Why Pay Fashion Photographers?
To Pay or Not to Pay
I received an email from an aspiring model from the UK.
One of her questions was if it is true what Tyra Banks said that a model should never pay to photographers?
When a statement like this is made without further explanation it can only further alienate already unstable aspiring model – photographer relations.
It is misleading and damaging but also provides much needed protection for models from rip off agencies and photographers. So the issue is not cut and dry.
Only relying on free photo shoots may not always be the best solution if a model wants to put together a quality modeling portfolio. It is most economical and in the beginning stages it makes perfect sense. But rules are meant to be broken, only a sheep would disagree.
This may sound like a photographer doing damage control and trying to increase his revenue so let’s examine the issues.
Almost all photographers at one time in their lives do free shoots to build their portfolios. Free test shoots are low risk, low budget but with much freedom to create. They are great opportunities for collaboration between aspiring models and photographers to gain experience and photos which will open doors in the future.
The Misunderstanding
Many models feel it is an insult to them or beneath them to pay for photo shoots.
This is in part the result of agencies and photographers who are in the business of “signing” as many models as possible while caring more about charging a hefty amount for portfolio fees than fair representation.
It is interesting that these models are quite hostile making their point and usually looking for a quick cash or success story in modeling. Not only they would never pay photographers but they are asking for money without a professional track record or an obvious natural talent.
A professional model or a professionally acting model knows all careers are step by step journeys where hard work, not burning bridges, flexibility and adaptability later pay off.
There is a golden rule when it comes to modeling agencies: they should not cost any money upfront to the model.
Only when the model works should they get paid. Perhaps this valuable advice has tainted the way charging photographers are viewed.
Most aspiring photographers at one point start to phase their photography hobby towards a photography business. They wish to get paid for what they love to do.
If a photographer has a consistent quality of work and reasonable prices why not pay for his talent, hard work and services?
The Solution
I believe the answer is rather simple.
The model during her research should examine the portfolios of different photographers. If she feels a photographer can provide her with photos which she cannot get from free shoots and those photos have personal or professional value to her it is OK to pay to the photographer.
I have heard this several times before from models: “if I am not getting paid what is in it for me?”
This comes from ignorance, misinformation and lack of appreciation for good pictures and art. Many models are not aware of the value of great photos and only care about instant gratification.
Productive photo shoots which the model did not get paid for (God forbid actually paid for) can be worth their weight in gold.
A quality portfolio shows the model’s range, dedication, professionalism and experience!
Creating great pictures is one of the best investment a model can make to further her career.
I am amazed there is actually a need for me to make this point but I will write it anyways: paying photographers is not wrong!
Related articles:
Modeling Advice – a guide to successful photo shoots
Flaky Models, Zen and Green Skies
