. Of course not, But do you know what Kate Moss's day rate is?
Figure out how to use the search/browse features and poke around a bit and see who's working in your area. At this point you should be making lists of every photographer in your area from good to bad. If you're going to hire a particular model, reach out to a photographer who you like who's shot her and reach out to them and explain that you're new and looking for an experienced model who knows how to move, is comfortable and needs little direction. Make friends with some other photographers. Look for models who are active, shooting a lot with the reputable photographers in your area.
Then, reach out to the model:
Hi Model,
My name is Joe and while I'm not new to photography, I'm new to Model Mayhem. I'm looking to get into more beauty/fashion/nude type of photography. I'm looking for an experienced model, who's comfortable in front of the camera, would wouldn't mind helping me out as an inexperienced photographer. I love your look, in particular your photos by Jim (other photographer). What are your rates for a 1-2 hr shoot in that style?"
Lay it out there. No need to bullshit. If you're paying, you don't need to bullshit.
That's what I'd do if I had to do it all over again. Don't assume you're just a rockstar photographer doing THEM a favor. I'd do that a few times rather than stumble through my second option.....which is to contact a lot of the newer models in your area with 'eh' ports, but still seem to be actively shooting reach out to them with this:
Hi!
My name is Rob and while I'm not new to photography I'm new to Model Mayhem. I'm looking to get into more beauty/fashion/nude type of photography. Would you be interested in a TFP shoot in Boulder? I have a studio setup and my wife is my assistant. Lately, I've been shooting a lot in studio against a white background. If you're interested in working together let me know. I'm open to any ideas you may have as well! I really liked your photo with X photographer [or, just insert something personalized that's not boiler plate but not creepy]
Rob
http://robtimko.tumblr.com[1] http://timkophotography.com[2] http://facebook.com/TimkoPhotography[3] http://instagram.com/rtimko[4] "
.And just spam that out to a few models who are active. I'd target models that have decent looks that you won't struggle wit. As well, I'd also recommend that you target people with portfolios that YOU KNOW you can do better than. Unless you're paying, I'd recommend you don't shoot over your head right yet. Pick people with poor ports that you KNOW you can blow them away. This is going to do so much for your confidence, and so much for your reputation/recommendations/word of mouth.
I'd stay away from the somewhat experienced Alt-models and 'good' 'almost agency' models for the time being. Easier to build your initial port with low hanging fruit.
So. You're going to get some flakes. Have your shit together to try to limit that. By that, I mean, request cell phone number and contact emails. Make sure the schedule is solid. Also, make sure you set expectations NOW. RIGHT NOW.
"Hi Jessica,
Here is our upcoming availability for May! Friday 5/2 @ 5:30 p.m. Saturday 5/3 @ 4 pm Friday 5/9 @ 5:30 pm Saturday 5/10 3 pm or later Saturday 5/17 4 pm or later Monday 5/19 @ 5:30 pm Saturday 5/24 anytime between 11-6 pm
Our shoots typically take anywhere from 1.5-2.5 hours. From that, I'll fully edit and deliver my top 5 photos and if the shoot goes really well, I'll upload some proofs for you to pick out a few more for me to edit. (That last part is optional. I can say that every time I've offered it, after sending my top 5, then sending a a page with 50 unedited proofs on it, no one has ever asked me to edit any more. Very very rare and they are usually ecstatic with the images they get)
Please let me know ASAP if any of these dates/time slots work for you, as we book up quickly and it's first come first serve booking.
I need the following items of information before I can officially book you: - a phone number you can be reached at - an additional email address other than MM
Once I have all of these pieces along with a date/time you would like, I'll send over a confirmation booking email to you with directions to our studio and suggestions on what to bring for your shoot.
Thanks! Laurie"
and then they will respond......
Then, send out an email like this.
Hi Lauren,
I've added you to our schedule for Saturday May 24th @ 11 am.
Our studio is located at: XXX XXXX Boulder, CO 80305. When putting the address into Google Maps, once you're on XXX Drive it's the large 2 story BLUE building on the left hand side of the street. You can park anywhere in front on the street. Our studio is the last unit on the left hand side when facing the building.
As far as what to bring for the shoot, more is better! Bring a various amount of tops, bottoms, panties (if you're shooting in them), and shoes. Some of the staples we've found work best are tanks, skinny jeans, plain black panties/bra, vintage tees & heels. As far as bras and panties, typically less flashy works best. Simple, lace, neutral colors photograph really well and aid in our lighting set-ups. We like to shoot more casual fashion that high fashion. Also bring anything you'd like to shoot in for your own portfolio and make-up that you may need.
Just a side note: if you need to cancel or reschedule your shoot, if you could do it ASAP that's really helpful! We don't reschedule test shoots that are cancelled less than 24 hours before our scheduled time.
Please don't hesitate to contact us via email or phone with any other questions
We look forward to shooting with you!
Laurie booking@timkophotography.com Rob - 732-673-5555 Laurie - 908-304-5555
(Continued Below)
So, now you're scheduling models. The email example above was sent to an agency model, so a new model would probably appreciate a little more communication. Something like perhaps some example shots or, ask her if there are any shots she'd like to recreate.
Some tips: - You're going to get flakes. It's going to happen. So, schedule your shoots where you're not like..taking off work or something. You'll get last minute 'model fever' (models so damn hot they get a fever!) - Be professional in your communications. - CONFIRM 2 DAYS/1 DAY BEFORE. "Just want to make sure we're still on!"
So, now you have this thing going. The ball is rolling! I won't get into how to actively use social media, but, have HAVE to. No questions! READ JAB JAB JAB RIGHT HOOK, by Gary V.! Once booked you should follow them on everything. Send a Tweet out or a Facebook post 'Stoked to shoot @person next week! - Stay tuned!' - Keep those jabs coming. However, on Model Mayhem, I prefer not to be too social. Too many creepy/weird photographers out there who comment on everyones photos like 'OMG you are to DIE for" or something.
I can't go over 'how' to shoot but I can bullet point a few things
- Have a model release. Here's mine, use it:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sXNudKXvqfWaVAw9ynaCC9VhrLc5Lzx00O-zXnppHEw/edit?usp=drive_web[1]
- Agree on nudity and document that in #8.
- Sign the release before you shoot. When I get someone in my studio to shoot it's usually this schtick.
"Hi Jane, nice to meet you! Feel free to put your suitcase and all your stuff over there, you can hang it up if you like or just throw it all over"
"Cool, looks like you brought a lot of cool stuff! let's get the release out of the way then let's go through your wardrobe and see what's going to work"
Then, I explain the release, and say #8 is for things like if you don't want nipples showing, don't want your real name used, etc....
Then, you shoot.
DELIVER YOUR EDITS WITHIN 7 DAYS. Hustle. Don't let it sit. Me? I MADE SURE to get my edits done before the next weekend. I've never gone longer than 7 days and I've shot probably 100 different models in a year.
When you deliver your photos send something like this.
Kelsey,
It was great shooting with you last weekend! Attached are my edited pics from our shoot in a few different looks/edits. I hope you like them! Please confirm you got them ok. Sometimes I go through them again a few weeks later and edit a few more. If so, I'll of course send those over too.
I don't watermark my images as I think it looks tacky, so if you can throw a credit/link/tag to me if you post anywhere, that'd be great, I'll of course do the same.. Also, since I'm just starting out, and people are sometimes reluctant to shoot with new photographers, (especially edgy) any sort of reviews/kind words regarding your experience on our social media or a tag on our ModelMayhem page goes a long way!
Thanks, Rob http://robtimko.tumblr.com[2] http://timkophotography.com[3] http://facebook.com/TimkoPhotography[4]http://instagram.com/rtimko[5]
Then start posting things on social media, tagging people, etc....do that shit like crazy!!!!
So..... now you know how to do this. Do this for like 3 months. It's going to suck. You're going to get bad models (if you don't go the hiring route) try to be a little picky, but...fucking shoot. Shoot as much as you can. You'll learn more from the bad models than the good ones. All these images are going to be thrown away in another 3 months anyways.
I took this approach above and shot probably 10 models in the first month. Half were shit. A few I still shoot to this day. We help each other out and they were ambitious about becoming agency models as I was shooting them.
I'll call that "Phase 1". Many 'guys with cameras' just stay with this. That's their gig. That's not yours. Don't be that guy.
Please feel free to ask me any questions. Like I said, I'm not very good at writing. Phase 2 below...
PHASE 2.
Phase 2 is being picky about models, possibly even getting paid, and building a better portfolio. Climbing that ladder and weening off of Model Mayhem.
By this time, IF you are doing social media right (You have to be active!) - you likely have a SHIT ton of word of mouth. You're going to get inquires, and often. Most of them will be from 'friends' who aren't even models. Don't poo-poo these people If they aren't going to add to your port, that's where you zinger with the paid stuff!
Angela,
Hi! I've seen your work through some fellow classmates…beautiful! If you're ever looking for new 'models' for your portfolio, let me know!
...
Hi Angela,
We're always looking to shoot different people. Have you ever shot before? Our work ranges from portraits/fashion to a little bit on the edgy side, panties, see-through, topless, etc... what type of shoot were you interested in? You can see some work on our tumblr:http://robtimko.tumblr.com/[6] since we can't post the edgy stuff on Fb.
We're booked up on free shoots slots for this month.
Our rates are pretty reasonable for paid shoots and we can probably work with your budget.
I may have a cancellation and can put you on that last minute list if you like.
Also, our studio is in Boulder off South Broadway (by Fairview HS). I work 100% together with my wife, Laurie.
-Rob & Laurie
Then that usually goes 50/50. Actually, you'd be surprised on how many book paid shoots in just that fashion! Now, that's only getting $150-250 for a 2hr shoot, as I work with a lot of poor college girls, but, it's something!
IF SOMEONE IS GOING TO ADD TO YOUR PORTFOLIO, I'm still going to recommend NOT charging and simply just keep shooting and building that portfolio/experience!! Keep on keeping on with this phase. One thing I like to do is reach out to apparel companies, local breweries, etc. and get shirts, etc. to shoot in. If it's a free/test shoot, I'll be sure to shoot the model in that shirt, send the photos to the company, breweries and it gives me some more exposure on social media, as well as....well, free stuff/beer. Makes the 'free' hurt less, and more importantly, it expands your network. I've gotten thousands of dollars of work from just doing this.
Be more selective with models. At this point, they'll probably be coming to you. Put out a casting call that looks like this though, as to have a hook in the water.
My wife and I run a studio in Boulder and we're looking to shoot some new models! Our style is a 50/50 mix of fashion/edgy. You can check out our work in our portfolio or our Tumblr: http://robtimko.tumblr.com[7] Our 'edgy' is usually panties/see-through/topless/implied. We usually don't shoot full nude unless the model requests it.
We're also looking to shoot some male models! However, we prefer non-bodybuilder types and are looking for some outgoing American Apparel-ish guys who are comfortable shooting edgy.
We do a few test/trade shoots a month. We're professional, reliable and anyone who's worked with us before (be sure to check out our tags!) can attest that you'll have your edited images no more than 7 days after our shoot. Usually, earlier. We'll sometimes provide some wardrobe as well.
If you have any images or looks you may need for your portfolio, we're willing to shoot those as well.
Our shoots usually run ~2hrs and we'll shoot a few different looks and lighting. From that, I'll edit my top ~5 images for you in a few different looks.
If you have a location you've been wanting to shoot at, we're also game for that.
We look forward to working with you! -Rob & Laurie http://robtimko.tumblr.com[8] http://fb.com/TimkoPhotography[9] http://instagram.com/rtimko[10] http://www.timkophotography.com[11]
In this phase, you need to start doing some investigation. Who's are the agencies in your area? Google "modeling agencies in X" . If you're not in a major city like LA or NYC, you should get a good 5 or so. They'll likely be in order of Best to Worst. By worst I don't mean worst I just mean it's kind of like a ladder and most models start at the bottom, you should too. In my area there are 3. The top one is a branch of a national one, the middle one is the local one, but the top of the line local one, and the next one is a good agency, it's usually 'my first modeling agency', reputable and good, though, however. The rest are all 'eh'.
Most likely, in your social media and on MM you'll see that 3rd name pop up a lot. 'Signed with X agency' or something. You'll start to notice the photographers who shoot for those agencies. I have to say, reach out to those guys. Have beers. Network. You'll run into a few who treat it like some sort of competition, fuck those guys. But, most are usually great, better than you, and you can learn from them.
(continued below)
Hopefully, by this point your work is up to par with that particular agencies book/board, which you can find on their website. If not, keep on keeping on and get better until it is. If you can't look at that agency's site and say 'I can take better photos than 50% on their board' - keep shooting what you're shooting until you can. If you can, though, start reaching out to those models. Be them on model mayhem or on social media (Facebook, instagram). By this point you should be pretty established with a good reputation, these people should all know you already because you've been active in social media, commenting on their photos, liking shoots with other photographers, and because you likely shot a friend of theirs already. Reach out to models that are 'friends' with models that you've already shot, for a little more credibility 'Oh, he's shot X' . You want to pick the LOW HANGING fruit from the new agency people. The girls who are still on Model Mayhem but maybe just signed. The girls/guys that need stuff for their books. SOME photographers well cemented in the industry will disagree with this. Understand that I'm not saying to try to undermine the top agencies in NYC. We're not talking top tier agencies. We're talking entry level where the agency reps don't usually setup shoots for photographers and APPRECIATE that you're shooting their girls and they don't have to be bothered with it. I'll get to actually working with agencies in the next Phase.
Keep shooting the shit work too though....... (yep, those amazing shoots you had in the first few months, you'll now get better and start calling them 'shit' - but the 'shit' is what turns into money though, remember that. You won't be rolling in it, but you'll book a shoot here and there for 150$) while continuing to book these new agency models. At this point you want to start networking with make up artists, hair, etc.... This is pretty critical. You should build a network of HMUA/Stylists.
Get like 5-6 girls from that entry level agency shot. Then, drop an email to the agency like this, and attach a collage/mood board with all the models you've shot from their agency..
"Barb,
I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Rob and together with my wife, Laurie, we run Timko Photography. We've shot so many Acme model's that I thought I'd drop you an email! We're based in Boulder and shoot a broad spectrum of fashion, beauty, all the way through edgy, from headshots to lifestyle. We have our own studio and are a registered and insured LLC. We have a great, professional, reputation in the area and work with a few good HMUA's.
Let us know if you need anything shot, either specific tests you may need or if a client may need a photographer, and we'll be sure to do the same on our side!
You can see some more of our work below.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Rob & Laurie Timko Photography, LLC http://timkophotography.com[1] http://facebook.com/TimkoPhotography[2] http://instagram.com/rtimko[3] "
You'll get a response like this!
A warm hello, Rob & Laurie!
Thank you for taking the time to reach out and introduce yourselves. I appreciate it! :)
I am quite familiar with your work and I think it's great!
Our regular agency shooters make their port shot rates remarkably affordable for our on a dime budget models.
Would you be open to hearing those rates?
Thank you again!
All the best! Barb
Barb Owner, Agent 303-555-5555 acme.com
Boom. You're going to get paid SHIT. Like...nothing. Actually, most of the time they'll say 'we don't usually pay for test shoots' BUT, you have access to their boards. NOW you can contact the agency rep and schedule test shoots where YOU pick the models. "I'd like to shoot X Y Z" Boom. They'll put you in contact with them. Now. again, don't start out with the most best person on their board. ALSO, work with the agency. "If you have any special shots you may need for their book, let me know and I'll see what I can do" "if you have anyone in need of headshots or something, let me know" - you'll have to take the 'shit' from them every once in a while too. Take the good with the bag. "I'd love to! I've really been wanting to shoot with Jennifer too!'
Some tips:
- SOCIAL MEDIA. Everyone at 'this' phase is trying to make it. The models are entry level. YOU are not "entry level". They are going to be better looking, for sure, but not necessarily more experienced than the alt-model you hired in month one.
- It really really helps to have networked with a 'team' by now. Finding make up artists, stylists, etc..... You shouldn't be contacting the agencies without being able to put this together.
- HAVE MOOD BOARDS. I send mood boards each test shoot. A quick collage of a look I'm going for. Agencies like this stuff and models do too.
- For the agency test shoots - YOU are in control of the shoot. You have to start being a little more alpha and running things.
So, that's Phase 2.......
Phase 3.
Phase 3 is where you've you're going to graduate from shooting the entry level stuff. Your port looks good because you have pretty, albeit inexperienced people. BUT, at this point, YOU are more experienced too. Think about, now, that if you had the chance and tried to bullshit a shoot with a top agency model in your area....she'd chew you up and spit you out!
So, now start working up the agency latter, but, by contacting the agencies and starting to build that relationship.
"Greetings!
I'm a photographer in the Denver/Boulder area. I'm interested in shooting tests with your agency! My wife and I have a studio in Boulder as well as location shoot in Denver. We are a registered and insured LLC in Colorado and we have access to a full team (MUA/Hair). Attached are a few shots from my portfolio/comp card.
-Rob Timko Photography, LLC Boulder, CO (720) 295-5555 http://timkophotography.com[4] "
Boom. If your work is good, you'll get a response to shoot free tests for pretty much any person on their board. Keep on shootin'! Some tests are paid, some are not. The models will get better, more experienced, and your port keeps growing. The better your port gets the more people contact you to shoot, the more you can make some lens money on paid shoots.
So, you went from shooting inexperienced dregs of Model Mayhem, to having your pick of any of the top models in your area, in about a year, doing it part time, give or take. Does that sound reasonable?
Remember, you'll get a shit ton of inquiries with all this work (IF YOU ARE ACTIVE IN SOCIAL MEDIA) - At this point, anyone who's not going to add to your portfolio, negotiate a rate. Remember that no one knows what people are paying for all the shoots you're posting to social media. No one knows that it's all free or low priced agency test shooting. This is what's going to make you a few bucks.
Create a false demand - "All booked up for May, I do have 1 slot left if anyone wants to shoot, it's a weird time so theres a super cheap discount!" "Last minute cancellation anyone want a free/cheap shoot?"
But, know when to do that.
BE ACTIVE IN SOCIAL MEDIA. Like, at this point everyone in your area should know you and you should be getting 1-2 inquiries a day to shoot from random people. Every once in a while a clothing company, or a legit paying gig.
So, how the fuck do you make REAL money from here? Well, sometimes people ask the agency for photographers, and if you're a reputable photographer for the agency, you'll get work. It's all about networking. But, this little write up was just how to use Model Mayhem to jump start your path towards being that pretentious Vogue cover shooter!
(DONE FOR NOW!)