Safety Tips for Models

Modeling is normally a safe activity. Unfortunately, there are a number of unsavory characters out there who will prey on those who are vulnerable. Some shoots can place you in a vulnerable position. So, here are some tips I've collected from various photography and model sites to help ensure your safety.

Do your research into your Photographer.

• Check references with other models he or she has shot.
• Make sure you see examples of their work. And specific, examples of what they want to use you for.
• Check the National Sex Offender Registry.
• Use Google or another search engine to look up their name.
• Check with sites such as OneModelPlace, ModelMayhem, etc.
• Find out as much as you can about those you are considering working with. Ask around.
• Be certain to get a verifiable home and/or studio phone number, and street address, for anyone you work with. Especially if you are meeting somewhere
• If a photographer say's he shoots for a certain magazine......look in the mag and see if his name is in the mast- head.. If it isn't, call the editor to verify him. If they don't know him, drop him/her immediately.

Protect your Privacy.

• Never post personal contact information, such as address and phone number in an area where the public will view it (such as websites, message boards...etc).
• Be very careful regarding posts and e-mail from anyone with a generic (hotmail, yahoo, etc.) e-mail address.
• Be wary of unprofessional posts and emails.
• A private area should be provided for you to change outfits. Remember, you are there to do a shoot, not a striptease.

Protect Yourself on Shoots

• Be very clear about what kind of work you are looking for, and what kind of work you will not accept.
• Never travel on a shoestring and have a back-up plan if things don't work out exactly as planned.
• Especially when working with someone new, if possible, bring along a chaperone to the photo shoot. Any professional photographer should not have a problem with this. Do NOT work with anyone who refuses to allow you to.
• Arrive at remote shoots seperately.
• Let someone know where you will be at all times.
• Know what your limits are as to what you will do, and stick with them. Make certain that both you and the photographer are well aware of them. Leave if the photographer insists you go beyond them. (IE: Do nude when you don't want to.)
• Home studios are fine, just make sure that there is a separate changing area, with a lock. Always check your surroundings. Check for exits etc.

Protect your Future

• Don't ever do anything that you might be sorry for later. What you do today can affect your carreer later down the road. "If you pose for a photo that you cannot show your family and friends, and be proud of it, it wasn't worth doing". Mainly YOU should be proud of it.
• There should always be a modeling agreement"release" signed before the shoot, some might prefer after. As long as you get one it should be ok. Make sure in the agreement that you have knowledge of where and how your images are going to be displayed. Try to have full say in this.... If at all possible.

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