“Can I bring a friend to the photoshoot?”: Our Guest Policy
HOT OFF THE PRESS! A new and improved RockDaddyDesign policy regarding guests at a photoshoot:
“We’re happy to have a guest at the photoshoot as the overall comfort and safety of our models is paramount. That being said, we must insist that all guests not in any way hinder the project. This includes but is not limited to “helping” with creative or any other suggestions to the model or photographer during the shoot. As you are aware, many hours and substantial financial investments have been made in this project. We have found that these types of interruptions are detrimental to the creative process and can often completely derail the artistic goals.”
I’m sure some of you are thinking… jeez, who f*cked up at a shoot for this policy to be made?
Honestly? No one, really. This policy was made as a precautionary measure thanks to my acute paranoia and Adam’s empathic ability to craft professional responses to any worst-case-scenario I drum up in my mind. In fact, our experience has been the opposite of the worst. We have had incredibly positive encounters when models have invited their significant others or friends to a shoot. And in most cases, they have attributed to making the process even more efficient.
Often times, it’s the little things. When Adam and I shot at Hocking Hills early last year, I learned very quickly the importance of having an additional person to help behind-the-scenes. The efficiency of the shoot would have increased exponentially if I had someone there to help me with the small stuff: holding my coat, handing me costume pieces, or just being on the general look-out of our surroundings.
That is not to say Adam wasn’t helping with those things nor was I totally helpless — I’d say we were splitting the “third person” between the two of us— but the practicality of the situation required us to stay focused on our primary roles: model and photographer. And while we got some incredible photos, I can only wonder what might’ve been if we had a helping hand with the arguably “small stuff.”
Luckily, our next planned shoot was at Boudoir Cabin. This experience provided an entirely new outlook on having a supportive presence at a photoshoot. The four of us ladies naturally assisted each other whenever we weren’t in the spotlight. Additionally, something incredibly important I learned from that shoot was the necessity of verbal affirmation. We had some of the most independent women at that event, and yet, we were all giving of compliments and assurance of our craft. Everyone works differently, but more often than not, a little love can go a long way whether it’s your first or five hundredth photoshoot.
Fast forward to last November, Adam and I travelled to Kentucky to shoot with one of our favorite models and friends — Meghan Carpenter! We wrapped up a gorgeous shoot titled “To the Moon” (view it now on Patreon.com or read my Elementals episode inspired by her photos, part one and part two!). However, Adam, Meghan and I weren’t the only one’s there that night. Nick Natali, jeep fanatic and pup enthusiast, helped us immensely by taking some cool BTS shots and scouting ahead for locations. He knew the park, which was essential for us, since we were shooting well after the sun had set! Without him, we certainly would’ve been wandering aimlessly in the dark. Thank you, Nick!
Braving the cold, Adam met with Aviva Neff for a photoshoot featuring a chilling winter backdrop mid-January. I was unfortunately chained to my desk job ’til the evening and couldn’t be onsite to assist. Thankfully, Aviva’s partner Dan provided support! He was there to carry Aviva’s things and hold her coat at the ready off camera. Aviva’s “Quarry Trails” photoshoot is available now (you know where)! Thank you for helping us out, Dan!
All I can say is, again… thank you. Thank you to anyone who has supported our clients & models at our photoshoots. The “small stuff” goes a long, long way particularly when Adam and I are focused on other aspects of the shoot. And while I do my best to provide that assistance for the model, sometimes having the support of a close friend or significant other adds the extra layer of reinforcement to result in an amazing photoshoot and experience for all.
Thank you to everyone who has read my blog posts thus far, and all of those who are active Patreon subscribers. Social media followers, please keep doing what you do! Liking, sharing, and commenting on our posts help us reach a wider audience and grow our community.
You can now view our photography’s portfolio on IG: @rockdaddydesign
Stay up-to-date with our music, FOX + RAM on IG: @fox_and_ram
Follow Adam and me to stay up to date with announcements and BTS content: @adamafurious & @summit.j.starr
Email me with your comments & questions: summitjstarr@gmail.com
