When you're a sex worker active on several social media platforms, diversified content is important and necessary. One way of fulfilling that need is working with photographers. The first time I was contacted by one, I honestly didn’t know where to start. I wanted to keep myself safe by doing things the right way, and I’m happy to share what I’ve learned over the years.
UNDERSTAND WHAT YOUR BRAND NEEDS
The most important thing with photographers is communication.
There are two types of photo sessions that will change your experience with photographers: paid shoots, where you get paid or you pay the photographer, and trade shoots, which are a free collaborative content exchange with another creator.
When deciding which avenue is best, take a moment to assess your needs for your brand. Keep in mind that many photographers exclusively do SFW or boudoir shoots, so were you just looking to use the content on social media, or on your XXX premium social media as well? This will help you choose the right person.
USE A QUESTION CHECKLIST
The most important thing with photographers is communication. You have to make sure that all your questions are answered. Here are some points you should go through before agreeing to meet, in order to be sure your safety, privacy and rights are respected.
1. Is there a model release?
Even today, with the rise of awareness about documentation, I still encounter “I don’t use them, I work on trust” when I request to see a model release form. I can’t stress how crucial this document is. A photoshoot model release dictates who owns the content and what one can or cannot do with it. You really need to be very careful and take time to read it all. Someone with bad intentions can keep all the rights to the content, edit in contexts you aren’t comfortable with and even commercialize it. With a model release, make sure you have the ability to post on your platforms and sell it, if that’s what you need.
2. What are you comfortable with?
Respect yourself and never do something you are not comfortable doing. If for some reason you get uncomfortable, change your mind or want to stop, you should never have to explain yourself. Yes is yes until it’s no, and no is no, period. Your body. Your rules. Trust your instincts.
3. Do you have a place to store your documentation?
I strongly suggest that you scan and securely store all of your model releases and invoices locally on a safe cloud service. There are multiple free scanning mobile apps you can use. With paid shoots, don’t forget to ask for an invoice as it’s a tax write-off for you.
4. Are there any red flags about the photographer?
Look out for red flags. First contact with a photographer should always be professional. In my experience, shoots aren’t successful when first contact is “Damn, you’re hot, let’s shoot.” In addition, I recommend searching a photographer’s social media profiles, website and Google results. Look to see if the photographer tags models in their posts. If models aren’t tagged, this is a red flag to me. Lastly, contact the models and ask them about their experience, and if they would shoot again with the photographer.
5. What is the shoot’s location and how long do you want it to be?
Agree to a timeframe you are both comfortable with, as shoots can be short or very long. Take into consideration the location. If it’s a NSFW shoot, be sure your area allows for public nudity. If it’s a location like an Airbnb, agree on who is paying for the room. Many split fees for trade shoots. This conversation will help avoid awkward situations.
6. How will the content be shared?
What are your expectations and what’s the photographer’s offer? Determine beforehand the photo resolution you’ll be receiving, if they’ll be edited and how many pictures on average you’ll receive. Chat about who will select the photos and when you can expect to receive them. If the photographer avoids answering or is unclear, I wouldn’t shoot with them.
7. Who is making the final photo selection?
Determine who will be making the final selection of photos, and if you are comfortable with them using any or all pictures from the shoot. If you want the final say, the photographer can share low-resolution photos or send you to a website where you select your favorite ones. Ideally, this should be indicated in writing within the model release.
9. What is the vision for the shoot?
A great way to get to know your photographer and to build a common project together is to create a mood board. You both share and collaborate on what you see could work best. It’s an amazing way to fine-tune your shoot, agree on the style/poses and optimize your time on set.
I know that sounds like a lot of things to manage, discuss and agree upon, but remember that digital content lives forever. It is better to do it right rather than cut corners and worry later on. Shooting is fun, but do your homework first. Then you can let your personality shine at the shoot, and share your new content all over your platforms!
