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Honestly, I hate when I have to restate the obvious, but here I go. I’m sure everyone remembers being told at some point in their life (likely as a child) to “not talk to strangers”. While I hope your judgment has improved with the years you’ve packed on, the core of that statement is still valid. Be safe. Be cautious of people you don’t know. Protect yourself.
No one is exempt from this, and yet some people will try to steer you away from it. Nowhere is sticking to your guns more important than to those in the modeling community. Amateur, aspiring or professional, you have the right to feel safe at your photoshoots, and part of that safety comes from checking references.
I was personally contacted by a photographer the other day who wanted to work with me. His portfolio was decent, and I was interested. However, before proceeding any further, I told him that I check references and asked if there were any models he recommend I reach out to. His response? He was his own reference.
This is a red flag. This is a red flag that is on fire. Stranger danger. Do not pass GO.
Anyone who is legit should have nothing to hide and should also be able to provide references or point you in the right direction. You don’t know them, and they don’t know you. The last thing you want to do is get yourself into a situation where you are made to feel uncomfortable or in risk of harm to your person.
I know it’s hard when you want to work with someone or you are building your portfolio. I get it, I really do. However, is it really worth the risk? Maybe you think I’m overreacting; seeing serial killers and rapists at every turn. Wouldn’t you rather be certain though? Maybe they won’t kill or rape you, but what about trying to push you to take photos you don’t want to do? What about accosting you? How about the simple worry that you’ll spend your time shooting only to never get copies of your photos back? A lesser worry to be sure, but this is why you always investigate someone you potentially want to work with.
“But what about you?” Some photographers may ask. “I’ve had bad experiences with models, too! Why am I under investigation?” Well, photographers, good news! My advice to models applies to you as well! Check the model’s references. Ask them questions, talk to those they’ve shot with. Know who you’re meeting. Be safe.
There is no guarantee against skeezy photographic experiences, but you can cut down on the potential by doing some simple leg work. A lot of photographers don’t like having models bring escorts along to ensure their safety. I understand the possible distraction. But if you choose to tell models “no escorts”, you had better be prepared to provide some damn good references.
Bottom line to everyone in this equation: don’t be a victim. Be aware. Know who you’re meeting. Period.
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