Forums > General Industry > if you were asked, What would you do?

Photographer

DAVISICON

Posts: 644

San Antonio, Texas, US

I was very recently asked by a model that I "discovered", that he was asked by a "representative" of a very famous photographer if I would temporarily discontinue use of nudes of said model, in order for this very famous photographer could feel more comfortable etc, photographing him? Ive done alot to help this model free and get his name and image out there to help him, but now im being asked to harm and compromise myself to help someone else? what would you do? sorry to be so vague, you may also reply to my email if you like, i appreciate your opinion....................W

Nov 06 13 11:09 am Link

Photographer

Good Egg Productions

Posts: 16713

Orlando, Florida, US

DAVISICON wrote:
I was very recently asked by a model that I "discovered", that he was asked by a "representative" of a very famous photographer if I would temporarily discontinue use of nudes of said model, in order for this very famous photographer could feel more comfortable etc, photographing him? Ive done alot to help this model free and get his name and image out there to help him, but now im being asked to harm and compromise myself to help someone else? what would you do? sorry to be so vague, you may also reply to my email if you like, i appreciate your opinion....................W

This makes no sense whatsoever.

Can you make it any clearer? Why would the very famous photographer be uncomfortable with this model having done nudes?

Nov 06 13 11:16 am Link

Photographer

Leonard Gee Photography

Posts: 18096

Sacramento, California, US

DAVISICON wrote:
a very famous photographer if I would temporarily discontinue use of nudes of said model, in order for this very famous photographer could feel more comfortable etc, photographing him?

An outright lie.

Or a stupid photographer. Famous in their own mind or not.

Ask for a signed letter from said photographer, so you can look at it and laugh out loud.

Nov 06 13 11:16 am Link

Photographer

DOUGLASFOTOS

Posts: 10604

Los Angeles, California, US

DAVISICON wrote:
I was very recently asked by a model that I "discovered", that he was asked by a "representative" of a very famous photographer if I would temporarily discontinue use of nudes of said model, in order for this very famous photographer could feel more comfortable etc, photographing him? Ive done alot to help this model free and get his name and image out there to help him, but now im being asked to harm and compromise myself to help someone else? what would you do? sorry to be so vague, you may also reply to my email if you like, i appreciate your opinion....................W

This is 100% No Sense. Please add yourself to the equation.

Nov 06 13 11:20 am Link

Photographer

DAVISICON

Posts: 644

San Antonio, Texas, US

I just asked for opinions, this is possibly the models new "agent" and the agent told the model to ask me to discontinue use of said photos in consideration of this "famous" photographer? No lies all the truth! Im also confused, thats why im asking?, im sure every single one of you have of this photographer, would you discontinue use or not???? for the sake of the model?.....................W

Nov 06 13 11:25 am Link

Photographer

Good Egg Productions

Posts: 16713

Orlando, Florida, US

DAVISICON wrote:
I just asked for opinions, this is possibly the models new "agent" and the agent told the model to ask me to discontinue use of said photos in consideration of this "famous" photographer? No lies all the truth! Im also confused, thats why im asking?, im sure every single one of you have of this photographer, would you discontinue use or not???? for the sake of the model?.....................W

Is it because the "very famous photographer" wants to take exclusive nudes of the model?

It's really hard to give any form of advice when the story is so vague and there are no real details to go on.

Nov 06 13 11:29 am Link

Photographer

AD Leckemby

Posts: 359

Ladysmith, Virginia, US

DAVISICON wrote:
I just asked for opinions, this is possibly the models new "agent" and the agent told the model to ask me to discontinue use of said photos in consideration of this "famous" photographer? No lies all the truth! Im also confused, thats why im asking?, im sure every single one of you have of this photographer, would you discontinue use or not???? for the sake of the model?.....................W

Just my opinion. I am not critiquing you or your portfolio.

You have a quite a few really fantastic images in your portfolio. Would removing this individual's photos from it for ANY reason hurt your port ? I don't know which model it was and don't care to know, but loosing one might not be a big deal in the end. I would also discuss it with the model. Does the model want them removed ? If so, take the high road and don't worry about it.

Nov 06 13 11:31 am Link

Photographer

Orca Bay Images

Posts: 33877

Arcata, California, US

DAVISICON wrote:
I just asked for opinions, this is possibly the models new "agent" and the agent told the model to ask me to discontinue use of said photos in consideration of this "famous" photographer? No lies all the truth! Im also confused, thats why im asking?, im sure every single one of you have of this photographer, would you discontinue use or not???? for the sake of the model?.....................W

You're taking the model's word for it that someone famous is asking you to take the nude work down? A far simpler explanation is that the model got cold feet too late and wants the nudes removed himself.

The request makes absolutely no sense any other way. A famous photographer is nervous abou a model having posed nude? Bullshit.

I'd tell the model to get the famous person to get in touch with me directly and explain the request. Ain't gonna happen.

Nov 06 13 11:34 am Link

Photographer

Looknsee Photography

Posts: 26342

Portland, Oregon, US

DAVISICON wrote:
I was very recently asked by a model that I "discovered", that he was asked by a "representative" of a very famous photographer if I would temporarily discontinue use of nudes of said model, in order for this very famous photographer could feel more comfortable etc, photographing him? Ive done alot to help this model free and get his name and image out there to help him, but now im being asked to harm and compromise myself to help someone else? what would you do? sorry to be so vague, you may also reply to my email if you like, i appreciate your opinion....................W

1)  I tend to avoid "middle man" negotiations.  Give the model permission to have the famous photographer contact you. 

2)  I would be agreeable to an arrangement where I make limited use of "my" pictures of the model -- for example, I might agree to use the photos only for my on-line portfolios.

3)  I would never agree to an arrangement that didn't have an expiration date.  For example, I might agree not to use the photographs I made for a year, but after that time, I would either want compensation or I would be free to use the images.

Nov 06 13 11:37 am Link

Photographer

DAVISICON

Posts: 644

San Antonio, Texas, US

a big part of this famous photographers fame is from doing nudes, esp male nudes. I havent dropped names because its not my intention, I dont understand why im being asked to disconue use, except yes i think he wants to say the model is exclusive to him as far as nudes???? everyone of you have heard of this "famous" photog, but I dont see what it has to do with me?, thanks....................W

Nov 06 13 11:38 am Link

Photographer

Orca Bay Images

Posts: 33877

Arcata, California, US

If the "famous photographer" is asking you to discontinue use of the images, let him pay you for the rights to the images, or at least enough to ensure your cooperation.

Nov 06 13 11:41 am Link

Photographer

DOUGLASFOTOS

Posts: 10604

Los Angeles, California, US

DAVISICON wrote:
a big part of this famous photographers fame is from doing nudes, esp male nudes. I havent dropped names because its not my intention, I dont understand why im being asked to disconue use, except yes i think he wants to say the model is exclusive to him as far as nudes???? everyone of you have heard of this "famous" photog, but I dont see what it has to do with me?, thanks....................W

I learned in life...just do whatever you want. Drama and Haters will always be around. Let it all roll off your back.

Nov 06 13 11:45 am Link

Photographer

Kezins Photography

Posts: 1389

Beckley, West Virginia, US

Sounds awfully strange.  I think I kinda get it.  If someone asked me to drop some nudes because a model needed to get a non nude job and the nudes could be damaging, I'll probably drop them off my online port if they weren't published and I wasn't even benefiting from the images. 

If someone asked me to drop images because they wanted to be the only person to ever photograph the model, I'd tell them to get lost or pay me.  Sounds like a lot of nonsense though. If he's really "famous", he's got some cash he can come up off of for your troubles. 

So who knows?  I don't think a famous photographer would pull a stunt like this that could become a PR issue for him or her.

Nov 06 13 11:45 am Link

Photographer

Ken Marcus Studios

Posts: 9421

Las Vegas, Nevada, US

Contact this "famous photographer" directly and see if he actually asked his "representative" to make that request of you.

I'll bet that he doesn't even know anything about it and may not even know the "representative" either.

In any case . . . do not take the photos down or stop using them . . . unless you are paid handsomely for doing so.

KM

Nov 06 13 11:46 am Link

Photographer

Marc Damon

Posts: 6562

Biloxi, Mississippi, US

Sure. I'd discontinue use of the photos. But first, I want a face to face meeting with all interested parties so we can negotiate to get the money and details worked out. My attorney will also be present at the meeting. He will draft an iron clad contract that protects and compensates me for my inconvenience.

Nov 06 13 11:46 am Link

Photographer

Good Egg Productions

Posts: 16713

Orlando, Florida, US

DAVISICON wrote:
a big part of this famous photographers fame is from doing nudes, esp male nudes. I havent dropped names because its not my intention, I dont understand why im being asked to disconue use, except yes i think he wants to say the model is exclusive to him as far as nudes???? everyone of you have heard of this "famous" photog, but I dont see what it has to do with me?, thanks....................W

The famous photographer want you to discontinue use of your nude photos of this model so that HE may profit off of the exclusivity of nude photos of this model?

Fuck that.

He's already famous. Why should you be doing him any favors? Is he returning anything to you? What do you get out of agreeing to this?

Nov 06 13 11:46 am Link

Photographer

eybdoog

Posts: 2647

New York, New York, US

OP: If it were me, I would ask the model what he thinks. It doesn't matter what the other photographer thinks. They are just trying to look like the first one to discover said model when they photograph them as a political move. If they model requests that you remove his images from your port, I would consider it as a karma thing, and if it would hurt your port or not by doing so. If the answer is yes that it would hurt your port, I would offer the model/other photographer a buy out option. If the answer is no, it is your own personal call as to your friendship with said model if you want to take them down or not. Either way though, I would not take them down just because there is some photographer famous or otherwise that got jealous that someone else discovered a model first basically. good luck

Nov 06 13 11:50 am Link

Photographer

AJ_In_Atlanta

Posts: 13053

Atlanta, Georgia, US

I am with Ken on this.  I suspect the "representive" wants to market this model to that photographer and does not want anyone to find your images.  It's doubtful the photographer knows anything about it or who these people are yet; total speculation on the part of this "representive" and maybe wishful thinking.

Nov 06 13 11:51 am Link

Photographer

Bryan Benoit

Posts: 2106

Miami, Florida, US

Ken Marcus Studios wrote:
Contact this "famous photographer" directly and see if he actually asked his "representative" to make that request of you.

I'll bet that he doesn't even know anything about it and may not even know the "representative" either.

In any case . . . do not take the photos down or stop using them . . . unless you are paid handsomely for doing so.

KM

+1

Nov 06 13 11:59 am Link

Photographer

Darren Brade

Posts: 3351

London, England, United Kingdom

Charlie-CNP wrote:
OP: If it were me, I would ask the model what he thinks. It doesn't matter what the other photographer thinks. They are just trying to look like the first one to discover said model when they photograph them as a political move. If they model requests that you remove his images from your port, I would consider it as a karma thing, and if it would hurt your port or not by doing so. If the answer is yes that it would hurt your port, I would offer the model/other photographer a buy out option. If the answer is no, it is your own personal call as to your friendship with said model if you want to take them down or not. Either way though, I would not take them down just because there is some photographer famous or otherwise that got jealous that someone else discovered a model first basically. good luck

^^^This

it really should be between you and the model not a 3rd party. I suspect it may be the model just not knowing how to ask.
It really comes down to how you want to treat the model not the photographer.

Nov 06 13 12:25 pm Link

Photographer

DAVISICON

Posts: 644

San Antonio, Texas, US

THANK YOU, for your opinions and input, it has been very valuable to me and I appreciate it.........................William

Nov 06 13 12:39 pm Link

Photographer

Loki Studio

Posts: 3523

Royal Oak, Michigan, US

Every photographer of glamour or nude models should expect that the lives of their subjects will change and they may no longer want to be connected to sexier images.  Likewise, photographers lives may change and they also choose not be connected to sexier images.  This will at some point happen to almost all of us.

Every photographer and model should strive to make enough good photos that removing a few images on request should not be a big issue.  I have always found that the positive and respectful relationships I have with models have generated more referrals and growth in my career than just a few images in my portfolio, especially for any trade work.  Removing images from a reasonable request should be an easy choice for an industry professional.  Your characterization of being asked to "harm and compromise myself" is pretty extreme.   

After all, if you decide that you no longer want a subject using your photos-how would you want them to respond to your request?

Nov 07 13 04:14 am Link

Photographer

Marin Photo NYC

Posts: 7348

New York, New York, US

Give them a price.

Nobody rides for free.... big_smile

Nov 07 13 04:38 am Link

Photographer

Expression Unlimited

Posts: 1408

Oceanside, California, US

You've expressed this so oddly that I cant understand what you mean

Who is harming you?


If someone wants to discuss your work they need to contact you and speak to you.

If you have images on your website only you decide to take them down - perhaps if the model is no longer comfortable with them, and asks you. No other reason!

If the young man is asking you behind an excuse - perhaps he doesn't want to seem ungrateful for your support, just find out what HE wants you to do, and decide accordingly.

Nov 07 13 04:47 am Link

Photographer

DDDDC Photos

Posts: 651

Las Vegas, Nevada, US

Ken Marcus Studios wrote:
Contact this "famous photographer" directly and see if he actually asked his "representative" to make that request of you.

I'll bet that he doesn't even know anything about it and may not even know the "representative" either.

In any case . . . do not take the photos down or stop using them . . . unless you are paid handsomely for doing so.

KM

Once again Ken has nailed it squarely on the head, money talks, bullshit walks!

Nov 07 13 04:50 am Link

Photographer

David Kirk

Posts: 4852

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Prolens Photography wrote:

Once again Ken has nailed it squarely on the head, money talks, bullshit walks!

+1

This sounds like you're getting a half story at best.  Politely request to have the "famous photographer" contact you to discuss his concerns.  I wouldn't wait by the phone expecting it to ring.

Nov 07 13 06:11 am Link

Photographer

Christopher Hartman

Posts: 54196

Buena Park, California, US

Would it cost me money?

It's temporary.

...hmm...yeah, sure, why not?

Nov 07 13 07:21 am Link

Photographer

Blue Ash Film Group

Posts: 10343

Cincinnati, Ohio, US

Ken Marcus Studios wrote:
Contact this "famous photographer" directly and see if he actually asked his "representative" to make that request of you.

I'll bet that he doesn't even know anything about it and may not even know the "representative" either.

In any case . . . do not take the photos down or stop using them . . . unless you are paid handsomely for doing so.

KM

We have a winner. And I would add that this "famous photographer" probably has no idea who this model is in addition to not knowing who their "representative" is. Think about it, why wouldn't they contact you directly?

Nov 07 13 07:33 am Link

Photographer

dragonpancakes

Posts: 82

Denver, Colorado, US

I think it is either (as many said) regret, or cold feet too late. If this is what he told you I'd at least consider taking them down, but have him make it up to you with another shoot if you'd like. IF (possible but unlikely) he was telling you the truth, dont change a thing. You're entitled to use your work, and if the famous photographer is intimidated enough by your work let them come to you personally and open negotiations. Altering your business in a way that could impact you negatively (financially) simply on word of mouth is dangerous at best.

Nov 07 13 07:48 am Link

Photographer

fsp

Posts: 3656

New York, New York, US

I can be bought out... How much depends on how famous otherwise read my model release n eat my shorts!

Nov 07 13 08:39 am Link

Photographer

Rob Photosby

Posts: 4810

Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Ken Marcus Studios wrote:
Contact this "famous photographer" directly and see if he actually asked his "representative" to make that request of you.

I'll bet that he doesn't even know anything about it and may not even know the "representative" either.

In any case . . . do not take the photos down or stop using them . . . unless you are paid handsomely for doing so.

KM

Excellent advice

Nov 07 13 06:14 pm Link