Agency Models

[digitalpixels]

Has anyone worked with models that belong to a major agency?

I have two opportunities that have come up with models that are need of some testing to fill out their books more. They are both from major agencies.

Do you treat as a normal ordinary session, or do you treat it differently since they are agency level? Can model releases be signed?

[srwatters]

I will assume you are shooting for the model, since you didn't mention a client or (gasp) the agency itself. I say gasp, because agencies don't pay for photographs of their models. Unless you show me a signed check, I've never heard of it (off the soapbox for now). I'll also assume it a TF shoot since you didn't say anything about $.

Ask them to sign your standard release. If they won't or the agent says they can't, then they don't get the images unless they pay for them. It's simple. The basis behind a TF shoot is the word 'trade'. That means they get something of equal value as to what you get. They provide their time, you provide your skills and equipment. They get images. You get images and the rights to them. Simple.

Stand your ground. If they want to limit how you can use the images, listen and if it's acceptable, add it to your release for this one shoot. Otherwise don't give away more than you already are with a TF shoot.

All IMHO and YMMV.

[CaptainTom]

Originally Posted by digitalpixels

Has anyone worked with models that belong to a major agency?

I have two opportunities that have come up with models that are need of some testing to fill out their books more. They are both from major agencies.

Do you treat as a normal ordinary session, or do you treat it differently since they are agency level? Can model releases be signed?

testing to fill out their books more ? Not sure exactly what they mean. The models should be able to tell you what they need for their port.

I wouldn't treat them differently at all. They probably don't need as much direction as a beginner. They may understand main and key lights etc. so that communicating with them can be easier. Face the main light, etc.
A model can always sign a release. Whether they are allowed by the agency is a different matter. Make absolutely sure to get a release from them or you are likely to have a problem with the agency. No release, no images !!