Of “Models” and “Photographers”

I completely hate and despise ‘photographers’ who claim that they go for “model shoots” to practise taking portraits and how to shoot people. I despise them.

Such model shoots are there solely for 2 purposes:

1. For male photographers to go and gawk at nubile bodies
2. For attention-seeking ‘models’ to indulge in their own narcissistic desires

There isn’t any real emotion in this photo, nor any artistic value, only that the girl is prettier (more photogenic) than the average girl you pick off the street. Big deal.

You may argue that it’s only for practise, and they practice better under certain conditions. And that they have to practise so that they can take professional shoots of professional models and celebrities and what nots, in future. Alright, then please answer the following question, my dear friends:

1. Do you think these ‘photographers’ would consider taking photos if the ‘model’ turned up in a nun’s garb?
2. How many of these ‘photographers’ will actually go into this line full time in future, ala Russell Wong and Kid Chan?

Chances are, the answer is none, for both questions. They are only using the name of such portrait photographers so as to be able to gawk at those ‘models’. It’s all about the sex factor, isn’t it? Pathetic, really.

I don’t think Kid Chan became who he was by taking such shots.

A true photographer does not only take photos of pretty faces. He would take photos of real people, who have real emotions on their faces, in real settings. Okay, so you may argue, but conditions in a studio are different. The lightings, the mood, etc. Yes yes, you’re right. But why don’t I see you taking photos of old men who have had difficult years and lines etched into their faces to show it? Why don’t I see you taking photos of middle aged women who have slightly sagging breasts and whose soft round bodies tell you, I have had kids and whose smile says, It’s been hard bringing them up but I love my kids?

I’m sure they would make great subjects, too. But nope, it’s all about the sex, isn’t it?

I hate to break it to all you pathetic photographer-wannabes out there, but having a pretty face in a photo does not make it a fabulous photo. It does not make you a photographer either.

And btw, girls, being photogenic also does not make you a ‘model’. The really beautiful ones would never subject themselves to such ‘photoshoots’ because they don’t need to prove to anyone that they are beautiful.

Besides, have all you amateur ‘models’ out there ever thought of what these male ‘photographers’ do with your photos? Unlike celebrity models who have managers and agents, you have no rights to those photos, and you will never know what kind of abuse it is subjected to. Maybe it will be posted on some sex-themed site for more guys to gawk at? Like sgGirls? Or worse, these pathetic ‘photographers’ masturbate to it, maybe?

Have some dignity, won’t you.