Sylvain Deloux Photographer

Frequently asked questions

Here is a compilation of questions that I am often asked before a photo-shoot. Here are the answers that correspond to the majority of cases. As each photo project is different, there are some cases that may differ: photo-shoot in collaboration or not, amateur or professional model, etc…

• How do you choose your models ?
  I have no physical criteria or age in particular (except in the case of a specific project). You must not be too shy and comfortable with nudity (depending on the type of shooting) and especially motivated. The motivation of a model is the most important point in my opinion, it is a first sign of a successful session. If you have never posed in front of a professional photographer, it does not matter.
• Will I be paid ?
  If it's a collaborative shoot, the answer is no. When I work with a professional model (which is the job), it's different because it is beyond the scope of a simple collaboration.
• Can I come with somebody ?
  I don't mind if a model comes with somebody for shoot. But during the session, I prefer that the third person does not stay on site so as not to disrupt her.
• Will I have the pictures at the end of the session ?
  At the end of the session no, because my work is not finished yet. I deliver the photos, after selection and editing, in a period of about 15 days. It may happen to exceed this time when I have other priorities (of course, when it is an order and not a collaboration, the priorities are different).
• Can I use the photos on my book/Facebook/Instagram/etc… ?
  Yes of course. On the other hand, it is forbidden to modify the images (this includes the hiding of the signature, the resizing, or any other modification of the file).
  These conditions are also specified in the contract signed during the session.
• Will I be able to have the raw pictures ?
  No, the raw pictures (without retouching) remain in my possession because it is unfinished work. When the edits are finished, I send you my selection of photos, in high resolution, with my signature on it.
• How is a photo-shoot ?
  Before the session, there is the preparation phase: we discuss a theme, choose a suitable place, as well as different outfits or poses that would go for the project.
  During the session (which lasts between 2h and 4h, or a day for more complex projects), I take many pictures (several hundred).
  At the end of the photo-shoot, we look at the pictures together (on the camera) to have a first idea of the result and make a first selection. The rest of the work is on my side, during the following days, and consists of a more thorough selection, a treatment (colors, framing, etc…), some retouching if necessary (imperfections of the skin, annoying background, etc…) and adding my signature on the images.
• Will I have fees ?
  It depends on the project. A collaborative shoot is, by definition, free. It may be that charges are added (transport, rental of a place, etc…).
  It can happen to me to move throughout the Ile-de-France by car, or to rent an apartment on Airbnb for a photo-shoot, depending on the needs of the project.
• Can I have pictures without signature ?
  If it's a free collaboration, then my photos will have to be signed.
• I do not want my name or face to appear, is it possible ?
  It's quite possible, indeed. When preparing the project, it is sufficient to discuss it together. Masking of the face is possible in a nude or erotic photo-shoot for example. For aesthetic reasons, I will not retouch by "blurring" the face.
  When signing the contract, do not forget to specify if you want to use a pseudonym, that I will take everywhere without showing your name anywhere. You can also be classified as an anonymous model on my site if you wish.
• Can you do some "Photoshop" touch-ups on my body ?
  No.
  However, I sometimes do some exceptional touch ups, such as removing a too annoying button or smoothing some parts of the body to soften the details on the skin.
• This is my first shoot, can I have some tips ?
  No stress, we take photos in a good mood without being in a hurry.
  Some good common sense tips like arriving on time, coming in good conditions, without being tired or upset.
  In any case, I advise you to stay natural and spontaneous, which is best for the pictures.
  If it is a nude or topless project, it is recommended not to wear lingerie that can leave marks on the skin before the session.
• I am a minor, can I pose for you ?
  Yes, there are no worries, just one parent has to be present during the session and sign a written authorization (in addition to the contract). But no naked or erotic project with a minor model.