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Approaching potential models

street photography portrait

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22 replies to this topic

#1
iNYONi

iNYONi

    Rob

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I was out for a lunchtime photo walk today and came across a woman having her lunch in the city square. Thought she had an interesting face and was wearing a black headscarf. I smiled and asked if she minded if I took her picture.

She asked what it was for so I was honest and just told her that I was just doing it as a hobby and thought she looked interesting. I managed to get 2 shots off (wish I'd taken more).

 

I wonder if anyone would like to share their experiences of approaching potential models.



#2
K-9

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People seem more comfortable when you are with someone, as it looks less imposing or creepy if you're by yourself.

#3
iNYONi

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These are the pictures taken,

 

Woman In Park - Portrait 2
Woman In Park - Portrait 1


#4
alden

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Know a young photographer who can walk up to virtually any pretty young woman he sees and within a few minutes talk her into posing for him. 

 

It's a gift. He's a real charmer, and a good looking young man. 

 

That helps.



#5
Afterimage

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Approaching strangers can be difficult but, like anything else, it can be mastered with a little practice. here's my tips:

 

1) Start with couples. They are easier to approach and there's a level of safety when your dealing with a group. After a pic or two together, separate them into individuals if there's a level of comfort.

2) Be extremely polite like you were approaching a head of state or famous actor

3) Always briefly explain what the shot is for and where it will be used... and offer free copies.

4) Hand them a business card ($10 worth of business cards can get you introductions, back-stage passes, media access, and a "get out of jail free" card. Seriously. Best $10 you'll spend in photography!!)

5) A little flattery will go a long way. A lot will end in a restraining order.

6) Be prepared for a wide variety of reactions. Most of the time you'll get a few snaps, a few times you'll be treated like a panhandler, but sometimes the person will be very into it. Go with the flow. Be chatty. Ask them if they mind if you take a few more shots. Let them set the pace.

7) Confidence. Boldly walk up and introduce yourself like you've done this a million times. People will read your body language long before they hear your words.

8) Thank them at the end. Make sure you explain where they can see your shots, how long it will take for the shot to be posted, and how they can get a hold of you (business cards!!!)

9) Immediately find someone else to work with.

10) Dress the part. Prepare as if you were going on a job interview. Nicer cloths, good hygiene, positive attitude. Besides the business cards I also have a few nice polo's with our "iris" logo and web address printed on them. Gives the appearance that you're truly a pro artist not just some dude with a camera. It will also help you psychologically when you're wearing your "business casual" uniform with matching business cards (Yes, I mentioned business cards 4 times... they are THAT useful!) and that confidence will be easily read by your potential subject.



#6
alden

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5) A little flattery will go a long way. A lot will end in a restraining order.

 

:lol:



#7
Thumper

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Know a young photographer who can walk up to virtually any pretty young woman he sees and within a few minutes talk her into posing for him. 
 
It's a gift. He's a real charmer, and a good looking young man. 
 
That helps.


Sounds like Oleg. :D

#8
Thumper

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Reminds me of that joke. (Or a variation of it).

"Do you have any naked pictures of yourself?"

"No!"

"Would you like some?"

:D

#9
morticiaskeeper

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I saw the perfect shot today, I would have called it "reflection" or "sorrow" or "alone" or some such. It would have been B&W.

The lake, the trees, the woman looking out. I could have just taken it, she probably wouldn't have even known. I didn't take it. I considered approaching her, but there was a lot going on, my family had gone on ahead, other people were about, and maybe, if she knew her photo was being taken, it wouldn't have looked the same.

I mentally kicked myself for an hour or so, even looked across on the way back to see if she was still there.

Sorting the shots tonight, the same woman was in four other shots, none of which were any good.

I wish I had asked, or just taken it.

#10
Afterimage

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I'll have to amend my list...

 

11) Ask or shoot before the moment is gone  :)



#11
alden

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Sounds like Oleg. :D

 

Yup. 



#12
Tony892

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Any guidance on publishing or using photographs of people you have not asked permission to take their picture? Has anyone experienced negative experiences as a result of someone complaining after a photo has been published?



#13
Afterimage

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Any guidance on publishing or using photographs of people you have not asked permission to take their picture? Has anyone experienced negative experiences as a result of someone complaining after a photo has been published?

Published? 1 word... DON'T. Get a model release if there's even a chance of the photo hitting print or being used in anything online other than your personal portfolio.



#14
TBonz

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I agree with Afterimage...get a model release and carry some with you just in case...About the only thing that can avoid that is really news photography or what might be an incidental shot when shooting something else.  For example if you shot a photo of something in a parade and it was published, you wouldn't have to have releases from everyone on the other side of the street.  However, if you shot a photo of an individual at that parade and it was published, it would be a good idea to have the release.  Hope that makes sense. 



#15
iNYONi

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I agree with Afterimage...get a model release and carry some with you just in case...About the only thing that can avoid that is really news photography or what might be an incidental shot when shooting something else.  For example if you shot a photo of something in a parade and it was published, you wouldn't have to have releases from everyone on the other side of the street.  However, if you shot a photo of an individual at that parade and it was published, it would be a good idea to have the release.  Hope that makes sense. 

Thanks all for your views on this. I've now downloaded a model release form and will print a few off and keep in my camera bag.



#16
Tony892

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Very helpful comments and I will also look to get hold of some model release forms.



#17
ChristyLynn

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If you have an ipad there a lots of apps for model releases.  Great way to always have them on hand.  You can email them a copy also.



#18
Afterimage

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Branded polos, a baseball cap and business cards will cost you $30 max. 

 

I use Queensboro ( http://www.queensbor...ef/UQUUSQNEORRMfor apparel and recommend them highly. They run specials frequently where you can upload your logo and get a polo for $1. Add in business cards for $10 and you'll have the basics to introduce yourself, get in places you normally couldn't and, occasionally, out of trouble. I can't count the number of times just having a branded shirt, hat and business card got me in great places.

 

 

Here's a sample of the polo and hats I picked up from Queensboro. The camo brim was a mistake but I kinda liked it and wore it for few months. I now have a straight black one as a replacement.

 

DSC00462.JPG



#19
TBonz

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CristyLynn,

 

Which model release apps have you tried and how do you like them?


I really should get some polos - maybe next spring...already have the hats / business cards and did up some t-shirts as well.  Tomorrow I pick up a logo'd pullover (similar to those you see golfers wear).  That will get seen more than anything as it is pretty well wind proof and I can put a few layers under if needed.  Unfortunately it is getting to be that time of year...



#20
K-9

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Easy Release is the best, but also the priciest at $9.99. There's also some in app customization within Easy Release costing a few bucks more. I've never tried the extra features.





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