studio practice and requesting models

[bodynmotion]

Brief question about studio practice and modeling. I am trying to diversify my skill set and don't want to rent any studio time. I have invested a fair amount into Strobes (have Alienbees and Novatrons), background supports, wireless transmitters/recievers, muslins, props and a lightmeter. Have a large collection of lenses (Canon). I am wanting to practice at my house in my very large living room 18 x 23 w/ 10' ceilings. Our house is new (2004) and very well kept ( my wife is an interior designer). What would be considered acceptable requests to get models and maybe another photographer or two to come to my house and practice with the strobes? My wife and 2 year old do not have any thoughts of modeling for me. So in that regard I am trying to find others to help. I have joined ModelMayhem but cannot complete the joining to send requests as I have no portraits to upload. Unfortunately my budget does not allow me to hire models, but I am willing to TFP and allow other photographers(select) to practice with my equipment (at my house only). I hope to increase my skill set before I start advertising and pushing myself as a professional. I work fulltime, so the only time I can shoot is in the evenings and on weekends. Can anyone help me discuss proper etiquette?

Thanks

Mike

[CaptainTom]

I would start by being completely open and honest with whoever you contact. Explain your goals and experience, and let them know that you are a serious photographer. Also encourage whoever you talk to, to bring a "chaperone". This is usually their boyfriend, or someone they trust. It can be another female, but I would encourage that they not come alone. I also encourage that you have your wife there at ALL times. Both parties then have a witness that nothing out of bounds happened.

As for getting someone to "model" for you, I would approach friends and relatives at first.
Once you sort out your technique a bit, you can look for aspiring models, actors, actresses, etc. Try Craigslist. Google for models, actors, in your area.

Good luck, and show us your work.

[AndrewCCM]

Also...Nearly all models have MySpace pages.. You can contact them through there.

Tom's advice is solid too. Another thing, come down to Brad's portfolio building workshop and get a bunch. I started my modeling profiles by shooting at a workshop. Might be worth the time, drive and $.

Good luck!

[bodynmotion]

Thanks Andrew and Tom, I appreciate your input, when is the next "Brad's portfolio building workshop"?

Mike

[AndrewCCM]

August... There is a thread in the workshop forum. It is under "Central Texas: Big Port...."

I still am uncommitted myself. Seriously considering it for fun...

[HeatherLou]

Andrew, you should cuz we now have Carly Erin on the list too :) Here is the thread about the workshop http://www.texasphotoforum.com/forum...ad.php?t=48002

[brad]

And we'll have a blast at it, too...

Yes, you will come away from that workshop with lots of good stuff to start your portfolio... all three of our lovely models are great and have three very different looks (glamorous/elegant, girl next door, and supermodel -- you get to pick which one is which). We'll be using three different sets of studio lights as well as some outdoor stuff... so while you won't get practice with your own stuff, you'll learn (through observation) how to set up your own lights.

But most of all, we'll have a blast. :)