
Photo: B. Guerro
Whether you're just starting out in modeling or you're a seasoned pro, there's one thing you’ll encounter at some point: the creepy photographer. Yep, unfortunately, not everyone in the industry has good intentions, and it’s important to know the warning signs before you find yourself in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation.
Here are 10 red flags that should send you running for the nearest exit (or at least straight to the block button).
1. “TFP” But It’s Giving “WTF?”
Time-for-Print (TFP) shoots are great for building your portfolio—but if the photographer is only interested in “sexy” shots, pushes risqué concepts right away, or acts like they’re doing you a huge favor, 🚩🚩🚩. A legitimate TFP collab benefits both parties, not just them.
2. The “Hotel Room” Offer
If a photographer suggests a hotel room as the shoot location (especially for your first time working together), just know that nothing professional is happening in that Marriott suite. The same goes for their "home studio" unless they have serious credentials.
3. The “Trust Me” Line
If you hear “Just trust me” after voicing a concern, that’s a no. A good photographer values your comfort and won’t pressure you into something you’re unsure about.
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4. No Portfolio, No Proof, No Thanks
If a photographer claims to be amazing but has no website, no references, and no previous work to show you, they might be more of a scammer than an artist. Don’t let someone use you as their “test subject” when they can’t even prove they know what they’re doing.
5. The “I Only Shoot Women” Guy
Some photographers only shoot female models, and while that alone isn’t always a red flag, it definitely raises eyebrows. If their portfolio is full of overly sexualized images and they never work with men, just know they probably care more about the models than the photography.
6. Sketchy DMs and Late-Night Texts
If they’re messaging you at 2 AM saying, “Hey, wanna do a lingerie shoot? I’ll pay 😉,” the only thing they should be paying for is therapy. Professional photographers conduct business professionally—during business hours.
7. No Contract, No Boundaries, No Bueno
Every legit photographer will have a contract or model release form. If they avoid paperwork or say, “Oh, we don’t need one,” run. A contract protects both of you, and without one, they can use your images however they want.
8. Too Many “Accidental” Touches
No photographer should be touching you at all during a shoot. If they’re moving your hair, adjusting your clothes, or positioning your body without asking, that’s a major violation of boundaries. Professionalism means keeping their hands to themselves.
9. The “It’s Just Art” Excuse
Creepy photographers love to hide behind the excuse of “It’s just art” when pushing for more revealing or intimate poses. Newsflash: If you’re uncomfortable, it’s NOT art—it’s harassment.
10. They Badmouth Other Models
If they’re constantly talking badly about past models, saying things like “She was so difficult” or “She ghosted me for no reason”—maybe there was a reason. A good photographer respects their models and doesn’t trash-talk them behind their backs.