How do we find a model?

[CalicoPie]

DH is a photographer and has got together with some other businesses (hotel, clothes shop etc) to do a photo shoot to promote the businesses.

Now we have to find a model to model the clothes. I know we could just go to an agency, but all the businesses are fledgeling and with little money, so we were hoping for a model who would give her services for free, but we'd provide her with some pics for her portfolio.

Does anyone have any ideas how we can approach this? Also, if we have to use an established model agency what sort of rates do they charge?

We are in the north of England BTW.

TIA

p.s. I've looked for models forums on the internet, but they all seem to be for glamour models which is not what we want!

could you advertise locally? maybge a local lass interested

advertise in local hairdressers
put an ad in the lcoal paper and have a 'casting'

tbh if you can afford it I would use a half decent local agency model - you'll waste less film and get more shots done in the time!

Yes, I'd advertise locally too. Perhaps for two or three girls/lads so you get some variety for different pages of the brochure (if that's what you're putting together).

You might be surprised how little it would cost anyway. £50- £100 might be alright.
Otherwise, maybe a student? Does anyone you know have a lovely daughter/niece?

My dad used to be a Graphic Designer and when I was younger they would use me for photoshoots.

Do you know anyone like that who would volunteer to do it, like someones sister, wife etc?

A modelling agency will charge a lot more than £50 - £100 (my dh's company has used them in the past and we're in the north too) but as Enid says you'll get a professional. If you can't afford one, place an ad in the local paper, promising basic expenses paid plus portfolio photographs OR ask around for a someone with an attractive relative

where abouts in north are you, i might now of someone who could help

In my early 20s, I modelled for a friend of a friend who was starting out as a photographer. I got a full set of contacts and a number of enlargements; he got a stack of photos for his portfolio. I still treasure those pics.

How about the shops/businesses involved approaching customers?

Thanks everyone. I might try some of your ideas. I'd thought about asking about the universitiesor colleges that teach fashion design.

Trace 2 I'm in Leeds. Is your friend a model?

Thanks again.

hi maybe you can try posting on www.starnow.co.uk under models, you can ask for people in your area and you can state that is non paying but they would get free photos for portfolio.people who are interested then email you their star now photos and you just choose who you want and you are then in contact with them direct( no agency fees)

I agree with kama - you should do some street casting.
You can always try an agency as some of the new faces do work for free as they are keen to build up their portfolio.

CalicoPie, we are in barnsley, no but my dd is 21years who has lots of friends who i know would jump at the chance of doing this. what size, height, hair,eyes colour are you looking for cat me if you want more info.