(We get asked this question sometimes, as we do prefer working with “first time” nude models).
No, it’s not a drag! In fact, we enjoy making shoots with newbies, because they sometimes come with preconceived notions of what happens on nude shoots, and it’s a great opportunity for us to confound their fears and help them have a fun time expressing themselves! (though, to be fair, people with more experience also enjoy our shoots too!).
“The shoot was really really nice, very professional. I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. I was a little scared because it was my first professional shoot. I was afraid I might feel uncomfortable, but I didn’t. It was great.” (Anabelle, Feb 2020)
Newbies are like moldable clay, they take direction well and come up with unique ideas to make a shoot better, thinking outside the box.
“It was better than I expected! It was a very comfortable and safe space. I had fun!” (Clara M, Aug 2021)
Of course, more experienced models are fun as well – there’s less time spent on making sure they’re comfortable and walking through the standard stuff, which leaves more time to spend on the shoot itself. Really, total-newbie or old-hand, it’s all good!
Shoot Producer Brad in Los Angeles USA says: “I appreciate the authenticity that new models bring to their performance, and their excitement about doing something new different, and daring can bring a lot of energy to a shoot”.
“Thorough, very thorough, she [Shoot Producer Giulia] is patient, she was very patient with me as I know it is a total drag for a photographer to work with newbies, it is just the worst thing ever [it’s really not! – Ed.]. She was very patient with me she explained a lot about abbywinters.com.
I felt like she really respected my choices, she told me that it might look like she is in a hurry but it is just how she is, she is not someone who is still during a shoot so during break she was, texting and she was making me lunch and she was setting up the lights but I felt really relaxed there. I asked her if I can help but she said ‘oh no no please just sit still for 30 minutes’ and I was like yeah, ok!” (Lotte L, Feb 2019)