I have noticed over the years that having a little money on the table helps the model and their parent feel more invested in the program. I receive more engagement from them on social media, they are excited about the opportunity to be a part of the program, and they are more likely to refer their friends and family. Not only that, but since my models are paying clients, I don’t mind if they don’t send in any referrals at all! Sure I love it when they do, but it is not a requirement. Since my models purchase prints and products from me like any other client, I am still able to receive a paycheck, instead of feeling like I am losing money by doing too much work for free.

So whether you charge a flat fee to join your program, or you have them invest some money up front and use a portion of that as print credit towards their portrait order, you will likely get a better return on the time you put in working with them, than if you were to offer your program for free. 

When I see other photographers all doing the same thing, I decide to go the other way and do something completely different. For example: getting custom t-shirts created for the models seems to be very popular right now. And there are a lot of super cute designs! But I wanted to do something more unique. So I designed custom water bottles instead, with my logo and senior model hashtag. The models on my team love it! They posted photos all over social media without me even asking them too. Many of the photos are of their water bottles sitting on their desk at school.

So now, instead of creating t-shirts that may only get worn once in a while, my models are using their water bottles nearly every day, and it is increasing my brand awareness.

Create an experience that will stand out from the other Model Programs in your area, and make your program unique. This will ultimately turn into the thing that you are known for.

I have seen some photographers who offer epic underwater sessions for their models. They invest in waterproof housing for their camera, go to a pool, and capture gorgeous underwater images of their Senior Models in flowy dresses. Some photographers are known for their adventurous spirit. They will take their models on hikes in the great outdoors, and capture beautiful photos of them on a mountain top overlooking the valley or canyons below. Others have a charity or non-profit organization that is close to their heart. So they give their models the opportunity to help raise money for those charities through fun team events. I am known for having a program that allows my team to have group themed photo shoots, and actual modeling experiences. I have done a little modeling/acting in the past, and it was something that I was passionate about for a long time. I wanted a way to work that into my program. So I partner with other local small businesses, and photograph the girls/guys on my team modeling their latest fashions, or enjoying their product, and the photos are then used in their advertising. This is not only fun for my Senior Models, but a great way to collaborate and co-market with other local small businesses. (The image above is from a collaboration photo shoot with the clothing brand "Spear and Arrow".)

What are some of the things that you love to do, are passionate about, or that you have experience doing? Try to come up with ways that you can work that into your business to make it unique, and give you something to be known for in your Senior Model Program. 

Most photographers offer the senior portrait session as part of their Model Program. Give them a reason to want to be on your team that goes beyond having just one special day of photos. Offering several different group photo sessions throughout the year has many benefits.

It provides a way for the models to gather in one place and have fun together, creating bonds and friendships that last long after high school is over. It is a great way for you to get creative, practice a new skill, or try a different technique. And the photos that come out of these group photo shoots can be used on social media and in your marketing, providing you with new photos even when you don’t have images of a new client to post. 

I'll be sending you a lot of great information! Your emails from me will include things such as: rep card alternatives, how to partner with another local business, ideas to get a model program started, the most important information you should get from a client, Free Downloads, and so much more!

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