Working with the right on-set atmosphere

The “on-set atmosphere” includes several aspects of the shoot day, including;

• The tone and nature of conversation and interactions are respectful, positive and engaging
• The SP’s attitude towards the shoot’s quality is positive, 
• The the SP’s energy and enthusiasm are high
• The shoot space is well organised

Consider this feedback from a model who made shoots with two different Shoot Producers;

Working with [Second SP] made me realise that maybe my abbywinters.com shoot with [First SP] was not so professional.

My shoot experience with [First SP] wasn’t bad, it was just after I worked with [Second SP] and how he worked with me, I realised that there were many little things that happened during my shoot with [First SP] that at the time I thought were ok… but now, I don’t think they should have happened.

For example, we had been shooting all day and we were coming up to the final masturbation video segment and I jokingly said something like, “Thank god, because after playing with yourself for hours, you kind of just want to get it out of the way!” and [First SP] said something like, “Yeah I’m going to have to go home to have a wank too!”. At the time I was like, “That’s a bit weird” but I cut it out of my head. Now seeing the way [Second SP] talks, I feel [First SP] was really inappropriate. 

I do not want to make shoots with [First SP] again, even though we live in the same city and it would be convenient. 

The SP telling today’s model she will be “masturbation fuel” for the SP tonight is not appropriate (even if it’s a joke) – any model is going to consider that creepy and inappropriate. 

Even though models know that the work they are doing will be used as a masturbation aid by many men, models expect their Shoot Producer to be professional. A failed joke is just as creepy as a comment, so don’t risk it. 

While frustrating to read, it was useful to get this damning feedback from this model – but many models would simply never come back, and never let us know why. 

This is why creating a respectful, positive and engaging atmosphere on-set is critical to the success of a shoot day: we get a good shoot, the model is likely to come back for more work, and is more likely to refer her friends to our business.

The appropriate on-set atmosphere is respectful, positive and engaging.

There are several benefits from this, including;

• The shoot is more likely to be high quality (because Models are engaged in what they are doing and are having a good time);
• Shoot Producers can have a less-stressful day;
• Models are happy to return for more shoots;
• Models are more likely to refer their friends to make shoots with us. 

Everyone wins! 🥇🥇🥇

The tone and nature of conversation and interactions with models is warm, relaxed and friendly. Shoot Producers should be friendly, but never overly familiar (never inappropriate or oversharing). The SP is never perceived as being “creepy” or inappropriate in their behaviour.

The tone should be fun, but focused – there’s a job to do, and we’re working together to do it to the best of our ability. The Shoot Producer ensures the atmosphere (and the actions on a shoot day) are always consensual, with the option for everyone to say “stop” and for that request to be respected.

Shoot Producers behave professionally, but are never stiff or cold or “overly professional” – Shoot Producers are encouraged to be genuine, their “true selves” on shoots, and to show their personality. 

Professionalism protects the Shoot Producer and the model

Establishing a professional atmosphere helps everyone be conscious of where they stand within the shoot day. It gives models the comfort and confidence to “let go” (which is what our customers really want to see), knowing that the SP has everything in hand, and she’s not under any threat.

Being professional allows models to trust in the SP’s shoot-direction, and to do things that are outside their initial understanding of what “should” happen on a “porn set” (for example, talking about her hobbies and not just her vagina; doing HWBs; incorporating naturalistic use of personal props).

SP’s being professional also means that, should a model change their mind about having been a model on our site and wanting her material removed, there is no extra complication about if she was treated poorly, “abused” or “manipulated” to do things on the shoot day.

Here are some practical tips to help create the right atmosphere on shoots;

• Set positive first inter-personal impressions; appear professional
  • Consider how you are dressed; the language you use
  • Have a positive attitude: wake up expecting to have a good day and you are more likely to 
• Create a positive atmosphere, lead and inspire the model
  • Say that you’ve been looking forward to today’s shoot, and working with this model, that you have a shoot plan with some unique ideas that should suit her style
  • Talk about positive subjects – what’s good in the world, not only what’s bad (don’t be a “Grumpy Gus” or “Debbie Downer”)
• Be inclusive when talking about others
  • Use appropriate pronouns
  • Only mention someone’s race when it’s necessary
• Deliver the Pre Shoot Briefing right before the shoot
  • This sets the tone and expectations, and is a useful tool to refer back to if an issue arises.
• Be organised with time, administration and equipment
• Always accept that “no means no”
  • If the model is not ok with a question topic, do not keep pushing for similar things.
  • We have a separate FAQ on What to do when a model says “no”?
• Collaborate with the model
  • Instead of telling the model what to do, ask for her input regularly (framing constraints as necessary), for meaningful parts of the shoot
• Be warm and considerate of the model’s needs
  • Check in on the room temperature, thirst / hunger, comfort
  • After the first highest level pose the, ask the model how she felt about that, as we have to do that across 7 more poses? 
• Don’t over-share
  • Share elements of your real life and events but do not deep dive into things, keep it light and professional
  • For example, telling the model you are trying for a baby is ok; telling the model that you have had three miscarriages and are now seeing a therapist as you can’t bare other people getting pregnant when you cannot and you feel like a failure and your marriage is suffering as a result… this is oversharing (never appropriate)
• Consider the model’s perspective
  • While the actions within a shoot day are unexceptional and obvious to the SP, remember that for models this could be the first time she has been seen naked by someone else, or been asked to do certain things 
  • Tell models why we are doing things, so she can better deliver what we need (and also, so there are no misunderstandings)
  • For example, A model being asked to talk about her childhood might think we are trying to cater to paedophiles. That could make a model feel uncomfortable. In fact, we want learn the model’s “backstory”, the things that made her the adult woman she is today, so that she appears as more than just a “sex robot”. 
• Be self aware of your own mood
  • If an SP is working with a model or shoot plan they think they will find it “difficult” they find a positive aspect to focus on – and remember they get out of a day what they put in
  • For example, a model is known to have a negative attitude – she always sees the sad side in each situation, complains about how hard her life is… but she has beautiful feet. The SP can spend the day focusing on how great it is to have neat clean feet and all the great and unique fetish content they can get today. That is “their thing” to be excited about and a genuine positive they can genuinely compliment the model on (we never lie to models and say things are good that are not).  
• Leave when the shoot is done
  • If the model is staying in the location where the shoot is happening, then it is her “safe space” in the Shoot City
  • The Shoot Producer should act like they are a guest in the model’s own home (even if the SP paid for the shoot location!)
  • Arrive on time – not later (unless the model is made aware), and definitely not earlier
  • Have breakfast before you arrive
  • Have a shower at your own accommodation 
  • Leave when the shoot and associated admin is complete (never “hang out”, order food, or similar).

While we generally prefer to only list good examples in this kind of policy guidance, we have a wealth of real examples that are instructional.

Scenario: SP is culturally insensitive

Cultural insensitivity means making comments that disparage or belittle groups of people with a careless approach. Shoot Producers strive to be aware that cultural differences and similarities between people exist, without assigning them a value.

For example, the SP says;

❌ Transgender people are just seeking attention. We should all just live with the sex we’re born with!

While the SP may disagree with transgender people’s position on identity politics, the model may be a strong supporter (or even, transgender themselves!). Politics (like religion) can cause the atmosphere to turn sour quickly if there is a disagreement. Best to steer clear of any political talk for this reason. 

Other culturally sensitive issues that Shoot Producers are considerate of include;

• Use of requested personal pronouns (for people in present company, and others)
• Ethnicity / nationality (unless mentioning it is required for communication)
• Denigrating other cultures (for example, by doing “funny accents”; mocking religious practises)
• Mocking someone’s disability, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, or sexual practises (eg, polyamory / non-monogamy)
• Teasing a model about her “fringe” beliefs (for example, tarot, crystals, and similar)

Consider being open and honest if unsure: Admit you don’t know the right word to use in a given situation, ask the model what terms they find appropriate. Use those terms with this model. 

Ask models off-camera if she’s comfortable talking about her ethnicity on-camera. It’s always preferred for abbywinters.com customers, but only if the model is ok with it.

Scenario: SP is “enjoying” the shoot too much

It’s natural for people to be sexually aroused in a sexual context… even if that context is also professional (like making a shoot for abbywinters.com). While most Shoot Producers become desensitised most of the time, everyone can be caught unawares.

For female Shoot Producers, this is seldom even evident with basic self-control. For male Shoot Producers, an erection can occur at any time (even in a non-sexual context!), and cannot be practically controlled. This can cause discomfort to the Shoot Producer, usually alleviated by moving the erect penis in their pants to a more comfortable position. 

The erection may be visible to the model, and the man “handling” it (to a more comfortable position) can be assumed to be masturbating -this is likely to cause offence to the model. 

Of course, models are deliberately posing in ways intended to cause men to be sexually aroused, so it’s ironic that models can be offended when this happens… but we should do what we can to reduce models being offended, as their shoot performance is likely to be compromised. 

✔️ If you get an erection on-set, if necessary, move briefly to another room to adjust your penis to be more comfortable (perhaps under the guise of getting a drink, or opening a window), then return and continue with the shoot, with the expectation the erection will go away of its own accord.

✔️ If the erection persists, consider “changing gears” to less sexually-explicit stuff for a short period. 

❌ Never adjust your erect penis directly in front of the model.

❌ It’s never appropriate to masturbate in front of a model, or in another room of the location, or to referring to yourself masturbating and thinking about this shoot.

Scenario: SP needs to do a poo 💩

The SP says, 

❌ You stay here and do your hair, I need to go and have a monster dump.

Just because we shoot nude content doesn’t mean the models are comfortable with crude language – it’s unprofessional and over-sharing. Instead, consider;

✔️ I will be back in a few minutes, please style your hair so we are ready to start shooting once I am back.

While it is good to inform models of what is going on and why throughout the day, the model does not need to know what an SP does behind the locked door of a bathroom!

Scenario: SP makes a mistake and is too frustrated

The SP says;

❌ Argh! I am such a fucking retard, I belong in an institution with the crazies! Everything is going to shit, we are fucked for time now! I don’t know what to do?!

First, hate speech directed at any group – even in a joking or self-deprecating way – is never appropriate.

Further, a panicked SP does not appear professional, and it’s never ok to burden the model with things going wrong. Time management is the Shoot Producer’s responsibility to manage. We all know shoots seldom go exactly to plan, try to flow like water around obstacles.

Instead, consider;

✔️ Well, I could have done without that! Still, this is why we give ourselves 8 hours to shoot, so let’s try that again!

Shoot Producer’s don’t lie or hide mistakes from models (we are all human), but a positive approach will “rub off” on the model, and increase the likelihood of a successful shoot.

Scenario: SP overshares how bad their week has been

The SP has shot several other models in this block of work and found yesterday’s model difficult to work with. When talking with today’s model, the model asks the SP how their week has been, and the SP responds;

❌ This week has been a nightmare – I am so bloody tired 😔. The worst was yesterday’s model Jane, she took 20 minutes to orgasm at the end – I thought I was going to fall asleep – so boring 🥱! Glad I am working with you today 👍🏽 as the other models have been such hard work 😞. 

There are a few issues with this share;

• SPs should not focus on negatives – they brings everybody down, in an atmosphere that should be positive;
• It is never ok to tell negative stories about other models (even if they are not named). Today’s model will assume she’s going to be gossiped about to tomorrow’s model – that does not make today’s model feel good (more info on what can be shared with models)
• How long a model takes to reach orgasm is not a bad thing, we never want to set that standard (tacitly encouraging models to take a shorter amount of time, and maybe fake their orgasm to meet this timeframe)

Consider these alternative shares for a similar situation;

✔️ It’s been a busy week, I have shot 5 models and am looking forward to my next day off so I can recharge my energy levels. What do you do to relax after a busy week?

✔️ The best thing was on Tuesday when the model tried to teach me Spanish during the video – I was not good and kept getting the giggles.

✔️ I am excited to be ending this block of shoots working with you, we’re a good team!

SPs are honest but focus on the positives when relating stories about their abbywinters.com work to models, and omit stories that paint models or the company in a negative light. 

Scenario: A model asks about the SP’s weekend

The SP responds;

❌ It was epic! We went clubbing and got absolutely shitfaced 💀. One of the girls we were with has the most killer bod and her tits are ridiculous 🥥🥥. I am playing the long game but hope to get in her pants in the next few weeks! 

Then I met someone who used to model for us, and I ended up fucking her in the toilets. We did a bit of coke and I’m still buzzing 👃, so let’s MAKE THIS SHOOT HAPPEN! ⚡

SPs do not share tales of their sexual conquests, as we do not want models to conclude that they are working with a sexual predator. 

Stories of illegal activities are not appropriate to share (even if the model looks like she is someone who is ok with taking party drugs). There is no way of knowing how a model will react, and even if she is ok in general with party drugs, knowing the SP did illicit drugs the night before her shoot shows the SP to be less-professional.

Instead, an appropriate response; 

✔️ It was good thank you – I had a night on the town with some friends and we went to the big city club, the one that is just off the main square and DJ Gamma was performing and he nailed it –  I love his sets. How was your weekend? 

SPs should share aspects of their personal life during down time on set, it makes for a better atmosphere, and makes it more likely that the model will open up about her own life on-camera. 

SPs are selective in the details they share, sticking to things that, for example, a relaxed father-in-law would be comfortable hearing about from their son-in-law. 

Scenario: The SP wants the model to do finger insertions in the next sequence

The SP says;

❌ In the next bit, put your leg on the wall, shove in some fingers and wiggle them about.

Just because a model is booked for the INS Posing Level (and even if she has done fisting in previous abbywinters.com shoots), SPs never assume consent, they ask instead of tell – even when consent is implied from the Pre Shoot Briefing. Everyone appreciates respectful language and a considerate attitude, especially in an intimate setting. 

While there’s plenty of room for humour on shoots – and crude humour can indeed be hilarious – it’s too risky. A joke “landing wrong” could get the model “off side”, and affect her performance for the rest of the shoot. 

Instead, consider this professional approach;

✔️ Next up, we’re starting the Insertions Posing Level – that means, inserting your fingers inside your vagina. How are you feeling about that?

Great. We have 8 separate poses to do. For the first one, I’d like to try it with you placing your foot on the wall  – this gives room for the camera and for light. Would it be ok for you to do finger insertions from the front, in that position? We’ll start with one finger first, just the tip, then deeper.

SPs always use respectful language when directing models – asking, not telling. This helps models feel respected and cared for, gives models permission to say if they are uncomfortable at any point, and improves the sense of collaboration.

And perhaps most importantly: the model is being asked to give her consent throughout the shoot!

Scenario: SP ridicules customers

The SP says,

❌ The creepers love feet stuff, so we should shoot some of that I guess. Weirdos.

Customers pay the company for the content we make so the company can pay Shoot Producers, models, and other people who work in the business. Our customers respect us for making shoots they like, so – beyond any other human reason – we should respect our customers for giving us their hard-earned money!

We refer to them as “our customers” meaning, they are customers of the model and of the Shoot Producer, and of the company – equally. If all three of us are focussed on satisfying our customers, we’re more likely to be able to make more shoots in the future. 

If we take our eye off the ball even for a second, our customers are spoiled for choice (many of their options are free), and will simply stop being our customer. Instead, consider this approach;

✔️ Many of our customers really like videos showing your feet – foot fetishests! They like clean well groomed feet especially, and yours look great! What are some things you could do with your feet to show them off and keep our customers happy?

Scenario: Scenario SP wants to layer Props, Tease, and Conversation

The SP wants to use the hairbrush as a Personal Prop, layered with breast tease and some Conversation. They direct the model;

❌ Now, hold a hairbrush, pull your bra down a bit, and talk about your boobs.

While the paradigm seeks spontaneity and individuality from model performances, models who are not given enough instructions may feel lost and embarrassed – or even frustrated. 

These emotions should be minimised as much as possible, as an embarrassed or frustrated model is unlikely to make a good shoot (and is unlikely to refer her friends). Other models may feel irritated at being asked to do the creative “heavy lifting” (coming up with something to say and do). 

Shoots should be a collaboration between model and SP. Instead, consider this approach;

✔️ We present a window into what you might do in your life. Brushing your hair is a good example of this – it’s simple, and our customers enjoy it. So, I’d like you to brush your hair perhaps for longer than normal, two minutes or so. 

While doing that, we need to “introduce” your breasts as a tease before clothes start coming off. I’d like you to lengthen one bra strap, then casually “fix” it in the middle of brushing your hair (like you just realised). 

I’ll ask some specific questions to get the ball rolling. How does that sound to you? Do you have some interesting stories about your breasts you could share?

As you’re still clothed, I wonder if we could shot this outside on the porch? 

Clear, straight forward instructions paired with context so the model understands why they are being asked to do things (plus, we’ve asked the model for her consent – and to contribute!). 

Taken all together, this empowers the model to do a great job and create an atmosphere where the model feels comfortable to improvise and take some risks. Often, the best content comes from this basis. 

Scenario: The shoot day will finish within 6 hours (not the booked 8)

The Shoot Producer says;

❌ This is the fastest I have ever gotten through a Solo shoot, let’s keep up the pace and we can both have the afternoon off! 

While working quickly and finishing early could be seen as a positive, models may feel they have been rushed, cheating them of the “full experience”. Some models like to do the work well and to have space to enjoy doing the work. If a model thinks SPs are rushing, they may worry that their content will not be as good as it could have been, that they are not important, or that they are not valued by the Shoot Producer. 

✔️ We’ve done well for time today, thanks for being so efficient! I am checking we have everything captured correctly, and it looks good. 

Because we have some extra time, let’s shoot a sequence I have been wanting to try – then we can stop a little earlier than planned!

If a shoot day does finish early, as well as praising the model for being efficient, SPs should reassure the model that no corners have been cut, and that the work produced is of a high quality. 

Scenario: The model reveals her interest in a kink, the SP shares this kink

During the lunch break, the SP says;

❌ You mentioned on camera you’re into BDSM – I am as well! I am a Slave Master so it’s cool that you’re a sub – I am actually looking to train a new sub at the moment… 

A model may misinterpret this conversation as the SP trying to “recruit” a new sub. It’s unprofessional to be recruiting for personal sexual projects in this context, and could even be perceived as threatening (a model may wonder, “What happens next, if I say I am not interested? Will he be angry?”). Models should not be put in this position. 

While it is nice when an SP and model share a hobby, a hobby that is connected with sex should not be highlighted by the SP.  

Instead, consider this approach;

✔️ You mentioned on camera you’re into BDSM – I read “Coming to Power” a few months ago, do you know it? It has basic explanations and safety tips about BDSM practices. I found it helpful to go back-to-basics on this topic.

Talking about the shared hobby in the abstract is fine, so long as it’s kept abstract and not personal. While it’s possible the SP will gel with the model’s BDSM preferences, there’s also a risk of it backfiring which could make the model uncomfortable (which would affect the rest of the shoot’s quality negatively, and decrease the likelihood of her referring her friends). 

If in doubt, stick to safer conversation topics – the weather, pets, favourite foods, sport (and never politics or religion)!

Scenario: The SP hints at staying with the model overnight

The Shoot Producer is having a rough time because their upstairs neighbour flooded their bath and the water came into the SP’s apartment, and now they are homeless during the repairs. This has been playing on their mind all day. The SP has rented a location with two bedrooms that the model is staying in while in the Shoot City…

The SP says;

❌ I’ll be sleeping in my car tonight – I hate not being able to go home and just shower or make a proper meal. I love cooking, I was going to make this really cool pasta dish tonight I think you would love… Do you know how cold it will be tonight? It sucks having nowhere to live.

First, no one likes a downer! It changes the atmosphere negatively on a shoot, making it harder for the model to do a good job. 

Second, it’s never acceptable for an SP to stay in the same accommodation as the model.

Third, SPs are careful to never say anything that might make a model believe the SP is “fishing” to be invited to stay at the shoot location / model accommodation overnight. 

Shoot Producers are never expected to be “fake happy”, but should look for “silver linings” instead of “rainy parades”. If that’s not possible, the topic should be avoided – or the shoot rescheduled.

Instead consider this approach;

✔️ It’s been a stressful week for sure, my upstairs neighbour flooded their bathroom and my apartment was damaged and needs to dry out.

I’ll get some insurance money, which is nice, so now I get to decorate a little. I always meant to start a pinterest, but never got around to it… Got any ideas?

Talking to a model about aspects of their real everyday lives is a good way for SPs to build a rapport with a model, and that leads to a better on-set atmosphere – and better shoots – so it’s never discouraged. When talking about their lives SPs always remember to bring the conversation back around to the model’s life. This is both so that the model feels appreciated (“My SP cares about my life!”), but also in case the model brings up anything that would be interesting to include in the shoot!

Where the SP sleeps at night is not the model’s problem.

Scenario: The SP delays helping a model in need

The SP is in the middle of making a shoot. They get several calls from the model for tomorrow’s shoot, who is lost finding her hotel in an unfamiliar city. The SP answer the model’s third call and says;

❌ I don’t have time to help you right now, I am shooting – call back in an hour!

There are a few issues here;

First, when models travel from their home to a different city to make shoots with us, that model is the company’s “responsibility” and they should never feel alone or uncared for. Travelling as a single woman in an unfamiliar environment is stressful enough, promised support missing will destabilise her (and may even be a safety risk, for example, if she’s not able to make it to her hotel by the time it gets dark). 

Secondly, the model being shot today can hear this conversation. While she understands the SP is busy, she’s probably been in a similar situation herself (lost in an unfamiliar city), and knows how far a little help can really go.

While making a quality shoot of today’s model is a priority, keeping tomorrow’s model happy and safe also matters.

There are two approaches to other models needing aid when an SP is actively making a shoot; 

1. Take a break and help the model directly;
2. Call the Model Liaison or post a message to the Collective, so they can assist the model.

Consider these different approaches;

✔️ Let me just pause this shoot. Can you drop a pin in Google maps on your phone, and share your location with me?

Or;

✔️ Sorry, I am making a shoot right now. I just called with Model Liaison Leena, she is available to help you via WhatsApp – you should have a message from her already? Let me know if you can not connect with her. Good luck, looking forward to seeing you soon! 

Either approach is fine, but ignoring the calling model is never ok.

When models get home from an abbywinters.com shoot trip, we want them to think “Those were some of the best shoots I ever made, and I had a great time making them!”. If they do, they are more likely to come back for more shoots (and do a good job when they do), and more likely to refer their friends. That results in satisfied customers (and more paid work for Shoot Producers).

We often get positive feedback from models, for example consider these snippets from various models;

• It was really great! I would even call it a really excellent experience. He [Shoot Producer] was very professional but also relaxed. In those situations, things should be like that!

• She really made me feel at home. She told me to not feel stress and I could tell her if I had any worries.

• He was very gentle with me. He was offering me breaks. It was at no point awkward. He was open to my suggestions, I was open to his suggestions. It was really really nice. I really liked working with him. We got along really well.

• I describe it as a place where females can be comfortable with everything. There are no bad surprises! Very professional.

• I am used to working with a female camera woman and this was my first time with a male. It was interesting, but I never once felt uncomfortable or like it was creepy.

• She was so respectful and never touched me. She told me the rules and didn’t let anyone else around on set. She always recommended that I rest a little and she didn’t want me to be tired.  She was excellent, five stars, 100% amazing!

• We talked about topics. I told him a few things and he would ask me questions and it was like nothing. Like I was just talking to someone, to the camera. It felt professional.

• During the shoot itself she was very calm and she did not rush me. My impression of her was amazing. She was very sweet! At some point I told her that she has a “Mom” vibe… She kept telling me that she was available to help me. She helped me get food from the grocery store to cook at the apartment.

• He was a perfect combination of laid-back and professional at the same time… Trademark!

What can you do to elicit this kind of feedback from models?

Consider the level of formality

If unsure of the correct tone to set with the model, err on the side of formal (that is, be more-formal, rather than less-formal). For example;

More formal: Good morning Mary, it’s nice to meet you. I’ve been looking forward to working with you today. You can place your bag on the bed – may I offer you a coffee while I brief you?

Less formal: Hey Mary, we’re gonna smash it today! Chuck your shit on the bed and let’s have a coffee and make a plan.

Both are appropriately professional (warm, welcoming, engaged), but the more-formal approach is suitable when the model’s personality is not yet known. Typically, the more times a Shoot Producer has worked with a model, the less-formal the Shoot Producer will be (though that’s not a requirement or expectation – it depends on the relationship).

Consider starting the day at maximum-formal, and “walk it back” to less-formal after taking cues from the model. But, never sink “below the level” of conversation with the model – for example, let the model indicate when saying “fuck” is appropriate, and if she does not say it, you should not say it either.

Consider how to specify body parts when talking with models

The company expects Shoot Producers to use the anatomically-correct names for body parts, instead of slang terms (even if the model uses slang terms). This is for a few reasons;

1. Slang terms can be vague
   1. For example “ass” can mean buttocks or anus; “pussy” could mean pubic region, labia, vagina, clitoris…
   2. This can lead to confusion or embarrassment, making the model uncomfortable and wasting time
2. Slang terms are unprofessional
   1. Unprofessional behaviour leads to a lack of respect from models
   2. Models often compliment our Shoot Producers using the “correct” terms for their genitalia – we know models tend to like it!
   3. Some models know these terms, but don’t expect Shoot Producers to use them – they are pleasantly surprised when they hear them used.
3. Slang terms can have negative connotations
   1. Depending on culture, upbringing, being teased as a child, and societal pressures, people can be embarrassed about some words and what they mean
   2. The anatomically correct terms are neutral in this regard
4. Models often enjoy learning the “official” terms
   1. Some models don’t know these “anatomically correct” terms, and are interested to learn them

Some models will not know the anatomically-correct names for body parts, so that may lead to confusion as well. No worries, it’s an opportunity to educate the model about her body. Try asking the model what words she uses to describe those parts of her body (excellent content for video!), and trade off with the anatomically-correct names.  

The appropriate terms;

• Use “breasts” (never “tits”, “titties”, “fun bags”, “baps”, “boobs”, “boobies”)
• Use “nipples” or “areola” (Never “nips”)
• Use “buttocks” (never “arse”, “butt”, “tush”, “tushie”, “ass”)
• Use “vulva” (ie, the pubic region; never “vagina”, “vag”, “axe wound”, “Vajayjay”, “minky”, “lady garden”)
• Use “outer labia” and “inner labia” (never “flaps”, “meat curtains”)
• Use “clitoris” (never bean”, “button”, “clit”, “clitty”, “Satan’s doorbell”)
• Use “vagina” (never “pussy”, “vag”, “hole”, “fanny”)
• Use “perineum” (never “taint”) 
• Use “anus” (never “ass”, “hole”, “asshole”, “poop chute”, “backdoor”)

Tend to describe what will happen next 

A model said;

When [Shoot Producer] is taking pictures or filming, he says when he is coming close and he says when he is taking a close-up, so you are ready for it and you never feel like he is going to touch you. I like that. 

Letting the model know what’s happening next is not only polite, it helps her feel comfortable and understand what’s happening (as opposed to being shocked by how close the camera is to her, especially the first time it happens on a shoot). Communicating clearly, helps her do what we need in the shoot.

Models always appreciate being told if their face is in a given shot, so they can compose their face appropriately. 

Be aware of own body language

A model said;

He is really serious when he is focussed. He looks like he is going to kill someone! I was thinking he was mad at me or something while he was working – and then he would stop and say I was doing really great! 

It was confusing at first because I wasn’t sure if I was doing a good job…

Consider how you appear to others and consider adopting “softer” body language.  If you know you tend to have a “resting bitch face” (or whatever the male equivalent is), consider letting models before the shoot (some models will take your “neutral” facial expression as a dis). 

Reassure the model that if things go wrong, you’ll let them know. Making a joke out of it, or a self-deprecating comment like “It’s just my face…” is appropriate.

The pace of the shoot day should be sustainable throughout the day. 

That is, rather than “taking it easy” with a slow start and plenty of chatting at the start of the day, resulting in the last two hours being rushed (and an incomplete shoot), Shoot Producers set a pace at the start of the day that will follow through the day. 

There’s definitely time for chatting, breaks, and lunch – but also for work. The pace set is organised and planned, with allowance for problem solving. Overall, it feels structured and smooth to models, and reduces stress for Shoot Producers.

A model said;

My Shoot Producer was stressed and didn’t deal with her stress in a positive way which made me stressed… I was so happy when the shoot was over.

The positive, productive and engaging atmosphere is consistent across several shoot days, even over months and years. Regardless of how well a SP knows a model (be it the first, or the tenth shoot together), the atmosphere should remain consistently positive and engaging. 

Consistency establishes trust, and models who shoot on different days, in different cities should be able to compare notes and have had similarly positive experiences.

The shoot space is kept well-organised, as this contributes to a professional atmosphere on-set. All equipment necessary for the shoot is present and in working order. Equipment is stored out of the way until needed.

This contributes to how the Shoot Producer is perceived by the model (the SP looks more professional when the shoot space is organised), and thus directly affects the atmosphere on the shoot.

What should my on-set attitude towards the shoot be?

Overall, the SP’s attitude on set should be constructive and positive. Their energy and enthusiasm is high – not manically high, but never negative or even just neutral. 

SP’s are driven to make the best shoot possible for customers, they are enthusiastic about collaboration with the model, and are excited to capture the next part of the shoot in the best possible way.

There can be a tendency for people at work to “bitch” about their job, the nature of the tasks, the company, their boss or co-workers. While that’s fine to do amongst other Shoot Producers or Model Liaisons (so long as it’s respectful), it’s never appropriate to denigrate the company or its people in front of models. 

Doing so undermines the company / people, and demotivates models to do a good job (causing the model to wonder if they have made the right decision to work with the company), refer friends, or come back for more work. 

That’s not to say that everyone has to be “happy happy happy” or fake all the time – it’s appropriate to share the emotions of the day together with models. For example;

✅ I had planned an outside shoot today, I found the perfect location that was quiet, private, and looked exquisite this rain has really wrecked those plans 😔. But, I have a backup location we’ll use instead, and it’s pretty good too! 😊

It’s appropriate for Shoot Producers to be positively engaged in the process, but also honest. For example;

Shoot Producer Steve is really not into feet – he prefers to never touch other people’s feet, and does not look when he washes his own feet. Rather than present his “feet are gross 🤢” mentality to the models he shoots, he uses a different tack: 

✅ Feet are not my preference, but yours are well groomed 👍🏽, so I think we can capture some good material for foot fetishists today! 👌

When the atmosphere goes “wrong” on set, it can have a serious consequence: a low quality shoot where the SP and model expect to be paid. At the company, we wonder, why are we paying two people for a low quality shoot? Shouldn’t the shoot have been cancelled instead?!

We all work hard to make it so shoots don’t need to be cancelled in the middle of a shoot day, but it is an option (more info). The tips on creating the right atmosphere on set, sticking to the Models Charter, this series of model care FAQ’s, the training we provide to Shoot Producers on working with models all help a lot towards making professional shoot days – we acknowledge that not every day will be amazing, and some days will be more “workmanlike” than “magical”.

When the wheels fall off, here’s what to do…

Do whatever necessary to remain calm and professional (assume the model will be Tweeting about this after you leave, with your real name attached. Behave how you’d like to be seen publicly). Leave the room for a few minutes to calm down if tempers are high.

It’s never appropriate to touch a model, that includes in-anger – it’s not ok to push, shove, slap, hit, punch a model under any circumstances. In fact, it’s not ok to do that to anyone!

Never raise your voice. This is difficult to maintain in a frustrating situation, but it’s important because as soon as you do, the model raises their voice (if they have not already), it becomes a “shouting match” and the atmosphere on the day is lost and cannot be recovered from. Try walking away for a few minutes, then starting the conversation again. 

If the model raises their voice, ask them to take a “time out”. If they do it repeatedly, warn them that raising their voice is not tolerated, and if they continue the shoot day will stop.  Consider lowering your level of speaking to tacitly encourage the model to also speak more quietly.

Step back and assess the situation. It’s not ok for you to feel threatened or disrespected (nor is it ok for the model to feel that way). If that seems to be the case, the SP needs to take action – never ignore it. It’s always fine if the SP feels they are unable to complete the shoot with the model – the SP will always be supported by the company when making this decision.  

Put the cameras down, take a few breaths. Chat with the model, review what has been established in the Pre Shoot Briefing – could this be a misunderstanding? Ask the model what they need to make the shoot today (and do your best to accommodate it, so long as the shoot is not significantly compromised). 

Consider if this is a problem the SP can resolve – or will this need support from others in the organisation (someone from the Collective is always available to support you on WhatsApp).

Consider bringing in the “voice” of other people in the organisation – “What did the Model Liaison say in your Booking call about this?”; “What did you read in the Model FAQ about this?”. The goal is not to attack, or blame the model, but to identify the specific problem / misunderstanding, and move forward.

Work to offer models options to select from (as opposed to telling her what to do. Work to never “shut down” a model (ie, telling her she’s wrong). 

Consider if the situation could be improved with “adjudication” by someone else in the organisation. They can be the “bad cop” if it’s necessary (for example, making a decision that the shoot cannot go ahead due to grooming). This person will likely be perceived by the model as being “neutral”, and they should help to ascertain what the model’s concerns are, and assist in reaching some kind of agreement to move ahead. 

Ask the model how they want to move ahead; point out the strained atmosphere you’re feeling. Ask how we might resolve it. Make it clear that if she is not comfortable, the shoot should not go ahead. Ask what you might change to help. Ask her if she would like to talk to someone else in the organisation to see what her options are (it’s fine to position the Shoot Producer Trainer or Model Liaison or Creative Director as “your boss” – people often feel better if they can raise the issue with someone more senior).

Work to make models feel listened to. Repeat her concepts back to her in your own words – do you agree on what the issue is? (this is essential to do before talking about how to solve the issue!).

If the model is not happy and the issue cannot be resolved to both the model and SP’s satisfaction, cancelling the shoot should be considered – see Cancelling Shoots. 

Don’t project personal frustrations (loud sighs, eye rolls, dragging of feet). This is passive aggressive behaviour, and is unprofessional.

Read all the FAQ’s in the “Working with the atmosphere on-set” FAQ section. If you have questions, get them resolved with the CD or Shoot Producer Trainer before proceeding. 

If you spotted any mistakes (eg, in logic, redundancy, spelling, broken links or similar), please email the CD with the permalink to the FAQ item with the issue, and a brief description of the issue. 

In an email to the Shoot Producer Trainer, copy and paste this set of questions, make each question bold, then answer each one. Bullet points are fine. We recommend reading through all the questions before starting to respond.

1. What are four things you might have done in the past that may have contributed to a less-good atmosphere on set? Be specific.
2. Write a summary of the appropriate atmosphere to have on set.
3. What are the three main risks / problems for the business if the SP does not create a positive atmosphere on set?
4. How should a SP deal with fetishes they are not personally into?
5. What are the keywords for the style of conversations held with models on-set?
6. What does behaving professionally on-set look like? List five things.
7. What are four practical tips for creating the right atmosphere on-set?
8. Why is behaving professionally on-set important?
9. What happens if the SP denigrates the company in front of the model?
10. When is it best to have a more-formal style with a model?
11. When is appropriate to have a less-formal style with the model?
12. Why is it best not to use slang terms for a model’s body parts?
13. What are the correct terms to use when referring to a model’s body parts – list them all. 
14. What do we want a model to “take away” from the shoot day (her recollections of it)? Why do we want that?
15. After reading these FAQ’s (our company’s policy regarding the on-set atmosphere), what will you do differently from what you have been doing?

Once the Shoot Producer Trainer has reviewed your submission, the may choose to discuss some of your answers. For the next five shoots you make, we will be especially sensitive to feedback from models who work with you. If issues come up, we’ll let you know, discuss it, and make a plan for how to deal with those stations in the future.

It’s not appropriate to ask models to “rate you highly” in the post shoot check in call! (Instead, do things that will cause them to assess you highly, by creating an appropriate atmosphere on set!).