Here's how you can navigate conflicts with models or subjects during a photoshoot.

Be honest and up front as to what is agreed upon regarding pay and time etc. If you use professional talent you should have less issues but it does happen. One time I was shooting a national advertising project and we needed all the talent to be comfortable with dogs and one mom lied saying her kid loved dogs and come the day of the shoot the kid had never been around a dog and could not do his job. Mom was trying to get the ked some work and lied to the client and we had had to call the agency and it was a mess. I had another issue with a model on a different shoot, but you get the point. Be clear with the paperwork and consider have additional talent.

Before the shoot, have a conversation with your model or subject. Understand their goals, preferences, and any specific ideas they have. Communicate your vision for the shoot. Discuss concepts, mood, and style. Be open to their input. This alignment helps prevent misunderstandings later. Sharing a mood board before the shoot can give your model a visual understanding of your concept and desired aesthetic. If possible, meet the model before the shoot. Discuss goals and ideas. Knowing each other beforehand creates a more relaxed atmosphere. Working out the details ahead of time around terms, expectations, rights, and responsibilities is essential. Always have a contract. It protects both parties and outlines expectations.

If disagreements arise, stay calm, avoid being defensive, and show genuine interest in your model's well-being. Focus on resolution, not blame. Assure them of your commitment to collaboration and creating beautiful images together. A productive collaboration hinges on the technical aspects of a photoshoot and the communication and rapport between the photographer and the model. If you made a mistake or misjudged something, apologize sincerely. As a photographer, your demeanor and professionalism create a ripple effect. When you maintain a positive and respectful attitude, it sets the tone for everyone involved. Other team members, including models and assistants, will likely mirror that behavior.

Keep communication open during the shoot. Ask for feedback and adjust as needed. If a model is uncomfortable with a particular pose or concept, respect their boundaries. If a model expresses frustration or disagreement, actively listen. Understand their perspective. Acknowledge their feelings. Show empathy and validate their emotions. Seek clarity. What precisely is bothersome? Is it a pose, lighting, or something else? Please paraphrase their concern to make sure you understand correctly. You need to identify when a conflict is on the rise, acknowledge the different opinions that relate to it, and build a consensus about how to manage and resolve it.

Instead of dwelling on conflict, shift the focus to finding solutions. Explore solutions collectively with the model. Involving and valuing models in addressing an issue enhances the creative experience. Finding the middle ground and discussing alternative ideas or approaches can create a sense of unity, shared purpose, and mutual respect within the relationship. Deliver your points constructively—be respectful, clear, direct, and kind. Make similarities the starting point of finding a creative solution. Be open and curious to find common ground throughout the conflict resolution process.

As a photographer, you are the beacon of inspiration and motivation for everyone around you. Your work is not just a reflection of your skills but also a source of inspiration for others to achieve the best results possible. Collect your thoughts. Take a step back and adjust your thinking to provide alternative answers and not just offer more negative thoughts about your situation. Be accountable and objectively assess your share in the conflict. Acknowledge your role in the problem and take responsibility for it. If a model suggests a different pose or angle, be open to trying it. Sometimes, their instincts lead to unique shots. Stay open to alternative ideas and change your approach while maintaining your artistic vision.

After resolving conflicts, document the agreed-upon solutions to ensure clarity, as this provides a reference point if issues arise later. Following up after resolving conflicts during a photoshoot helps maintain clarity, ensures everyone’s comfort, and reinforces that everyone involved understands the new plan or resolution. It confirms that there are no lingering misunderstandings. Whether confirming the adjusted plan or simply checking in, this step contributes to a successful and harmonious photoshoot. Checking in with models or subjects shows you care about their well-being and comfort. It reinforces trust and positive relationships. If the conflict persists, revisit the issue. Be open to adjusting the resolution if necessary.