Studio Chaperones?

[*Mike*]

Okay, here's the question... do you guys do anything to cover yourself when you're alone in the studio with clients? For example, if you have a bride come in for a consultation or proof session... Do you just make sure that you always have an assistant present, or do you spring for the cost of close circuit TV (CCTV)? What about the odd occassion when you don't have an assistant on hand for a portrait session?

Am I paranoid? I'm planning a studio space right now - there are three photogs on staff with the odd assistant around... But, I doubt that we'll all be in at any given time. More likely, one of us will sit around when processing proofs just in case some one tries to stop by. And, then there are those situations that I already mentioned...

So, has anyone else had issues with this type of thing? Anyone take intentional precautions to guard against inpropriety charges? As it is, we'll never meet a senior without the parent being present - less headaches all around, plus a chaperone!

[Rolland]

I certainly will not photograph or even talk to a senior without a parent being present.

[acesteward]

Interesting question that I would like to hear some comments and suggestions about as well. Good Post.

[DavidsStudio]

Under 18 - always chaperoned - boy friends do not count. Over 18 - chaperones encouraged but not required, especially for first meetings.

[CaptainTom]

I agree, under 18 always a chaperone. Over 18 a chaperone or witness if shooting anything questionable. It usually isn't a problem with brides because it seems they are always escorted by someone in the family (who wants to be the boss !!)

[Clint_Smith]

Originally Posted by DavidsStudio

Under 18 - always chaperoned - boy friends do not count. Over 18 - chaperones encouraged but not required, especially for first meetings.

ditto. However, my wife usually comes to most shoots or consultations with me.

Just because you are paranoid, doesnt mean people may not be out to get you ....

[adirty1]

most bridals i have a make up artist there. if they are 18 and under some one else is there even if they are 18 i have a female friend of mine come to the shoot.

even when they are older and were are shooting glamour i have a female there watching to make sure nothing happens... CC tv now there is an idea. you could go digital and use a hard drive. hmm.

[ShutteredEye]

I'd be careful with the video thing. Aren't you obligated to tell people they are being taped? And couldn't that be misconstrued, especially in a glamour or nude shoot situation?

[Clint_Smith]

Originally Posted by ShutteredEye

I'd be careful with the video thing. Aren't you obligated to tell people they are being taped? And couldn't that be misconstrued, especially in a glamour or nude shoot situation?

exactly what I was thinking....

[RandySmith]

I do a variety of portraits and things for the local school and community. I always ask myself ... "Do I want to risk my reputation and character being questioned in any way ?" .. of course not... paranoid ? Sure, but in these days and times, especially in a community with less than 800 people, if an issue like this came up, I suspect that would surely be the end of my portrait photography. My wife normally accompany's me, and helps with adjusting hair, readjusting a blouse, etc., or I stipulate a parent accompany their minor (male or female) for the session, no matter where we decide to shoot.

Randy

[HeatherLou]

I agree definatly with the under 18 thing, being that as I am female, I can get away with not having one for over 18, but usually I like a friend of theirs to come along, just to help with clothing and such. Even as a girl, you dont want to touch if they are not comfortable. And you can NEVER be too careful!

[CobyPhoto]

Studio owner...definitely CYA. I have an assistant present for all shoots and parents for minors. Bridals, I require a female (of age) to be present and help with the dress and details. I am very careful around my clients, always curteous and respectful, but you need to be careful in this day and age. There are too many lawyers looking to construe something and make a living or a name from something that really isn't there, but looks bad.

Maternity sittings...I require the father or another family member of age to be present the entire sitting. No exceptions.

As far as the videotaping goes, just make sure the cameras are ONLY in the studio area where the contracted work is being done and public areas; i.e. not in the dressing rooms and or other private areas.

Just have a sign at the entrance, telling people there is video in place for security.

Just can't be careful enough in this day and age.

CJ

[glockster]

Be above reproach. That way no one will have a question. You can get carried away. If it is you and a bride to be then I think you need someone there to protect you and your client. I just don't do this wity my business but I do this in personal life. Same with my wife.

[BadPig]

You can never be too careful. There have been more than one photographer accused of inappropriate conduct with a client when it did not actually occur. Always have a second person on your staff with you at all times (or friend or family member) to be there as a witness for you in case a false claim is made. This protects you and also makes you look better to those who may be uncomfortable with being alone with just the photographer anyway. Nonetheless, it always helps to have another set of hand around during a shoot anyway, doesn't it?

[chedemann]

Originally Posted by DavidsStudio

Under 18 - always chaperoned - boy friends do not count. Over 18 - chaperones encouraged but not required, especially for first meetings.

God Yes, under 18, I require a parent or guarding; no exceptions, do not pass go, do not collect $200!!!, no friends, older siblings etc... Depending on how high maintains the client seems, I'll sometime have my neighbors collage age daughter sit in on the shoot. Being a middle age single guy I make sure CYA. People are funny and all it takes is one miss understanding to destroy your business. You just can't be too careful!!!

Also any maternity/baby sessions, I require a chaperone. I like having the dad’s there so I can talk about how beautiful there wife/babies are to kind of pre sell the portraits. Done right you can really lay some good ground work for the ordering session that’s follows.

c...