• Check references-contact other models that have worked with the photographer and see what they have to say about their experience of working with him/her. Make sure you specify the photographer you are talking about. Some may not reply and some may give you a reference.

·       Obtain the photographer’s full name and working name (if different than legal name).  If the photographer doesn’t provide you with a name, that’s a sign that there may be a problem. It is definitely ok to ask the photographer for references directly.  If a photographer doesn’t want to supply any references, that may be a sign to stray away from working with him/her.

• Conduct an online search of the photographer-for common names you can add “+photography” in the search box along with the name of the photographer. You can search the name on networking sites such as MySpace and Face Book. If you can’t find any information in the search, it could be because the individual may be new or it’s not the name they usually use.

·       Ask the photographer if you may bring an escort, especially if other models who have worked with him/her recommend it to you. Make sure your escort is not a distraction.  If you couldn’t get any references and you are not allowed an escort, turn down the shoot. You don’t want to risk it!