The way you deal or interact with models is a major element in any photoshoot. As a photographer, you are not only tasked to visualize a scene or image; it is also your responsibility to create a good working relationship with your model(s).

Why is this important? To answer this, there are some things that you need to understand first.

The Model’s Responsibility

Before photographers can learn how to properly and professionally deal with models, they should also understand what a model’s responsibilities are during a photoshoot. Here is a breakdown of what a model is expected to do during a shoot.

• Models often represent a particular product, brand or advocacy (depending on what the shoot is for). The main reason why they are chosen for a shoot is because they embody what the company, organization or brand is looking for.
• Models are expected to find time to study the product, brand or advocacy they are endorsing. Whether it is a fashion brand or an event, they should know at least the basics about it.
• Models are professionals, so they know how to work with individuals from various sectors of society; and those who have different cultural backgrounds and beliefs.
• Models are expected to listen to and abide by the instructions of the photographer.
• Models know that communication is essential for the success of the photoshoot.
• Lastly, models should know that establishing a strong connection with the photographer is important in achieving the goal and in getting the message across.

How Photographers Should Deal with Models

Now that photographers know how models are expected to be during photoshoots, it’s time to enumerate the best ways of dealing with models. Being constantly aware of what the models’ responsibilities are will help photographers devise ways on how to build a professional connection with them.

Here are some tips that any photographer will find useful, no matter what the purpose of the shoot with the model is.

1. To find a connection with your models, allocate some time for small talk. Engage them in a healthy and interesting conversation. Ask questions about how they got into the modeling business. If the shoot is for a brand or product, you can ask them if they really patronize what they are endorsing. Whatever you talk about, though, make sure that you let them know why they were chosen for the project. Help make them feel good about themselves.
2. Make the models feel comfortable. This can be achieved by doing simple things like telling a joke or two (be sure they’re clean jokes!) or by bringing them a bottle of water. You can also complement them on their make-up or on their outfits.
3. Adjust to the personality of your models. You don’t have to like what they like or laugh out loud when they do. All that you need to do is try your best to be as happy or as energetic as your models. Or, if a particular model likes music, find a way to get some music into the shoot. Good background music can also relieve some stress.
4. If the model you are working with is a bit shy or not confident enough, find small ways to help him or her. For example, before you shoot the first scene, you can ask the rest of the crew to leave the room for a few minutes allowing you to shoot him or her alone. You can do this for a few minutes or until the vibe becomes comfortable. You can then gradually bring back inside the rest of the crew.
5. Remember that your models serve as the physical interpretations or reflections of your creativity. Therefore, it is important for you to give them an idea of what you want to achieve before you do the shoot. Likewise, you need to make the rest of the team members (the stylists and the creative team, including the hair and make-up artists) understand that priority number one is to make the models feel comfortable. As such, make sure, for example, that the make-up artist does not keep changing the look of the mode as this can become quite irritating. Likewise, a fashion stylist who keeps resetting the model’s style or look will elicit the same negative reaction.
6. Photographers should not in any way use sexual innuendos when giving out instructions to the model, or even when you are simply making small talk with them. Be careful with your words; choose them well. Find a respectful and subtle way of handing out instructions to any model you work with.
7. Male photographers should not, in any way, touch a model. The same goes for female photographers working with male models. Only do so when you have permission from the model, when it is absolutely necessary to do so (because it can help both parties come up with the needed results).
8. After taking several shots of your models, you can go over the images but never ever say anything negative in front of them. In other words, do not show them that you do not like this or that shot. This can affect the mood (and confidence) of the model. Instead, say that you want to shoot more from different angles – or something to that effect.
9. When giving instructions, especially when the situation is quite difficult or challenging (i.e. hanging on a ladder or climbing up a tree, or even when they have to go naked/half-naked), always ask permission from the model. Respect is essential in creating a professional relationship based on trust.
10. Finally, always remember that your models are humans. They have certain needs that have to be addressed. When they are drenched in sweat because you are shooting under the heat of the sun, find a way to make them feel comfortable. You can go on a break from time-to-time so the models can cool off. Or, you can simply show them that you’re experiencing the same thing, too.

The Ideal Model-Photographer Relationship

The ideal model-photographer relationship is one that is built on trust and respect. This is not easy to achieve, especially if the model is quite popular already. But if you follow the tips indicated above, you’ll be on the right track and pretty soon, your portfolio will be growing with stunning shots!