In the midst of a cancellation culture, it’s easy to make mistakes as a photographer. Sometimes, a seemingly innocuous act can tarnish your reputation. I made this video because following these steps helped me and I hope it serves you too.
List your crew
Models need to know exactly who will be attending their photo shoot and they need advance notice to check on everyone. Don’t make this photography mistake! It’s a crazy world, so give them a chance to feel welcome and safe. Calling boards come with everyone’s phone numbers. The call sheet should also come with the exact addresses you intend to use. Everyone should know where and with whom they will be.
24 hour alert
Calls (see above) must come 24 hours before the photo is taken. People need time to process and collect their thoughts. If, for whatever reason, talent needs a little more time to say “I’m not comfortable with this,” give them that moment and make a change. We owe them that, because they’re human, and we have to control the Ministry. That’s our name at the end of the day! Do everything you can to make sure your school talent feels safe and manageable.
Models and talent don’t look like a surprise
Surprises are great, like surprising people on set with cupcakes! Surprisingly talented with a brand new concept is not professional and can really set someone back. Major ad changes must be indicated by a common capture list. For example, a photographer asking a model to pose in their bra without their prior knowledge is horrible! It’s a big change that needs to be covered first, and it allows the model to reject or approve this.
Questionable photos
If you have a photo that you love, but the pose is problematic, perhaps a bit sexier, ask the model for their approval. Simply put, here’s why: it’s their body, and you’re putting it in the center for all to see. Please, please. The other part is that we often value youthful looks, especially in America. We’re in a very old part of the world, and that means many of the models you photograph are younger. It’s someone’s child. Keep that in mind when you post.
The video adds some other useful points that help my business. I hope these tips serve your business and your success. Let’s make sure we care about each other, our own success, and those of those guests on our set.
