Boundaries and common practices for photography.

Over the years I’ve seen the industry change dramatically, and as everything, some of the changes are positive, and some not so much.

Photography/videography is a huge part of the industry, yet it is still misunderstood which can lead to confusion, and more importantly it opens the door to very unethical and dangerous behavior.

Everything you will read here is MY PERSONAL opinion, and are suggestions, if you feel you have something to contribute, please do reach out! I’m hoping I can put out these small pieces from time to time to help everyone navigate what can be a challenging and confusing process.

First and foremost.

The safety and comfort of anyone at a shoot is the number one priority always. Simple as that.

(and second a foremost) it is ALWAYS ok to say you are not comfortable, and stop.

NO TOUCH RULE

A model is a human and I, as a photographer, can confidently expect them to move on their own accord, therefore there is absolutely no reason, I need to put my hands on someone to position them.

I have to admit, I’m sometimes not the most eloquent being to roam this earth, and I make a lot of strange hand signals, and noises when directing someone, somehow a lot of people understand me.

If for whatever reason words are not working, then I ask if it is ok to direct you, and I do it, but using only the tip of my finger index to tap, say a shoulder and ask to pretend I have strings on my hands, and let you move on your own.

The only other time, is when someone asks me for help with getting the stalkings on the garner, which I will do no problem, but in that case, I do it as quick as possible, with the least amount of contact. Basically, don’t be a creep.

POSING

There are certain poses or parts of your body you do not want exposed. It is YOUR decision, not anyone else. If you feel certain angles may be showing things you don’t want, ask to see them on the camera and ask to delete them. That being said, don’t ask to see photos to delete “the bad ones” that’s part of the process and it comes later. (say closed eyes, etc)

PAYMENT

Believe it or not, I still get quite a fair amount of “trade” offers. I simply do not entertain them.

If you are in a tight spot, I’ll shoot you for what you can pay, but “favors” are never ever ever part of that. It is never a good idea. I am a professional, and I pay bills with what I earn, but more importantly, I shoot outside of the industry as well, and there is no reason why I should ever treat a client differently because of the line of work.

A shoot is not only for the time we actually take to shoot, but it takes me about an hour to retouch every photo it is a process and takes time.

USAGE of IMAGES

This is a Huge point, with many sides to it, and it is very important to be clear about them from the beginning.

The default copy right laws in the US of the A. are basically however takes the photo (the photographer) owns the copyright to the images, unless said ownership or licensing has been.

This is why when you hire a photographer, it is imperative you agree beforehand the amount of images you will get along with the usage.

Keeping the above in mind, when you get links with all the photos to choose from, those photos are not yours, they are still owned by the photographer, and that is why you are not able to use them.

Every photographer has a different policy, but it is pretty standard to never give out RAW’s. In my case, I do it, because I want to make sure the product I put out for you is on spot, and not some artistic rendition of a phone “retouching” filter.

BETTER THAN TIPPING.

I love me tips, everyone does, however it is a way better compliment to my work when you use the photos, snd cherry on top, if you liked the experience to tag me, or let others know.

I will never use a photo without your express permission, and keep in mind it is a revocable permission at any time. However I do love what i do, and allowing me to show my work to others means the world, and hopefully brings you a little audience.

CONTENT

When I say content I refer a bit more to what one may put out on OF or places of the sort.

I do these work on trade basis. And when I say trade, I mean everyone involved gets to use the material, and at any time can ask for it to be stopped being used.

The fact that the material may be way more graphic, does not change any of the rules stated above.

I will never never be a performer or involved in any other way that creative area.

MY BOUNDARIES

With time, I’ve come to find my own style, and what works best for me.

For example I don’t shoot in public areas of private establishments, such as pools, restaurants, bars, of hotels. Because I don’t want the attention on you or me, and that’s a quick way to get people asking questions.

I also don’t shoot public nudity. To each their own, but if there is other people around, they are not consenting to that, so hard pass.

Heavy drinking/drug use during a shoot… for the love of whatever you believe in, don’t do it. It will bring out shit photos, and it is a very uncomfortable situation.

Please remember this is a very personal guide, and I will change it up as I get feedback and things come to mind as it is an endless topic.

all in all, be a decent respectful human being, and make sure you speak up, and if someone tries to cross your boundaries, walk away.