Often people wonder what a model call session is when they see a post from a portrait photographer. Today, I’m going to break down what that means and what to expect so you are in the know!

If you aren’t sure, a model call session is a chance for a photographer to do the following:

• Test new camera gear
• Learn new lighting equipment
• Create a guide for styling or locations
• Navigate certain natural light conditions
• Capture images in a new-to-them space
• Modify or add a new type of session to their service offerings
• Use new skills from a course in a session setting
• Portfolio updates
• and more…

What to Expect

Styling: The photographer may want you to be styled in a specific way that fits with their portfolio or the vision they have for a specific service they offer.

Location: The location is most likely going to be pre-determined by the photographer as they need sometime specific.

Props: There are a few occasions in which a photographer may ask you to bring a prop. Some examples include a favorite toy/lovie/blankie, an ultrasound roll of photos, graduation cap and gown, etc.

Common Questions about a Model Call Session

Do I/family members need to be professional models or have modeling experience?

• For me, the answer is no! The only requirements are that you follow any styling and posing guidance so that I can get the images I am looking for.

What do I get in exchange for my time?

• Personally, I provide a pre-determined amount of digital images in exchange for your time and a signed model release. I do offer model call session participants the option to purchase additional digital images, prints or products through the gallery they will receive. Digital images are valued at the current photographer’s pricing list. At the time of this post, they are valued at $35/digital image.

Model Release

Is a signed contract and model release required in order to participate?

• Yes, a signed model release is required because these images will be utilized for my portfolio and marketing materials. This is what allows me to use them for those purposes in addition to submitted for photography critique by my mentors. I will also use them on my blog when imagery is needed for posts like this or in a post that is specific to a service I’m offering. A contract is required for any session I capture, including friends and family!

Who can participate?

• Anyone who matches the specific needs of the type of session is considered. For example, maternity needs to be between 32-36ish weeks. For a sitter session, the child needs to be able to sit unassisted on a hard surface but not yet crawling. For certain family sessions, I might need a family with a mom, dad and two kids plus or minus a dog.

Are there any questions you have that I have not answered? Please share them below!

Are you interested in being asked when I have a model call session available? If so, please sign up for the model call session waitlist here.