So why are models not responding back?

JackBaker · Jun 26, 2020

Hello dpreview forums,

So I am posting on Craigslist for female models whether experienced or not to have ( paid) photoshoots with me so I can build and have a more expansive portfolio and post more on Instagram

but when they reply to the advert expressing interest in it, I tell them the location I'd like to meet at for the shoot and if they can't make it there we can meet elsewhere

But then after that no more replies or anything back, anyone could know why they don't reply ?

BrentSchumer · Jun 26, 2020

JackBaker said:
Hello dpreview forums,

So I am posting on Craigslist for female models whether experienced or not to have ( paid) photoshoots with me so I can build and have a more expansive portfolio and post more on Instagram

but when they reply to the advert expressing interest in it, I tell them the location I'd like to meet at for the shoot and if they can't make it there we can meet elsewhere

But then after that no more replies or anything back, anyone could know why they don't reply ?

"Basement Dungeon" is probably a red flag to them?

Joking aside, it's a tough question to answer without more information and example communications. You might want to offer them a choice of three spots in your area.

Pixel Pooper · Jun 26, 2020

Craigslist has a reputation for being a bit murdery. Try hitting them up on Instagram.

mo_shaw · Jun 26, 2020

Suggest you build trust first by meeting and shooting in public space before asking for shoots in locations that would appear to be risky.

mamallama · Jun 26, 2020

JackBaker said:
Hello dpreview forums,

So I am posting on Craigslist for female models whether experienced or not to have ( paid) photoshoots with me so I can build and have a more expansive portfolio and post more on Instagram

but when they reply to the advert expressing interest in it, I tell them the location I'd like to meet at for the shoot and if they can't make it there we can meet elsewhere

But then after that no more replies or anything back, anyone could know why they don't reply ?

You are trolling in the wrong places.

JackBaker · Jun 26, 2020

BrentSchumer said:
"Basement Dungeon" is probably a red flag to them?

Joking aside, it's a tough question to answer without more information and example communications. You might want to offer them a choice of three spots in your area.

lol yeah, but as usual with the other models I’ve met with, I always say we meet in a public area like a mall or in the downtown area, and if the spot is too inconvenient for them, we can meet where they want to.

and then no response back

mo_shaw · Jun 26, 2020

JackBaker said:
BrentSchumer said:

"Basement Dungeon" is probably a red flag to them?

Joking aside, it's a tough question to answer without more information and example communications. You might want to offer them a choice of three spots in your area.

Click to expand...

lol yeah, but as usual with the other models I’ve met with, I always say we meet in a public area like a mall or in the downtown area, and if the spot is too inconvenient for them, we can meet where they want to.

and then no response back

Maybe at some point during your conversation with them, thier spidey senses told them to stay away.

Either that or they determined that it wasn't worth their time from what was said.

DenWil · Jun 26, 2020

JackBaker said:
Hello dpreview forums,

So I am posting on Craigslist for female models whether experienced or not to have ( paid) photoshoots with me so I can build and have a more expansive portfolio and post more on Instagram

What specifically do you want to shoot? What manner of portfolio? Fashion? everyone (women) will need to be 5'8" to 5'11" and size 4 or less. Faces stunning . What percentage of Craigslist participants do you realistically expect to qualify to generate competitive images for a portfolio?

JackBaker said:
but when they reply to the advert expressing interest in it, I tell them the location I'd like to meet at for the shoot and if they can't make it there we can meet elsewhere

But then after that no more replies or anything back, anyone could know why they don't reply ?

I agree with other responses regarding location.

Also, you should be advising prospective models to bring a personal assistant to help with wardrobe and hair makeup unless you are an expert. Then you should tell them to bring along an assistant just because.

I always tell newbies to bring a teammate or a friend I have met at the gym for the first shoot. That is after at least two meet and greets to establish goals and do a dry run of the shoot. Friends are great to carry stuff. Cheap go-fers. Gotta love'm.

Lastly what is your book like? If every page looks like an ad folks recognize you will generate better responses than if your book is non models looking as much.

C Sean · Jun 27, 2020

A number of photographers are perverts and occasionally sexually assault their models and as a result destroy people dreams of having modelling career. It’s pretty sad and sadly sexually assault in the model industry I was told to be a big problem.

You have to look at the alleged allegations against Jason Lanier which I have no doubt is true and I have experienced a similar character at work.

It’s professional to keep all models safe and for added security they should always bring a friend or family member unless the shoot involve multiple witnesses but the model shouldn’t always take the photographer word for it.

Horoscope Fish · Jun 27, 2020

They probably found a better gig. Models are a flaky bunch by and large and, in my experience, you're looking in what is probably the worst possible place.

You might have better luck searching on PurplePort or Model Mayhem.

BrownieVet · Jun 27, 2020

Re: So why are models not responding back?

The modeling agency protects the models and you. No need to elaborate.

. . . but be prepared to pay the going rate.

Dexter Jackson · Jun 27, 2020

JackBaker said:
Hello dpreview forums,

So I am posting on Craigslist for female models whether experienced or not to have ( paid) photoshoots with me so I can build and have a more expansive portfolio and post more on Instagram

but when they reply to the advert expressing interest in it, I tell them the location I'd like to meet at for the shoot and if they can't make it there we can meet elsewhere

But then after that no more replies or anything back, anyone could know why they don't reply ?

I can maybe offer a little advice as Ive been working with models for about 20 years now. Stay far away from Craigslist. any woman looking for modeling jobs on Craigslist isnt looking to "model". Look for local shootout events in your area where they get like 30 photographers and 15 models together at a location for a day. You pay a fee to attend and you get to work with the models, most schedule one on one shoots after the group portion. This is how I started many years ago and its a great way to network.

Another option is to use networking websites that connect models with photographers and social media. Contact models directly that way. Also, depending on where you live, contact local modeling and/or talent agencies if there are any. Working with real models is a great way to learn and build your portfolio as well, much better than randoms off Craigslist.

JackBaker · Jun 27, 2020

BrownieVet said:
Re: So why are models not responding back?

The modeling agency protects the models and you. No need to elaborate.
. . . but be prepared to pay the going rate.

I have tried agencies but they demand to see your work first... being on and off in photography for years, especially since I lost most of my beloved photos in a hard drive failure, means I don’t have much to show at all,

( I was too lazy to back up my pictures back then and learned the hard way to make multiple copies )

Craigslist for me at least is just a small start

BrownieVet · Jun 27, 2020

JackBaker said:
BrownieVet said:

Re: So why are models not responding back?

The modeling agency protects the models and you. No need to elaborate.
. . . but be prepared to pay the going rate.

Click to expand...

I have tried agencies but they demand to see your work first... being on and off in photography for years, especially since I lost most of my beloved photos in a hard drive failure, means I don’t have much to show at all,

That is partly the point in "protection". Legit agencies want to protect their reputation.

JackBaker said:
( I was too lazy to back up my pictures back then and learned the hard way to make multiple copies )

Craigslist for me at least is just a small start

Gerry Siegel · Jun 27, 2020

I can't say of course. I would try other places, such as local community colleges where you post a flyer and they call you. And you make it clear who you are and how much worthwhile compensation ( not just TFPs and a small fee ). You should only expect a small return on investment in my experience. Also talk to the teachers at acting schools where students might seek photography for their own portfolio,

Sony Influencer · Jun 27, 2020

Could you gives us an example of one of your Craigslist post? I've never used Craigslist and so I don't know the typical process to having a photoshoot using this page. I would use Instagram. It looks easier to me but again I have no experience with Craigslist. Maybe it is the right tool for you.

JackBaker · Jun 27, 2020

Sony Influencer said:
Could you gives us an example of one of your Craigslist post? I've never used Craigslist and so I don't know the typical process to having a photoshoot using this page. I would use Instagram. It looks easier to me but again I have no experience with Craigslist. Maybe it is the right tool for you.

Yeah of course

My last ad was:

"Hello I'm (name) I would like to build a photography portfolio.

I am no means an expert photographer, but I hope to start eventually. A model would greatly help.

Compensation $50 for one hour"

Then the models would reply with interest, I would reply back: "hello (their name) would you like to meet at (x) ? If that area is too inconvent we can meet elsewhere.

Thanks"

And then ghost

FrancoD · Jun 27, 2020

JackBaker said:
BrentSchumer said:

"Basement Dungeon" is probably a red flag to them?

Joking aside, it's a tough question to answer without more information and example communications. You might want to offer them a choice of three spots in your area.

Click to expand...

lol yeah, but as usual with the other models I’ve met with, I always say we meet in a public area like a mall or in the downtown area, and if the spot is too inconvenient for them, we can meet where they want to.

and then no response back

As already suggested , maybe what you say or how you say it may sound some alarm bells so they stay away.

maybe try to re-enact the scene with some females you know and see if they can figure it out.

007peter · Jun 27, 2020

Society has changed:

Men no longer wear hats like 1940
People no longer say ma'am
Most ladies today no longer wear skirts

Photographer recruiting model is very 1980~2000 ideology. You must be an older Gen X or a Baby boomer to hold on to such idea.

The world has changed after Instagram. Gone are the days upcoming photographer seeks models in ModelMayhem website to buildup his her portfolio. Gone are the days of model scouting women in the malls too (creepy)

Today, everything is done over Instagram. Young model are now discover via Instagram. Every model agency use Instagram to find new faces. Likewise rvery male & female models have their Instagram address printed on their photo portfolio.

You need to have Finished Work on display @Instagram for young people to check you out first.

Keep in mind,everyone on Instagram already have a Family~Friend~Instagram~Photographer @home. In fact, it's so common that there is a meme call Instagram Boyfriend which guys acts as a FREE photographer for any hot girls

Ask yourself this hard question:

why would they call an unknown strangers @Craigslist when they already have their own Instagram Boy/Girlfriend taking photo of them FOR FREE!

I'm not here to crap on yr dream, just letting you know why no young people will respond to this kind of AD anymore. The society, like I said, has CHANGED forever.

Gato Amarillo · Jun 27, 2020

JackBaker said:
JackBaker said:

...

Click to expand...

That answers my main questions

JackBaker said:
Yeah of course

My last ad was:

"Hello I'm (name) I would like to build a photography portfolio.

I am no means an expert photographer, but I hope to start eventually. A model would greatly help.

They need more info -- what kind of portfolio? Portraits? Fashion? Pinup? Sexy?

JackBaker said:
Compensation $50 for one hour"

Wrong amount, in my opinion. I you're looking for clothed, normal things it's too high -- you look desperate. If you're looking for nude or porn it's too cheap.

You might actually do better offering "Time for Prints" (TFP) instead of money -- looks less desperate.

JackBaker said:
Then the models would reply with interest, I would reply back: "hello (their name) would you like to meet at (x) ? If that area is too inconvent we can meet elsewhere.

Thanks"

Again, they need more detail - -what kind of photos? Do they furnish wardrobe or makeup? How long? Do they get photos as well as cash? Don't try to close the deal too soon, allow for some discussion and back-and-forth.

And where can they see samples? You need samples, even if it's just a few beginner quality photos. If you're showing on social media do you have a separate photo site? Nobody wants to sort through your cat pics or photos of your lunch to get to the model photos.

JackBaker said:
And then ghost

No surprise. But it happens and you have to expect it -- even with a good pitch maybe one out of three will come back with a second response. Maybe of those one out of three will actually make an appointment and show up for photos. And that's with a effective campaign. So overall something like one out of ten actually make it to a photo session. To some extent it's a numbers game.

Polish your act and keep going.

As others point out, there may be better resources in your area. Hopefully you have a social media presence and following. In my own somewhat rural area there are perhaps half a dozen Facebook groups for photographers and models to make connections -- much productive than Craigslist. Most of my recent contacts have come through Instagram -- and most are friends/followers of people I had worked with who have posted my photos and said nice things about me. My impression, though, is that TicTok is really the place to be. I don't get it, but I need to figure it out if I'm going to keep going.

Get really nice photos with one person and treat them well. If they like you they'll say good things to their friends and you'll be up and going.

Good luck

Gato

(who has been working with models for 50 years and has watched things reinvent themselves a dozen or more times. You can't stand still, you have got to keep up with the present and look to the future.)

So why are models not responding back?

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