There’s no way around it: You need high-resolution, high quality photos if you’re going to be a model.
If you’re naturally photogenic and look great in iPhone pix, then you’re in good shape when it comes to social media. Fans and followers definitely like to see candid, everyday shots. It gives them a better look at your personality.
But if you want to make camming a career, you need images that will look professional and awesome on your promo and bio pages.
YNOT Cam asked a pro photographer for her unbiased opinion: Can you get by with amateur photos if you try DIY?
“What do you mean by DIY? Selfies?” she replied. “The quality just isn’t there. Quality — you pay for what you get. Hire someone who knows what they are doing and has experience making subjects look good. Don’t hire a wedding photographer to shoot nekkid [sic] photos. You know what I mean?”
The majority of models don’t have the cash to shell out for a full-blown, professional photo shoot. If you are in a position where you can afford to hire a photographer, rates will vary greatly based on the shooter’s experience, reputation and eye for “pretty girl,” boudoir, glamor and/or erotic styles. Expect to pay a pretty penny for elaborate shoots. You also may be expected to pay for a hair and makeup artist, if you’re not used to doing your own makeup for photos. In addition, you’ll need to provide your own wardrobe with costume changes, wigs, lingerie and whatever else suits your style.
All in all, professional shoots can get quite costly, so many models find a photographer to work with and allow the photographer to use some of the photos for her or his own do a content trade.
“Content trades are always the way to go,” our photographer said.
A “content trade” is a commonly negotiated deal between a photographer and model (usually in adult or fetish), where both parties agree to share the photos and both get rights to use/publish the images, based upon their specific agreement. Some photos from the shoot may be shared, while some may remain set aside for exclusive use of either party. The arrangement can be set up however works best for both parties. Be clear about the terms of the trade, and always protect yourself with a written agreement. Make sure you read and understand the terms before you sign anything.
Need ideas? Look at the work of renowned fine art and genre photographers like Justice Howard, Steve Diet Goedde, hipster celebrity lensman Terry Richardson and iconic fashion photographer Helmut Newton for inspiration. Play with your own style, try different colors and moods, and have fun! That’s what models do, so seek out your inner Marilyn (Monroe or Manson), Betty Page, Bridget Bardot, David Bowie, Elizabeth Taylor or Angelina Jolie.
What kinds of private chats do you offer? What are you passionate about in real life? Let those things guide your photo session. Maybe your thing is BDSM, tattoos, cosplay or comics and gaming, EDM, yoga, road racing, mermaids, sports, Japanese food, Pokemon ™… Whatever you choose to convey, be yourself and be creative! Ask fans what they want to see. Look for interesting wardrobe pieces and props at thrift stores and resale shops, and you’ll be able to use them for camming as well as photos.
As your business network expands, you’ll encounter photographers who work with other models, studios and cam companies, both amateur and professional. Try to get a referral from another model who’s happy with her photos. Work with more than one photographer, if possible, to reveal different sides of the person you want fans to see.
“I would say 300 (images) to choose from is ideal,” our photog said. “A variety of fully clothed, half-nude, fully nude, and an equal amount of horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portrait).”
No matter who you work with or under what conditions, you’ll get the most out of a shoot if you prepare the day before. Postpone that all-night rave and avoid carbs and salt, so you don’t have dark circles or feel bloated.
“Get a good night’s sleep, eat a light breakfast, and bring a wide variety of clothes to choose from,” our wise professional advised. “Photographers often love an outfit that you are indifferent to.”
If a photog loves an outfit you’re not crazy about, listen to him or her. Generally, the photog loves the outfit because he or she sees a great photo in the making.
“With indoor shoots, the photographer has controlled lighting,” YNOT Cam’s photographer said. “If it’s outside, there must be shade. And as far as HMU (hair and makeup)… If the girl can do her own it’s a money saver, but if she can spring for it, she will just feel better and more glamorous with a professional on the set.”
A lot of how you look is the way you feel, so ultimately it makes good sense to take good care of yourself. It’s important to eat well, drink lots of water (makes your skin look awesome and helps you feel good), get plenty of sleep (#yeahright) and when you feel stressed, take a break and be happy. OK, #supermodel?
