On my personal Facebook page, I shared a simple thought for models. It was a truncated version of a longer thought. Here, in the short form, is my post asking models to stop saying, “Whatever”:
There is certainly a lot more to be said. Let’s start with the basics.
The Problem With Whatever
When you tell a photographer that you will shoot, “whatever”, it may be read as suggesting a few different things. How and to whom you say it will change how it is perceived.
- I am not a serious model. This is just for fun, so as long as you let me model for you, I’ll be happy.
- You, the photographer, are the brains behind my success. You must know what I need to do, right?
- By “whatever”, I literally mean anything. Note: If you don’t find this a little dangerous, you should.
My favorite translation is, “It is your job to come up with all the great ideas.” That really depends on your expectations. My “great idea” may be your “anything but that.” Let’s cut to the chase and talk about what you want.
The Solution To Whatever
“Whatever” opens you up to a variety of troubles, especially with the so-called GWC’s (Guy With Camera) of the world. They will tell you what you must do to be successful as a model. The odds that they have your best interests in mind decrease considerably if you fail to set a clear objective. You will inevitably be told to do something that will jeopardize you, your career, your relationships, or possibly all of the above. If you literally don’t know what you want to shoot, what do you say?
- I’m new and not really sure. I know that I do not want to [fill in the blank].
- I would love to do the sort of modeling you see in [insert favorite publication here].
- I’ve always dreamed of [insert that thing you’ve always wanted to do].
In short, say anything other than “whatever”. You will end up working with the wrong people. It is far better to be frustrated with trying to find the right photographers than it is to be shooting with the wrong photographers. Who are the right and wrong photographers? Well, that depends on what the truth is behind your “whatever”.
Models: Do photographers have their own “whatever” that drives you crazy? Share in the comments! I’d love to hear from your perspective.
