When looking for a nude model for your projects?
-----18 or older, Shoots Nudes in Genres and/or indicates an appropriate comfort level in her profile. Because of a low ceiling, prefer 5'8" or shorter
What do you want in a model?
-----reasonably intelligent, fun, sense of humor, comfort in her own body and boundaries, willingness to be an active part of a team effort rather than just a piece of meat.
What is a project you have always wanted to do?
-----a soft-focus, very sensuous but emphatically not pornographis coffe-table book, somewhat a la David Hamilton.
Look for:
an expressive face
A lean and / or toned body (personal preference)
ability to project a strong sense of mood
lovely and artistic qualities of posing
want:
reliability
flexibility
enthusiasm
as few limits as possible - not that I shoot trashy stuff- a model who is comfortable with a wide range of expression is generally easier to work with in my experience.
project:
Just starting into infrared figure work - have plenty of ideas for it
On top of what was mostly said already, I mainly look for someone I can connect with personally and creatively, someone that inspires me and gets the idea gears turning in my head.
The art nude endeavor is an intimate experience of sorts so to me a comfortable connection mentally, visually, creatively and intellectually is a key ingredient to a successful collaboration.
It's relative to everybody but I get inspired by a models portfolio and their ability and consistency of great work.
I look for models who are experienced for my own projects who can show emotion in their work and express freely with their posing. I am very selective and I have to "feel" they are the model I want to book to bring an idea to life.
It's like a gathering of studio musicians who each has their unique talent and skills but join together with others, they can create something original... Same with art and photography.
Caitin wrote: When looking for a nude model for your projects?
What do you want in a model?
What is a project you have always wanted to do?
In general when I'm searching for models, I look for someone over 18 with good skin (great skin is better but rare), expressive body language, and who triggers some sort of inspiration in my inner artist. I have a particular affinity for the body proportions found in petite models (5'0-5'5 and 100-110 lbs), but I certainly don't limit my work to models in that category.
If you turn the question around a bit and ask what traits would I like models who approach me to have, here's an excerpt from the modeling information I post on my web site (edited just a bit for formatting):
Requirements I work with models age 18 and up, all body types, all genders, all races. I've worked with models as young as 18 and as old as 63; male and female; white, black, hispanic, Asian, native American, and Persian; married, single, and swingers; gay, straight, and bi; doctors and high-school dropouts; executives, clerks, chefs, baristas, professors, students, business owners, unemployed .... The only thing that is common to all of them is that they interested me, my work interested them, and they had the courage to participate in it. There are essentially only three requirements to model for my work:
1. Something about you must appeal to the artist in me. If you don't meet that requirement, please don't take it personally. It doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you. It simply means you don't have the look and expressiveness I need for my work.
2. You must be willing to be a model rather than a client. A model's job is to be a creative collaborator, a performer, and a muse, working to realize the photographer's vision as images. The exception, of course, is if we agree to work on a trade basis (your modeling time for my photography skills) in which case you are a client (i.e., I'll work for you) for your half of the session, but you still must be willing and able to be a model for my half.
3. With very few exceptions, you must be comfortble posing fully nude. I primarily produce artistic, conceptual, and erotic nudes aimed at galleries, collectors, and art shows. I have worked with models who didn't pose nude, and I probably will again, but that's not currently the priority for my limited shooting time. If you're not willing to pose nude, I'm probably not the photographer you're looking for.
Expectations I expect that you've looked at my portfolios and have an idea of the type of work I do. We will talk over some general concepts and limits before we shoot, but beyond that I prefer to work with a simple agreement that I will ask for what I want to shoot and I will take no for an answer. That means:
1. You are assured that you can decline any pose or shot with no need to worry that I'll get upset or pressure you to do something you're not comfortable with.
2. I will not filter my creativity nor censor my vision. I'll ask for the shot I want, and I don't expect you to get upset if I ask for something you choose to decline.
3. It's perfectly OK for you to have limits, but it's your responsibility to speak up about them, not my responsibility guess them. If you're not the type of person who will speak up and say "No, I don't think I'm comfortable with that," or if you're a person who's likely to get upset if you need to say that, then you probably shouldn't model for me.
First, I look for a proportionate figure, photogenic face, no obviously colored hair, no ink, no implants. Then I try to see if they can model. That's the hardest one because you don't know if she fell into the pose by herself or the photographer had to tell her exactly what to do. My thought is if all the shots are well posed it's the model. The law of averages would suggest that if it is hit and miss the "hits" were accidents on the part of the model. If she has a fantastic look or body and I want to shoot her then I'll still hire her knowing that doing the posing will be up to me. Also in my conversations with her, she has be be drama and BS free.
Ideally, for me, I prefer models who have natural beauty. I don't mind subtle enhancements, like breast augmentation, but for art I don't want models who fit more of the glamour look with obviously fake lips, over-sized boobs, hair extensions, etc (i.e. Pamela Anderson or pornstar Jesse Jane). Not saying I wouldn't shoot them at all, but if I did it would be for something more along the lines of Playboy style nudes.
I also like to find models who have a good eye for art and are down to earth. In essence, models who are intelligent and beautiful, but still humble about it. They have a love for the art of photography, instead of being solely driven by money. They're able to recognize a good photographer when they see one and are willing to take part in an artistic project just for the sake of creating something beautiful, instead of passing up the opportunity because it's not a paid gig.
As far as body types go, I like some curves on a model. I'm not looking for perfection, but I find it harder to get the curves and lines I want in my composition with models who are either too skinny or too heavy. Other photographers are great at that; take R Michael Walker for example. He incorporates the model into the scene he's shooting and loves shooting with unique looking models.
I tend to want my shots to look "pretty" as well as artisitc, so I need models to add to the overall look I want in my work. I'm guessing maybe it's because Herb Ritts was my inspiration.
For my pastel paintings I like a beautiful "girl next door" look. Height is not a requirement as anyone can look tall on a 30"x36" canvas. Nice body proportions too.
Although I don't paint Playboy type paintings, there are 3 or 4 gorgeous glamour models on here that I would love to paint anyway.
I always wanted to take a model outside to photographer her in some woods settings, walking in some streams and even posing knee deep in a pond.
Typically, I do a search of models within 100 miles that checked they do nudes, so models who didn't check nudes, but in fact do nudes won't come to my attention. I also usually screen out those who have not been active in a few months.
From those results, it's about look, examples they have and rates they seek.
I also check travel notices to see if models may be traveling through my area, but I've only had two shoots as a result of that.
Sometimes I post a casting, either here or on craigslist and will take a chance of first time models who have never done any nude shoots, but seem excited to try.
Honestly I would point anyone to my friend Anastasia Arteyeva as what characteristics the perfect nude model. Someone who fell out of a Renaissance painting but can be quirky and emote.
Eros Fine Art Photo wrote: Ideally, for me, I prefer models who have natural beauty. I don't mind subtle enhancements, like breast augmentation, but for art I don't want models who fit more of the glamour look with obviously fake lips, over-sized boobs, hair extensions, etc (i.e. Pamela Anderson or pornstar Jesse Jane). Not saying I wouldn't shoot them at all, but if I did it would be for something more along the lines of Playboy style nudes.
I also like to find models who have a good eye for art and are down to earth. In essence, models who are intelligent and beautiful, but still humble about it. They have a love for the art of photography, instead of being solely driven by money. They're able to recognize a good photographer when they see one and are willing to take part in an artistic project just for the sake of creating something beautiful, instead of passing up the opportunity because it's not a paid gig.
As far as body types go, I like some curves on a model. I'm not looking for perfection, but I find it harder to get the curves and lines I want in my composition with models who are either too skinny or too heavy. Other photographers are great at that; take R Michael Walker for example. He incorporates the model into the scene he's shooting and loves shooting with unique looking models.
I tend to want my shots to look "pretty" as well as artisitc, so I need models to add to the overall look I want in my work. I'm guessing maybe it's because Herb Ritts was my inspiration.
Your comment really covers most every thing I look for as well. Only thing I can add is that in addition to having "an eye" that I like models who are good communicators too!
Caitin wrote: When looking for a nude model for your projects?
What do you want in a model?
What is a project you have always wanted to do?
It varies with the project. I just did one that required someone with dance background (recent dance background) and a dancer's flexibility and range. So obviously I wasn't looking for a Reubenesque model who did ballet 10 years ago.
When I shoot bodyscapes, I'm more likely to look for a woman who has some serious curves.
As you can tell from my portfolio, I do a lot of work outdoors and around water. For those, I want a model who isn't afraid to get wet or muddy and doesn't mind a walk in the woods to get to the site. Scars, hair length, skin color or tone, body mods--it mostly doesn't matter (as long as I know in advance so I can adjust appropriate--don't want someone with pierced nipples trying to pose as a greek statute).
But mostly, I'm not shooting glamour nudes. So I look for a model who has the eye of an artist, who can appreciate why I've got her in that contorted position. And I want a model who is easy to work with.
As for what I want to shoot that I haven't so far? I've got a lot of ideas for historical/vintage nudes. For instance, Sera Ferron and I did a nice series of her with a brass bed, thigh-highs and sepia finish that mimicked one of Bellocq's famous Storyville shots. I shot a variation on Odalisque with Brooje. I'm looking for a model with the right build and hair to shoot my version of Wyeth's "Daydream". A scottish pagan queen is a passion of mine. A classic harem would be another. Variations on Lois Greenfield's work is a third. I've got a sculptor who has given me permission to do a shoot in his studio (with a nude model posing next to his statutes of women). Another thing I'd love to do is fly out to Portland, throw Sie ist Idaho in a car and drive like crazy to the Oregon coast and then shoot her reflected in tidal pools off of Cannon Beach with the sun setting in the Pacific Ocean. My list of projects I want to shoot (and haven't yet) is very long.
GoldieImages
Posts: 95
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
It really depends on the genre as fine art nude, erotic nude, glamour nude, are all vastly different in many ways.
Overall I look for a model with good skin from head to toe, able to pose their whole body, and able to move around (hard to see in a port though, so you check references).
Super-skinny. Nothing against full-figured models, hell, I'm a fat girl myself, but the skinnier, the better: for my personal work, I feel it portrays what I'm trying to get across better.
Aware of their body. Posing after EVERY shutter click, so there's little to no direction from me. The people I typically work with are usually so good, I don't have to say a word- they almost read my mind (or, sometimes, think of better poses than I can).
Don't complain. Can take the cold/heat/etc etc. Artistically inclined, willing and wanting to try different things.
Caitin wrote: When looking for a nude model for your projects?
What do you want in a model?
What is a project you have always wanted to do?
I can answer the first two.
Skill, versatility, and a look I like. Ideally, I do figure nudes, editorial sort of nudes, and some fashion related work in a session. I want a fit for as much as possible of that, plus great communication, and a generally pleasant personality to work with.
I have to agree with David Miller. I hired a traveling model, and Anastasia Arteyeva happened to be riding in the car with her and they both were fantastic separately and together. Anastasia is the personification of the perfect art nude model.
Art Silva Photography wrote: On top of what was mostly said already, I mainly look for someone I can connect with personally and creatively, someone that inspires me and gets the idea gears turning in my head.
The art nude endeavor is an intimate experience of sorts so to me a comfortable connection mentally, visually, creatively and intellectually is a key ingredient to a successful collaboration.
It's relative to everybody but I get inspired by a models portfolio and their ability and consistency of great work.
I look for models who are experienced for my own projects who can show emotion in their work and express freely with their posing. I am very selective and I have to "feel" they are the model I want to book to bring an idea to life.
It's like a gathering of studio musicians who each has their unique talent and skills but join together with others, they can create something original... Same with art and photography.
It varies with the project. I just did one that required someone with dance background (recent dance background) and a dancer's flexibility and range. So obviously I wasn't looking for a Reubenesque model who did ballet 10 years ago.
When I shoot bodyscapes, I'm more likely to look for a woman who has some serious curves.
As you can tell from my portfolio, I do a lot of work outdoors and around water. For those, I want a model who isn't afraid to get wet or muddy and doesn't mind a walk in the woods to get to the site. Scars, hair length, skin color or tone, body mods--it mostly doesn't matter (as long as I know in advance so I can adjust appropriate--don't want someone with pierced nipples trying to pose as a greek statute).
But mostly, I'm not shooting glamour nudes. So I look for a model who has the eye of an artist, who can appreciate why I've got her in that contorted position. And I want a model who is easy to work with.
As for what I want to shoot that I haven't so far? I've got a lot of ideas for historical/vintage nudes. For instance, Sera Ferron and I did a nice series of her with a brass bed, thigh-highs and sepia finish that mimicked one of Bellocq's famous Storyville shots. I shot a variation on Odalisque with Brooje. I'm looking for a model with the right build and hair to shoot my version of Wyeth's "Daydream". A scottish pagan queen is a passion of mine. A classic harem would be another. Variations on Lois Greenfield's work is a third. I've got a sculptor who has given me permission to do a shoot in his studio (with a nude model posing next to his statutes of women). Another thing I'd love to do is fly out to Portland, throw Sie ist Idaho in a car and drive like crazy to the Oregon coast and then shoot her reflected in tidal pools off of Cannon Beach with the sun setting in the Pacific Ocean. My list of projects I want to shoot (and haven't yet) is very long.
Ed
Hi Ed
I have several photos at canon beach. I was in Oregon for a year. I love it.
I am doing a shoot Monday and Tues In Marquette Mi that is a historical/vintage shoot at a Old Hotel downtown that is perfect for it. I am excited I have always wanted to do this shoot.
Only partially kidding. Obviously a model has to fit the physical description I am looking for for a project and show that they are able to pose and have expression.
Just as important is their attitude. I have no shortage of models and I am rarely on a fixed schedule therefore I have no need to work with unpleasant people. I read profiles carefully. I search for MM posts. Then I correspond with the model. Finally I check references.
Not sure if models realize this very often but rudeness on MM or to other photographer can have real effects. I have passed on several for paying jobs based on their forum history and several because of their references. I have had one that a well known, well published photographer asked me about. She lost what well could have been a career maker.
Having said all of that 98% of the models I have worked with have been great. Photographers are much worse.
Reliability - do what you say, say what you do. There is NEVER an excuse for poor communication and flaking. Life happens, be professional and say something if it happens.
Attitude - be professional, communicate
Enthusiasm - express some enthusiasm for the shoot and team
Attractiveness - all subjective, of course, but I look for that natural physique that is toned. Not too many muscles, nothing overweight, etc.
As others are noting, all of these things affect the future relationships. I work with several photogs in town, know many more...if someone flakes several times, is unprofessional or disrespectful, they'll know about it. Word spreads fast.
All that said, I've been fortunate enough to work with many superb models and build some great relationships.
i like the ones that are a bit quirky (in how they look and/or how they pose) so we get something a little different from the usual glamour nude. the ones who have dance training (not the pole kind. lol) are fun.
MBR Photos wrote: Reliability - do what you say, say what you do. There is NEVER an excuse for poor communication and flaking. Life happens, be professional and say something if it happens.
Attitude - be professional, communicate
Enthusiasm - express some enthusiasm for the shoot and team
Attractiveness - all subjective, of course, but I look for that natural physique that is toned. Not too many muscles, nothing overweight, etc.
As others are noting, all of these things affect the future relationships. I work with several photogs in town, know many more...if someone flakes several times, is unprofessional or disrespectful, they'll know about it. Word spreads fast.
All that said, I've been fortunate enough to work with many superb models and build some great relationships.
I agree! Word of mouth has been my best sales tool!
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