New to photographing models

[Shane]

I'm just about to venture into the world of photographing models.
I'm going to start by using local models. I don't intend on selling any of the images. I just would like to get some experience and criticism on my work from you guys on the forum.
I want to allow the models use of the images for their own portfolios.
What do i need to be aware of legally?
I also want to own full copyright to my images. do i need to get the model to sign anything, do i need to sign anything?
Do i need proof of the models age? If so, what is good proof? Passport, driving licence?

 

[pxl8]

Google up a Model Release form that best suits your needs - there's plenty out there that will be based on Time For Prints/CD. Usually both of you will sign/date and include a description of the shoot. It should also specify how the images can be used and what limitations there are.

The copyright is yours automatically as you're the photographer.

If the model looks under 21 get two forms of ID, at least one with a photo and make a note of the details.

Legal issues really depend on what and where you're planning to shoot.

 

[Shane]

Thanks pxl8

I think to be on the safe side i wil ask for two forms of ID.
Would a photo of their ID be a good enough copy?

Does the model need to have someone else with them, do i need someone else with me?

 

[gareth01422]

I looked into this a while ago.

First things first. you will need a model release form signed by the model. this is like a statement saying you own the rights to the images (which is the law anyway). In this statement it will say the model is able to use the images for there portfolio.

The above is only my understanding of how it works, this may not be true but im sure other togs will put me right on this one.

 

[pxl8]

Does the model need to have someone else with them, do i need someone else with me?

I'm now assuming you'll be shooting glamour/nude in which case yes, have someone else around that's the same sex as the model and also invite the model to bring a friend.

 

[RobbieW]

Hi Shane

Photographing models can be very good fun and rewarding once you see how the final images come out.

Just a few things for you:-

Look at local studios and see if any of them have a studio day, these will keep costs down and usually include both the model costs and the studio hire, and there is often someone there to help with lighting, and the models will have alsorts of ideas.

Just for your own protection if the model is young, then ask for proof of id, they won't mind and its for your own protection. Some models will being a chaperone along, this is for both yours and theirs safety, so worth encouranging this sometimes.

You will own full copyright to the images, but you won't be able to sell the images on without a model release form. You can still use them in your portfolio without any issies, sometimes worth telling the model what you are going to do with the images.

And one final thing, remember to enjoy it!

If you have any other questions, feel free to pm me.

Rob

 

[Lady Pitstop]

Yes, definitely need a model release if you are planning on using them for something. The model might also want to state where and what the photographs can be used for eg. she might not want them appearing in 'adult publications' or on the web. Then if you're both happy then both sign.

 

[Shane]

I'm now assuming you'll be shooting glamour/nude in which case yes, have someone else around that's the same sex as the model and also invite the model to bring a friend.

The will be more implied maybe, but not full nude. (well not until i have gained some good experience)

I will be after sexy shots but not revealing anything.
I think some needs to be left to the imagination.

Thanks Rob, I'm already nervous about doing it. I don't want to end up with no images that are useful to the model or myself.

 

[theMusicMan]

Shane - hang fire here if you want to take part in something I am trying to arrange. Nothing finalised as yet, and I will be making a thread about this soon, but I am trying to arrange a studio day model shoot, somewhere close to Bristol - hopefully (if enough interest is there) this side of Christmas... we'll see.

It may be that it's too late to do something this year, but it is something I will be looking to arrange. Not sure of costs as yet, but minimal depending on how many are interested etc...

John

 

[Shane]

Shane - hang fire here if you want to take part in something I am trying to arrange. Nothing finalised as yet, and I will be making a thread about this soon, but I am trying to arrange a studio day model shoot, somewhere close to Bristol - hopefully (if enough interest is there) this side of Christmas... we'll see.

It may be that it's too late to do something this year, but it is something I will be looking to arrange. Not sure of costs as yet, but minimal depending on how many are interested etc...

John

Sounds good to me, keep me posted

I have been tempted with the day course Jessops do, but they seem a little expensive for 4 hours!