Who Can Use Your Services and Why Would
They?
What Is a Model/Property Release and Should
I Sign it Or not?
Some Ideas On How To Use My Services
The short answer - Anyone. For nearly any reason.
The Long Answer:
I make my services available to just about anyone. Individuals. Groups.
Families. Organizations. Small businesses. There are plenty of
photographers out there and most are awfully expensive. Many people or
businesses simply cannot afford to have a professional come in and take
photos. Since I
have a regular, full-time job (my location will not support a full-time
photographer at present), I can afford to discount my fees. Of
course, it also means I am only available Friday through Sunday.
Model and property releases are legal agreements that
allow me to sell the photos through stock photo agencies. By signing one,
you are agreeing not to hold the stock agency or myself responsible if the
photo is used in a way you do not like. Every stock agency I deal with has
stipulations that photos may not be used in a controversial way. In
simpler terms, the photos cannot be used to associate you with hate or
violence themes, religion, controversial subjects (such as abortion or
HIV), or in a lewd/suggestive manner. Basically, it states that if you
have an issue with the way a photo of you is used, you will pursue legal
remedies with the publisher rather than myself or the photo agency. After
all, we have no control over what a publisher might do after the photos
are purchased. All in all, however, it is very rare for a photo to be used
inappropriately.
As to whether you sign a model or property release, you
should consider one thing. Would you mind these photos being used in
websites, brochures or advertising. If you don't mind, go ahead and sign a model/property release and get your
photo session for free.
Next is a list of ideas and benefits.
Individuals and Small Groups:
College Students - Maybe you want to document your
day-to-day life. Maybe you want to have a
little bit of fun and have a modeling contest among friends. Use your imagination.
Dating Site Photos - There are a lot of people on
dating web sites. Of those, about 95% of the profile views are for about
5% of those listed. If you are not one of that 5%, it is probably because
of the photos. Ever notice how most of the photos just look bad, have no
style, or look like they were taken with a webcam.
Many of the listings have no photo at all because the person does not
have either a scanner or a digital camera or realize they simply do not
have any good photos of themselves. By having high quality photos of you in your everyday life, you can improve your
odds of attracting that someone special.
For Your Significant Other/Family/Friends - If you are
separated from loved ones, or they from you, it might be worth it to email
them photos of you. Not just quick snapshots, but quality photos that let
them know you miss them.
For Hobbyists - Hobbies are a passion for many - and
those individuals are proud of their accomplishments and want to show
off their to the world.
For Fun and Bragging Rights - Maybe you just want to
try something different. Maybe you still like to play dress-up. Either
way, you can tell your friends you modeled for a "commercial"
photographer.
Small Events - Maybe your group is having a car wash - or a
picnic - or participates in an "Adopt a Highway" program.
Photos of your group in action can help in its promotion.
Modeling for Entertainment - There are costume parties
and murder mystery parties. Why not a modeling party. Invite your friends
to show up to model for a few shots each and later you can all compare
them and decide who is the best "model".
Businesses and Organizations:
Hairstylists, Salon Owners and Make-up Professionals - How good are you? Do
you want to show prospective clients your skills and abilities? I can
help. A portfolio can demonstrate your abilities to potential clients
or employers.
For Your Website - Having photos of your products,
services, staff and facilities can greatly enhance your image to visitors
of your website. Excellent for Doctor/Dentist, dance studio, private
karate school, or just about any small, independently owned
business.
For Brochures, Pamphlets and Fliers - Same as website.
For Posterity - As your business grows, it is nice to
have photos of what it was like before so people - and you - can compare
it to what it is now.
There are plenty of reasons to have photos taken - Are
you ready?
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