How to Become a Model Photographer

Model photography can be artistically and financially rewarding.

Professional photographers may specialize in one or more areas of practice that range from landscape to boudoir photography. If you enjoy working closely with people in order to capture their best side while showcasing your creative abilities you may be interested in a career as a model photographer. As a model photographer you must have a keen eye for detail and enjoy working in creative and sometimes challenging atmospheres.

Things You'll Need

• Camera
• Lighting Equipment
• Model(s)
• High gloss photo paper
• Portfolio

Instructions

1. Create a portfolio showcasing your ability to photograph models. Gather your camera, lighting equipment and models before selecting a location to shoot. If you cannot afford professional models, ask your friends or family members to pose for you; however, if you wish to work with aspiring models you can hire models for a TFP (time-for-print) photo shoot where you do not pay them but rather provide the models with copies of the prints as compensation. You can hire models by posting advertisements on talent websites such as Model Mayham or your cities Craigslist site. Make sure that you clearly inform the models that this photo shoot is for your portfolio.

2. Schedule a shooting day and location with your models. This location can be in your home, at a park or throughout your city. Clarify the shooting time and location and select a meet up point.

3. Capture the models in a wide variety of poses showcasing your particular shooting style. As a model photographer you are expected to highlight the product the model is wearing (clothes, accessories, shoes, etc.) while also capturing the best side of the model. Take your time photographing your models and only move onto the next angle after you are satisfied.

4. Print off your 10 best shots from the photo shoot on high gloss photo paper and place them in your portfolio, which can be purchased at any hobby store. Upload the photographs on your website, if you have one. Don’t forget to send copies of the photo shoot to your models for their compensation.

5. Contact local talent agencies within your city and ask about their photographer submission guidelines. Some talent agencies do not represent photographers; however, they will be able to provide contact information for talent agencies or management companies that handle fashion, or model, photographers.

6. Submit your portfolio to the talent agencies or management companies that represent photographers. The fashion industry is highly competitive so don’t be surprised if you are turned down by agencies on your first round of submissions. If an agency or management firm is interested in representing you, they will offer you an exclusive or non-exclusive contract. Under an exclusive contract you are unable to sign with another agency; however, non-exclusive contacts let you sign with numerous agencies. Agent commission rates vary, yet never sign a contract if an agent receives more than 25% commission on work they book for you. Also, never pay an agency to represent you. After you have signed with a talent agency or management firm your work will be submitted to clients.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are just starting out, take time to develop your portfolio. Showcase several different shooting styles to highlight your creative versatility.

• You can hire professional models from a modeling agency; however, be expected to pay several hundred dollars for each model.

• Never pay an agency or management firm a fee to represent you. Agents only receive compensation if they find you work.

Resources

• Style Career: How to Become a Fashion Photographer