Finding Models for Nude Photography

There are many places where you can find a suitable nude model to photograph, whether for commercial glamour, beauty or fine art nudes.

The first and most obvious place to look will be an established model agency, where you are likely to find experienced and professional models that are well adapted to your particular job requirements. This is my preferred choice most of the time and the way that most professional photographers work.

Alternatively there are Internet communities where models and photographers tend to meet online. These are large websites where people post images, make contacts and look to improve their portfolios etc. This is not my favourite method of looking for models, since I tend to think they are far less reliable in general and often unaware of normal business practices; making up their own rules as they go along.

The most common headaches with Internet models are last minute cancellations or simply deciding to disappear without a word, which could leave you on the day with the nightmare of an expensive studio and makeup etc. but no model to photograph!

For artistic nudes don't forget options such as dance schools where you can often find very interesting potential subjects. As dancers they will tend to be in great shape and move well with a natural fluid grace, which can help you to produce some really striking images. In many cases the images can actually be superior to those obtained with professional models.

Gymnasts or other athletes are also well worth considering since they tend to be fairly confident about the shape and condition of their body, so they are less likely to be nervous in front of the camera.

For glamour photography some photographers look for potential models at strip clubs or even through glamour workshops but once again I would always prefer to use a professional model from a good agency whenever possible. There are many things you need to get right on the day so I would always rather go with the safer option than risking the unknown.

Regardless of where you search for a model and whomever you work with, always try to adopt a friendly and polite but above all professional approach in your dealings with other people. As a final point, always ensure that any model you hope to work with is at least 18 years old.