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It can be hard to distinguish between a professional artist, and pervert with a camera so sometimes a perspective client (model) will feel understandably uncomfortable shooting in awkward situations with a photographer they've never met.
Many models feel that bringing a friend a shoot as security will help avoid problems.  This isn't always true. An escort could be a great distraction for both the model and photographer and could end up being detrimental to the shoot. Where as some photographers allow any escorts/chaperons with open arms, others will have strict guidelines and rules for whom they allow into their studio. Others will not allow chaperons at all.
Not every photographer is the same so there are multiple responses based off of different scenarios and different photographers. Why some photographers will not allow chaperons: - Distraction. No one likes a person hovering around them while they work or try to concentrate, walking up to camera to peak at the digital previews. Averting the model's attention.
- Won't shut up. Asking the photographer dumb questions: Where did you learn to shoot? How much is your rent? How long have you been here? Blah, Blah
- Interference. Offering useless advice.
- Theft. A photographers studio is often a very expensive place with a lot of little expensive gadgets floating around.
- Secrecy. Many photographers are very secretive of how they work
- Confidential Atmosphere. Many models and photographers prefer not have an audience to delicate situations such as awkward poses, outfits, scenes.
Here are a quick set of guides that you can use to ensure safety, a good environment, and a good experience: - Arrange a pre-shoot meeting with the photographer. Meeting the photographer in person in a local diner or cafe over a diet soda is a good way for the both of to interview each other and learn personalities. This is also a good opportunity for the photographer to study your look in advance.
- Ask for references from several past models and be sure call them to ask about their experience with the studio. You may be asked for names and phone number of previous photographers or agencies that you've worked with. You will be able to get an honest and objective answer from previous models who will be more than happy to recommend the photographers services if they had a good experience.
Types of escorts that are not acceptable at my studio: - The boyfriend. I don’t care how "cool" he is.
- The parent(s). Parents generally wont shut the hell up and continuingly keep asking the photographer to explain every little detail about every little decision.
- The cute friend who wants to get into a few pictures with you.
- The friend who is waiting for you to finish so you can both go out after.
*note: If the photographer is made to feel uncomfortable in any way buy the escort, he or she will forfeit your shoot and you will both be asked to leave. Types of escorts that are acceptable at my studio: - A Professional make up artist (MUA).
- A hired, professional chaperon.
- A previous model of mine.
- A pre-approved photographer's/model's assistant.
An Escort Should NOT... - ...ask the photographer for snacks, drinks, or something to do. It is not his/her concern to make you comfortable in any way. Escorts should bring snacks, reading material or something else to do while they wait quietly in the designated waiting area.
- ...offer their ideas on the shoot and what they think will make a great shot.
- ...rush the shoot. Do not expect to be anywhere for a while if you expect a job as an escort. The photographer and model will finish at their own pace.
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