Working With Models & Talent

Communicating effectively with talent on a shoot can be a challenge, especially when language is a barrier when shooting internationally. This last shoot I was on in Korea is a great example. The Korean model we were working with spoke zero english (and my Korean is even worse), so we had to make due with charades and communicating creatively most of the time. Fortunately, this isn’t always the case with language, but communication is always key and this shoot taught me how to communicate as a director in more ways than just one. Here are just a few pointers I’ve picked up along the way.

Get good at wearing two hats. When working on a smaller production, sometimes you find yourself working as both the Director and the DP, which calls for some multi-tasking. You need to direct the talent, observe the talent as you’re shooting, and be aware of your shot/lighting/etc at the same time as the camera operator. This takes some time because there are several elements that you’re looking for at the same time. In that case, it’s important to always watch back each clip to ensure all of the right elements have come together to make for a great shot. Showing the good clips back to the team will help add confidence to the model and everyone else involved as well.Models have feelings too! Make your top priority the models’ feelings and comfort levels and do your best to protect them from any negativity. Compliment them, make sure to let them know of all the things they are doing RIGHT, not focusing on any negatives unless absolutely necessary. Be mindful of your face as you playback clips or as the models are acting (even if your wincing face is due to something other than the model) as it can easily give off the wrong signal and compromise their comfort & ability to model/act effectively. Keep the energy positive and fun, always keeping those that are on camera as first priority.

Models put their trust in you! As the Director/DP, make sure to respect the models’ boundaries both during and after production. For example, during production never ask the model to do anything that will make them feel uncomfortable. Always ask before moving in to show them how to do something (or especially when moving in to touch clothing, etc). In post, make sure to showcase the model in a flattering way and don’t go overkill on the editing so they look fake. When sharing, credit the model properly and always take the approach of “artists supporting artists”. This will go a long way as you network with people in the industry and you want to be someone that others are excited to work with again.