I specialise in working with
newcomers and models returning to the profession. I have no upper age limit,
but am reticent to work with anyone, younger than 21.
The reasons are varied both legal,
moral and personal. I shoot a variety of styles, from fashion, portraiture and
wedding to what’s termed implied and classic/art nude. Valid ID and record
keeping are not the issue here.
Rather, I am aware of incidences,
where 18-year old models have participated in a nude, or topless shoot without
fully realising the implications. One was trying to reclaim and ultimately regain
control of these intimate images.
Whether she had been unduly influenced,
by a photographer, or had done so of her own volition was unclear. Unfortunately,
she had signed a model release form, permitting the photographer to use such
images, for his own and broader, commercial purposes.
I have also been approached by
parents, managing their teenage daughter’s modelling schedules, wanting me to
work with them. I always decline, since their communications suggest my
personal and professional boundaries are likely to be pushed, or disrespected. My
son is almost 16. Would I want him modelling at this age? No.
That said; my emphasis upon thorough
pre-shoot screening and communication means sometimes, I will “Take a view”.
Some people in their late teens show better judgement and maturity than adults
in their 30s. Nonetheless, clothed fashion, portraiture, or lifestyle are my
limits.
Paige MJ is a case in point.
Aged 18, she had only been modelling for a matter of weeks and wanted me to
shoot her, on location at Flitch Way in Braintree. She was seeking to create
something edgy, with a punk flavour. Several messages were exchanged, specification agreed,
and rapport established. We arranged to shoot 24 hours later.
Flitch Way is 15 miles of
disused railway running from Braintree and Bishop’s Stortford. Flat and well
surfaced, the shared access path is popular with cyclists, horse riders and
walkers. Its also blessed with a wealth of interesting backdrops, including artist
grade graffiti.
Page had already experienced
“Level pushing” from one “Photographer” offering way above the odds, for a
topless shoot. This didn’t interest her and perturbed by his behaviour, she
declined to work with him. Two hours later, we were pleased with the results. I
would happily work with her in future.
Krystal also wanted to
collaborate with me this week. She’d bought a new gothic black dress and some
lingerie. We knew a suitably secluded location, thus unlikely to draw unwanted attention.
Comfortable for her and conducive to seamless creativity.
That said; there is a creeping
and very tangible sensation of being watched. Both of us have experienced this
very acutely. We work fast and have an easy rapport, thus work very quickly
together. Sure enough, after twenty minutes, a couple arrived in a car and sat,
observing us.
No approach was made, but we opted for a wardrobe change and an
alternative location. While the
colours are so vibrant, natural light and climate, kind, I wish to make best use of them.
