Nude models and potential nude models come in all shapes, sizes, and ages. A woman that some may consider “average” may very well be someone else’s “ultimate fantasy”.

In fact, when it comes to potential models, there is only one type of female that you should absolutely never work with. Quite obviously, this is the underage female. Never photograph anyone nude who is under the legal age. It is impossible for me to stress this strongly enough. Before you even consider setting up a shoot with a model – make sure she is of legal age. Fortunately, this is very easy to do. Simply ask all of your potential models for proof of age (a Driver License is usually the most convenient way).

In California, the legal age for a person to do this type of work is 18 years old. However, in some states it may be different. Before you start looking for models, you will definitely want to confirm what the minimum age is for your particular location. I discuss this topic in more detail in my ebook, “Money Shots: The Insider’s Guide to the World of Nude & Erotic Photography (available for purchase and immediate download at http://moneyshotsbook.com).

This advice also applies to those of you reading this who live outside the United States. The legal age will differ from country to country. Photographing an underage model is a mistake you never want to make. As I’m sure you’re well aware, the legal ramifications are extremely serious.

On a personal note, I recall a situation that occurred about five years ago. I was at a restaurant in Sherman Oaks, California called Casa Vega. I was with my girlfriend at the time and she noticed a girl at a nearby table who looked like she would be perfect for a “Teen” type of photo layout (she appeared to be about 19). My girlfriend went up to the table and asked her if she might be interested in modeling. The girl immediately said that she would love to give it a try. My girlfriend then told her that it would involve nudity. The girl responded that she had absolutely no problem with that. Contact information was exchanged and I looked forward to setting up a shoot with her soon after. I was pleased because I knew that good images of this girl would be an easy sale to a number of different magazines and websites. About an hour later, as we were leaving the restaurant, my girlfriend asked the aspiring model how old she was (just to make sure). As it turned out, she was 14 years old! I usually have a good eye for this kind of thing, but this time I was way off. Luckily, I found this out before things had gone any further. Obviously, I would have asked for proof of age before we did the actual shoot; but finding out this information early on saved everyone involved a lot of time.

Hey! I just thought of something. That girl is now 19 years old. Perhaps I should go back to Casa Vega and see if I can find her.

Author Bio: Michael Charles is a professional photographer based in Los Angeles, California. He is the author of \”Money Shots: The Insider\’s Guide to the World of Nude & Erotic Photography\” (this book is available for purchase and immediate download at http://www.moneyshotsbook.com). For over a decade, Michael has shot exclusively in the world of nude, erotic, and adult-oriented photography. His work has been featured in hundreds of national and international publications and appears on a wide variety of prominent websites. For a complete course on the techniques, styles, moneymaking secrets, and amazing fringe benefits of nude and erotic photography, visit http://www.moneyshotsbook.com.

Category: Arts and Crafts
Keywords: nude photography, nude photography jobs, making money with photography, nude models