Finding and shooting models...

[Kustomkarma]

I've been into photography a long time...and am just getting back into it seriously. I've been shooting a lot of car shows and objects lately, but I would really like to get back into shooting people. The problem seems to be that I can't seem to find anyone that will pose. Retro and Pinup are my favorite styles, but I am willing to shoot just about any genre just to get more time behind the lens. Asking people randomly seems like a bad idea and placing ads in forums like CraigsList seems really sketchy. Where can I post a request for models that will be seen, be effective, and make everyone involved feel at ease? I'm looking for subjects that are just starting out so I can learn along with them. I'm also very open to shooting with experienced photographers, models, and MUAH people. Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks!

[Tommy G]

I'm not a photographer or anything, but when we wanted to find a model for the shoot with our most recent car, I used Model Mayhem and found a model that was exactly what we were looking for.  

(car has been cut way down, so we wanted a smaller girl, and a fitting hair color)  

 

The search fields were easy to use, and it was all in all a great tool to use.

[Kustomkarma]

That's definitely where I'm going to look. I'm putting a small sample of my work together this weekend, so I'll have some examples to show people.

[Amy Fontaine]

That's a shame. I love working with folks who are learning. I model as a hobby so I Only do trade work unless I get a photo package as a gift. I do Have an obsessive love for Disney...maybe we can shoot next time I am in town. I usually go to Orlando at least once or twice a year.  Should be around in October...

Kustomkarma said:

Thanks for the answer and the offer. I usually don't make it that far North, but I do manage to get up to Gainesville for the Billetproof car show and Ocala for the Don garlits shows.

Amy Fontaine said:

I am a model in North Fl. I think you have made a great start here. I have found a few folks to work with on forums such as this one, Model Mayhem, and Facebook. I love this genre and wish you luck. If you ever are in the Panhandle and want to shoot drop me a line. [e-mail].

[Kustomkarma]

Thanks for the offer, I'm glad that you're willing to help out. It just occurred to me today that a few industry folks I had been chatting with suggested that I be sure to bring someone along on my shoots as a witness of sorts, so there's no my word vs. their word if something goes wrong or the model freaks out, etc. Does anyone follow this practice? If not, how do you safeguard yourself in such situations? Do you have the models sign releases first? I'm curious to know as I am currently assembling my portfolio and getting ready to make the leap to posting casting calls on here and MM.