I'm so excited that a site like this exists as I've really been getting into photography lately, but have run out of models to shoot.

So I was wondering how to most of the photographers on here connect with models for shoots? I've been messaging models, but I haven't received a whole lot of responses, and I don't know if that's because I'm doing something wrong or because that's the norm?

I'm afraid that it is the norm, at least for me.

For what it's worth, it took me almost 5 months to schedule a shoot when I first came on MM.

Thank you! Here I was worrying no one liked me . I'll definitely keep looking and hope that I find a model that wants to work with me.

You could always create a casting, and see if you get any response on that. Response varies tremendously related to how you write it, location and type of contract.

I have not had a great deal of luck with TFP in castings om MM, but the paid ones have been very popular.

Good luck!


J.

This is a common problem.

What's up with "Models" not responding to Castings
Models that bail.

Three main things that attract models.

1. Have a good avatar. This is the first thing people see and what they use to decide whether to bother to look at your portfolio. Work on getting a good portfolio. Go to the critique forum and ask for . Work with friends and family as much as possible. Bribe them with cookies and pastries.

2. Production value. Find an MUA to work with. Interesting locations, and props. Creativity. "Models" want the "experience" of being a model.

3. Cash. Unlike photographers, the rest of the world expects to get paid to work.

Three good ways to network are:

Post an availability notice letting people know that you are available (under the casting/travel tab). This is for when you want to charge money. You can offer trade as well.

Search for Casting Calls in your area based on criteria you select. Post a Casting Call letting people know about an idea you have and want to put into a work of art. This is for when you are willing to pay other people. You can offer trade as well.

Search or Post Casting Calls and Travel/Availability Notices
Official Casting Call Rules - Read

Browse for models/MUA's in your area and leave comments on images you like, send a friend request or message. Start a list of model's photos that you think are top notch for models in your area. This can become something of a Rolodex. Make sure that you select the Advanced Options and select an appropriate Logged in within:. I typically use 30 days, but you may want people who respond faster. Otherwise you will get models who haven't logged in in over a year. There are a lot of inactive accounts.

Keep in mind you may be reaching above your current grasp. Many models that are experienced will not work with newbies. Find locals that are new to the field as well and attempt to work with them to continue building your portfolio and reputation.

Welcome to the Mayhem