Model Safety

Is everything as it seems?

I have been asked by a number of people to give some tips on what to look out for with regards to photographers etc that may not be quite what they appear.

Today's cameras allow even the most inexperienced user to produce a technically good image, which has lead to a huge increase of people taking on the mantle of "photographer". Whilst the majority of these are legitimate, and content with developing their craft or offering a good service, there are unfortunately a few who possibly have more dubious intentions. It's a sad fact that I regularly seem to find social media posts and web sites where things just don't add up and not everything is what it seems! After 40 odd years of doing, and studying photography it can often seem very obvious to me when something is not right. However it is mostly a case of common sense and here are some things that you may want to look for...

Are the images consistent and "right"? It's all to easy to claim ownership of other peoples images, so when looking at a photographers portfolio, compare the images you find. Are they all of a similar standard or achievable by the photographer? An intro page with pictures looking like they came from vogue or national geographic looks great, but then if other images look like they've been taken by your uncle Albert with his camera phone? It's relatively easy to grab one of the good images and use Google image or Tin Eye to perform a web search for it. If it comes up with various uses around the Internet and attributed to someone else, then time to be suspicious. Many businesses will buy and use stock images on their sites, which is fine. However you should perhaps ask, why would a photographer need to use someone else's images of a product or service they are providing?

Whilst on that subject, I often see websites where a photographer has a list of services they provide (most notably wedding coverage), but look further into the site and you are unable to find any examples of such work! If a photographer can't show you examples of the work you are commissioning them for, do you really want to hire them on just their say that they can do it? Everyone has to start somewhere and if they are honest about not having done that sort of work, then at least you can make a decision based on that.

Sometimes a photographers other actions are not in keeping with their perceived status. For example when someone displays a top quality, technical image, but then asks a very basic, related question, you might question how that image was produced seemingly without such basic knowledge?

It's always good to do some research and there are various sites and places where models can leave references for photographers or groups where questions can be asked. As a general rule of thumb, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is! Proceed with caution especially when finances start becoming involved. A genuine photographer is not going to mind committing to a contract (should you wish) if you are hiring them (especially with weddings).

Being told you have potential to be a model is very flattering, however it's sometimes used fraudulently to relieve people of their money. Fortunately in recent years laws have been introduced to fight against this sort of scam. For example although a model agency can make some charges, it is against the law to make any charges for 30 days, during which time a person can drop out of a contract without having to pay anything. Unfortunately some people will take advantage of others ignorance of such laws, but a search of government web sites will provide you with all the details. Pages such as....
https://employmentlaw.blog.gov.uk/2015/01/08/regulation-of-modelling-agencies/

... provide a good insight into your rights and what to do if you need to complain.

Whilst the above seems to paint a grim picture, please be aware that all but a few photographers are genuine decent people who only wish to help or provide the best service they can. They will generally understand and do what they can to allay any anxieties you may have, and help you "stay safe!