This article centers around the question of whether to allow a model to bring her boyfriend or spouse with her to the shoot. Over the years, I’ve spoken to many models about this issue and they’ve told me that most photographers feel very uncomfortable with a boyfriend or spouse present. Many photographers request that the model not bring anyone with her; sometimes going so far as to cancel the shoot if the model doesn’t comply.

One concern that these photographers may have is that they feel the model will not be as comfortable and “open” during a shoot if her boyfriend or spouse is present. Additionally, they may assume that the boyfriend or spouse isn’t particularly pleased with the shoot happening in the first place and, consequently, fear some sort of confrontation.

Another possible concern may be that they themselves will feel more nervous with an additional person watching them work. Lastly, I’m sure some simply don’t want another guy around during the shoot because it eliminates the possibility of any “extracurricular” activity occurring between them and the model.

In contrast, I always allow a model to bring with her anyone she wants. My reason for this is quite simple: I want the shoot to go as well as possible. My first priority is getting the best pictures I can from every model I work with. This is far more likely to occur if the model is very comfortable during the shoot. If bringing someone with her enables her to be more comfortable, so be it. 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://www.moneyshotsbook.com).

The most important thing you can do in this situation is to act professionally (don’t let my repetition of this advice diminish it’s value). If a model brings someone with her to the shoot, it’s very important to set a tone from the moment they walk in the door that let’s them know that you are calm, confident, and in charge. They should immediately get the feeling that you know what you’re doing. Remember, the guy is fully aware of what type of shoot it’s going to be (at least he should be).

Initially, it may feel a bit odd to say something to a model such as, “Spread your legs a little wider” while her boyfriend is looking on. Trust me, you’ll get used to it; and so will he.

Before I start shooting, I ask the guy if he wants to watch the shoot or just hang out in the dressing room. More often than not, he will choose to stay in the room. Usually, his reason will be that he “doesn’t want to get in the way.” The room has a comfortable sofa, a great view of Los Angeles, and a variety of magazines and books to look through. I make sure that he has something to drink; let him know that he can make calls if he likes; and tell him that his friend, girlfriend, or spouse will be back when it’s time to make a wardrobe change.

The reason I chose to cover this topic in depth is because this situation makes many photographers nervous. Fortunately, you’ll quickly discover that very few models ask to bring anyone with them to a shoot.

The vast majority of women you’ll work with will be quite comfortable showing up by themselves. I’m happy to say that I’ve never had a single problem caused by a boyfriend or spouse being present at a shoot. In fact, a number of guys I’ve met in this way have become friends.

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, erotica