Models and Model Mayhem.

[adirty1]

I finally decided that I would give Model Mayhem a try. I am in the process of trying to shoot a new promo card for a new possible client. I thought what a great way to go after their business than to shoot a promo card geared to their product line and mail it out to them right before christmas and after the new year. Maybe even do a holidays kind of theme. I know they are going to make a choice when they come back from the holidays.

I got on MM and started the process of getting signed up and after that I started going through the models in my area. I was surprised that most of the avatars where Glamor style images. It was extremely hard to find some one when you really could not tell what that person looked like in different looks when the only look they had was thigh highs and a bra. Yes, they are nice images and yes the model has the assets to pull off the image. However. I still don't know what the model really looks like. I guess I was expecting more of headshots and comp card kind of site from what I get when I use a modeling agency. Is it just me or would it not make things a lot easier if the models had headshots for avatars and then images of multiple looks in their books instead of just one look.

I just would really like to see what the model looks like and what looks they can pull off. I doubt that I can get most or any MM models to come to a go see.

For those out there that use MM. Do you ask to see other images than those posted? Any tips for weeding through and finding the more professional girls or guys. I am not just looking for Trade for Prints/CD I am willing to pay but I just don't want contract with some one that really can't do the look I need.

Just need some inside protocol for Model Mayhem.

[srwatters]

Most of the Internet 'modeling' sites are a total joke if you have a commercial job to cast. This includes Model Mayhem, One Model Place, and many others. You might be surprised at the hourly rates charged by some established brick and mortar agencies. If you are paying, you have every right to hold an in person casting call. Be up front with what you can pay and you should be able to ask for a standard comp card from each model you intend to interview.

When I cast for a workshop, either I know who shot the portfolio images, or I have a face to face interview. Anything else is a total crap shoot as to the model looking like her images. There are many photographers that help models to mis-represent themselves. You have a much lower chance of that happening if you use an established B&M agency. The other alternative is a personal recommendation from a photographer you know and trust.

Good luck!

[HotHolly]

Austin is a weird city to try and find a model on MM. Its like there is something in the water. Anyway, I know a few models in that area if you want names.

I see what you are talking about and it is difficult to see what the models look like. There are a few photogs who I know dont do much plastic surgery in PP so you can actually tell what the model looks like when she shows up. The MUAs pages also have before and after pics - which are invaluable if they list the MM #s of the models.

Basically, I use MM to find entry level models, and that is usually what you get and I bounce b/t pages of anyone who has shots of that model to get a true feel for what she usually looks like.

[CaptainTom]

As in most businesses, word of mouth is the best advertising. Asking other photogs in your area for recommendations is a great start.

Good luck.

[AndrewCCM]

What Scott said.

I gave up on it for the most part.

[Crashoran]

I've shot one person on MM. I told her that we were practicing lighting patterns on faces for the day. She showed up to my portrait class and she was my model for the day, and it was her first time modeling ever. About a month later I went back to see if she would like to come model again and read this on her page:

"So I've decided I'm not getting what I want out of Model Mayhem.

I'm NOT interested in "pretty", mundane pictures of my face. I can get that through an agency or mall photography studios.

if you have:
-a good handle on photography and light sources
-willingness to try something out-of-the-box/editorial/edgy
-ideas and experience with hair/make-up/wardrobe
-Mad photoshop skills
-similar goals as a model

Message me."

And also said she only models for paid shoots only, when she has only done maybe 4 or 5 shoots in her life. To each their own I guess.

[srwatters]

I love the models who contact me saying they 'love my work' and 'want to shoot with you' then turn around and ask how much they are going to get paid. This from models with half a dozen cell phone or P&S self portraits in their 'book'.

You've got to be kidding...

[CaptainTom]

Merriam Webster on line dictionary definition of Model.
9: one who is employed to display clothes or other merchandise

Merriam Webster on line dictionary definition of Mayhem.
2: needless or willful damage or violence

[Crashoran]

Originally Posted by CaptainTom

Merriam Webster on line dictionary definition of Model.
9: one who is employed to display clothes or other merchandise

Merriam Webster on line dictionary definition of Mayhem.
2: needless or willful damage or violence

[AndrewCCM]

Originally Posted by CaptainTom

Merriam Webster on line dictionary definition of Model.
9: one who is employed to display clothes or other merchandise

Merriam Webster on line dictionary definition of Mayhem.
2: needless or willful damage or violence

Now that is funny stuff...

[ppcass]

There is a photog who is a member here, so he will rename nameless. I had a model he has shot call me and want to shoot with me off MM. When she showed up, I really aked "That's you on MM?" She looked that much different. PS Plastic Surgery made her look like someone she isn't. I won't make that mistake again!

[livinthalife]

adirty1 I'm in round rock right on 79. If you do line up a shoot, I would love to join if possible.

[Roadrnr]

Adam I've shot with a couple of models off of MM for some strobist stuff that were pretty good. I'm not sure exactly what you are looking for, but I'd be more than willing to give you their info. Just let me know.

[J Eddington]

That is funny. I have never had someone turn up looking other than what I expected. BUt then I looked at the photo, which were usually crap, and choose them because of that. Just this weekend I had one drive 4.5 hours to shoot with me.

I never work with a MM without at least one person I know present. (at least not the first time) I won't start until I see a photo ID. I want to know they are 18yrs.

In the beginning I had 3 flake on me. Now I make it clear. I am willing to shoot with you TFCD BUT here is what I expect from you. 1. Show up on time
2. Come prepared to work. (nails done etc)
3 then I go over what we are going to be doing. At this point I discuss the wardrobe. What shots they NEED for their port and what I need for this shoot. They get something they want, I get something I want.

I send them an email the night before the shoot to remind them how excited I am to work with them at ?:00am tomorrow.
With having done this I find that the girls know what to expect and now I haven't had a single gal flake on me or turn up unprepared.

This is almost exactly what I do with Clients.

[srwatters]

Originally Posted by J Eddington

With having done this I find that the girls know what to expect and now I haven't had a single gal flake on me or turn up unprepared.

The kiss of death. I'm willing to wager a dollar that you get at least one no-show in the next few shoots you do.

To be honest with you, I've had less flakes from people (notice I didn't say 'models') I meet on MySpace and FaceBook. Of course YMMV.