If you have watched the news, you might have seen the story on wanna-be model Lucas Mignotta who killed a man and mailed his body parts out. Or remember model Amaima Airee Nelson who killed and ate her husband. The world is getting crazier, and striking closer and closer to home. Stories of photographers that rape naive models can be found all over the web. Most recently, an associate of mine got stabbed in an attempted robbery. These and other developments have, inspired me to give you some advice on the industry as I know it.
Although cannibals and murderers within the entertainment field are far in between, certain dangers are ever to present. If you dont have the slightes business savy, you can easily be taken advantage off. What would you do if a photographer touches you inappropriately? Or you do a job and people don't pay? It is with trial and error that I have learned the most valuable lessons, when it comes to business in the entertainment industry. Whether your a MUA, photographer, artist or videographer, there will always come a time where you will work with some unproffesional, professionals. It is important to beware of dangers and issues that can arise at anytime.
Here are 5 essential tips that can help you not only ensure you get payed, but may also potentially save your life.
The Un-Googable:
You have been invited to a video shoot or photo shoot. Who are the people involved? As I always say: Are you Googable? Do they have any proof of work they have done. If they don't have at least a Youtube page, FB fan page or a website, then be very skeptical. Never be afraid to ask questions: who is the artist, model, videographer, or other people involved? Then Google them too. It is important to know who your working with before you meet them. Be very weary of sites such a Kijiji and Craigslist, or ads that offer little information. Always find out as much as possible. Know who your working with before you meet.Where am I meeting you?
Now that you have decided to go to a shoot. Make sure to get all the details. Unless you are doing a scene in a parking lot...``meet me in the plaza parking lot`` when your suppose to be working in a studio, might sounds suspicious because it is. Get a legitimate address, and look it up on Google maps. Google street view gives you a great real life view of the location and surroundings . If the location seems a little shady, most likely it is. Sometime there are photographers who don't want you to bring an extra person. This could be because the space he/she is using might be extra small, especially when other crew members are involved i.e. makeup artist , stylists, hairstylist. Make sure someone knows exactly where you are at all times. And if you get there and don't feel comfortable...LEAVE!!. It is not the end of the world, or the end of your career. Follow your intuition, because its always right!Whats the theme of the day?
Whether its music or photography, every project has a theme. Its good to fine out what the story is behind the shoot. What will you be wearing, what will you be doing? Ask for a video treatment or a written outline of what will be happening for the day. Make sure you have a clear overview of what is going to take place. Go through all the details so you know what you are getting into. If you get on location and are asked to wear less or do more then what your suppose to, its OK to refuse. If you are told you were doing a head shot, and then asked to remove unnecessary articles of clothing, then its best to head to the nearest exit. Never do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.The space invader:
Every one has their level of comfort. A Photographer is allowed to tell you to fix a bra strap, but putting his hands on your butt and helping with a wedgy is definitely an invasion of space. If someone is getting to close for comfort, let them know, firmly and immediately that their actions are unacceptable. I have heard models speak of photographers inappropriate touches. Yes there are situations where touching might be in order. Like fixing hair or an ashy back that needs more then its fair share of lotion. If your the one behind the camera, then always ask if its OK to touch, however minor. Never make a person feel uncomfortable being in your presence. If your a model and you feel uncomfortable SPEAK UP. Tell the person running the shoot, or let other staff members know. They are usually closest to the producer or photographer and can help you voice your opinion if your afraid to say anything.Sign on the doted line:
No matter what part of the biz your in, cancellations do occur. I have learned the hard way that contracts and/or deposits are in order. When you schedule an appointment to service a client, you might refuse other jobs to accommodate that client. Get a deposit to hold that spot. You can choose to hold it for their next appointment or use it as a cancellation fee. If they are serious about hiring you, they will pay the fee. Make sure there is a written agreement, between both parties involved on paper or worse case scenario through email. At least there is a paper trail encase you need to take legal action. Some people work of Grants. Unlike regular funding, in entertainment the payment is usually received when the project is complete. Whether you choose to wait for the grant is completely up to you. But coming from experience these things take a very long time. There is nothing more annoying then having to chase people down for your pay. I myself am still waiting on few for my loot. I know now to walk with my contract in hand, or email a copy for them to print, sign and hand over upon meeting. Get half of your cash in advanced, then ensure to establish a deadline for the rest of the payment, If they can afford a pizza party for 12 they can afford to pay your deposit fee. Leave a paper trail, by mailing a receipt, and make sure that it clearly states what balance is outstanding. If you want to add a late fee go ahead, after all you deserve to get paid. If your a model and sign a release form, know that your allowing those nude photos you took, to show up anywhere. Imagine that photo, popping up on your bosses laptop!
In this industry, you wont make it if you don't take risks. You have to be brave enough to put yourself out there, meet new people and go places you have never gone before. Sometimes you have to grant favors, to establish trust amongst you peers. But don't be afraid to put your foot down when it comes to whats most important: YOU.
Ask yourself: Is it worth the time? Will doing this gig help build my portfolio? A newcomer in entertainment cant expect to work with top celebrities right away. As a newbie be prepared to do allot of free labor. Just make sure every move you make worth your time and effort.
Its OK to let people know what you expect from them, what they are doing wrong, or most importantly to say NO if that's how you feel. Make sure they understand your time is valuable, time means money and you mean business. These are valuable lesson you learn, sadly for me through trial and error. I hope this advice will help you in your journey. Be safe, be wise, and never give up till you reach the top.
Love MRS
Next blog, its back to regular programming giving you an African Flavor and a graphic designer making waves. Stay tuned
