All Snapped Up .16 ~ SusanCoffey

~ An interview of a talented artist in our General Photography Community

Tell us a bit about yourself, SusanCoffey! How did you get into modelling, and, subsequently, photography?

Modeling was something I had always wanted to get into, but didn't know how. Finally I found out about Model Mayhem (a networking site for models/photographers) and never looked back.

Is this a profession for you or do you have a job elsewhere and this is something on the side?

I am not with an agency so for me this is not a full time job. I am a recent grad and am currently working full time. I don't mind having a full time job and modeling as a hobby but it would be nice to model full time while I still can.

Why are you on deviantART?

To spread my art of course! I originally joined dA because a photographer I had been working with was telling me what a strong response he was getting to our photos on DeviantArt. Without that push I wouldn't have thought that my work as a model could fit in an art site like this.

What type of modelling do you most like and dislike to do and why?

High production shoots are my favorite. It is always a novelty to get to work with a team of professionals such as hair stylists, makeup artists, clothing designers, clothing stylists, ect. Although it always makes for an all day affair, these shoots are the most fun and the most rewarding.

I don't really 'dislike' any types of modeling that I have done. I guess if I disliked it I would choose not to continue to do it. One of the only things though that can really make it difficult to shoot though is temperature. I once had to shoot latex in an 80+ degree studio and on the flip side I have shot on the beach in a bikini in windy 50 degree weather.

Could you please describe a bit about the process of it all, from the beginning to the end of a photoshoot from your perspective?

There are 2 phases like most any project: the planning stage and the execution stage. Planning includes a decision on styling, hair, wardrobe, makeup, location and any other element that may apply. The shooting day is when we have to put all the pieces together. After all the elements are ready the actual shoot is quite easy and typically goes very quick.

On average, how long does the planning and execution stage take?

It can be thrown together in a half an hour if it is all up to me. The time comes in when you have to get a team together and coordinate ideas with availabilities. This can take over a month.

What are some key things that you bear in mind before, during and after a photoshoot?

Mostly styling like I mentioned above. I also make sure to get a good night's sleep and never shoot hungry.

What is the best and worst experience that you've had with modelling, the best and worst thing about it?

The best thing about modeling for me is the final result. I love seeing how everyone's work and style creates it's own unique group of images.

The worst thing about modeling is the unpredictability of work. I am completely reliant on photographers and sometimes I think they all go into 'hibernation' at the same time. Ideally I would like to shoot at least once a week but I can never keep up a flow that steady. My worst experience would be the one time that I have had to leave a 'shoot'. The photographer did not have good intentions and made me extremely uncomfortable. He was crude and inconsiderate.

One of the best things I got to do through modeling was go to San Diego Comic Con with Deviant Art. I got the chance to fly to CA and go to my very first con. I now attend NYCC every year. I am sure I will see some deviants there

Could you describe a bit more of your experience with deviantART and the San Diego Comic Con?

At the time Comic Con was like nothing I had ever seen before. It was overwhelming and amazing. I did interviews at Artist's Alley which was sponsored by dA. I also got to visit dA headquarters and see what it is like on the inside of dA.

What is your favourite piece and why?

I don't have a 'favorite'. It's really hard to even pick one image that stands out to me because they are all unique. I know that is kind of a cop-out answer but I just don't have one.

Are you doing any projects at the moment, photography wise or not? Offline and online?

I am working on a poster project right now with CCG models. If the poster is successful we hope to launch consecutive projects as well.

What advice would you give to aspiring models?

To always keep in mind that once a photo is on the internet, that it cannot be undone. And for other independent models, to also to always be safe. Also if modeling is something you want to be a part of your life you have to be committed to it. I also always keep in mind that everyone's perception of beauty is different. So just because you aren't an 'agency' model doesn't mean that you can't be successful.

How can an independent model be a bit more safer out there? Do you have any suggestions or tips for that?

I like to work with photographers that have experience with other models I recognize. That way I know they are of professional calibre. If it is a new photographer than I ask for references I may check. Even if it is only one other model. It is helpful to reach out to them and find out what their experience was like working with that photographer.

Also models ALWAYS have the right to bring someone (who will not be distracting) to the shoot. Any photographer who doesn't allow this is not worth working with.

Finally, is there anything else you would like to add?

Just a thank you for interviewing me and I always like to thank my followers as well,
Susan Coffey

Thank you SusanCoffey!

3wyl, posting on behalf of CRPhotography