I very recently received a message from a modeling talent offering me $500 for every magazine cover I put them on or helped them get in the next 90 days. My response was to simply delete the text message and then to make a note to be certain not to pitch any images we did for the next three months. The following week I received another message from the same talent, this time extending the deadline to four months. I made another note to be sure not to pitch their images for that additional period of time.
Now, there is a reason I reacted in the manner of which I did.
Firstly; I am a photographer not a publicist. My goal and job is to make the best images I can that work for my client’s needs and goals. There are times those images will get picked up by publications for interior and cover features. However, I make it very clear to my clients that I cannot promise I will ever pitch their images. I’ve even gone as far as telling someone not to hire me because I would not promise media features as a result of working together.
When I create work I am proud of and see a fit for my publishing clients – I happily do what I can to make that connection to try to get those images published. My background is in journalism and publishing and I love to see my work in print. But I will not use it as a false promise to attempt to get more work or money. A publicist is paid to market you. A photographer is paid to get you the materials to market with.
Secondly; the offer made me feel cheap and used. I work very hard to make a living for myself. Being offered a handful of hundred dollar bills to do something that I perceive as a conflict of interest felt very insulting. That, sadly, is how this talent perceives me and that my motivation comes solely from financial gain.
Thirdly; I wouldn’t risk my relationships with publishing clients giving them the impression that the only work and images I show them were the ones from the highest bidder.
Now, I’m certain other photographers were given the same bribe and perhaps others are willing to take it. However I felt it was important to be open with my readers as to why I did not and will not in the future.
James Patrick
jamespatrick.com
IG @jpatrickphoto
I am very pleased to find another photographer out there that hold the same values of themselves as my father does himself when he presents himself to clients. My father is a photographer and has been his entire life as it is his passion and he held his work more valuable to the world than money. I agree with your morals and have the highest respect for those who stand and believe for what they hold for themselves. I am an old acquaintance of Evina Luna and k must say your works does speak volumes of your talent. Thank you for sharing it wit the world.
Thank you so much for the kind words!
Great to read! Sadly, many would take that offer in a heartbeat–
Well done!
Thank you so much Brett!