Undoubtedly one of the most important issues for all models is their own personal safety, and if you become an agency model you must ensure you register with a reputable agency for your own safety. Providing you are with a reputable agency your safety is not as big an issue as is for independent models as agencies will vet all their clients and photographers but it is worth reading the section for independent models just to raise your awareness.

Model Safety - Independent Model

As an independent model you will have to use your judgment and always view your own personal safety as paramount and there are many ways in which you can remain safe.

+ Ask for references. When approached by anyone who wants you to model for them ask for at least 2 references. Some models feel uncomfortable doing this but if they have nothing to hide the potential client will not take offence and it actually shows professionalism on your part

+ Always state your limitations – don’t put yourself in a vulnerable situation by deciding half way through a shot your uncomfortable with what your being asked to do

+ Never give out you address or telephone number just your email address

+ Never disclose your exact location its best to state cities near you i.e. Belfast, Dublin

+ Give your self a stage name. This may seem a little strange but it is worth doing especially with regards to your email address. By using a name such as ‘promodel’ you can register an email address using this stage name i.e. promodel@****.com as if you use an email address stating you name i.e. janebrown@****.com people will know your real name and could work out your identity

+ Be aware of the dangers of model boards/forums on the internet and ensure you don’t believe everything posted. You have to remember that on the internet anyone can start up a modelling website and many unassuming models have found themselves in dangerous situations due to not being careful

You also have to be very focused on your safety when you arrange to complete modelling work. Always ensure you do the following:

+ Get references (as stated above)

+ Always get contact numbers for your client

+ Never work from home

+ Confirm details with them ensuring you do not disclose your contact numbers

+ Always tell someone where you are going as well as the start and finish time of your booking

+ If you feel uncomfortable going to the assignment alone take someone with you. Most people will agree to allow a model to come to a job accompanied but there’s two people you should think twice about taking a jealous partner or an over protective mum. For obvious reasons, each of these could interfere with the work you are being asked to do and clients will not be impressed if a chaperone interferes with the job

+ Take a mobile phone with you in case of emergency