I sent a model home yesterday for the first time.

[That_Look_Photo]

I started a new project that needed some casual and lingerie styles. The model was recommened to me from a fellow photographer. I thought everything was going to run smoothly until she started to show me what she brought to the shoot. It was like she did not remember a single thing we discussed on the phone. Fist she did not bring any lingerie at all. And the only pair of shoes were these stupid stripper platforms. I told her to bring classic black pumps. This has never happened to me before and I have herd others dealing with stuff like this. I had to tell her the shoot is off because she did not bring anything we talked about that she said she could bring. This model has only been modeling for about a year. But she has worked with a dozen of the best photographers around. I'm a very nice guy and I can put up with alot but this time it pushed me over the edge. I can now see why it can be frustrating like so many have posted in the past.

Now I know what they were all complaining about !

[silver tip images]

Sounds like the model did not understand this was a shoot you wanted, and you wanted to shoot certain things. I hope you explained why you were cancelling the shoot and you had a certain thing you were looking for. It can be very frustrating when you have envisioned what you are looking for and there is nothing there. Good luck on your project.

[J Diaz]

I'm sorry to here that. usally happen alot when you explain on the phone that is what I call mental constipation when you are talking to her it will be alot of distraction on her part so the best thing to do is meet the model in person in the studio or in a restaurat and explain what she need to bring for the photo shoot. In that way no she or he no have no waiting you time.

[R_Fredrick_Smith]

Conversations over the phone often do not leave the model with a full idea of what she is to bring. I always finalize arrangements for a shoot by sending and email to the model with a complete description of the shoot, goals, etc, along with a check list of what she is to bring and if she is doing her own makeup what is expected. I also send along a copy of the release that I'll be using. I like to have everything in writing and email makes this an optimal approach.

Cheers,
rfs

[cifcap]

I agree with J Diaz and RFS meet the model and discuss details face to face. Then follow-up with an e-mail or phone call a day or two before the shoot. I's no guarantee, but it oozes professionalism. I'm not a professional photographer, but this is what helps me get through the grind!

JW

[RVMD]

I just have them show up, I provide all the wardrobe for the shoot. Saves hassles that way.

R

[Al_Nowak]

Originally Posted by That_Look_Photo

I'm a very nice guy and I can put up with alot but this time it pushed me over the edge. I can now see why it can be frustrating like so many have posted in the past.

Now I know what they were all complaining about !

The question I'd ask at this point is what does the model think of you? Okay, she screwed up, or maybe you didn't communicate very well with her. It's always best to put stuff in writing. But what impression did you leave her with?

Aside from that, did you anticipate the problem, and develop a backup plan? Or did you just send her home?

I generally have a backup plan, including some clothing that can be used if necessary.

By keeping an eye on the lingerie sales, you can inexpensively accumulate some pieces for a fall-back chest, and you'll be happy with the style, color, etc. because you picked it. More normal clothing can be picked up at thrift stores and yard sales for pennies on the dollar.

Next time, anticipate the problems and solve them ahead of time.

[R_Fredrick_Smith]

Originally Posted by Al_Nowak

The question I'd ask at this point is what does the model think of you? Okay, she screwed up, or maybe you didn't communicate very well with her. It's always best to put stuff in writing. But what impression did you leave her with?

Aside from that, did you anticipate the problem, and develop a backup plan? Or did you just send her home?

I generally have a backup plan, including some clothing that can be used if necessary.

By keeping an eye on the lingerie sales, you can inexpensively accumulate some pieces for a fall-back chest, and you'll be happy with the style, color, etc. because you picked it. More normal clothing can be picked up at thrift stores and yard sales for pennies on the dollar.

Next time, anticipate the problems and solve them ahead of time.

Very good comments. I do the lingerie collecting thing and also antique costumes, etc. I would never send model away. I try to turn the negative into a positive. Creativity, is after all what photography is about -- so this just gives us an opportunity to get really creative. Sending the model away may make the photographer feel good, but it does nothing for his reputation if the model has a wide circle of other models in her ring.
Cheers,
rfs

[kombizz]

i am sorry for the mishap. sometimes it happens.

[luisv]

Originally Posted by Al_Nowak

... By keeping an eye on the lingerie sales, you can inexpensively accumulate some pieces for a fall-back chest, and you'll be happy with the style, color, etc. because you picked it. More normal clothing can be picked up at thrift stores and yard sales for pennies on the dollar.

Next time, anticipate the problems and solve them ahead of time.

I've done some of that over the years. I have a collection of different items that are generic and work well. The classic little black dress, ragged jeans in a couple of sizes, a collection of men's dress shirts, old t-shirts, small tank tops in a variety of colors. The tanks I buy new b/c they are dirt cheap at the Targets and Wal-Marts of the world. I then cut them up as needed.

I have not, however, gone down the road of lingerie. The main reason is hygene. I have always assumed a model would not be interested in using a piece worn by another. Yes we would have them cleaned, like everything else..... but it's seems to me the models tend not to like this. This is the case with swimwear and lingerie. As a result I have not made the investment beyond "wear once" type of pieces. I don't mind the investment in wardrobe but I don't want to spend top dollar on high-end pieces for every TFP.

What's been the reaction you all get?