model photographer
June 4, 2009 by: souleye
picture of a model with natural look
there is a misconception between model photographer and fashion photographer. though I’ve been involved with photography and fashion for many years, it’s only recently that the distinction became clear to me. both model photographers and fashion photographers shoot models but the difference is in the purpose. while the fashion photographer is hired by magazines or designers to photograph their clothes, the model photographer primarily shoots models. in fashion photography, the purpose is to sell clothes, so even if the model is wearing the clothes she’s only an accessory. her role is limited to giving shape to the clothes by wearing them in a way that makes them desirable. a model who is starting out needs to show potential employers that she’s got what it takes to be a model: size, height, look, etc…
in order to do so, she needs to take photographs that she will send to agencies she’s seeking representation with. so when a model contacts a photographer for her modeling pictures, she’s not trying to sell any clothes, rather, she’s trying to sell herself. in this case, she’s the subject and the clothes that she’s wearing are only accessories. a lot of aspiring models fail to understand that simple fact and talk about their portfolio pictures with layers upon layers of fancy clothes, makeup, hair etc… most agencies are not interested in none of these artifices. all they want to see is if you’ve got the look, the height, the slim figure and some other aspects such as a well proportioned body, good skin, etc..
a good understanding of those differences can help the photographer
- check to see if model clients meet the requirements for the modeling areas and markets that they’re targeting.
- gain the expertise to provide effective consultation to aspiring models and be of service to them, rather than just trying to sell them something that is often useless.
- focus on how to better take pictures of models by bringing out their most salable assets, so they increase their chances of getting noticed by agencies.
- establish himself as an authority in the field that people can come to and refer when there’s a need for expert advice.
it will also help the model
- have a source to refer too when she’s needs advice on what she needs to do to start her modeling career.
- find the photographer who’s got a clear understanding of what her needs are so that she can get products that she can use.
- avoid wasteful choices by purchasing just the products and services that she needs and increase her chances of success without a bloated bill.
- get the confidence and security that she’s getting value for her investment and start educating herself that modeling is a business, and like any business, you need to spend money sometimes to make money.
