Cosplay Photography- Be Safe & Smart!
Being a part of our geeky community is an amazing experience, but when it is revealed that someone respected for their skill has abused their talents to prey on others, it can quickly turn ones experience sour. Do not assume that one bad egg means all male (or even female) photographers are predators. These situations should not happen, and education is the best offense against it happening again. For Cosplayers: When contacting a photographer:
State your project.
State your budget or proposal. (Are you paying them? Offering trade? How many photos? Prints?)
State your comfort level w/ said project. Ex: “I know Super Sonico does panty shots, but I’m not comfortable with that. Instead I like THESE (give examples via screenshots/art) instead.
Once agreed on, GET IT ON A CONTRACT AND BE SPECIFIC.
-Pause- “That’s a little overkill. We’re adults here.” Shit happens guys. People get angry, people get mad, and sometimes stuff just doesn’t work out. Putting it on a contract for both parties to sign is a way to keep things clear and protect you.
When contacted by a photographer:
Ask her/him the following:
What is your concept?
What is your timeframe? Turn around/delivery time?
Is this a paid project or trade? (Trade for prints? Trade for promotion? How many prints? How much promotion?)
Who will be on the shoot with us? May I bring an assistant?
For Photographers:
When contacted by a cosplayer:
State your project.
Be super clear. Is this a boudoir shoot? Cosplay? Fashion? Provide examples of what you are thinking. Realize that while you may be considering the composition of your shoot, not everyone has the same aesthetics or comfort level. Researching your model/cosplayer beforehand might reveal their aesthetic and if it aligns with your own.
Paid or Trade?
Dates and where it will take place.
CONTRACT.
Be super specific. How many photos for prints? Will they be agreed on before delivery? Etc
The one thing both parties need is common sense. Know your own boundaries; know that some behaviors are NOT okay and by responding professionally to emails/requests for photos you can avoid a situation where someone might have less than professional motives.
Generally, the community needs to keep in mind that the notion of “not all” applies here. I have worked with many photographers, many who are men who I completely trust in vulnerable photo situations. That trust was built over years and never, not once, any pressure on their part. Please, lets support the good eggs out there. Above all, stay safe and if you feel any discomfort, politely decline. If the situation escalates, please get the proper authorities involved.
Other great articles: http://www.myphotocentral.com/articles/working-models-etiquette/
(Photo: Visions of Zen, of the amazing Francous and I)