Ecommerce has surpassed traditional in-person shopping across various categories. However, customers still crave a sense of familiarity with products—how they fit, move, and feel. White background photos don’t always cut it. Sometimes, you need a skilled model to bridge the gap between the screen and the customer.
In this article, explore the importance of hiring models in ecommerce, the cost implications based on different options, and best practices for creating impactful ecommerce photos while fostering rapport with other creative professionals.
Book a model in just a click! Only pay a one-time fee & use your content forever >
How much does it cost to hire a model for a product photoshoot: a breakdown
While you can always use a ghost mannequin to give life to apparel, sometimes you need a real person. And ghost mannequins won’t work if you’re shooting products that aren’t meant to be worn.
Friends and family
Cost: free or inexpensive
Recruiting models from your social circle can be a cost-effective option. Using everyday people as models can also enhance the relatability of your product photography. However, this approach may work well for some but prove challenging for others.
If your product requires specific skills to use, using amateur models may result in awkward photos. Carefully consider the desired vibe of your product photos to ensure your models can match it.
Pros:
- Can lead to more relaxed shoots
- Results in fun and relatable photos
- Generally the most economical option
Cons:
- Photos may appear less professional
- Models may have limited skills
- More time-consuming
- Hidden costs associated with preparing models
Child models
Cost: budget-friendly
Opting for child models can be an affordable choice, as their rates are often lower than adult models. However, this isn't due to a lack of payment for their labor. With children, you may only get a few minutes of viable shooting time before they become tired or distracted. The younger the child, the less time you can expect for posing. If your product requires marketing with child models, a few quality minutes can suffice to capture the desired shots.
You can find child models represented by modeling agencies or explore opportunities locally, where parents may be open to collaboration in exchange for non-monetary incentives like ice cream or free products/merch. Your approach should align with your desired photo outcomes and the intended interaction between kid models and your product.
Pros:
- Often the most affordable professional model option
- Shorter shoots
- Incredibly cute
Cons:
- Children can be challenging to manage
- Shorter shoots (a pro and a con)
- Additional costs involved in managing and cleaning up messes
Pets and animals
Cost: varies significantly; starts at $99/photo with soona
The price range for pet models can vary significantly. Training a dog, for example, can be a considerable investment. If you require a dog to perform specific actions like wearing a hat or spinning in a circle for a GIF, you'll need to compensate the owner for the time and money spent on training.
Just the presence of a dog model or any other type of furry friend on your set can catch the attention of potential customers, and you don't always need them to sit still or hold poses. Candid shots of animals exploring your product can be equally captivating.
Pros:
- Consumers love seeing cute animals in product photos
- A guaranteed great day
- Candid photos of pet models often turn out fantastic
Cons:
- Prepare for cleaning up messes
- Pet behavior can be less predictable
- Limited shooting time, similar to working with children
- You'll need to compensate the pet owners too
Sit. Stay. Demo! Make your customers swoon with an adorable pet model, starting at $99/photo >
Booking models directly
Cost: affordable way to work with professionals
When booking models directly, they usually manage their own bookings and set their rates accordingly. Since these models don't work through agencies, you may receive better rates as there are no modeling agency fees involved. However, established models with a well-known reputation may still cost more even if they represent and manage themselves.
You can book models directly through freelancing websites or open-call advertisements, so you can find the specific model and experience you want. However, be prepared to receive inquiries from models who may lack the experience or professionalism you seek.
Freelance or private contractor models typically charge between $50 and $250 per hour. It's essential to negotiate the hourly rate, travel time, and any necessary preparations, such as hair, nails, or makeup, as well as clothing requirements and availability of changing rooms or tents on set.
Pros:
- Almost unlimited options for model types
- Savings on agency fees
- Opportunity to establish relationships with local models for future projects
Cons:
- Potential unpredictability and unreliability
- Additional costs for model preparation
- Travel expenses depending on the location
- Negotiations need to be handled independently
Modeling agencies
Cost: tends to be the most expensive
Booking models through agencies offers a streamlined process as they act as intermediaries, representing and managing their models. You pay the agency, and they handle payment to the models. However, due to the involvement of this liaison, additional fees can be incurred.
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Agency models generally have more professional experience and arrive prepared for the shoot. Nevertheless, agencies may charge travel fees and adhere to specific time constraints. For instance, booking a half-day or full-day model may require you to adhere to the agency's designated time frame, and they might charge additional fees for shoots outside their regular operating hours.
Agency models typically come at higher price ranges, such as $100 per hour for the model, plus typically around a 20% agency fee.
Pros:
- Models with professional experience
- Communication handled by the agency
- Pricing is generally straightforward
Cons:
- Agencies often impose additional fees
- Limited flexibility in price negotiation
- Time constraints enforced by the agency
Packaged, non-traditional model sourcing opportunities
Cost: hand models start at $79; foot models start at $99; full-body models start at $159
A stress-free alternative to traditional model sourcing is exploring non-traditional methods. Companies like soona have revolutionized ecommerce product photography by offering a la carte-style shoots, where you only pay for the selected photos you love.
With soona, you can participate in virtual photo shoots through video calls or chats, witnessing the photos being taken in real-time. This eliminates travel costs for both you and the model. You can collaborate with soona's studio creatives to bring your vision to life and tailor the photoshoot to your specific needs. Plus, soona will handle all the logistics for you—getting the signed model release forms, paying the contractors, and setting up the schedule, among other tasks.
Factors that go into associated costs when hiring a model
As modeling is typically considered independent contractor work, several variables can influence the price, time, and outcome of hiring models. Some models work through agencies that handle their bookings, while others manage their own bookings through platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Additionally, you may hire models who are friends or acquaintances.
Consider the specific shots you require from your models. For example, if you need hand models, you might end up covering the cost of their manicures to ensure their hands look presentable. Similarly, capturing full-body shots for clothing items may take longer when working with non-professional models.
Plus, you’re not only paying models for their time but also for their knowledge and expertise. Many models who do this professionally full-time can even guide you to poses that will work well for your products. Don’t count on this though! This is why rates vary widely depending on factors like this.
Regardless of the type of model you work with or their portfolio, it’s crucial to treat them professionally and respectfully. Building strong relationships with studio creatives and gaining a reputation for treating models well will yield long-term benefits.
Moving forward with models
Hiring models in ecommerce photography plays a vital role in driving sales and establishing a connection between customers and products. By considering the various options available, such as using friends and family as models, working with child models, using pets, booking models directly, or opting for agency representation, you can choose the approach that best suits your budget, desired outcome, and creative requirements.
Book a model in just a click!
Only pay a one-time fee & use your content forever.
LEARN MORE
Ecommerce has surpassed traditional in-person shopping across various categories. However, customers still crave a sense of familiarity with products—how they fit, move, and feel. White background photos don’t always cut it. Sometimes, you need a skilled model to bridge the gap between the screen and the customer.
In this article, explore the importance of hiring models in ecommerce, the cost implications based on different options, and best practices for creating impactful ecommerce photos while fostering rapport with other creative professionals.
Book a model in just a click! Only pay a one-time fee & use your content forever >
How much does it cost to hire a model for a product photoshoot: a breakdown
While you can always use a ghost mannequin to give life to apparel, sometimes you need a real person. And ghost mannequins won’t work if you’re shooting products that aren’t meant to be worn.
Friends and family
Cost: free or inexpensive
Recruiting models from your social circle can be a cost-effective option. Using everyday people as models can also enhance the relatability of your product photography. However, this approach may work well for some but prove challenging for others.
If your product requires specific skills to use, using amateur models may result in awkward photos. Carefully consider the desired vibe of your product photos to ensure your models can match it.
Pros:
- Can lead to more relaxed shoots
- Results in fun and relatable photos
- Generally the most economical option
Cons:
- Photos may appear less professional
- Models may have limited skills
- More time-consuming
- Hidden costs associated with preparing models
Child models
Cost: budget-friendly
Opting for child models can be an affordable choice, as their rates are often lower than adult models. However, this isn't due to a lack of payment for their labor. With children, you may only get a few minutes of viable shooting time before they become tired or distracted. The younger the child, the less time you can expect for posing. If your product requires marketing with child models, a few quality minutes can suffice to capture the desired shots.
You can find child models represented by modeling agencies or explore opportunities locally, where parents may be open to collaboration in exchange for non-monetary incentives like ice cream or free products/merch. Your approach should align with your desired photo outcomes and the intended interaction between kid models and your product.
Pros:
- Often the most affordable professional model option
- Shorter shoots
- Incredibly cute
Cons:
- Children can be challenging to manage
- Shorter shoots (a pro and a con)
- Additional costs involved in managing and cleaning up messes
Pets and animals
Cost: varies significantly; starts at $99/photo with soona
The price range for pet models can vary significantly. Training a dog, for example, can be a considerable investment. If you require a dog to perform specific actions like wearing a hat or spinning in a circle for a GIF, you'll need to compensate the owner for the time and money spent on training.
Just the presence of a dog model or any other type of furry friend on your set can catch the attention of potential customers, and you don't always need them to sit still or hold poses. Candid shots of animals exploring your product can be equally captivating.
Pros:
- Consumers love seeing cute animals in product photos
- A guaranteed great day
- Candid photos of pet models often turn out fantastic
Cons:
- Prepare for cleaning up messes
- Pet behavior can be less predictable
- Limited shooting time, similar to working with children
- You'll need to compensate the pet owners too
Sit. Stay. Demo! Make your customers swoon with an adorable pet model, starting at $99/photo >
Booking models directly
Cost: affordable way to work with professionals
When booking models directly, they usually manage their own bookings and set their rates accordingly. Since these models don't work through agencies, you may receive better rates as there are no modeling agency fees involved. However, established models with a well-known reputation may still cost more even if they represent and manage themselves.
You can book models directly through freelancing websites or open-call advertisements, so you can find the specific model and experience you want. However, be prepared to receive inquiries from models who may lack the experience or professionalism you seek.
Freelance or private contractor models typically charge between $50 and $250 per hour. It's essential to negotiate the hourly rate, travel time, and any necessary preparations, such as hair, nails, or makeup, as well as clothing requirements and availability of changing rooms or tents on set.
Pros:
- Almost unlimited options for model types
- Savings on agency fees
- Opportunity to establish relationships with local models for future projects
Cons:
- Potential unpredictability and unreliability
- Additional costs for model preparation
- Travel expenses depending on the location
- Negotiations need to be handled independently
Modeling agencies
Cost: tends to be the most expensive
Booking models through agencies offers a streamlined process as they act as intermediaries, representing and managing their models. You pay the agency, and they handle payment to the models. However, due to the involvement of this liaison, additional fees can be incurred.
{{blog-mini-ad-green="/background-videos"}}
Agency models generally have more professional experience and arrive prepared for the shoot. Nevertheless, agencies may charge travel fees and adhere to specific time constraints. For instance, booking a half-day or full-day model may require you to adhere to the agency's designated time frame, and they might charge additional fees for shoots outside their regular operating hours.
Agency models typically come at higher price ranges, such as $100 per hour for the model, plus typically around a 20% agency fee.
Pros:
- Models with professional experience
- Communication handled by the agency
- Pricing is generally straightforward
Cons:
- Agencies often impose additional fees
- Limited flexibility in price negotiation
- Time constraints enforced by the agency
Packaged, non-traditional model sourcing opportunities
Cost: hand models start at $79; foot models start at $99; full-body models start at $159
A stress-free alternative to traditional model sourcing is exploring non-traditional methods. Companies like soona have revolutionized ecommerce product photography by offering a la carte-style shoots, where you only pay for the selected photos you love.
With soona, you can participate in virtual photo shoots through video calls or chats, witnessing the photos being taken in real-time. This eliminates travel costs for both you and the model. You can collaborate with soona's studio creatives to bring your vision to life and tailor the photoshoot to your specific needs. Plus, soona will handle all the logistics for you—getting the signed model release forms, paying the contractors, and setting up the schedule, among other tasks.
Factors that go into associated costs when hiring a model
As modeling is typically considered independent contractor work, several variables can influence the price, time, and outcome of hiring models. Some models work through agencies that handle their bookings, while others manage their own bookings through platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Additionally, you may hire models who are friends or acquaintances.
Consider the specific shots you require from your models. For example, if you need hand models, you might end up covering the cost of their manicures to ensure their hands look presentable. Similarly, capturing full-body shots for clothing items may take longer when working with non-professional models.
Plus, you’re not only paying models for their time but also for their knowledge and expertise. Many models who do this professionally full-time can even guide you to poses that will work well for your products. Don’t count on this though! This is why rates vary widely depending on factors like this.
Regardless of the type of model you work with or their portfolio, it’s crucial to treat them professionally and respectfully. Building strong relationships with studio creatives and gaining a reputation for treating models well will yield long-term benefits.
Moving forward with models
Hiring models in ecommerce photography plays a vital role in driving sales and establishing a connection between customers and products. By considering the various options available, such as using friends and family as models, working with child models, using pets, booking models directly, or opting for agency representation, you can choose the approach that best suits your budget, desired outcome, and creative requirements.
Book a model in just a click!
Only pay a one-time fee & use your content forever.
LEARN MORE
