HOW TO RECRUIT A NUDE MODEL

HOW TO RECRUIT A NUDE MODEL - I'm going to attempt not to repeat information provided in the first and second posts in this series on finding and recruiting models. You should, however read or re-read those posts. Now, there are three basic options for finding and recruiting nude models. The first is family and friends. The problem is, it's a small model pool. The second option is to hire pro models through an agency or attend a workshop that provides pro models. The problem is, it's going to be quite expensive. The third, and probably most viable, option is to recruit amateur and/or semi professional models. Walking up to someone on the street, handing out a business card and saying "Would you consider modeling nude for me?", sometimes actually works, but don't count on it. If you use this approach, a better way of introducing yourself is to offer to meet with the prospective model and show her (or him) a portfolio of your work. Either suggest a public place for the meet and/or suggest that she bring a friend or spouse to the meeting. If you can, try to meet prospective models at an art or photography opening or at a photography class or workshop. This makes it a bit easier to approach the prospective model and to establish a degree of trust. An approach I have personally found yields a high degree of success is to attend a nude life drawing class. The models you access there are already comfortable with nudity. Of ten, they will be interested in modeling nude for a photographer. One caveat here. She's going to expect to make considerably more than she makes modeling for a drawing class or modeling privately for a painter. However the contact is made, the next step is to develop trust with the model. Be patient. This can take time. One smart approach is to initially recruit the model for sessions that do not involve nudity. Also, always give the model an option of bringing a friend to the session. However, discourage the model bringing her boyfriend. This can sometimes be a problem. Now, let's discuss a couple of important issues. First, ALWAYS make certain the model is of legal age. Don't just take the model's word for it. YOU MAKE CERTAIN. Second, be sure to get a proper model release. And, it goes without saying, SHOW THE MODEL RESPECT. There's not much more I can add. There's no magic formula. You'll need to learn by trial and error what works best for you. Good luck and best wishes. Larry Elkins - Elkinsphotos Fine Art Photography