The World of Fine Art Modeling
Fine art modeling usually consists of nude images of people shot in black and white or color film. The images can be taken inside or outside. Often fine art photographers like to capture nature and human bodies together to create a powerful image.
If you want to be a good fine art model, you need to understand the world of fine art modeling. This type of modeling is more about moods and feelings than about posing. Being able to move in dance and or sit in yoga poses is also very helpful. As a fine art model, your body is the key to booking good work, so staying in shape and being toned will help a good bit.
The best way to book fine art work is to build a portfolio. Find a fine art photographer to shoot you first and then, once you have been shot, take three of the best images and put them up on places like onemodelplace and other websites that showcase fine art and/or nude models.
Once your images are posted, you may begin to get emails from people asking about shooting you for a "fine art project." Always ask to see a copy of their work. Always ask and see what they want to shoot like story ideas and so on. Ask them for references and also for their contact information.
Once you have checked them out, decide on a date, a time, concepts and rates. For fine art modeling, the usual rate ranges anywhere from $50-$150 an hour depending on the photographer and the project.
When you go to a shoot for fine art, always take a razor and shaving cream with you and always have makeup and a robe as well as a few changes of shoes.
You may want to pre-discuss a release. If you are even slightly concerned, ask if they will sign a release which states that they will not sell or use the images for an adult site or sell them to a content company. This will protect you and them and keep everything open and up front.
When you arrive at the shoot, first talk to them about what they want to shoot, how they want the makeup done and then if you have any bruises, cuts and/or scars, ask if they want you to cover them up or if it would be easier to photoshop them. Today it is easier to photoshop them, but you need to ask the photographer before shooting and you should always have makeup with you.
As a fine art model, knowing how to move your body is very important. Your body is all that is there speaking. Understanding how to convey emotions and feelings through your body is a must. It will help you move forward quickly. Ask the photographer what kind of mood he wants you in and then become it. Then just feel happy or sad or in love with your whole body.
Fine art modeling is a world where you can make amazing images and have a lot of fun. Just follow a few little things to make sure you're safe. I would also recommend taking a chaperone with you if possible. Even if they don't hang out on the actual set, it is good for them to be in the area. Once you shoot with someone the need to have a chaperone can change. I went to most of my shoot alone, but I knew the photographer or knew of them through friends.
The fine art world is a very "word of mouth" industry. So remember that honesty and directness count. Granted, we are all human, but be honest about things and you will do much better in any world.
When you are done shooting, get a copy of the release as well as the photographer's contact information. Take them home and store them so in three to six months or if you travel the next time you are in the area, you can contact them.
If you are shooting tfp, here's a lesson I learned -- if they shoot digital, ask them to give you a disk then and there. If not, there is a good chance that you will never get the images because the photographer gets busy or just forgets. If they are shooting film, ask them how long they think it will be before you can get copies of the images. Often photographers will forget or will get busy and if you don't stay on top, you will never get your images.
Most fine art goes in galleries, books, portfolios and on the web. I have been in many books, galleries and I am all over the web. It can be a very positive and wonderful expereince.
If you want to learn more or have questions, check out my site at www.JillianAnn.com