Sales

Photo by: Brian Morrison 

I am still at the point where I buy 99.9% of my own clothing, accessories and makeup for shoots.  And one of the things that comes from that is simply one of space.  I have to be pretty ruthless with clothing ...if I think that I will 1. wear it for another shoot ( rarely, since I really try to wear things a maximum of twice in shoots....why do the same thing over and over?) 2. Will wear it in real life ( It happens with somethings, no question) If one of those two conditions are not met it will either get donated, given away or, since I am trying a newish thing...sold.
I have put an album up on my FaceBook page in an effort to sell some things...with pictures of the item itself, then pictures from the shoot.  You can see it... here.  Some shoes, some clothing ( some of my daughters clothing) sizes, prices and condition are there ( everything was rather gently worn, since it was really just for shoots) Take a look- see if anything appeals, and then let me know....you can trust me, I have been a buyer and seller on eBay since 1998, and have 100% positive feedback...I just wanted to try something different, to see how it goes.  Ebay is the next option.  

Wardrobe- What to do?

Photo by Al DaValle

 

Photo by: Thom Rouse

One issue facing many freelance models is wardrobe.  You don't want to go to more than 1 or 2 shoots with the same clothing, and if you still work Trade for Time/ Trade for Pictures  ( TFT or TFP ) you aren't getting paid, therefore spending much extra money on clothing that you may or may not use again in real life doesn't appeal ether. ( Not to mention storing the clothing, for some nebulous future use)

So what options does one have?

For me, it depends.  My first choice generally is the thrift store, for a couple reasons.  The first being cost.  It is inexpensive and one never know what will be found..   You also can simply redonate or sell it again, when you are done and you don't feel too bad, since it was inexpensive to begin with.  I do this quite a bit .  The downside... If you are looking for something VERY specific,you may not have much luck. The other issue, especially if you are doing period or more alternative looks, they also may not have appropriate clothing.

There are also inexpensive lingerie places like Yandy , if bodysuits, fishnet, lingerie is needed or wanted.

If you are handy and can sew, they is also the option of making your own  ( this is not however one of my options, I can't sew on a button!)

Another, newer option is to rent the clothing .  There is a site, specifically for artists, models and photographers called the Clothed Image ( the two images above are pieces from them) They have historical pieces, vintage pieces as well as more alternative pieces.  Add accessories, like hats , jewelry ,  boots, goggles,or what have you, and you have created a unique look.  They mail you your choice, and when you are done you mail it back.  Very easy and un complicated.

Be creative, look around in places you might not normally think of, and most of all have fun.