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WHAT TO EXPECT -- SHOOT OVERVIEW

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Following is an overview of what to expect and how to prepare for my shoots. My shoots are always very relaxed and low key...I think they should simply be a lot of fun for both of us so that your expressions in the shots are naturally warm and inviting. You'll find that because of this philosophy I tend to give models a lot more leeway and creative input than they are used to when working with other photographers.

 

 

==== Who am I? ====

 

I'm a semi-pro photographer who loves creating true art while having fun meeting new people. While I can guarantee that we will have really good shots working together and that you'll have fun, I'm not currently a true professional in that I don't try to profit from photos we take, and when I travel I work on-location (not out of a studio).

 

 

==== What are the Model Requirements? ====

 

My goal is to work with a variety of models with varied personalities. Thus, the requirements are simple:

1.       Female over 18 years old

2.       In healthy shape (fit, but do NOT need to be skinny!)

3.       Great personality

4.       Responsible – will show up to the shoot on time, and call ahead if they are running late or have to reschedule.

5.       Prior experience modeling is never necessary. I’ve helped to launch the modeling careers of over 25 of my models (I've worked with over 150) by putting together their first portfolio…

 

If you are in a hurry and don’t have time to read this whole overview, please review the “Model Checklist” at the bottom of this page.

 

==== Location of the shoot: ====

 

As I am in town for my day job (as a consultant), the shoot will generally be in a hotel suite. Note that nearly all of the shots in my portfolio have been shot in hotel rooms, so as you can see the results can be quite pleasing (none of the photos have a cluttered look that you may expect from that type of location, and all have great lighting...)

 

For example, take a look at Samples from Victoria's Tiny Apartment (password: "james"). Although they were all taken just in the entryway of the model's very small, and very cluttered apartment, I think that they look like quite good! Wouldn't you agree?

 

Also, if we are shooting at a hotel, you can be reassured that my full information is on file with them.

 

 

==== References ====

 

For additional peace of mind, I'm happy to provide you with a reference to ANY model that I have previously done a shoot with, just pick them off of my portfolio site and I'll put you in touch.

 

You can see some of their testimonials about me on my web site, at Pbase Testimonials and at MySpace Comments

 

In addition, soon after our shoot, I'd like YOU to write a short testimonial on my behalf -- I don't care what you write, as long as it is honest and heart-felt... Just share your experiences with me, and what you think about the final results of our collaboration!

 

 

==== Escorts: ====

 

Yes, you are always welcome to bring an escort with you to the shoot. The way I see it, the more comfortable you feel, the better the photos will be!

 

Anyway, during the actual shoot just the model and I are present, though I actually welcome escorts/girlfriends since more often than not they end up posing with the model once they see what a shoot with me is like (none of the duos and just one of the couples on my site have been pre-planned).

 

Note that if the escort is NOT going to be part of the actual photo shoot, then after we all meet at my room and you both feel comfortable, the escort should leave and return back at the end of the shoot. I've found that models tend to be much more confident and vibrant that way... Note that you can continue to keep in touch with your escort via phone, texting every 1/2 hr, etc.

 

 

==== Typical Shoot Schedule: ====

 

Here is how a typical full 2hr shoot goes:

1/2 hr: Meet, prep for shoot, sign model release, and then model chooses poses.

1 1/2 - 2hrs: Actual photography

1/2-1hr: Review the shots, model picks out favorites, set time for follow-up shoot.

 

1 hr shoots are much shorter, and look more like this:

15min: Meet, prep for shoot, sign model release, and then model chooses poses.

1hr: Actual photography

15min: Skim the shots, pick out favorites, set up follow-up shoot and detailed photo review session.

 

In either case, at the follow-up shoot, the model will:

- be able to preview the polished photos from the 1st shoot,

- request any changes, and

- indicate the photos that they’d like to perfect during the follow-up shoot...

 

 

==== Payments? ====

 

As I don't (currently) sell or redistribute the photos (and because my photos are quite good), I generally offer two types of compensation for the shoot:

1. I pay you $20/hr (or fixed rates as mutually agreed) of actual photography + best 2-3 photos, or else

2. TFP (free to both of us + best 5-7 photos)

 

If you choose to do a non-TFP shoot, you'll be paid at the same time as the shoot (cash).

 

If the model wants copies of any more photos, then I deduct $10 from the cost of shoot for each additional one -- this gives the model and I incentive to shoot results that we both love. Alternatively, the model gets 5-7 soft copies for TFP Artistic Nudes shoots. Note that if you opt to do a fashion only shoot (shoots without artistics or implied nudes) they are only done as TFP (free to both of us + best 2-3 photos). Either way, I tend to give all the best photos from a shoot to models who really work well with me. That is why you'll see that some models have 30+ polished photos in their portfolio from me...

 

 

==== When do I get my photos? ====

 

I try to get them to you as soon as I can -- following minor touch-ups -- generally anywhere from 3 days - 2 weeks, and will upload the high-res versions for you to download as soon as you send your own short testimonial sharing with others how you like your experience and the results of our work -- regardless of what you say! :-)

 

If time permits I will fix up at least one or two of the shots right there with you immediately following the shoot (it ends up taking about 30min/photo), so that you can literally walk away with some great shots that you love.

 

If you don't have time to stay after the shoot, then I usually schedule a follow up shoot/meeting with you (later that day or the following day) to do pick up shots anyways.

 

 

==== Types of Poses ====

 

As discussed, this is intended to be a classy artistic nude shoot, with the poses similar to my past work on My Full Portfolio. However, if you are shy or this is your first time, we can just focus on more PG rated shots, such as in My Top PG-rated Portfolio.

 

Most importantly, the goal of the shoot is to capture YOUR PERSONALITY -- so bring along whatever accessories your friends would consider to be "you". Have fun, be adventurous, crazy, seductive, or silly!

 

Thus, yes, you will be nude during about 1/2 of the shoot. However, as you can see, my specialty is implied nudes -- the types of photos that could be considered PG rated. I also like to take A LOT of photos in which you are clothed, such as portraits, and expressive shots -- so you will have several great photos to show your family/friends if you want to...the types of photos you can show on your MySpace or FaceBook pages, etc.

 

Again, what we do in these shoots is entirely up to you and whatever you feel comfortable with. I will never ask you to do a pose that you haven't already expressed interest in when we plan out our shots at the start of our shoot. Remember, YOU get to pick the poses prior to the start of the actual shoot...

 

I am fine doing a non-nude shoot if we agree to such beforehand, but in that case the shoot is only done an a TFP basis (meaning that you would just receive soft copies of the best 2-3 shoots, no actual monetary payment).

 

 

==== What happens with the photos? ====

 

I currently have no intention of selling or publishing the photos I take, though the better ones currently do get posted to two sites: pbase (which is the password protected site for models to download the results of their shoots and for prospective models to see my work), and photosig (a professional photography review board). Perhaps in the future I would like to publish a classy coffee table book, but I'm in no hurry...

 

 

==== Makeup/Shower ====

 

If you have time, please shower off (to remove any excess oils/sweat) just prior to coming to the shoot, and be sure to not wear any tight clothing; however, whatever you do, please do not be late to the shoot!

 

As you can tell from my work, I prefer classy, natural poses. I shoot artistic nudes and bodyscapes -- not glamour, not porn. Thus, there will be no make-up artist at the shoot. If you want to do makeup, that is fine – just don’t go overboard. Natural is best! (Remember, this is art, not glamour.) Nevertheless, I have worked with MUAs for more exotic shots, and can easily do glamour if you need some shots in that style.

 

 

==== What to bring ====

 

Please bring a VARIETY of interesting props, accessories, and outfits for the non-nude/semi-nude portion of the shoot which reflect YOUR PERSONALITY. I try hard to convey the personality of the model in the pictures, and don't want just the clichéd lingerie shots. I really want to capture YOUR natural beauty so that someone looking at the photo can easily get a sense for your fun loving, interesting, and unique personality...

 

By "interesting outfits", I mean simple, solid colors (black, white, or strong colors like red, blue, or pink are usually best), but with interesting patterns -- Do keep in mind that I like to convert many of my photos to black and white. This may include items such as:

- Alternative styles

- Skirts or dresses

- Scarves, knits

- Sheer clothing

- Heels/Boots

- Lingerie: If you really like some of your Lingerie, we'll use them.

- Necklaces: Please bring some! I am a really big fan of the use of elegant necklaces in my portraits, e.g.: "Sea Green on Red".

 

 

==== Making the shoot about YOU ====

THIS PART IS REALLY IMPORTANT FOR A GREAT SHOOT! Feel free to call me to discuss ideas...

 

In addition to clothes and items for classic-style poses, I also encourage you to bring whatever other props that you think would be suitable for a more interesting shoot that reflects your personality. Also, don't forget to bring along your favorite music to help you "get into the mood" with your modeling... it makes it a lot more fun!

 

You can see samples of what models have brought at: Examples of Props Used by Other Models.

 

Once again, the goal here is to capture photos reflecting who you are, and it is your chance to get a little corny or wild as the case may be.

 

Really, you can bring anything (safe). If you play any portable instrument, bring that. If you have a favorite book, toy, or hobby; love your ipod, costume, bubble baths, milk, candy, baby oil/glitter or a certain drink; are into paint ball, bondage, wine, or whatever -- if it is safe and is you, bring it!

  

 

==== Model's Checklist: Summary ====

 

1. Government issued ID (Driver's License, Passport, etc.)

2. Your favorite music (on MP3 player is best)

3. Interesting Outfits

4. Props (I love bold necklaces, also bring anything else you want as long as it is safe. Ideas.)

5. Confirm your arrival time (Please call me 1hr-30 min before you arrive. I often do back-to-back shoots, so if you are running late I'd appreciate knowing that I can give more time to the other model!)

6. Do not wear anything tight fitting prior to the shoot (straps and elastic leave marks on your body!)

7. Have fun, be adventurous, crazy, sexy, or silly! Remember, this shoot is about you, and whatever personas you want to capture!

 

 

==== MOST IMPORTANT: ====

 

Most important is to make sure that you are well rested ("Bright eyed and bushy tailed" as the saying goes), and don't wear anything tight (like bra straps or elastic underwear) prior to the shoot (the impressions left on your skin can ruin the pictures).

 

*** Finally, if you have any poses in mind, please feel free to email (or bring along) a copy of what you'd like to do. ***

 

If you have any other questions, just ask! Looking forward to a great shoot!

- James