Model
LucisPtera
Posts: 136
Austin, Texas, US
Okay. I'm well chastised. Sorry I asked. Thanks to those of you who gave me answers.
I did a search on this, and didn't find a thread, so maybe I used the wrong words. Let me know if there are already threads.
I've been noticed by a photographer recently who really wanted to work with me...and this person's stuff SUCKED. I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job?
Model
Fifi
Posts: 58134
Gainesville, Florida, US
LucisPtera wrote:
I did a search on this, and didn't find a thread, so maybe I used the wrong words. Let me know if there are already threads.
I've been noticed by a photographer recently who really wanted to work with me...and their stuff SUCKED. I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? This bring to mind the old adage, those in glass houses....
Photographer
NCISTUDIOS
Posts: 1165
Ripon, California, US
Photographer
NCISTUDIOS
Posts: 1165
Ripon, California, US
Your booked for the next few weeks/months, You appreciate the interest ans will keep in touch.
You will let the Photographer know when you become available......which sounds like never:-)
But I would not turn down an op to improve your port.
Photographer
Mark Reese Photography
Posts: 21622
Brandon, Florida, US
Lamonica wrote:
This bring to mind the old adage, those in glass houses.... Ya know Lamonica, I was thinking the same thing but not wanting to say it.
Model
LucisPtera
Posts: 136
Austin, Texas, US
Thanks for the responses.
And I know, the those who live in glass houses bit. Which is one reason I considered not posting this. But I wanted to know, and I would hope that those who feel the same towards me would find a polite way to say "you need work" as well.
Photographer
Doug Jantz
Posts: 4025
Tulsa, Oklahoma, US
LucisPtera wrote:
I did a search on this, and didn't find a thread, so maybe I used the wrong words. Let me know if there are already threads.
I've been noticed by a photographer recently who really wanted to work with me...and their stuff SUCKED. I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? 'A' photographer or several? "Their' worked sucked or 'his' work sucked?  Had to say it since you are a teacher.
The other replies are sufficient I would think. You will note his interest and keep his email and will get in touch when/if you have time.
Photographer
Sockpuppet Studios
Posts: 7862
San Francisco, California, US
It doesn't matter what you tell photographers they are people too.
Some will take it with grace and some will send you nasty emails back.
Just be polite and to the point.
"I'm sorry but I'm not looking for your style of work in my current portfolio"
And remember todays newbie could be tomorows superstar. don't burn bridges.
Model
LucisPtera
Posts: 136
Austin, Texas, US
Doug Jantz wrote:
'A' photographer or several? "Their' worked sucked or 'his' work sucked? Had to say it since you are a teacher.  Fixed it.
Photographer
Digital Focus
Posts: 3756
Glendale, Arizona, US
Mark Reese Photography wrote:
Ya know Lamonica, I was thinking the same thing but not wanting to say it. So true, on so many levels.
Model
LucisPtera
Posts: 136
Austin, Texas, US
Experimental Photoworks wrote:
And remember todays newbie could be tomorows superstar. don't burn bridges. That's exactly why I was looking for a nice way to say it.
Photographer
PPRO Analyst
Posts: 149
Chicago, Illinois, US
LucisPtera wrote:
I did a search on this, and didn't find a thread, so maybe I used the wrong words. Let me know if there are already threads.
I've been noticed by a photographer recently who really wanted to work with me...and their stuff SUCKED. I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? I'm not going to the "Glass House." All I have to say for ALL parties involved, is that is that if the person creating the image is happy with it, that's all that matters.
I've had people tell me "not to quit my day job" and I've sold prints for $500 a copy. Guess what? I like the photos I produce and that's all that matters to me.
peace...
Photographer
Analog Nomad
Posts: 4097
Pattaya, Central, Thailand
Why do you feel the need to educate people about their mediocrity? Do you go up to strangers on the street and say, "Jeez, that's an ugly look -- hope you're not planning to have sex with anybody soon?" Just politely decline and let it go. Besides -- you never know -- you wouldn't believe the horrible unkind things that have been said about artists who go on to become one of "the greats." LucisPtera wrote:
I did a search on this, and didn't find a thread, so maybe I used the wrong words. Let me know if there are already threads.
I've been noticed by a photographer recently who really wanted to work with me...and this person's stuff SUCKED. I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job?
Photographer
Marcus J. Ranum
Posts: 3247
MORRISDALE, Pennsylvania, US
LucisPtera wrote:
I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? That's not your business, really. If they're happy doing what they're doing, or even if they aren't - either they'll improve or reality will catch up with them or they'll just keep on doing what they're doing. Your responsibility for their art begins and ends with your deciding whether or not to pose with them.
Now, you can approach that in a couple of different ways, ranging from the
"Thank you but I am not interested."
to
"I don't really like your work very much, so I'd rather not."
mjr.
Photographer
Sockpuppet Studios
Posts: 7862
San Francisco, California, US
"Thank you for contacting me, currenlty your (style of photographic work) (project)is not what I'm looking for in my portfolio, feel free to contact me if you have any diffrent projects in the future."
oh I missed the day job part... nope non of your buisness, sorry you have no clue what they will be shooting next year.
besides it may just be a fun hobby or the may honsetly be shooting low end shlock because it is fast easy to produce and sells well.
Photographer
4C 41 42
Posts: 11093
Nashville, Tennessee, US
LucisPtera wrote:
but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? When people write me to tell me I suck, they usually suggest I take a basic photography course or assist a "good" photographer.
Or, you give him a list of "rates".
Most models I talk to just flat out tell me I suck and not to ever write to 'em again. Some people don't mind burning bridges!
Model
_Alexandra
Posts: 650
Alexandria, Virginia, US
I don't think it's fair to criticize the photographer's portfolio, unless you expect someone/anyone to criticize yours as well.
As for a nice way to say "no, thanks" there isn't really a nice way, because no is no. You can tell him you're busy, say you're not interested/it doesn't fit your portfolio, or do the typical no reply (which I don't recommend). Just tell him, "Thank you for your interest, but I'm not interested in shooting at the moment."
Photographer
Mark Brummitt
Posts: 40527
Clarkston, Michigan, US
Often photographers get better over time. I would not burn any bridges but tell him at this time you are not interested.
Photographer
SayCheeZ!
Posts: 20647
Las Vegas, Nevada, US
Photographer
Artistic Vision
Posts: 2207
Billings, Montana, US
Just because YOU think one person's photography sucked doesn't mean everyone thinks so. So you can just say you're not interested.
Everyone has different visions, different styles. Who are you to say someones work is shit or better yet that they should quit? People should NEVER quit if it's something they love.
Besides everyone starts somewhere.
What one person views as a masterpiece another may view it as a work of crap.
Photographer
00siris
Posts: 19182
New York, New York, US
LucisPtera wrote:
I did a search on this, and didn't find a thread, so maybe I used the wrong words. Let me know if there are already threads.
I've been noticed by a photographer recently who really wanted to work with me...and this person's stuff SUCKED. I know I can say "I'm not interested at this time" or something like that...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? yeah -
"I'm sorry but although your portfolio is nice, it's not the direction that I'm going. All the best'
Photographer
Lo Fi Art
Posts: 1311
Alice Town, Biminis, Bahamas
Stop stalking me you pervert! That's what models tell me
Photographer
Jay Bowman
Posts: 6511
Los Angeles, California, US
LucisPtera wrote:
...but is there a way to nicely tell someone that they need to not quit their day job? ::sigh::
Saying that I have a problem with that statement would in no way convey the vehement displeasure I felt upon reading it...
First things first: this in not dating. You are under no obligation to let someone down easy or spare their feelings. This is not to say you should feel pressed to say something tactless or crass in regards to what you think of their work. Unless the photographer asks you for your opinion on his/her work... keep that shit to yourself.
Really.
All the photographer really wants to know is whether you are interested in working with him/her or not. So simply say "Actually, this isn't a project I'm interested in" and be done with it.
As to your quoted question... let's put the shoe on the other foot. Say -hypothetically, of course- that I would like to tell you (very nicely) not to quit your dayjob. How would you suggest I do that? In a way that doesn't smack of obnoxious self-righteousness, that is.
But before you answer that, do you really care what I think beyond my interest in working with you? Honestly. With that answer in mind, what you think about a photographer's work is relevant only insofar as it affects your desire to work with that person.
Again, beyond that, a photographer really doesn't want to know your opinion on it.
Well, at least this one wouldn't be interested...
Photographer
Mr Maki
Posts: 633
Tallahassee, Florida, US
some photogs wear many hats: job hat mr. mom hat Part-time job hat and are wanting to build their port if he/she pays you... well, that's just fine & dandy...do it! if it's tfp/cd... say 'no thanks'
Photographer
Mortonovich
Posts: 6209
San Diego, California, US
Jay Bowman wrote:
. . . What Jay say.
Photographer
Bondo Photo
Posts: 250
Glen Burnie, Maryland, US
Good topic here. Diplomatically truthful? Or creatively deceitful?
Some people (like me) don't take likely to hints. I'd rather hear "no thank you" or "respectfully decline" than some lame sounding excuses.
Photographer
UnoMundo
Posts: 47532
Olympia, Washington, US
Jay Bowman wrote:
::sigh::
Saying that I have a problem with that statement would in no way convey the vehement displeasure I felt upon reading it...
First things first: this in not dating. You are under no obligation to let someone down easy or spare their feelings. This is not to say you should feel pressed to say something tactless or crass in regards to what you think of their work. Unless the photographer asks you for your opinion on his/her work... keep that shit to yourself.
Really.
All the photographer really wants to know is whether you are interested in working with him/her or not. So simply say "Actually, this isn't a project I'm interested in" and be done with it.
As to your quoted question... let's put the shoe on the other foot. Say -hypothetically, of course- that I would like to tell you (very nicely) not to quit your dayjob. How would you suggest I do that? In a way that doesn't smack of obnoxious self-righteousness, that is.
But before you answer that, do you really care what I think beyond my interest in working with you? Honestly. With that answer in mind, what you think about a photographer's work is relevant only insofar as it affects your desire to work with that person.
Again, beyond that, a photographer really doesn't want to know your opinion on it.
Well, at least this one wouldn't be interested... Somebody get Jay a Tums..please..
Model
NC17
Posts: 1739
Baltimore, Maryland, US
00siris, _Alexandra, and Experimental Photoworks said it best. Politely explaining that you are not seeking their current look/style at this time is the nicest thing you can do. It is the truth after all, isn't it?
Believe me, I have encountered many of those types of photographers, however, its also good to remember that for some of them their work actually sells to certain markets. Yes, it sucks because its about as far from artistic and original as it can get, however they actually have a market and are able to put (some sort) of bread on their table with it. So "sucks" is personal interpretation at best.
I feel you on those sorts of situations. They're awkward and uncomfortable to deal with. Being gracious is the best route, always.
Photographer
TSSDAVIS
Posts: 10
Davis, California, US
I'm a little amazed as to how shallow this thread is. Seems like to me, its more of an attempt to call attention to your portfolio then ask a legitimate question. Anyone with a general understanding of politeness (ie anyone with common sense) should know how easy it is to say "No thank you". TooCoolQueeniee wrote:
Just because YOU think one person's photography sucked doesn't mean everyone thinks so. So you can just say you're not interested.
Everyone has different visions, different styles. Who are you to say someones work is shit or better yet that they should quit? People should NEVER quit if it's something they love.
Besides everyone starts somewhere.
What one person views as a masterpiece another may view it as a work of crap. Word
Photographer
softlight122
Posts: 229
Poughkeepsie, New York, US
Photographer
wishingtree photography
Posts: 1042
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
SayCheeZ! wrote:
The photographer that took this picture is rather proud to be a 'crappy photographer':
http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/29 … 8629wtqvcF that's too funny!
my thought on this thread is that the world would be a better place if people were nicer to each other. and i do think that was the intent of the o.p.
i think the best approach is simply to say, 'thanks but i am not interested at this time' or 'thanks but i am committed to other projects/work obligations/military duty/etc. at this time'
this leaves open the chance to write him back if he becomes the next ansel adams.
Model
Loretta Lightningbolt
Posts: 4127
DEVILS ELBOW, Missouri, US
I generally call it like I see it.
If someone's work isn't what I need for my portfolio, I say so. No need to elaborate at that point.
If it's not a paying job and it won't add to your book, just politely decline. They'll get it.
Photographer
mccStudio
Posts: 1312
Santa Cruz, California, US
throw them a rate and most likely they will never bother you.
win/win situation.
Photographer
Mark Reese Photography
Posts: 21622
Brandon, Florida, US
One must remember, One persons 'crap' is another persons 'art'. If someone approaches you to shoot there's absolutely no reason to be snarky or rude or vicious, just say 'Thank you but I'm not looking for that particular style right now." Anything else may serve only to induce the photographer to give up on his/her dreams and who amongst us has the right to squash another persons dreams?
Photographer
Curt at photoworks
Posts: 31812
Riverside, California, US
PPRO Analyst wrote:
.... if the person creating the image is happy with it, that's all that matters. Really? I would think a customers opinion might be important. I guess not!
Photographer
EMG STUDIOS
Posts: 2033
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
Funny how it's okay for mediocre models to complain about crappy photographers but it's an ungodly sin for good photographers to talk shit about crappy models.. Stop trying to get free fuck'n shoots from the best photographers and pay a good photographer to shoot you then maybe your stock will raise...
Now back to our regularly scheduled mayhem..
Photographer
Curt at photoworks
Posts: 31812
Riverside, California, US
LucisPtera wrote:
... I would hope that those who feel the same towards me would find a polite way to say "you need work" as well. But this is basically your original question. Guess this came full circle in a hurry. There's nothing I can tell you that others haven't.
So let me just list my favorite three responses!
LarryB wrote:
Most models I talk to just flat out tell me I suck and not to ever write to 'em again. Some people don't mind burning bridges! ![https://photoworks.ws/images/icons/icon_rofl.gif]()
Josh Separzadeh wrote:
Tell them you're dead ![https://photoworks.ws/images/icons/laughingOFFchair18-1.gif]()
Captured Live wrote:
Stop stalking me you pervert! That's what models tell me Frankly, unless your main interest is to draw negative attention to yourself, I would ask the MODS to terminate this thread.
Model
189022
Posts: 13
Washington, District of Columbia, US
EMG STUDIOS wrote:
Funny how it's okay for mediocre models to complain about crappy photographers but it's an ungodly sin for good photographers to talk shit about crappy models.. Stop trying to get free fuck'n shoots from the best photographers and pay a good photographer to shoot you then maybe your stock will raise...
Now back to our regularly scheduled mayhem.. Ouch! lol
|
Fixed it.
