I see many times on Threads and Instagram that people look for models to collaborate. Especially brands that need models for their commercial projects.

When I started modeling, I think, I wasn’t valuing myself enough.  I always had the feeling that I missed opportunities by refusing free shoots from brands. And when I accepted some, at the beginning I was happy but then I always felt I wasn’t valued like I would like to. Actually, it was just because I didn’t value myself in the first place.

There is nothing wrong with modeling for free, especially if you start in the modeling industry.  As a photographer, I already asked, in the past, for models to work for free on commercial shoots because the brand didn’t have the budget for them. Now, I always try to do my best to get even a small budget. Also, I sometimes ask models for TPFs, when I have a personal project in mind for my portfolio. Doing free collaborations among artists is kind of the norm. That being said, when models contact me for TPFs, I refuse. I know, it may seem to be contradictory. Let me explain. Photographers, make-up artists, hair stylists, nail artists etc… are the ones who invest a lot in equipment. Models don’t in the first place. Plus, I am a model too and I never ask photographers for TPFs.

When it comes to commercials, models have to be paid, even if it’s a small fee. Because, if you are always shooting without being paid for brands or in exchange for clothing or products, they are making money thanks to you. In the end, you have to ask yourself what is modeling for you. Is it just a hobby ? If the answer is no, then it’s time to only apply for commercial paid photoshoots.

I think it’s a mind perspective that has to be shifted. Brands could simply shoot their products but they need models to expand and generate sales. Seeing a model wearing clothing or holding a product is part of the decision-making of customers allowing them to project themselves having the items, so it’s powerful. That’s why, as models, we have to stay firm on being valued !