Receiving negative feedback usually hurts – especially if it’s given without context (and more so if the model is already in a vulnerable position, like being nude). So the balance should be 100% positive / 0% negative whenever possible.
Often, this is a matter of how the feedback is framed. Consider this example;
❌ Stop bending backwards like that.
While being direct can be good, in most cultures comes across as being too direct and therefore rude (causing the model to disengage in the shoot). Also, by not telling the model why bending backwards is being discouraged, she will need to be reminded every time she does it. It’s always preferred to help the model understand the underlying “why”, so she can bring some of her own ideas to the shoot, framed in a way that’s useful.
Consider this revision:
🤐 Bending backwards like that makes for some bad shadows, please don’t do it.
The above is a better approach, as the reason is now made clear to the model. But, in this feedback the reason infers the model is at fault (at least, a model with low self-esteem may hear the comment that way), when of course it’s no one’s fault!
So let’s revise the message again:
✔️ Let’s try some poses where you’re bending forwards more – the light looks better that way.
The above is framed positively, supporting the model to do what the shoot needs in a constructive way. This is the approach that should be used in all cases.
Shoot Producers work to find the positive and bypass the negative when giving feedback. Directly negative feedback should seldom be necessary, unless the situation is extremely unusual. Consider these examples of “turning a negative into a positive”;
Scenario: Model looking bored
✔️ Show the model a pic on the back of the camera, “This shot is more sultry than we prefer. We’re looking for more up-beat and happy like we discussed in the Pre Shoot Briefing. Let’s try a new pose / activity.”
Scenario: Model not doing EXP as required (reverting to OL)
✔️ The poses you are getting into are good for the Open Leg Posing Level, but we are doing the Explicit Posing Level now. For that, you need to hold open your labia throughout the pose.
Scenario: Model not including question in her answer
✔️ That was a great answer! Please do it one more time but this time phrase the question in your answer (because, the editor will take my voice out).
Scenario: Model swearing too much in her answers
✔️ You’re certainly using some colourful language! Can you answer that again, but speak how you would to your boyfriend’s grandmother?
Scenario: Model won’t put her phone down
✔️ Let’s take a five minute break so that you can finish up on your phone, then we can focus on work.
If something has come up and you need to reschedule today that’s also fine – just let me know. Otherwise, let’s turn our phones off, ok?