Posted by Soshanna: 
Most of the time I go alone to shoots. If the shoot is far from my home, I may bring my boyfriend just so we can enjoy the rest of our day in the area I have travelled to. He is super low key and the photographers always enjoy him. If I had a boyfriend that was obnoxious or got in the way, I simply wouldn't bring him at all. However, I am the type of girl who doesn't usually think things out. I'm not the type to panic or think of consequences.

I do understand both sides. It can be scary being a girl walking into a man's house that you don't know. We've all heard of Dudes with Cameras. As a model mentioned earlier, I always make sure somebody knows where I am.

This is a professional business, yes, but in the real professional world, you typically aren't going to someones house to shoot. In the MM/OMP portfolio building world, most of the time you are. It's sort of different. I don't think the same rules should necessarily apply.

thank you...i agree...photofashion is saying that photographers who actually book models that bring llama herders need a reality check....I don't believe it makes a model a baby or unprofessional if she wants to bring someone. If it is a shoot that is a closed set and only the models, mua, and photographers are allowed that is totally understandable. A model should tell the photographer though, beforehand if she is bringing someone. I dealt with one photographer that was pretty cool to talk to, but got a lil sexually suggestive online about the if I know how to be sexy and all that blah blah...I didn't care. As soon as I said I'd be bringing my boyfriend he doesn't want to shoot anymore. I didn't care. If you don't wanna pay me someone else will. I've worked with many great photographers and had one bad experience....I may even write a post about it but he's threatening to sue me for libel ::shrug::

Posted by *!photofashion!*: 
hmmm let me see, when you go down the supermarket do you take a chaparone?? could be some creepy guys hanging around in the vegetable section.

If some photographer asks you to shoot in his garage at the bottom of some cul du sac and says he is going to do the make up himself a "want to be" professional model should not go anywhere near him.

In the fashion photography business the ENTIRE process that leads to succesful photographs is based around the ineraction between the photgrapher and his subject.
Taking Ma, Pa, Billy Bob or whoever will act as subtle unseen barrier that interupts this process....but you will certainly see it in the final results. Ie...they will be 99% of the time total pap

If you dont trust the photgrapher why are you there???

Great post!!


That vegetable section is a real scarey area i always bring a couple bodyguards when i go any where near it!!

Posted by Hugh  Jorgen ©: 
I did a big family shoot musta been 40 in the group all ages!!

Wow... and now just add one "escort" per person... 40 escorts, each is protecting their protegee from other family members and that goes on for a few hours... ending up at Jerry Springer and in the end... it's all YOUR fault Hugh... LOL

Posted by Capt Stu Beans: 
Israel makes an excellent point no one brought up. If it's a paying client,.who cares. If it's a trade of some sort, there are just some parameters that should be dealt with, and you (scott and others) can always make the choice at that point to not take on the trade....like changing the channel.

For the few times I have gone through this, I have made the boyfriend play assistant. I always need more coffee. lol. I've had only one shoot where the BF stood behind me the entire time. I simply told him to sit on the couch, which is far enough away from my seamless to keep him at bay.

Bottom line....unless you're getting paid, you just deal with it, say something to fix the situation, or move on.

Stu

Im not into this for the money..
If some body is gonna mess up my shoot..
No way
I dont care who is payin me! Its my way or the highway!!

Posted by Monsante Bey: 
Escorts are allowed, but are not allowed on the set. This is work, not a social function. their function is to ensure that she arrives and leaves safely, not peer over my shoulder, offer advice and disrupt the session.

I totally agree!  When scheduling a shoot, I tell the model that she's permitted to bring only one person with her, preferably NOT a boyfriend or husband, and that that person must be TOTALLY unobtrusive as in invisible and inaudible during the shoot.  Since all of my work with models is TFP, I have no reason to even consider tolerating anyone peering over my shoulder or offering unsolicited comments.

Posted by Soshanna: 
Most of the time I go alone to shoots. If the shoot is far from my home, I may bring my boyfriend just so we can enjoy the rest of our day in the area I have travelled to. He is super low key and the photographers always enjoy him. If I had a boyfriend that was obnoxious or got in the way, I simply wouldn't bring him at all. However, I am the type of girl who doesn't usually think things out. I'm not the type to panic or think of consequences.

I do understand both sides. It can be scary being a girl walking into a man's house that you don't know. We've all heard of Dudes with Cameras. As a model mentioned earlier, I always make sure somebody knows where I am.

This is a professional business, yes, but in the real professional world, you typically aren't going to someones house to shoot. In the MM/OMP portfolio building world, most of the time you are. It's sort of different. I don't think the same rules should necessarily apply.

I absolutely agree Sosh. Oh and my boyfriend isn't obnoxious either

I ALWAYS BRING A MALE ESCORT.
the way I look at it,not all photogs are creeps who are gonna try something but you never know which one will.you won't always get a bad vibe from a creepy photog.
now bringing a female escort to me is just silly.another female can be over-powered more easily then a male.
now again I don't think all you photogs are weirdo creeps who will be touchy feely or rapists but a girl can never be too careful.
and it's always different once you have worked w/ someone.
if you have worked w/ them a few times,then I don't really see a need for an escort.
just My 2 cents.
xxx
MP

Not to throw a wrench into your works, but if someone is bound and determined to truly do you harm, it doesn't matter if your companion is male or female.

Once again, I ask people to remember it works both ways. Reese is quite correct in saying I had a situation with an insecure boyfriend, who turned out to be on psychotropic medications. He was bipolar, but I also believe he was paranoid schizoeffective, if not truly schizophrenic. He decided that I was trying to "steal" his girlfriend from him by making her enjoy her photo shoot with me. While his girlfriend was changing, he ended up with my not even a week old DSLR/2.8 lens combo in his hands, ranting non-sensically, his voice growing with urgency. He wouldn't release the camera until I told him how to delete the CF card, losing all our work, as we were taking our time, deleting as we went. Turns out he hadn't been taking his medication properly. After he deleted the pictures, he curled up on the couch and went to sleep, my shiny new Canon and lens unharmed.

Because of this, I do not allow guy friends, boyfriends, fiances', male acquaintances at a shoot. Maybe a husband, pending a reference from another photographer they've worked with, and if they haven't, a now thorough vetting by me. A girl is welcome to bring a girlfriend, or two, or three.

I'm simply not putting up with any more adolescent insecurities, hidden mental health issues, and guys who secretly wish they were dating their model friend they're so  eager to accompany to the ends of the earth.

Remember models, it's not just about you. Many models expect photographers to be completely comfortable with them bringing a complete stranger to a shoot. We don't know him, have never talked with him, yet we are expected to not mind him lurking behind us and our expensive equipment while our attention is focused elsewhere. It works both ways.

Do some homework upfront, and be realistic about the threat.  Do you allow the UPS man or opened the door to get something from the mail carrier? Have you ever ordered cable and waited there alone for the technician to come to your home somewhere between 8 and 12 or 12 and 4? Have you ever gotten a tattoo all by yourself? Ever consumed alcohol with a guy, or guys, you really don't know? I'm sure at least some of you have participated in the aforementioned activities, but because someone finds you attractive enough to photograph, suddenly you need Secret Service protection.

It's perfectly reasonable for someone to know where you are, with whom, when you expect to be back, and a number you can be reached. It's logical for you to get the persons full name, landline phone number, and street address for business purposes as well as safety.

It is counterproductive to always go into situations thinking the worst is but a moment away.

The best defense any of us have against coming to harm is being aware, being proactive, listening to your gut instincts and taking responsibility...and doing so without getting carried away.

Posted by Matthew Grogan: 

I ALWAYS BRING A MALE ESCORT.
the way I look at it,not all photogs are creeps who are gonna try something but you never know which one will.you won't always get a bad vibe from a creepy photog.
now bringing a female escort to me is just silly.another female can be over-powered more easily then a male.
now again I don't think all you photogs are weirdo creeps who will be touchy feely or rapists but a girl can never be too careful.
and it's always different once you have worked w/ someone.
if you have worked w/ them a few times,then I don't really see a need for an escort.
just My 2 cents.
xxx
MP

Not to throw a wrench into your works, but if someone is bound and determined to truly do you harm, it doesn't matter if your companion is male or female.

Once again, I ask people to remember it works both ways. Reese is quite correct in saying I had a situation with an insecure boyfriend, who turned out to be on psychotropic medications. He was bipolar, but I also believe he was paranoid schizoeffective, if not truly schizophrenic. He decided that I was trying to "steal" his girlfriend from him by making her enjoy her photo shoot with me. While his girlfriend was changing, he ended up with my not even a week old DSLR/2.8 lens combo in his hands, ranting non-sensically, his voice growing with urgency. He wouldn't release the camera until I told him how to delete the CF card, losing all our work, as we were taking our time, deleting as we went. Turns out he hadn't been taking his medication properly. After he deleted the pictures, he curled up on the couch and went to sleep, my shiny new Canon and lens unharmed.

Because of this, I do not allow guy friends, boyfriends, fiances', male acquaintances at a shoot. Maybe a husband, pending a reference from another photographer they've worked with, and if they haven't, a now thorough vetting by me. A girl is welcome to bring a girlfriend, or two, or three.

I'm simply not putting up with any more adolescent insecurities, hidden mental health issues, and guys who secretly wish they were dating their model friend they're so  eager to accompany to the ends of the earth.

Remember models, it's not just about you. Many models expect photographers to be completely comfortable with them bringing a complete stranger to a shoot. We don't know him, have never talked with him, yet we are expected to not mind him lurking behind us and our expensive equipment while our attention is focused elsewhere. It works both ways.

Do some homework upfront, and be realistic about the threat.  Do you allow the UPS man or opened the door to get something from the mail carrier? Have you ever ordered cable and waited there alone for the technician to come to your home somewhere between 8 and 12 or 12 and 4? Have you ever gotten a tattoo all by yourself? Ever consumed alcohol with a guy, or guys, you really don't know? I'm sure at least some of you have participated in the aforementioned activities, but because someone finds you attractive enough to photograph, suddenly you need Secret Service protection.

It's perfectly reasonable for someone to know where you are, with whom, when you expect to be back, and a number you can be reached. It's logical for you to get the persons full name, landline phone number, and street address for business purposes as well as safety.

It is counterproductive to always go into situations thinking the worst is but a moment away.

The best defense any of us have against coming to harm is being aware, being proactive, listening to your gut instincts and taking responsibility...and doing so without getting carried away.

Dude that sucks sooo Bad!!!
Always keep a roll of ducktape handy and somewhere to hang those suckers up..

Posted by Ron Casas: 
Bring who ever I don't care, I'll turn them into an assistant!!!

Ron

Ya i forgot my film could you go get me some its only 40 miles shouldnt take you too long

Posted by Hugh  Jorgen ©: 

Posted by Ron Casas: 
Bring who ever I don't care, I'll turn them into an assistant!!!

Ron

Ya i forgot my film could you go get me some its only 40 miles shouldnt take you too long

kick out the model and start taking photos of billy bob or whatever monkey they have brought with them....that should put them back on the straight and narrow

Posted by Boyd Hambleton: 
I try to be flexible. If it's a commercial gig and an agency or MUA is involved, the model is usually professional and comes unaccompanied. If I'm shooting portfolio for a new model or web content, I encourage an escort.

I've had 2 escorts who were problems (one thought he was an art director and the other thought he could act like a thug). I made sure the word got out pretty fast and I don't think either model is working much anymore.

Ya dont ya just love those art directors..lol

Posted by Alexandra Paris: 
Before even thinking of shooting with a photographer, you should ALWAYS meet with them first over coffee in a public place. If you get a creepy vibe, then don't shoot with them.

first wise words a model has spoken on this hallowed thread

Posted by dscott: 
I've had shoots before where the escort ruined the shoot and even on one occassion caused me to kick everyone out and send them home. Sad thing is, it wasn't a BF who was the escort but her mother.

What I do now when a model brings a escort is I let the escort sit in the studio for the first outfit only. When the model switches to a different outfit, the escort has to go into the next room. They are still close enough if the model needs assistance but are no longer a distraction to either of us. The room for the escorts has a tv to keep them entertained.

DAMN GOOD IDEA!!!!!!

Posted by Matthew Grogan: 

Once again, I ask people to remember it works both ways. Reese is quite correct in saying I had a situation with an insecure boyfriend, who turned out to be on psychotropic medications. He was bipolar, but I also believe he was paranoid schizoeffective, if not truly schizophrenic. He decided that I was trying to "steal" his girlfriend from him by making her enjoy her photo shoot with me. While his girlfriend was changing, he ended up with my not even a week old DSLR/2.8 lens combo in his hands, ranting non-sensically, his voice growing with urgency. He wouldn't release the camera until I told him how to delete the CF card, losing all our work, as we were taking our time, deleting as we went. Turns out he hadn't been taking his medication properly. After he deleted the pictures, he curled up on the couch and went to sleep, my shiny new Canon and lens unharmed.

Because of this, I do not allow guy friends, boyfriends, fiances', male acquaintances at a shoot. Maybe a husband, pending a reference from another photographer they've worked with, and if they haven't, a now thorough vetting by me. A girl is welcome to bring a girlfriend, or two, or three.

I'm simply not putting up with any more adolescent insecurities, hidden mental health issues, and guys who secretly wish they were dating their model friend they're so  eager to accompany to the ends of the earth.

Remember models, it's not just about you. Many models expect photographers to be completely comfortable with them bringing a complete stranger to a shoot. We don't know him, have never talked with him, yet we are expected to not mind him lurking behind us and our expensive equipment while our attention is focused elsewhere. It works both ways.

Posted by Matthew Grogan: 

I ALWAYS BRING A MALE ESCORT.
the way I look at it,not all photogs are creeps who are gonna try something but you never know which one will.you won't always get a bad vibe from a creepy photog.
now bringing a female escort to me is just silly.another female can be over-powered more easily then a male.
now again I don't think all you photogs are weirdo creeps who will be touchy feely or rapists but a girl can never be too careful.
and it's always different once you have worked w/ someone.
if you have worked w/ them a few times,then I don't really see a need for an escort.
just My 2 cents.
xxx
MP

Not to throw a wrench into your works, but if someone is bound and determined to truly do you harm, it doesn't matter if your companion is male or female.

Once again, I ask people to remember it works both ways. Reese is quite correct in saying I had a situation with an insecure boyfriend, who turned out to be on psychotropic medications. He was bipolar, but I also believe he was paranoid schizoeffective, if not truly schizophrenic. He decided that I was trying to "steal" his girlfriend from him by making her enjoy her photo shoot with me. While his girlfriend was changing, he ended up with my not even a week old DSLR/2.8 lens combo in his hands, ranting non-sensically, his voice growing with urgency. He wouldn't release the camera until I told him how to delete the CF card, losing all our work, as we were taking our time, deleting as we went. Turns out he hadn't been taking his medication properly. After he deleted the pictures, he curled up on the couch and went to sleep, my shiny new Canon and lens unharmed.

Because of this, I do not allow guy friends, boyfriends, fiances', male acquaintances at a shoot. Maybe a husband, pending a reference from another photographer they've worked with, and if they haven't, a now thorough vetting by me. A girl is welcome to bring a girlfriend, or two, or three.

I'm simply not putting up with any more adolescent insecurities, hidden mental health issues, and guys who secretly wish they were dating their model friend they're so  eager to accompany to the ends of the earth.

Remember models, it's not just about you. Many models expect photographers to be completely comfortable with them bringing a complete stranger to a shoot. We don't know him, have never talked with him, yet we are expected to not mind him lurking behind us and our expensive equipment while our attention is focused elsewhere. It works both ways.

Do some homework upfront, and be realistic about the threat.  Do you allow the UPS man or opened the door to get something from the mail carrier? Have you ever ordered cable and waited there alone for the technician to come to your home somewhere between 8 and 12 or 12 and 4? Have you ever gotten a tattoo all by yourself? Ever consumed alcohol with a guy, or guys, you really don't know? I'm sure at least some of you have participated in the aforementioned activities, but because someone finds you attractive enough to photograph, suddenly you need Secret Service protection.

It's perfectly reasonable for someone to know where you are, with whom, when you expect to be back, and a number you can be reached. It's logical for you to get the persons full name, landline phone number, and street address for business purposes as well as safety.

It is counterproductive to always go into situations thinking the worst is but a moment away.

The best defense any of us have against coming to harm is being aware, being proactive, listening to your gut instincts and taking responsibility...and doing so without getting carried away.

God,  this is unreal......I once had a model drive 9 hours to me to have her BF freak out when she came out of the bathroom nude to start off an artistic shoot, I reminded her that was what the shoot was planned to be, her BF shot off his mouth a few more times and I simply started to put down my gear and start packing.........the model asked what I was doing and I stated that I was packing while we are finished for the day (BEFORE IT BEGAN) and she said no we are not, and I said yes we are.....she walked up to her BF and yelled at him to get back in the car and stay there........he did we shot the shoot, we got great work and she dumped him about 2 weeks or so later, needless to say she`s in a much more supportive relationship now, I`ll be shooting BOTH of them next month

I don`t allow BF`s at shoot`s (FIRST TIME) models may bring a trusted Girlfriend to help them.......repeat models will work with me unescorted......I deal with NO DRAMA this is WORK not the 6th grade

(I also have a STATEMENT OF SAFE CONDUCT every model signs as she leaves, I won`t have any BULLSHIT happen like what some stupid young thing TRIED to do with Helmut Newton once....she lost her case and went from super model to picking grapes fast!)

CYA!

Tom

Posted by Eric Muss-Barnes: 
I'm sorry I'm joining this thread so late.

Like a broken-record, I'm gonna keep on posting this concept in these "escort" (a.k.a. "babysitter") discussions until these so-called-models/potential-victims start having a little backbone, fortitude and confidence.

You ready? Here goes:

I insist that for models under 18, they have a parent or guardian along on a shoot.

Regardless of age, I am completely supportive and encouraging of the idea of a model being accompanied to a photoshoot. However, I insist that their company be a "personal assistant" and NEVER an "escort" or a "chaperone" - because I think terminology is an important distinction to help people feel more secure, strong and empowered.

I will NEVER allow an escort on a shoot. Because I don't want a cowering little girl who feels like a "potential victim" with a "potentially dangerous" photographer being "escorted" by her overprotective boyfriend or mommy. That is pathetic and juvenile. I've come too far in life to be pathetic. I expect my models to eschew the same.

I will NEVER allow a chaperone on a shoot. Because "chaperones" are for children on gradeschool fieldtrips and 19th century women on dates. My photoshoots are not fieldtrips. You won't get a lollipop if you behave, okay there, Laura Engles Wilder?

I encourage "personal assistants" because I want my models to be people who are liberated, confident and strong and have "assistance" because they are so awesome and glorious. That personal assistant shall carry your bags, and open doors for you, and stand where I tell them, and move when they are told. Their job is to shut up and assist the model and myself. Period.

If a model needs a chaperone, call me when you grow up. Or if you want to go on a date by the old windmill.

If a model needs an escort, call me when you are self-assured enough to look after yourself.

If a model has a personal assistant, they are MORE than welcome to accompany a model on the shoot. Especially if the assistant buys us lunch.

This is really the TRUTH....and I like the part about the assistant buying LUNCH! 

Tom