Would you like to model for a drawing?  I am always happy to meet new models, even if I don't have immediate work.  That said, there always seems to be something going on, or planned.  Here are some guidelines for what I look for in prospective models, and what you can expect if you model for me.

How I Work

I work from photographs.  Some drawings, a figure piece for example, may take weeks to complete.  I do not work quickly, and as much as I would like to draw from life, it is not practical financially.  I'm just not rich enough to pay someone to sit for the time it takes to finish a drawing.  So I use photos.

Before starting, I'll have some idea of what I want the drawing or drawings to look like.  I'll know what reference I need and will proceed to photograph accordingly.  Where I shoot depends on what is available.  Sometimes I shoot at home, sometimes in a studio, but wherever it's done, I take many shots from different angles designed to give me a view of the model as if she were present when drawing.

Once I have a set of shots, I use a computer to fix/adjust the lighting and print to a transparency.  With a transparency, I can use different backgrounds to allow me to see the figurative details I want to capture on paper.  When I am satisfied that I understand how the finished work will look, I pick up my pencils and get to work.

All told, a model will spend about an hour in a photo shoot, and I will spend about 20 hours at the easel.

What I Look For

If you browse this site, you will get a good idea of what I do.  I use models for figure work, and portraits.  When assessing suitability I look for an understanding of artwork and the creative process, and ability visualizing how I will capture your image.  You should also have a real interest in creating art.

I prefer models with some experience.  If you can write a resume and have a portfolio, you have some experience applying for, if not getting, modeling gigs.  Photographic modeling experience is better than art modeling experience.  It's important you be comfortable in front of the camera.

Professionalism is important.  Even if modeling is not your career, you should take it seriously and be committed to every project you accept.

I like to meet a prospective model first, before scheduling work.  This is usually over coffee, or some other public activity.  It is important that I feel comfortable communicating with you, and equally important you feel comfortable with me.  It also gives me a chance to get to know something about you, something that might give me a bit of insight on how best to compose an image of you.

Models I particularly enjoy working with bring ideas and suggestions to the job.  I may have clear ideas on how to capture your image, but you know you best and should feel comfortable making suggestions or asking questions.

What to Expect

Our working time will be about an hour and will involve a photo shoot.  I do not use either hair or makeup artists.  I do, however, have an assistant, except in cases where I have worked with someone many times, and know how to set up lights and how she works etc.  You are welcome, and I encourage you, to bring an escort or assistant of your own.

A place will be set aside for you to use as a dressing room.  During the shoot, this is your private area to use as you wish and to secure any possessions you have with you.  I recommend, if not already in your model kit, that you bring a robe and at least 2 towels.

There is paperwork to sign.  Each shoot requires a model release, and I use a standard form that the lawyer says is not unusual in any way.  I can provide this in advance if you wish to review it in detail.  If this is your first shoot with me, I also keep age verification.  Please bring 2 forms of photo identification with you.  Be sure one, or both, are government issued, such as a driver's license, passport, military ID, etc.

The shoot itself is pretty straight forward.  I'll describe what I am looking for, take a few reference shots, the have you pose.  I encourage interaction and welcome suggestions.  I do not play music during a shoot (some models have told me this is unusual) because I prefer to engage you in conversation.  Talking to you actually helps me "see" you better.  I get a sense of your presence, which helps create a better finished product.

And then we're done.  Once I have the photos I need to draw a picture, I may not get to it right away.  I do have a full schedule, and sometimes shoot in advance of any upcoming projects.  Sometimes, I don't get to finish a project at all.  Something may come up, I may decide that the idea was ill conceived, or things go otherwise undone.  When I do finish a project, I make sure to offer a print to the model who sat for it.  It's a picture of you, after all, so you should have a copy of it.

What Next

Hopefully this gives you pretty clear view of what I do and how I do it.  If you'd like to model, feel free to contact me with your resume and portfolio.  Links to an online portfolio, such as those at Model Mayhem, or One Model Place, are best.  Otherwise, just send a few shots, preferably a headshot and a full body shot.  And if you have any questions, please ask!