How to Pay Your Erotic Nude Models
Paying nude models is typically done in one of two ways. The most common way is via monetary payment; the second way is through a technique called \”Time-for-print\”. This article will focus on the first method. With this method, you and the model will usually agree on an hourly rate before the shoot begins. At this time, you will also want to give her a fairly accurate prediction of how long the shoot will last. This enables both of you to go into the shoot with a good idea of what the total payment will be.
It’s also possible to agree on a predetermined amount for the entire shoot. However, I’ve found that this can lead to complications when the photographer and the model have very different ideas about what length of time constitutes a “shoot”. For example, if a model thinks that a shoot will last two hours and agrees to a rate with that amount of time in mind, it can get a bit uncomfortable if you continue shooting well past the two hour mark.
I strongly advise you to work out an hourly rate with your models. I think it’s best to have as many details as possible clearly defined before the shoot begins. This will lead to a much smoother shoot and will enable both of you to feel as comfortable as possible. 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).
The question is, “What amount should the hourly rate be?” Unfortunately, this question has no single answer. The rate will differ greatly based on a number of variables. Just a few of these variables will include the experience of the model, the experience of the photographer, the amount of nudity involved, the explicitness of the poses, whether a modeling agency is involved, and the final use of the images. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it may now seem. With a little thought and communication, you’ll easily come up with a rate that will satisfy both you and the model.
I’ve been doing this type of photography for a long time and I’ve dealt with all types of models and agencies. I will share with you what I typically pay models for the types of shoots I do. Keep in mind that I am based in Los Angeles. Average rates may differ slightly depending on where you are located.
A large percentage of the work I do consists of shooting solo models in a very explicit style. This type of shoot requires full nudity from the models as well as a variety of explicit, open-leg poses. Since it is a solo girl shoot, no sex acts other than masturbation (real or simulated) take place. However, this type of shoot is still more sexually suggestive than what is traditionally referred to as “erotica”. For this type of work, I typically pay models between $100 and $125 per hour. Since my typical shoot lasts about three hours, the models end up making between $300 and $375.
This rate is fairly standard in Los Angeles for freelance models doing this type of work. In this context, a freelance model is someone who books her own shoots and does not have an agent. When you work with agency models, rates can differ in a number of ways. An agency may charge the photographer an “agency fee” on top of the model rate. This fee is usually $50 to $100 per shoot. It is also quite possible that an agency will charge a higher hourly rate for the model. I cover this topic in more detail in my ebook, Money Shots.
The information I’m giving you regarding specific rates are for explicit, solo shoots. The rates will be higher for shoots that involve more than one model, sex scenes, or shoots involving video. On the other hand, rates for less explicit nude work will often be lower. The numbers I’m giving you should be used only as a guideline. Certainly, rates can change over time.
Working with freelance models is usually the least expensive way to go. These are the girls you will meet through online modeling sites, from your ads, or on the street. However, as you progress in the business, you will find that some shoots require models with a good deal of experience. For example, models who are affiliated with the top agencies in Los Angeles tend to be very attractive and very experienced. Because of these qualities, they can help you in obtaining very high quality pictures. They pose well, take direction well, and be very comfortable in front of the camera.
On the other hand, when you shoot a freelance model without a great deal of experience, you will have the advantage of shooting a “new face”. Photos of new models are always in demand (especially in the “Amateur” and “Girl-next-door” niches). However, these types of models will usually not feel as comfortable during the shoot as their more experienced counterparts. Because of this, your ability to make them feel confident, as well as your ability to direct them well, will be very important in determining the quality of pictures you are able to produce.
As I said, different types of shoots will require different types of models. It’s equally true that different types of models will require different types of shoots. What I mean by this is that you will have to use your creativity and imagination to determine how an individual model will best be photographed in order to bring out her strongest assets.
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.
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