Looking for feedback from models

I'm not a model, but I was recently put in a wheelchair, and despite what many may say, I believe opinions are changing—maybe slowly, but still changing. I'd like to think that the quality of images created and how you conduct yourself on a shoot are what really matter, far more than the size of the camera.

Personally, I can't use a mobile phone for shoots, though I wish I could because it's much lighter. In fact, I would argue that it takes more skill to get great shots with a phone by far or maybe a different skill set.

Years ago,  I would’ve suggested models avoid photographers who used mobile phones as cameras and IKEA lights as flash. But we're entering a very different era now, so I would simply suggest focusing more on the creative's portfolio and references rather than the size or cost of the camera. Professionalism isn't something you purchase with a pro SLR camera, and not everyone that owns one can create great images or act professional. 

Plus, it's not like anyone lists their equipment on their portfolio—you judge them based on the work they showcase, not what they use to create it. When you accept the shoot, you've already accepted the creative's work as good enough. 

Edited by ANDY00

Stu H thanks Stu, it’s good to have suggestions, my biggest issue is lifting & only being able to use one hand to shoot. So getting kit in and out of car is difficult. I’ve recently had to change from a manual car to automatic because of my disability.

ANDY00 Thank you Andy, appreciate the ideas….

Love the last paragraph “it’s not like anyone lists their equipment…. “

ANDY00 said

I'm not a model, but I was recently put in a wheelchair, and despite what many may say, I believe opinions are changing—maybe slowly, but still changing. I'd like to think that the quality of images created and how you conduct yourself on a shoot are what really matter, far more than the size of the camera.

Personally, I can't use a mobile phone for shoots, though I wish I could because it's much lighter. In fact, I would argue that it takes more skill to get great shots with a phone by far or maybe a different skill set.

Years ago,  I would’ve suggested models avoid photographers who used mobile phones as cameras and IKEA lights as flash. But we're entering a very different era now, so I would simply suggest focusing more on the creative's portfolio and references rather than the size or cost of the camera. Professionalism isn't something you purchase with a pro SLR camera, and not everyone that owns one can create great images or act professional. 

Plus, it's not like anyone lists their equipment on their portfolio—you judge them based on the work they showcase, not what they use to create it. When you accept the shoot, you've already accepted the creative's work as good enough. 

Edited by ANDY00

+1 - especially the bit I highlighted. :-)

Edited by waist.it

waist.it :)

Grant-WASP I'm not trying to be ableist. I personally see no issue with it, but I understand the concerns around perception.

In no way am I trying to offend.

Not a direct answer, but perhaps useful info: there’s a guy who occasionally comes to my workshops who’s wheelchair bound and has just enough mobility to operate a tablet with one hand.

He uses a DSLR mounted on a motorised gimble, tethered to the tablet. And makes fine work.

Rather than using a phone which has poor ergonomics, I would suggest a compact 1" sensor digital camera. Something like a Canon G7X mkIII, G5X mkII, Sony RX100VII or equivalent.

These will give better images thanks to the larger sensor and better optics when compared to a smartphone, and they can fit into a pocket. They are not cheap though.

Also, many models have created a lucrative side business with remote shoots. Some have invested in SLRs, but plenty use mobile phones as well, ive had lots of messages from models offering remote shoots with mobile phones —and yes, I’ve even seen a few mobile phone images get FPIs on Purpleport. Shocking, right? It’s not the brush that creates the image; it’s the hand that guides it.

How many models on this site upload selfies and mobile images to their portfolios every week, or even every day? If it’s considered acceptable for models to showcase their work this way, then the same should apply to the creatives looking to collaborate with them. If that pixel quality is good enough for the model’s portfolio, then working at that level should also be fine. After all, the images on your portfolio should reflect what you’re comfortable with and capable of producing.

Edited by ANDY00

As others have said the quality of your work (and cash) is what is important. Your iPhone is easily good enough, get a few shoots under your belt that demonstrate that and you won't have any issues. 

Scott Bowman said

Rather than using a phone which has poor ergonomics, I would suggest a compact 1" sensor digital camera. Something like a Canon G7X mkIII, G5X mkII, Sony RX100VII or equivalent.

These will give better images thanks to the larger sensor and better optics when compared to a smartphone, and they can fit into a pocket. They are not cheap though.

+1

"They are not cheap though"

... Actually not really that 'expensive' either, if you compare with the cost of the very latest TOP OF THE RANGE Pixel, iPhone, Smasung or Sony (etc). I actually have to literally LOL when I look at these (laptop-esque) prices (and how utterly crap the 'screen button' ergonomics of smartphones STILL are!)

Keeping my Pixel 5 for as long as possible. Camera tech better than my previous Pixel 2 ... but not miles more. At least my Pixel 5 cost me around HALF (or less) of what a Pixel 9 Pro or Pro XL would. Crazy money.

Edited by Aardvark🎯VonEssfolk

ANDY00 Smartphone shot FPIs? Seriously?

I'm impressed if that has happened.

JME Studios said

ANDY00 Smartphone shot FPIs? Seriously?

I'm impressed if that has happened.

Paul mcgugan has had a couple i believe remote shoot FPIs that come strieght to mind, also i would direct you to look in this thread i posted that shows some incredible work created by mobile phones, everyone good enough for FPI easitly imo. Large file format - necessary ? (Page 1) / General Chat (purpleport.com)

Edited by ANDY00

Huw said

Not a model, but.... 

- you make it very clear that you only shoot with an iPhone on your portfolio.

- maybe add a little more explanation, e.g.:  "An accident in 2021 has resulted in some challenges around my photography, with limited mobility, therefore I now only shoot using an iPhone" 

^ This. And reiterate it in pre-shoot comms, just in case the model hasn't read that part of your profile notes. 

[Same as How - I'm not a model either. I know; given my well-groomed appearance and my sartorial elegance, it's hard to believe, innit?]

Orson Carter

Same as How - I'm not a model either. I know; given my well-groomed appearance and my sartorial elegance, it's hard to believe, innit?]

Impossible to believe

Thank you for your input