Q&A for How to Be a Nude Art Model

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How do I establish boundaries with the artist or photographer?

Brynne Zaniboni
Professional Photographer
Brynne Zaniboni is a Professional Photographer based in Los Angeles, California. With nearly 10 years of photography experience, Brynne is a Portrait, Fashion, and Music Photographer. Brynne is also the founder of Backroom Boudoir Photography, offering a range of boudoir shoots from birthday, to bridal, to maternity. She believes in the power of boudoir to celebrate every body and foster self-love and confidence. She has a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Northridge.

Brynne Zaniboni

Professional Photographer

Expert Answer

Communicate your boundaries with the photographer before the shoot begins. Let them know what poses and levels of nudity you're comfortable with capturing. During the shoot, maintain open communication and express your discomfort, if any. Lastly, ensure your privacy and confidentiality by discussing how the photos will be used and shared.

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Question

What should I do when a female model and I pose nude together?

MusicIsEverywhere

Community Answer

Simply follow the directions of your photographer, as you would do when posing solo.

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Question

Can I still become a nude model if I have really dark skin?

Community Answer

Of course! All body types are welcome: fat, skinny, dark, light, wrinkled, scarred, and all in between. Anyone who tells you otherwise is jealous of your beauty and does not know any better.

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Question

What type of body do I need to become a nude model?

Community Answer

Nude modeling does not require a specific body type. In fact, artists prefer to have a variety of body types to work from, as this enables diversity in their work. Every person's body is different, and this is thoroughly embraced in the realm of nude modeling.

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Question

Should I be a nude model?

Community Answer

If you're interested in and comfortable with being one.

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Question

Can you be a nude model if you have tattoos, piercings, or scars?

Community Answer

Of course! All body types are welcome, including scars. You may want to consider taking out some of the piercings, though.

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Question

How to 'control' an erection, or should I masturbate prior?

Community Answer

This is very unlikely to happen. However, in the unlikely event that it does, discreetly excuse yourself, wait for it to pass, then come back to continue with the modeling session.

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Question

Can I not bring a robe if I don't feel it's necessary to wear one, or would it be disrespectful to my employer not to wear one?

Community Answer

If you really don't want to wear one, tell your employer before you begin modeling that you feel comfortable enough in the nude that you can walk around naked between shootings without any need for a robe, and ask if this would be all right with him/her. If (s)he really prefers that you have a robe on between shootings, then you must respect his/her wishes and wear a robe.

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Question

Should you shave your privates and armpits?

Community Answer

Only if you want to. All looks are welcome! Artists like a wide range of models to work from.

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Question

Can you be a nude art model without being a nudist? If yes, how long does it take to get used to?

Community Answer

Yes, but if you want to get more comfortable being naked in front of strangers, you might want to visit a nude beach.

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Question

Are there generally age limitations for male nude models?

Community Answer

Photographers and artists are looking for all types and ages, as noted in the article.

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Question

Can a 12 year old do this?

Super flash

Community Answer

You have to be 18 or older to be a nude model.

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Question

Is a college degree required to become a nude art model?

Community Answer

No. A nude model body is needed. As a result, all people can be nude models.

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Question

Can a male exhibitionist be a nude model?

Community Answer

Exhibitionists' motives are often sexual, which is not okay in a nude art drawing class. You should not be sexually excited in completing the work. Remember that your service is to help local artists and is not centered around your sexual fulfillment. If you are just comfortable with being naked in a nonsexual way, then go for it.

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Question

Would it be okay for a female nude model to wear underwear that is the color of the skin?

Community Answer

Normally the employer wants a full nude model so artists can practice painting/drawing private parts, as well as the rest of your body. If you can't sit completely naked in front of the artists, being a nude model is probably not for you.

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Question

What age group do most artists look for?

Community Answer

The legal age group. So long as the body is capable of holding a pose; there is no discrimination unless advertised. Variety is key for any artist doing studies of the human body.

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Question

Should there be background music?

Community Answer

Background music works wonders in many activities. In the case of modelling (similarly to yoga), calm, peaceful, relaxing music can help ease tension and help you pose more calmly and freely.

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Question

How do I keep myself safe while doing this?

Community Answer

Make sure you only model for reputable classes - never sit for private sessions if you aren't completely comfortable with the artist. Carry pepper spray.

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Question

I'm a nude model, but I am not comfortable with the photographer seeing me naked. What should I do?

Community Answer

I would advise you to perhaps pursue other jobs. If you aren't able to be around someone else while nude, then being a nude model is going to be extraordinarily difficult.

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Question

What if the artist looks at me strangely?

Community Answer

They probably won't, as they should be used to seeing people nude. But if they do, politely ask them to stop or ignore them.

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Question

Should the pubic hair of the nude model be shaved for a pose and if so, what is the purpose of shaving the pubic hair?

Community Answer

It's entirely up to you. The beauty of drawing nude models is to see the diversity in each subject. Do what is comfortable for you.

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Question

Does nude modeling require large breasts?

Community Answer

No. All types of bodies are allowed.

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Question

How can I contact people who will hire me as a nude model?

Community Answer

Most art schools use models. You can email the chair of the art department and inquire about modeling.

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Question

I'm nervous about showing my private parts. What should I do?

Community Answer

Try to think of your "private" parts like you would any other part of your body. Most likely, you see certain parts of your body as "private" because of culture's and society's teachings. If you're able to allow yourself to feel comfortable nude, being nude becomes just another state of dress. However, if you're still uncomfortable modeling with everything visible, you might be able to arrange for a covering, or opt for clothed modeling instead.

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Question

How many people in general will the nude model be facing?

PreuxFox

Top Answerer

This depends on the size of the class or gig; there can be a lot of variety. You can ask the person running the event or class.

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Question

Can this be done in India?

Community Answer

As long as the nude modeling is done in a private place, and does not violate the local legislation.

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Question

Can you model with clothes on?

Community Answer

You can, but it won't be nude art modelling.

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Question

Do I have to be over 18 to nude model?

Community Answer

Legitimate nude modelling jobs are normally only offered to adults.

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Question

Can a young teenager be a nude model?

Community Answer

Probably not. It depends on the laws of the country they are in. They would at least need the consent of his or her parents or guardians. During photo-taking, his or her parents or guardians should be present.

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Question

I am single male and suffer from redundant prepuce. Could I be a nude model?

Community Answer

A condition like this would have no relevance to whether or not you could model. It would probably not even be apparent to anyone present.

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