Five Pre-Shoot Questions Models Should Ask

I work with a lot of new models who are anxious to book shoots, but have no experience doing so.  I also work with a lot of models with various levels of experience who never thought to ask some basic questions.  This blog serves to identify just some of the questions models should ask before booking a shoot.  They are as follows:

1. Is the shoot paid? Models will often tell me how excited they are they booked a shoot.  The first question I ask is "is it paid".  This isn't because it's any of my business or I need to know. It's because I want them to pause and think, did they work that out?  It's not uncommon for photographers and models to show up for a shoot and each has a different understanding as to whether it's paid or not and who's paying who. This question avoids that issue!
2. How long is the shoot? Make sure you're clear on the duration and stick to it! It's not uncommon for photographers to book you for a two hour shoot and four hours later you're wondering when it's going to end.  If it's a two hour shoot, at two hours you politely let them know time's up.  If they want to continue to shoot, request payment for the extra time or get more images if it's a Time for Print (TFP). 
   
3. How many photographers will be shooting? Some photographers have been known to book a model, set up the backdrop, put them in position to shoot and suddenly three other photographers appear out of nowhere.  So instead of four photographers booking you for individual shoots, one books you and four shoot, to either share the cost or simply let their friends get free shots.   
   
4. Will wardrobe be provided?  If the photographer or a stylist will provide the wardrobe, see it  or at least know the style before the shoot.  This way there are no surprises and you're not put in a position of being asked to wear something you would not be comfortable in at the shoot.
   
5. Number of images, who selects them and when will they been received? Be clear on these issues. Some photographers provide more than others, some will allow you to select the images you like best and some will provide you with images they like best.  Some photographers provide  proofs and final edited images quickly, some take weeks or months.  Just know in advance when you can expect images.  If it's a TFP or you're paying the photographer, insist you get to select the images you want.  
   
6. Escorts/Chaperones? Ask if you can bring an escort or chaperone to the shoot.  Whether you bring one or not, is up to you, but if a photographers says no I would carefully consider proceeding with the shoot.  At a minimum get references from other models and/or photographers.

As stated in the beginning these are only some questions models should ask before agreeing to a shoot.  There are many others which I will address in future blogs, but it is essential these issues are clearly understood, by both parties prior to a shoot.  If you think I've missed any please comment or send me a message.