I’ve been a professional model for 10 years now, and I work with photography professionals and enthusiasts of all skill levels. I’ve noticed that students and new photographers often struggle when they want to start working with models. It can be difficult to know where to start and how to do it. I also see experienced photographers who are eager to improve their skills in working with models, but there aren’t a lot of good resources out there. The whole thing can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s possible to learn everything you need to know no matter where you are in your photography journey. I wrote this e-book to be the ultimate guide for photographers on how to work with models. I’ve put together all my knowledge into a detailed guidebook that answers your questions.

What You’ll Learn From This E-Book

With an in-depth look at model photography, this guidebook teaches photographers everything they need to know about working with models. As a professional model with a decade of industry experience, I’m providing the important perspective of a person on the other side of the camera. How to Work With Models: A Model’s Guide for Photographers offers expert advice on how to make a professional model-photographer relationship result in the best work possible. This comprehensive guide outlines the entire creative process including before, during, and after a shoot, and will equip any photographer with all the tools they need to feel confident working with models. 

What’s Inside This E-Book

Get This Comprehensive Guide to Working With Models

In the first part of this e-book, I begin with how to find a model, how to contact a model, and what is industry standard for rates and compensation. I then discuss best practices for pre-shoot communication, and how to set expectations for a successful photo shoot. In the second part of the guide, I launch into the experience of being on set with a model. Full chapters are dedicated to explaining how to direct and pose a model, how to offer constructive feedback, and more. I analyze photo shoot etiquette, navigating nudity on set, and explain how to provide both a relaxed atmosphere and professional environment. While addressing potential challenges, the guide covers all of the do’s and don’ts of working with models in person. Finally, in the third part of the e-book I outline how to follow up after a project, what is customary for image usage, and the best ways to maintain a positive working relationship with a model after a shoot. 

With homework lessons, additional resources, and plenty of actionable tips, this guide truly leaves no questions unanswered. Using detailed discussions, matter-of-fact guidance, and examples from my personal experiences, this e-book shows you why model photography is about so much more than technical skill with a camera. It’s about understanding human connection, communicating with people effectively, and treating professional relationships with care. When these relationships are cultivated mindfully, they result in strong creative bonds and mutually beneficial partnerships. That is what will elevate a photographer’s work, and ultimately allow them to improve as an artist. If you’ve been looking for a guide that delves deep into everything you need to know about working with models, then this e-book is for you.

What READERS ARE SayING About thIS E-BOOK

Well written, entertaining, and educational. (J. Loredo)

“It was a very good read. Her writing technique made this book enjoyable to read and shed a whole new light on a subject I know little about. It’s very educational and most entertaining.”

Super helpful and very well written! (Will H.)

“It’s a perfect book for any photographers who work with models. The book is really well written and all of the advice is incredibly helpful even if you’ve been shooting for awhile. Leaning about this from a model’s perspective is really interesting because she’s dealt with so many different photographers and knows what it’s like to interact with both good and bad ones. I would absolutely recommend this book for anyone who wants to improve their portraits.”

No fluff - just good, reliable, well-written advice. (Stephen W.)

“Kaitlin has distilled her many years of modelling experience to produce a concise, no-nonsense e-book that teaches photographers how to work with models, from a model’s perspective. And she’s done a fantastic job. This e-book is a must read for all photographers, amateurs and professionals alike, who photograph models. I love Kaitlin’s relaxed, conversational style of writing. She makes a serious subject engaging and accessible. If you’ve worked with Kaitlin, you’ll recognize her personality shining through every page. Kaitlin breaks down the process into three logical sections: before, during, and after the shoot. Her homework assignments at the end of each chapter reinforce what you’ve read. I’ve been privileged to have worked with Kaitlin. She’s always professional, a terrific model, and a delightful, dynamic person, and that’s how she’s written her book. ‘How to Work With Models’ is not a long book, but it doesn’t have to be. There’s no fluff - just good, reliable, and well written advice. I will be recommending this book to anyone attending my model photography workshops. I dare say that it should be required reading.”

Every new or aspiring photographer or models - please start here. (Tom K.)

“The author has taken many years of experience and success as a model and turned it into a quick and pleasant read for others. Targeting new photographers, or someone who needs a refresher, the author covers a lot of ground that should equip the reader with enough to not experience common pitfalls. Her philosophy is very clear: set clear expectations and boundaries, respect each other and you will both perform to the best of your abilities. The book covers the entire workflow from planning, sourcing talent, executing the photoshoot, and following up. It’s hard to do it justice with just a brief paragraph. It’s a very easy read, offering many practical solutions and checklists for most situations a photographer shooting models will encounter. Well done Kaitlin. I’ll look forward to any follow-up work.”

A must read for model photography. (Shayne M.)

“Kaitlin’s first venture into writing a book is amazing and not to be missed. What makes it unique is that it is written from a model’s point of view versus the traditional photographer’s point of view. The book takes the reader from start to finish when working with a model - finding and booking a model, how to interact during the photography session, and what to do after. Kaitlin’s passion for modelling is evident as she shares her knowledge and extensive experiences. The book is filled with tips on communication, preparation, posing, and follow up. There are even suggested homework assignments. When working with models a photographer needs to be a planner, director, and producer. This book teaches all three aspects. Whether you are a new photographer or seasoned photographer or even something thinking about a modelling career, this book is a must read.”

This is highly recommended - even essential - reading for photographers and models alike. (John M.)

“I have had the great pleasure and privilege to have worked with Kaitlin. Not only is she a beautiful, experienced, and highly professional model, she brings her knowledge and experience to a wonderfully collaborative session. So much of that is evidenced in the thought and thoroughness she has employed in compiling this very useful manual that will benefit both amateur and professional photographers, as well as models. I highly recommend this book and Kaitlin herself for anyone remotely interested in photographing models at any level.”

What Industry Experts Say About the Author

Jerry & Melissa Ghionis - International Photographers & Educators

“We can honestly say without hesitation, that Kaitlin is one of the best models we’ve been able to work with. Her grace and strength makes it so wonderful to photograph her, and her patience, and encouraging words to photography students are a bonus. Kaitlin has a calm, professional demeanour that instantly puts you at ease. She is so helpful and encouraging, and I’ve seen it instantly transform a nervous first-time photographer into someone who believes they can do it.”

Roberto Valenzuela - International Photographer & Author

“It was at one of my posing workshops that I had the pleasure of working with Kaitlin. She brought so much grace and expertise in the field of posing. Furthermore, she anticipated my needs as an instructor to always help drive my point home. It was impressive! Her humble attitude and willingness to help went far beyond what I would expect from an experienced model. A large part of the success of that workshop was because of Kaitlin. She is one of the very best out there in our industry.”

Tomo Tanaka - Photographer & Instructor (Langara College)

“Kaitlin is a professional in every sense, and is truly dedicated to her craft. She is an excellent communicator, has a strong work ethic, and always brings her best to every session. As a photography instructor, I’ve brought Kaitlin in to be a guest speaker in my classes. Having worked for years as a full-time professional model, she has many experiences to draw on. She eloquently explains the ideal relationship between photographers and models, and my students have commented on how much they learned from her.”

Emanuel Pires - Photographer & Studio Owner (The Production Studio)

“Kaitlin was one of the first models I had the pleasure of working with when I started photography, and I still find her to be one of the best models I have ever worked with. I run workshops myself, and I have hired Kaitlin more than 12 times to help other photographers build their portfolios. She is amazing at posing and helping novice photographers, while also creating stunning new images with experienced professionals who know what they’re looking for. With so many years in the industry, I value Kaitlin’s input.”

Paul Iacoviello - Photographer & Instructor (Mohawk College)

“I’ve worked with Kaitlin on both personal projects, and instructional workshops. She brings a level of professionalism and understanding that, as a working photographer, is highly respected and sought after. She is prompt, and prepared, and her body awareness and posing style are excellent.”