Forums > Model Colloquy > Photoshoots in hotel rooms.

Model

Raquel Rayne

Posts: 1186

New York, New York, US

Neil Snape wrote:
Why not go, your person that comes with you says hi, I'll be in the lobby. Every one will be happy, but again as said above check references and go with your instincts!

That's a good idea smile

Aug 23 12 06:24 pm Link

Photographer

Darren Brade

Posts: 3351

London, England, United Kingdom

Louisa-Marie wrote:
Thanks for the replies guys. I have the photographers phone number, real name etc etc and we may also shoot swimwear at the hotel pool which is obviously a very public domain so I understand there is nothing to worry about. However it's better to be safe.

You could always have someone drop your bags off, say hi to the photographer and leave, only to return when you call them at the end of the shoot to pick you up.

That way someone knows where you are and knows where to collect you from at the end of our day.

Aug 24 12 04:04 am Link

Model

J Jessica

Posts: 2431

Coconut Creek, Florida, US

Louisa-Marie wrote:
Hey guys,

I'm a new model trying to build my portfolio to include fashion, lingerie and swimwear.

I've been asked by several photographers about doing tasteful lingerie shoots (no nudes, no spread legs etc) in an upscale hotel room... I understand that this is probably the best setting for lingerie shoots.

However, as a young girl on one of her first shoots, I am obviously a little nervous about showing up at a hotel by myself. The photographers have offered that I bring anyone along I like.

However, if I wanted to go alone, how can I become less nervous and anxious? Any advice from models who have done similar?

I've done shoots in homes before.
I just look at references.
I'm young, as well. smile

Aug 24 12 08:12 am Link

Photographer

alessiman

Posts: 105

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

oooh how weird

I am in the process of planning shoot with Louisa-Marie next week in Adelaide smile

Though looking at the start date of this thread it precedes my communications with her by several days so I know it wasn't directed at me smile smile

But based on the posts here on this thread.  I meet all the criteria for a safe shoot

References, portfolio, contact details, real name etc

Aug 24 12 03:27 pm Link

Model

Alabaster Crowley

Posts: 8283

Tucson, Arizona, US

Art of the nude wrote:

Super 8, $38 for the night. (18+)
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/p … 7#14350437

You payed $40 for a white wall?

Aug 24 12 07:52 pm Link

Photographer

john_ellis

Posts: 4375

Spokane, Washington, US

Louisa-Marie wrote:
Hey guys,

I'm a new model trying to build my portfolio to include fashion, lingerie and swimwear.

I've been asked by several photographers about doing tasteful lingerie shoots (no nudes, no spread legs etc) in an upscale hotel room... I understand that this is probably the best setting for lingerie shoots.

However, as a young girl on one of her first shoots, I am obviously a little nervous about showing up at a hotel by myself. The photographers have offered that I bring anyone along I like.

However, if I wanted to go alone, how can I become less nervous and anxious? Any advice from models who have done similar?

I think you answered your own question:

The photographers have offered that I bring anyone along I like.

Aug 24 12 08:00 pm Link

Photographer

Art of the nude

Posts: 12067

Grand Rapids, Michigan, US

Art of the nude wrote:
Super 8, $38 for the night. (18+)
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/p … 7#14350437

Alabaster Crowley wrote:
You payed $40 for a white wall?

Well, some of the other shots used other parts of the room.

But, $40 an HOUR is not uncommon for a studio, and this was for the night.

Plus, since she, at the time, lived 500 miles from me, having a hotel room was kinda handy anyway.

Aug 24 12 08:24 pm Link

Photographer

Random Shutter Clicks

Posts: 4114

PORTER CORNERS, New York, US

I shoot people in their own beds.  Easier.  Cheaper.  Just sayin....

Aug 24 12 08:29 pm Link

Photographer

DrifterintheRain

Posts: 54

Sunnyvale, California, US

Random Shutter Clicks wrote:
I shoot people in their own beds.  Easier.  Cheaper.  Just sayin....

Also true of some in really bad neighborhoods. Oh wait, this was about taking pictures...

Aug 25 12 08:36 am Link

Model

Retiredmodel

Posts: 7884

Monmouth, Wales, United Kingdom

I have done a number of shoots in hotel rooms. I have always gone with someone to do my wardrobe and make up or whatever. If the photographer has a problem with that (or sometimes they provide that themselves anyway) then there may be reason to be suspicious.
I had a problem once when that wasn't going to happen so I was a little nervous and suspicious after being prmosied he would get an MUA etc. Anyway the night before he lost it and started sending me filthy emails saying how it was going to be and I'd have to go along with it etc so I was able to avoid it. He is now serving time for sexual assault on other models.

A good photographer will want to avoid making you nervous and will likely have a team or won't mind you bringing someone along to help re styling etc. Once the chap assured me his wife would be there to help with my hair and stuff and she was. I had been suspicious of him too after what had happened with the other creep but everything was great.

Other times the hotel manager has brought along refreshments and shown us different rooms to shoot; sent a member of staff to help with lights etc. so I have never really had a one on one situation.

Aug 25 12 08:47 am Link

Photographer

Dan Brady

Posts: 610

Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Louisa-Marie wrote:
Hey guys,

I'm a new model trying to build my portfolio to include fashion, lingerie and swimwear.

I've been asked by several photographers about doing tasteful lingerie shoots (no nudes, no spread legs etc) in an upscale hotel room... I understand that this is probably the best setting for lingerie shoots.

However, as a young girl on one of her first shoots, I am obviously a little nervous about showing up at a hotel by myself. The photographers have offered that I bring anyone along I like.

However, if I wanted to go alone, how can I become less nervous and anxious? Any advice from models who have done similar?

Very simple.

Tell your close escort what you're doing and to wait in lobby. If you don't message that person at set time then they know that something is wrong.

Aug 25 12 09:05 am Link

Photographer

Craig Hill

Posts: 4

Jacksonville, Florida, US

Definitely do your homework, only work with a good reputable photographer and I'd take someone with you if you aren't comfortable. Any good photog should have no problem with that. I'd recommend a friend as a boyfriend/husband can create a little awkwardness though.

Aug 27 12 12:03 pm Link

Photographer

Charles Underhill Photo

Posts: 8

Sundance, Wyoming, US

Like everyone said, check references, then check them again. Bring an escort that is NOT a boyfriend, but someone you trust. I have no issues with a model bringing a escort on the first couple of times we shoot together.

I have shot with a number of models both in high end hotel rooms and Super 8 budget places. As long as everyone is professional, it works well. Be sure to clearly fine out if there are going to be assistants, helpers, or other photog's there are well. Sometimes I will have someone assist me with lighting and such. If that is the case with your shoot, the photog should mention it ahead of time.

Don't be afraid to walk away running if you get the slightest hint that things aren't right. Be sure someone knows where you are, and you can always tell the photographer that you escort is waiting in the car, or getting coffee or whatever. Safety first, money and all other considerations second.

Be sure to see some actual work by the photographer, and be sure that it IS he's actually work, and not scammed off the net. Don't be afraid to suggest meeting in public (Starbucks, Dunkin Dounuts, whatever) ahead of time to see a port, and a models release.

Did I mention, check references? smile

Aug 27 12 12:22 pm Link

Model

P I X I E

Posts: 35440

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Charles Underhill Photo wrote:
Like everyone said, check references, then check them again. Bring an escort that is NOT a boyfriend, but someone you trust. I have no issues with a model bringing a escort on the first couple of times we shoot together.

I have shot with a number of models both in high end hotel rooms and Super 8 budget places. As long as everyone is professional, it works well. Be sure to clearly fine out if there are going to be assistants, helpers, or other photog's there are well. Sometimes I will have someone assist me with lighting and such. If that is the case with your shoot, the photog should mention it ahead of time.

Don't be afraid to walk away running if you get the slightest hint that things aren't right. Be sure someone knows where you are, and you can always tell the photographer that you escort is waiting in the car, or getting coffee or whatever. Safety first, money and all other considerations second.

Be sure to see some actual work by the photographer, and be sure that it IS he's actually work, and not scammed off the net. Don't be afraid to suggest meeting in public (Starbucks, Dunkin Dounuts, whatever) ahead of time to see a port, and a models release.

Did I mention, check references? smile

Uh oh, you dropped the e-bomb.

Aug 27 12 12:32 pm Link

Photographer

BigCatimages

Posts: 11

Darlington, England, United Kingdom

Interesting thread but look from the other side what about the photographer assuming he is male he has to put his trust in someone he has never met have them basically undress in a hotel room or maybe even in his home where he is open to all sorts of mischievous accusations being made and on top of that a suggestion that it is a good idea to have another person around male or female who he doesn't know anything about and can do what they want while his back is turned which I know from experience inhibits the llama as well as the guy who is paying the wages....naahh this business is surely undertaken on the basis of mutual trust and respect or it just doesn't happen. If you are that nervous about doing the job then you ain't done your research use the networks which exist such as MM and others to evaluate the risks and if you don't get the right answers don't do it and as I say it works both ways.

Bill

Aug 27 12 12:32 pm Link

Photographer

Dector Bond

Posts: 1

Bedford, England, United Kingdom

I wish I wish I could use hotel rooms less and my home studio more, but often it's the only practical way, more convenient for the model and yes, safer. I am happy for the model to bring someone with them but normally ask that they stay in an adjacent room so that they don't spoil the vibe needed to create good photos - although with newbies occasionally the vibes work better when the friend is in the same room smile
It's tricky at first as a photographer, but once you have worked with a few models you can them reference them in your details and then the model can check you out for added security

Aug 27 12 12:33 pm Link

Photographer

James Anthony Studios

Posts: 20

New Haven, Connecticut, US

Regardless of where your shooting, in studio, outdoor or hotel room. If it is your first time working with this photographer I recommend bringing a well behave escort for security. Maybe 2 for safety. Know the room number if your security is waiting outside.I'm a photographer and I have heard plenty of horror stories.
As many have said get references but it is always safer to get to know the photographer on normal non lingerie shoots before you decide to meet them alone.

Aug 27 12 01:06 pm Link

Photographer

Mike Fulton

Posts: 73

Cypress, California, US

Harold Rose wrote:
TO ME:    I would never ask a model to work in a motel or hotel room..  Most generally you will not be able to get permission from the property owners..   If you try to sneek it through and they find out..  I hope you have bond money...

Bond money for what?  Are you under the impression someone could get arrested just for shooting pictures in a hotel room without telling them first? For what charges?  Maybe if they asked you to leave, and you refused, you might get hit with trespassing charges, but even that seems pretty unlikely.

*Maybe* you might get booted from the room... but probably not even that.

I've shot in hotel rooms quite a lot and the most that's ever happened was that the clerk at a B&B once told me that if they'd known I was doing a photoshoot, they'd have charged me more. I told him that I *did* tell them when I booked the room. Apparently the other clerk I spoke with didn't know about boosting the rates.

Aug 27 12 01:13 pm Link

Photographer

RS--Photography

Posts: 3

Tampa, Florida, US

MBradleyPhotography wrote:
Real photographers are like gynecologist, they are there for only one thing... wait, that didn't come out right. wink

I can't stop laughing at this!

Aug 27 12 01:36 pm Link

Model

Koryn

Posts: 39496

Boston, Massachusetts, US

Louisa-Marie wrote:
I kind of feel I should go alone, I'm a big girl and should be able to handle myself as such.

Yes ^^^

Little girls need a friend with them to go potty. Grown women take care of their own business.

Aug 27 12 02:44 pm Link

Photographer

Marco Vallentin

Posts: 1123

København, Hovedstaden, Denmark

Rich Burroughs wrote:

Another option then is to bring someone but have them wait in the lobby/bar/somewhere nearby.

I don't allow escorts but I have no complaint about having someone drop off the model and pick them up. And I've had models make check in calls/texts when they've arrived several times, I see nothing wrong there either.

I once had a mutual cancellation with a model who insisted her boyfriend be in the tiny hotel room with us while we shot. That's too awkward for me, it would have been just the three of us in there.

+ 1 wink

Aug 27 12 02:52 pm Link

Photographer

Lone Leaf Photography

Posts: 46

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Charles Underhill Photo wrote:
Don't be afraid to suggest meeting in public (Starbucks, Dunkin Dounuts, whatever) ahead of time to see a port, and a models release.

I felt that all the other replies had hit on all the important advice except one, until the post quoted above.  Personally, I don't shoot with any new / inexperienced model that doesn't have a solid port and references.  I want to know she's going to be reliable, good to work with, and reliable wink  I always do a pre-shoot meet in these cases.  It is especially advantageous to build comfort level (in both directions), particularly where it may involve a glamour shoot, regardless of location.

Personally, I think the hotel location is a red herring here, as the advice and actions should be the same regardless of the location.  If anything a hotel is perhaps a better sign than other locations because at the very least the photog is actually providing a furnished studio (I assume at their own expense) which is an actual commitment. 

Unfortunately hotels carry a stigma for some people that leads them to false assumptions.  (I was about to relay a personal experience in this regard, but it would only degrade into the usual escort yes/no argument that we've all heard before.)

Aug 27 12 02:56 pm Link

Model

ModelChani

Posts: 6

Corpus Christi, Texas, US

It is tough to go somewhere and meet a stranger, hopefully talking to the photographer several times before you meet will help establish a repor and help you feel like you are meeting a professional friend.  Always allow their test shoots to be at you, so that you can start feeling comfortable, but also knowing you haven't started yet, will give you time to set your mind to a working mode.
And, if you ever feel major red flags, you can ALWAYS change your mind!  Because if you are that uncomfortable, then the images probably won't turn out to both of your likings =]  hope this helps    xoxo Chani

Aug 27 12 04:55 pm Link

Model

Abby Hawkins

Posts: 2004

Boston, Massachusetts, US

You're more likely to encounter tacky patterns than a sexual predator.

Aug 27 12 04:58 pm Link

Photographer

Jerry Nemeth

Posts: 33355

Dearborn, Michigan, US

I had 5 hotel room shoots last year.  Here is one from this year.

18+
https://www.modelmayhem.com/portfolio/p … 6#27371486

Aug 27 12 06:39 pm Link

Photographer

Liquid Fire Photography

Posts: 605

Kansas City, Kansas, US

With modern cell phones, comes the cell phone cameras.
  I would recommend that EVERY model meet the photographer first in a public place such as McDonalds or Starbucks. Sit down for a coffee and chat for a few minutes. If you feel comfortable enough to shoot with him, them ask him this favor to complete the agreement.
   Tell him that for your own safety, that you require that you be able to take a photograph of him, and his driver's license, as well a photo of his vehicle, with the license plate in the photo clearly visible. Review the pics in your camera first, to make sure EVERYTHING is clearly readable.
   You then send the pics over the phone to a friend that you are positive is a reliable person to depend on. Tell your friend the name and location of the place that you are with the photographer at, as well as the intended location to shoot at.
   Instruct your friend that if she or he doesn't hear from you by a certain time, that they should first attempt to call you. If they can't reach you, then they are to contact the police with all of the info. Including the info for the model's car as well, such as make, model, color, and license plate info. (what if they take the model's car?)
  These steps should deter most any crazy photographer, due to all of the identifying info surrounding him or her.

Aug 28 12 11:52 am Link

Photographer

Rich Burroughs

Posts: 3259

Portland, Oregon, US

Eliza C wrote:
A good photographer will want to avoid making you nervous and will likely have a team or won't mind you bringing someone along to help re styling etc. Once the chap assured me his wife would be there to help with my hair and stuff and she was. I had been suspicious of him too after what had happened with the other creep but everything was great.

I'm pretty sure the way that you tell someone is good is by looking at their images. Not everyone works with teams. A lot of art photographers I know don't usually do that.

Aug 28 12 12:05 pm Link

Model

modeljessicarose

Posts: 2

Albuquerque, New Mexico, US

So how do these photographers get use of these hotel rooms? Are they paid for or just borrowed, etc.?

Aug 28 12 12:10 pm Link

Photographer

safe as houses

Posts: 435

Schaumburg, Illinois, US

Jansu wrote:
If it's gonna be a love hotel or a cheap motel. I refuse.

Because everyone knows you can't take good photos in a cheap hotel.

Aug 28 12 12:12 pm Link

Photographer

TL Westgate

Posts: 92

Altamonte Springs, Florida, US

jessicamashley wrote:
So how do these photographers get use of these hotel rooms? Are they paid for or just borrowed, etc.?

In my case, it's when I'm traveling for work and want to squeeze in a shoot with locals. Usually I don't have a rental car and am stuck in my room for a week while working a convention or something. Shooting in my hotel room is a nice diversion that yields pix for me and the model.

Aug 28 12 07:29 pm Link

Photographer

Jhono Bashian

Posts: 2464

Cleveland, Ohio, US

FootNote Fotography wrote:
I am a firm believer in gut feelings.

Also check references.

so true!!  also call a friend and let then know where your at and call  when you  get there and text them every 30 minutes. if they don't hear from you in an hour call the cops.

Aug 28 12 07:41 pm Link

Photographer

CS Dewitt

Posts: 608

Atlanta, Georgia, US

DVP Photography wrote:
Check references.

+1 and HIGHLY Agree!!!!

Aug 29 12 07:38 am Link

Photographer

RKD Photographic

Posts: 3265

Iserlohn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Harold Rose wrote:
TO ME:    I would never ask a model to work in a motel or hotel room..  Most generally you will not be able to get permission from the property owners..   If you try to sneek it through and they find out..  I hope you have bond money...

I shoot in the studio..    If there is something that the Ad agency wants,  then I will rent or borrow it from  a furnature store,  we have several that we work with..

I shoot in hotels all the time - some of my colleagues even run seminars in them - most UK and German hotels are glad of the business - you still have to pay for the full 24 even if you're only there for four hours...

Hotel Room
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1237/5137168117_af47242a04_z.jpg

Hotel Conference Room
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4022/5137165757_961e1a0756_z.jpg

Hotel Room (18+)
http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2012/ … 57t8o4.jpg

Aug 29 12 11:17 am Link

Model

modeljessicarose

Posts: 2

Albuquerque, New Mexico, US

TL Westgate wrote:
In my case, it's when I'm traveling for work and want to squeeze in a shoot with locals. Usually I don't have a rental car and am stuck in my room for a week while working a convention or something. Shooting in my hotel room is a nice diversion that yields pix for me and the model.

So if you are not traveling, how would you approach a hotel for use of a room to make sure it's legit?

Aug 29 12 12:10 pm Link

Photographer

TL Westgate

Posts: 92

Altamonte Springs, Florida, US

jessicamashley wrote:

So if you are not traveling, how would you approach a hotel for use of a room to make sure it's legit?

If I'm not traveling I don't need a hotel room. Or do you mean what should a model do?

Aug 29 12 02:53 pm Link

Photographer

Chris Slaughter

Posts: 13

Lake Charles, Louisiana, US

TL Westgate wrote:
In my case, it's when I'm traveling for work and want to squeeze in a shoot with locals. Usually I don't have a rental car and am stuck in my room for a week while working a convention or something. Shooting in my hotel room is a nice diversion that yields pix for me and the model.

I'm in the exact same boat.  I travel a lot with my job and with my family.  I have always found double use for a hotel room that I was shooting in.  Even if I am shooting in at a hotel in Seattle, I'll make sure it has a pool, then at least my daughters can get some use out of it.

Aug 30 12 01:49 pm Link

Model

Cole Morrison

Posts: 3958

Portland, Oregon, US

i did a nude shoot in a hotel room this week and i am still alive to talk about it

Aug 30 12 01:51 pm Link

Photographer

VisiFoto

Posts: 501

Knoxville, Tennessee, US

Cole Morrison wrote:
i did a nude shoot in a hotel room this week and i am still alive to talk about it

Me too, although I nearly died of a stroke and went to heaven being in the same room with a nekkid Penthouse playmate.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/2705302#29731292
https://www.modelmayhem.com/1430220

It's a tough job but somebody's gotta do it.

https://www.insidesocal.com/tomhoffarth/animalhouse02.jpg

"Thank you God!"
-Animal House

Aug 30 12 02:33 pm Link

Model

Cole Morrison

Posts: 3958

Portland, Oregon, US

VisiFoto wrote:

Me too, although I nearly died of a stroke and went to heaven being in the same room with a nekkid Penthouse playmate.

https://www.modelmayhem.com/2705302#29731292
https://www.modelmayhem.com/1430220

It's a tough job but somebody's gotta do it.

yeah but you are the https://assets.modelmayhem.com/images/smilies/scary.pngphotographer, not the helpless model. tongue

Aug 30 12 02:35 pm Link

Model

Tiffiney C

Posts: 570

Los Angeles, California, US

Check references and if you're nervous about your first shoot, bring someone. I do shoots in hotels often, even a video or two like this https://vimeo.com/47750103 and everything has been just fine. The most important thing is to effectively communicate with the photographer. Familiarize yourself so that once its time to meet and work together, you'll be comfortable.

Aug 30 12 07:32 pm Link