Model Contracts

In previous discussions with photographers, beginners and experienced, the issue of dealing with model contracts has always been big. Each one of us has our own tales where things have gone horribly wrong. With time and based on those and my experiences I ended up producing a check list which helps me manage my working relationship with models.

Many of the items on this checklist either help me write the contracts or guide me when negotiating the photoshooting with a model.

• - Provide your name and website

• - Provide a clear description of the images which will be produced.

• - How long is the shoot planned to last and when does it start: date, time and location.

• - Are other models going to be in the shoot? If yes, provide their names and roles as well as contact information.

• Is a make up artist at the shoot. If not, then what make up do you expect the model to have.

• - Is the model allowed to bring an accompanying person? If yes, then under what conditions? Will you provide food/drink/travel costs to the accompanying person? Is the accompanying person allowed to provide ideas or not?

• - Is the model required to bring her/his clothes? If yes, then give clear indications of the requirements. If not then describe what type of clothes you are going to provide.

• - Is a wardrobe stylist going to be at the shoot? If yes, provide her/his contact details and work samples

• - If you are planning to have other people at the shoot such as assistant, friends, other photographers please indicate it and give the names and roles these people will have during the shoot.

• - Will there be food and drinks at the shoot. Or does the model have to bring their food and drinks

• - A clear description of the expected compensation to the model: money, prints, CD/DVD, or other

• - Are you refunding travel costs: Taxi, bus, train, car gas, etc…?

• - Is the model allowed to use the images for self-promotion?

• - Is the model prepared to sign a model release?

The idea is to make your working relationship bullet proof before the shooting starts ensuring there are no misunderstanding. This will avoid bad surprises, uncomfortable situations and at the end everyone is happy

keep shooting!!