One of the hardest parts of my job is trying to re-adjust the perception models have of their job.  Most young ladies and men swing to one extreme or the other in their thoughts on what the position actually is.  No example sticks out further than the "new model".  There are a wide variety of myths to be laid to rest with their young, impressionable minds.  My least favorite is the model who walks in thinking, "My job is just to stand here looking pretty". They are in a tremendous amount of shock when they find out it is actually WORK.  I am accustomed to hearing.....I'm cold....I don't want to get my hair wet.....I can't get on the ground because it is dirty......how long do I have to hold this pose.....my feet hurt.....etc.  Then you have the....I won't show any skin....model.  OK, I understand the "no nudity" policy....we have that at our studio....I love saying...."we are not that kind of photographer".  That being said.....have you cracked open a magazine lately?  High heels, slick lips, shoulders.....etc.  If you don't want to be sexy.....DO SOMETHING ELSE FOR LIVING.  Next up is the opposite to this.....your setting up for a head shot and the model whips off her clothes.....HELLO.....!  I guess that is ok....if you want to be bundled into ONE corner of the industry.  Make sure you are ok with your friends, family, spouse and CHILDREN stumbling across your work someday.  There are photographers out there, who live for the young person willing to bare all for the slim chance they will have their 15 minutes of fame.  Make sure that whoever you work with is on the same page as you.....before embarrassing you both.  I try telling new models to leave their crotchless panties at home.  We are NOT that kind of photographer.  Lastly, my personal favorite....the model who shows up thinking they are in charge.....(no new model makes big bucks....and most have done Trade for Work, Exchange for Merchandise or small payment jobs).  No model should walk into a job telling the photographer how to shot, make up artist how to blend, etc.  If your opinion is not asked for.....tight lip it Dear.

The purpose of this blog is not really to vent....but just hopeful that those reading it....will learn from it.....make smart, sound decisions with your career and dwell in the reality of each moment......no matter what part of the industry you end up in and long after you leave.