Jerry Nemeth wrote:
I am always comfortable with models, even nude models.  We have a conversation during the shoot.

Are you suggesting the OP should bring you along on her shoot? Or just that uncomfortable photographers should meditate upon you in general?

NothingIsRealButTheGirl wrote:

Are you suggesting the OP should bring you along on her shoot? Or just that uncomfortable photographers should meditate upon you in general?

Converse with the photographer to make him feel at ease.

Dekilah wrote:
I have worked with a lot of very new (or new to models) photographers as well as a lot who had never shot a nude model before. I always feel very honored that they want me to be their first nude model, and I know that sounds cheesy, but I think it can be a big deal given the stigma around nudes for some people. I have also done workshops where a lot of the photographers were new to models or nudes. And these are always some of my favorite shoots and I really enjoy them, despite the fact that I most often do not even see the photos.

If I can here are some of the things I do:
- ask them to show me some photos they like before the shoot to get an idea of what they like in terms of posing
- guide them into giving me direction, like "Would you like me to be sitting or standing?" or "Do you prefer I look at the camera or not?" Giving them a choice allows them to guide me to what they want without just saying "Give me some direction." If they tell me to do what I think looks good, I do, but I try to mix in as much as I can and try to read what they like.
- do classical poses and let them let you know if they want something more unique, I think a lot of times they are more focused on getting the lighting and tech stuff right than getting a super unique photo with a crazy pose.
- be friendly and nice, I am an introvert too, but I have learned how to make relatively painless small talk even if I am just asking them about how they got started in photography and such.
- I also show an interest in the photos and ask to see them if they get one they really like, then I praise the shot if I like it or make some mental notes on changes I can make to make it look better (or how to work with what they are doing) and still try to find something to make a positive comment about. If they do not seem to want to show me, I just brush it off and say something like "Okay, no worries, but I cannot wait to see them after the shoot!"

Those sound like really good tips

NYMPH wrote:
Hey Models! I have a new problem that I would love some advice on.

I have a shoot with a photographer who sounds genuinely intimidated and nervous about working with me. He hasn't done a lot of shoots with models, and I don't think he's ever hired a professional before.

I try to be personable and friendly with everyone that I shoot with, but I'm a natural introvert, and not the most sociable type. I'm excited to work with this gentleman, and I think it will overall be a great experience for him.

I know some photographers have an arsenal of techniques for getting new models to relax. Are there any particular pointers anyone has for the reverse situation? Anything to say or do to help put him at ease early in the shoot? Anything I should absolutely not do?

You know I've recently experienced this myself (only because the model was extremely experienced and very spot on with posing, etc.). I just wanted to make sure my images came out as the ones in her portfolio.

Just be relaxed and offer up some casual chit chat, talk about other shoots, what got them into photography, their favorite shoot, their worse nightmare of a shoot, do they do anything other than photography, etc.

Also explain about how you work as well...

Dont forget to laugh and have a good time

Leonard Gee Photography wrote:
Don't touch him, unless you ask permission first.
Tell him how big his lens looks.
Explain to him it's normal for the first time to be nervous.


Ask questions about his equipment and what he likes about it (seriously).
Talk about the food you like and ask him what he likes.
Ask him what music he likes and if you can listen while working.
Talk about the photographers/model they like.

Just the normal stuff to distract, if they like talking. Some photographers are quiet and just like to let you work. I've seen a few that never talk. See if they mind playing music. Just do your thing and tell them how much you enjoy working with them.

You can tell them a little about yourself. If they know you as a person, it helps them to relax. Just don't get too personal at first.

I like *most* of the above. I think you really need to be aware of what is working and what is not working in terms of conversation. Some "getting to know each other" time at the beginning as described above is good but as you begin actually working, if you observe that he is struggling with any technical aspects such as lighting or even basic camera operation then changing his focus to what foods he likes is going to make him even more nervous. If he is having a tough time you can you can still converse but keep it more relevant to the situation so it is a help not an additional distraction.

Eye of the World wrote:
If he is having a tough time you can you can still converse but keep it more relevant to the situation so it is a help not an additional distraction.

Jay Black wrote:
If he appears at all nervous before he starts taking pictures, slap him across the face hard and order him to start working. ;-)

Thanks I needed that!  Old after shave commercial.

DougBPhoto wrote:
If he has never hired a model before, he is probably also nervous about not letting himself and you down with the photos, so it might be helpful to reduce expectations and have both of you thinking more about a fun learning experience than a paid working session.

PS: a nice smile goes a long way. 

I've been there not so long ago (or it seems lol). This it the best advice... remind him that you don't expect him to turn over great images, but to learn from this experience.

Also, however strange it might sound, I found that meeting the model with no make-up when she comes for the shoot helps "meet the human and not the model" (if you understand what I mean). Then when he sees the transformation take place, he will still be able to relate to the real you during the shoot, and not only to the images he saw in your portfolio that intimidate him.

Art Silva Photography wrote:
So I am reminded of a dear female friend of mine a couple years ago who loves my work and decided she would like me to photograph her nude.
I agreed with the honor [as she was amazingly gorgeous fit] yet I was completely nervous as we are friends and all.
I am usually comfortable with my models of every level but this was different... So come shooting day, I arrived at her apartment with my minimal gear, I knocked on her door and I hear "one second"... Then the door opens and there she is completely nude like I have never seen her, in all her glory...

Well that definitely broke the ice and the comfort level was if full force, no warm up, no layers, just "Here It Is - Lets do this and have fun with it"

One of the best shoots ever

A model once opened the door of her hotel room for me totally nude also.   

Eralar wrote:
I've been there not so long ago (or it seems lol). This it the best advice... remind him that you don't expect him to turn over great images, but to learn from this experience.

I would have to say that's pretty horrible advice.

There's nothing wrong if she goes in expecting that as he is an inexperienced photographer. But to make it known to him would be incredibly rude. She should encourage him, not destroy his self esteem which it sounds like is already pretty low as a photographer.

Stephen Fletcher wrote:
I always like it when Models ply me with Whiskey before demanding sex.  One Model told me put out or get out and walk.  We were at my studio but I went along with her anyway.

Whaaaa?

Mark C Smith wrote:

I would have to say that's pretty horrible advice.

There's nothing wrong if she goes in expecting that as he is an inexperienced photographer. But to make it known to him would be incredibly rude. She should encourage him, not destroy his self esteem which it sounds like is already pretty low as a photographer.

To each his own it seems... I didn't mean it as an ego killer, but more as a "Since you are paying me (model talking of course), you don't have the pressure of sending me pictures as in a TF shoot."

nyk fury wrote:
why should a photographer have to feel comfortable? this is photography, not vacationing.

Har har! Maybe go back and read the OP, and you'll understand ;P

But in general, it's usually good for all parties to feel comfortable, in the interests of getting the best results?

Stephen Fletcher wrote:
I always like it when Models ply me with Whiskey before demanding sex.  One Model told me put out or get out and walk.  We were at my studio but I went along with her anyway.

This has never happened to me!   

Will_DB wrote:
Har har! Maybe go back and read the OP, and you'll understand ;P

But in general, it's usually good for all parties to feel comfortable, in the interests of getting the best results?

i dunno. a certain degree of discomfort seems to me to lend itself to edgier, less predictable results.

NYMPH wrote:
Hey Models! I have a new problem that I would love some advice on.

I have a shoot with a photographer who sounds genuinely intimidated and nervous about working with me. He hasn't done a lot of shoots with models, and I don't think he's ever hired a professional before.

I try to be personable and friendly with everyone that I shoot with, but I'm a natural introvert, and not the most sociable type. I'm excited to work with this gentleman, and I think it will overall be a great experience for him.

I know some photographers have an arsenal of techniques for getting new models to relax. Are there any particular pointers anyone has for the reverse situation? Anything to say or do to help put him at ease early in the shoot? Anything I should absolutely not do?

Hi Nymph,

Since all I shoot is trade and was willing to shoot a lot this last year I've come across this. I think being genuine, patient and non-judgmental and just "ready" when they are helps.

I've often seen the make up artist set the tone for the shoot and worked with a couple amazing ones who were very centered, grounded and diminished pre-shoot jitters that I realize we can all do that and I try to now as well.

Creativity and pressure can cause jitters. Expectations can cause lots of pressure. Maybe removing the pressure can help. Possibly let him or her know up front that if they feel they didn't get it right that you would consider a make up shoot for a huge discount. This way it might take the pressure off and at the very least be good karma and the second shoot may be killer. Edit: nevermind the last one, I see it is a trade shoot! Enjoy the camera.

:
Jen

Odin Photo wrote:
Bring home made cookies. It may or may not make them less nervous, but who doesn't like cookies?

NYMPH wrote:
Hey Models! I have a new problem that I would love some advice on.

I have a shoot with a photographer who sounds genuinely intimidated and nervous about working with me. He hasn't done a lot of shoots with models, and I don't think he's ever hired a professional before.

I try to be personable and friendly with everyone that I shoot with, but I'm a natural introvert, and not the most sociable type. I'm excited to work with this gentleman, and I think it will overall be a great experience for him.

I know some photographers have an arsenal of techniques for getting new models to relax. Are there any particular pointers anyone has for the reverse situation? Anything to say or do to help put him at ease early in the shoot? Anything I should absolutely not do?

Nymph, nice of you to think about this issue rather than just conclude "it's his problem" and let the chips fall where they may.

I think you have two issues here:

1.  How to make sure the two of you have a decent shoot (so he thinks highly of you, gets good results, wants to book you again, says great things about you to other photographers).  So if you feel he may be so intimidated that it's going to affect his ability to do his job as the shooter, you'll need to prepare some of the things that a photographer would normally do.
--print out a copy of the standard ASMP model release in case he forgets.  And if he doesn't offer a release for you to sign, you can gently suggest "would you like to have me sign a release for the shoot?  If you don't have a release form, I have a standard release form we can use and you can keep."  Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know, it's not specific to your state, I"m not a lawyer, etc.  But you look professional and prepared and helpful.
--bring pictures of sample poses.  If he is at a loss on how to pose you, I'm sure you can create plenty of great options.  But showing the pictures gives him some ideas of what to expect, you can explain why it's such a winning pose ("see how the feet are extended?  That creates a much more flowing line.")
--when you arrive, ask if the two of you can walk through the space (unless it's just a seamless white backdrop in a studio) to talk through what ideas he has and how to use particular space and light.  And if he's not talking, you can offer ideas.  "Can I make a suggestion?  There are a couple of good options with this sofa.  There's some nice soft natural light coming in, this wall next to it would be like a reflector, and you could pose me like this....or this...what do you think?"
--give him some makeup/prep options.  If he's never worked with models, he probably doesn't have a clue.  So be prepared to say "I can give you this look...or this look...or we can go with this."

In short, if he isn't offering direction, than ask if you can provide a suggestion.

2.  If the issue is that you would simply like to have a shoot with some interaction rather than a shooter just clicking away and you're thinking "does he like what he sees or is he just hating this decision to book this shoot?".  Part of the ideas I've suggested above are ways to break the ice.  But when you arrive you can start a conversation asking him about ideas he has for the shoot and lead that in to what he likes to shoot (and then try to tie that in to your shoot).  When you take breaks, ask to see some of the results, point out some strengths or things you like and ask for his reaction.  All of these are ways to get him talking and interacting more.

Best of luck!

Ed

GER Photography wrote:

Have you tried Jim Beam's Devil's Cut!!! Smooth & Tastey

I like this idea!

Miss Havisham Studios wrote:
Have sex with him. Wait, definitely do not have sex with him.

PURE Comedy!!!!

NYMPH wrote:
I have a shoot with a photographer who sounds genuinely intimidated and nervous about working with me.

http://www.wikihow.com/Communicate-With … ing-Autism

Flex Photography wrote:

+1

Cookies are the ultimate ice breaker.

NYMPH wrote:
Hey Models! I have a new problem that I would love some advice on.

I have a shoot with a photographer who sounds genuinely intimidated and nervous about working with me. He hasn't done a lot of shoots with models, and I don't think he's ever hired a professional before.

I try to be personable and friendly with everyone that I shoot with, but I'm a natural introvert, and not the most sociable type. I'm excited to work with this gentleman, and I think it will overall be a great experience for him.

I know some photographers have an arsenal of techniques for getting new models to relax. Are there any particular pointers anyone has for the reverse situation? Anything to say or do to help put him at ease early in the shoot? Anything I should absolutely not do?

When you first meet, tell him you are a bit nervous and want to relax for a while before you start the shoot. Try to develop a reppart with him by getting him to talk about himself. Also asking questions about does he want you to strike poses or wait for his direction. While starting the shoot asking him questions about your pose such as do you want to move your arm or leg, or just tell him why you usually keep a gap between your arm and body. Help educate him. Asking questions will empower him. Laugh a lot.

Art Silva Photography wrote:
So I am reminded of a dear female friend of mine a couple years ago who loves my work and decided she would like me to photograph her nude.
I agreed with the honor [as she was amazingly gorgeous fit] yet I was completely nervous as we are friends and all.
I am usually comfortable with my models of every level but this was different... So come shooting day, I arrived at her apartment with my minimal gear, I knocked on her door and I hear "one second"... Then the door opens and there she is completely nude like I have never seen her, in all her glory...

Well that definitely broke the ice and the comfort level was if full force, no warm up, no layers, just "Here It Is - Lets do this and have fun with it"

One of the best shoots ever

Dear Penthouse....... 

OP - I think the best advice you've been given, and I would second it, is that you lower the 'expectation'. You'll greatly reduce the pressure he's feeling to 'perform'.