Safety on Social Media and on the Job as a Model

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So let's talk about your safety while modeling!

There's nothing more important than keeping you and your information well protected. This world is a dangerous place no matter which country you're in and sadly it's because of other people we need to remain fully alert all the time. I'm going to be straightforward and say that modeling is a dangerous job, but it doesn't mean you can't do it or be smart about it. The reason it's so dangerous compared to other work is because you will constantly be meeting strangers in unfamiliar places. This is why I'm giving you my top advice to be worry free in your career creating a safe environment and can enjoy life, so you never have to worry about the small things.

In this article I'll be covering the safety of your identity and information, safety on the job, and protecting yourself even when a job is completed.

Remain Sharp on Media:

Social media is a necessary tool in finding jobs and connecting in the modeling world, but it also means your information is out there including your name, location, and who you know. I can't stress enough how important it is to keep both your modeling and daily life separate on media because of this. I'm not talking about your hobbies and selfies but more about location, personal relationships, and personal information. So how can you protect yourself?

First thing is to create accounts that are meant only for modeling and not personal use. This will make sure your stalkers (and yes you will get them) remain unaware of your personal information. Keep your information minimal and never list your location of where you're working unless you've already left the area and don't plan to return to it. Don't give age, address, current workplace, or any other personal information that isn't necessary for the clients to know or relevant for booking modeling jobs. Never should you give financial information either. In order to get paid by the client, give it in person on the day of the job or only if they can use it to deposit the money and never withdraw. Look into using safe money transfer platforms and remember that banks will show your full name to the client.

Using a model name different than your own (make sure it's a professional sounding name) can be a sure way to keep your identity safer than before. A lot of performers, actors, and models do this to remain anonymous and less easy to trace. Just remember what it is so when some calls you by it you actually respond to it as I mistakenly forgot to do.

When messaging on your modeling social accounts be sure not to give any personal information to anyone including photographers who are arranging a shoot with you. They don't need to know the exact place you live, but a general area should do if necessary when they pay for transportation. If someone is getting creepy on your messaging or comments BLOCK them. There is no harm in getting rid of cyber vermin who are breaking the rules because they are in hiding. It's for your safety so don't hesitate to do it. Also keep your conversations to potential clients or followers only about the job to be arrange. There is no need for small talk as most of those people are searching for information about you or their intentions may not be good. Business is strictly business on social media for your model platforms. After you've met with the clients and perhaps some trust is gained you can give them your personal site, but please always remember that meeting once doesn't mean you know them well. Your safety always comes first.

Do Your Research:

Always research the clients wanting to book you for any kind of job. At this point, it's ok for you to become a sleuth or more up front, a stalker. Read their profile information and any links they have, inquire past models to see if they are unharmed and what they thought about the client, and lastly check for any negative comments. Photographers almost never have any bad comments so if they do, contact that person who gave the comment and make a choice, but most likely it isn't good news. If a client is asking for any kind of payment turn down the job immediatly. You should be getting paid not them or at least a trade of photos for your time.

Scammers:

So many scammers on social media it's getting ridiculous. If they make an offer with free items or a percentage off of a product and then claim they need your financial information, just don't do it. You're wasting your time and later on money. Pay for nothing ever! Not even for photos. There are many photographers who will do a collaboration for free if you need more photos or really like their style for your portfolio. As a model we shouldn't pay but get paid for our work or at least get the photos for free.

Modeling networks also try to squeeze money from models by having you pay for their services to post or boost your profile. Do your research to see if it's actually worth it and even better yet, do a trial run to see if you can actually get clients from them. There are many networks that are free that work just as well. I will admit sometimes I got jobs from the free ones, but Instagram has always been the more prospective business tool. Search around on Google and you're bound to find several platforms that will suit your needs and the area you are modeling in.

On the Job Safety:

You've booked the job and now it's time to prepare for it. My number one rule for myself is never meet for shoots in hotels unless the client is a hotel, always question and hesitate in booking in home studios, and sorry to say it... trust women photographers and clients more over men. That's just the way it is unfortunately, but I've never had an uncomfortable shoot with women.

If meeting outdoors for a shoot it's much safer than in studio but be sure to always research the area after you've researched the client. For a studio, research the place and if you still feel uncomfortable, bring a friend especially if the shoot is unpaid. There is safety in numbers and even though it's not professional you can always make your friend carry clothes and pose as a hired stylist. One thing to note is that if the shoot is very professional such as they have hired hair, makeup, stylist, products to model, lighting staff and assistants, DO NOT bring your friend. You'll be fine with such a large team and bringing a friend is highly unprofessional in this situation. If you just can't part with them, have them wait in the car while you check out the place and give them a message that they can go shopping nearby. Once you get to the shooting location, you'll know instinctually whether it's safe or not. As an extra step you can research the people they've hired to see their previous works. If it's a team of only men or lacks great detail of what is to be modeled, please be extra thorough in your research just in case. If you sense something isn't right, then trust how you feel and not what everyone else is thinking or telling you to do.

A few extra safety tips:

- pack mace

- phone always nearby - friends on speed dial

- friends waiting for you nearby

I can't stress this enough, but you can leave uncomfortable situations if the shoot gets weird or if the situation isn't feeling right. Examples: client asking you to take off clothes when it wasn't agreed and persists, they seem bored or aggressive when you refuse, they provide you with outfits that you didn't agree on that aren't "appropriate", seeming to take pictures of certain "areas" in focus only, asking you to do poses that are sexual when the photoshoot isn't intended for that, etc.

While it is possible for the photographer to ask about taking up one of these poses because (and I'm not really sure why) they think it's artistic, sexy, or cool, you can politely refuse and if they are a good photographer they will respect your refusal. They too are unsure of the limitations you have or are willing to do and by asking they can find out. Working with people from various countries you have to remember there is a mix of religion, morals, and artistic styles from their home countries that are attached to their mindset of photos they want. Honestly, they still lose my respect and trust after this, but I do have a rule that they can ask once as a mistake, but if they push it, disrespect my refusal, or ask again I walk away and never book them again.

If they do become aggreissve over a refusal, excuse yourself with a quick bathroom break, call that friend, and leave immediately. An excuse is better than confrontation when it comes to aggressive clients. Although, I've never had a situation where I needed to do this, it's always good to be alert and have a plan. One thing I always do is "book" an appointment for after the shoot. I don't actually book anything, but I tell the client this so that they know people are waiting for me and know where I am and it gives me a good excuse to leave at the appointed ending time precisely on time.

If you're still doubting the shoot, then meet the photographer before the shoot or even a few days before in a public space. Get to know them and most likely they'll be friendly towards the invite. Never take rides to isolated locations from them because you need to be able to leave by yourself if something should happen (again unless the crew is massive and professional). And lastly, you have the right to say no to anything during a shoot and can even end the shoot itself at any time. At the end of the day, its your safety and body that drives the decision of whether you want to do something or not. Don't be afraid to set your limits before the shoot begins by using a contract with the photographer or client.

Safety in Contracts:

My last piece of advice is to make a contract stating exactly what you don't want the pictures used for or to avoid accidental "shots" from being published as they will happen without you knowing it. This will legally protect and deter any unwanted photos from being published. Although I struggle with this one because photographers want full rights to the photos, they are willing to settle in agreement if you specify the type of photos that can't be published in the contract. Examples being: underwear showing under short skirts, a dress "falling open" and you didn't realize it and yes it really does happen quite often, closeups of body parts that you don't want taken, etc. Later I'll be drafting a contract as a template for you to adjust to your needs so don't forget to subscribe for the latest articles so you don't miss out!

I hope these safety tips didn't scare you into not modeling, but I always think it's better to be overprepared and aware of all types of situations that can happen. Because of these steps that I follow, I've never been in a bad situation in modeling. I did my research and I've turned down many shady clients and photographers before the job even began. Research will save you so much time in avoiding these situations. You shouldn't be scared but at least be aware and well prepared to remain safe and enjoy your time with modeling.

And lastly! Give this a like so that others can discover it as well. Commenting, always welcomed if you have any questions on this topic :)

Photo Credits:

Cover photo -

Fashion designer Kazuto Matsuzaki @kztmtzk

Photographer: Andy @_andys_pics_

Venue: @esmodjapon

Blog Article Photos:

by Wix