It is important that you act responsibly regarding your security and own well being before and during an photoshoot. It is always too easy to get carried away of a fantastic offer or opportunity, but always take one step back and think before you rush off.

Here are some tips you should follow to ensure your safety.

Before you agree to meet a photographer, request a landline telephone number that you can call them back on, inform them that you will call them back on that number sometime over the next 24 hours to verify the number.

If possible, get your boyfriend, husband, brother or father to talk to the photographer, if they are not legitimate, then normally a male voice will scare them away, to do this all you have to say is "my whoever will be driving me, can you speak to them to give them directions".

If you have any doubts, or unsure feelings regarding any enquiry, then do not take on the assignment, if you choose to take the assignment, make sure you get as much information you can regarding the location, the photographer and the assignment, understand exactly what the photographer is expecting of you and do not be afraid to ask questions, if you are going to a shoot thinking your doing lingerie and the photographer thinks you are doing nude, then there is going to be a situation that could have been avoided.

I always invite models to to bring someone with them, again most photographers will be happy with this, however do note that, most photographers do not like your male companion hanging around as this can distract you from your work. But most studios will have a waiting area with refreshments.

Never give out your home phone number, address or email address. Sites such as this have the ability to block someone from contacting you, should the situation between both of you turn sour.

Use your first name or create an alias, but try not to give out your full name.

Have a mobile phone you use exclusively for modelling.

If you can not for any reason take someone with you, ensure people know where you are and that they have a contact number for you and the photographer.

Do not be afraid to ask for references from the photographer.

Always get a full postal address and landline phone number of the photographer, whether it is home or business. Get full details of where the shoot will take place, again full address and land line phone number. If its a studio call it to confirm that it is booked. Check that the address actually exists put the address into Google maps for example

Never arrange to meet a photographer somewhere and then go off on location or to somewhere that isnt prior arranged. Either meet them at where the shoot will take place, and if it is on location then dont go alone.

If your work involves staying away from home ensure that secure accommodation is arranged before you travel and check it out first. Call the hotel in advance to confirm your booking, and check the room details, like you wont be sharing etc.

Arrange your travel detail yourself. If possible drive yourself or get someone you know to drive you.

Of course, this is not supposed to scare or worry you, most photographers and models are good decent people, but that doesn't that your safety shouldn't always be your top priority.

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