Email from reader: “…and how do you get your models? Do you put out ads or what?…”
Answer
Next to the obvious recruiting tools such as ads in newspapers/local papers such as New Times, as well through agencies such as One Model Place, our favorite and probably most effective way to get good models is through word of mouth from other models.
If you hire a model you potentially hire everybody she knows. You have a professional model on set. Don’t be afraid to ask her who she knows who might like to work with you/your company. Chances are she knows at least a handfull of fellow ladies (or guys if that’s what you need) who have similar work ethic and attitudes. If you are able to offer a referral bonus your chances of getting a few good referrals are even better.
If you rely on getting your models via ads there are several issues you’ll have to deal with.
1) You have a lot of competition. Depending on where you are, there might be many individuals or companies just like you looking for models. Some may offer more money but the biggest problem is the fact that after so -and so many ads, a model will simply stop replying. If you are ad #50 and she stops replying after the first ten, you’re out of luck. This happens more often than you might think, particularly in competitive areas like Los Angeles. But even in cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix, adult production companies have been popping out of nowhere in gigantic numbers over the past few years. By the way, many successful and professional adult companies in Los Angeles won’t even put Wanted ads in newspapers anymore. That’s reserved for amateurs, wannabes and sleazeballs. 
2) Even if a model does reply, your biggest challenges is to get her to show up. It’s a good idea to meet with a model in a public place first to make sure she’s what you’re looking for, she’s comfortable with you, and so on. It’ll also give you and her a chance to thoroughly discuss terms of the shoot – something you will not want to skim over. Furthermore, it will show you how reliable she is. If she can’t make it on time or at all to your initial meeting, what are the chances she’ll show up when it’s go time?
Professional agencies are my second favorite way of getting good models. I really like the ones that let you provide feedback about a model which helps a lot cutting down on no-shows. A professional agency (keyword here is professional) is a great way to make sure you’re getting what you need. As always, be prepared to pay a handsome sum. Shooting adult content has become very expensive, particularly in areas such as LA, Phoenix, New York, Las Vegas etc. If you live in a less saturated area you may be able to get away with less. But before you even think about shooting anything at all, please make sure what you are planning on doing is not against the law in your area. This is very, very important.
My least favorite and probably the most frustrating recruiting tool is the aforementioned ad. Regardless of if your ad is online or on paper, you’re dealing with lots of unknown variables and potential frustrations. I also noticed that the quality and professionalism of models is far, faaaaar below what you often get from direct referrals and professional agencies. There are exceptions of course but dont’ count on them. Ads are good if you are looking for total amateurs looking for a quick buck. But then your chances of last minute flake-outs are infinitely higher than if you are dealing with professional performers in the first place.
Final Words
If you are really serious about a career in shooting adult content and are able to attract the kind of models there are a few things you absolutely must have in place:
a) Model must be 18 years of age or older and she must have two valid picture IDs such as a driver’s license and/or passport. The IDs must be issued by either the State or Federal agency – a library card won’t do.
b) You must have a model release form that states that all images/videos etc shot will be your property and that you can do with it as you wish. It’s really worth it to have a lawyer specializing in contracts write one up for you. It’s money well spent.
c) If you shoot hardcore sex scenes you absolutely need to make sure each performer has a recent HIV/STD test done. Make sure they bring the results with them on the day of the shoot. If something looks fishy or they refuse to get a test, cancel the shoot. Do NOT risk this.
d) Make sure you are not breaking the law by shooting video or taking pictures. As a rule of thumb, the harder your shit, the more trouble you’re inviting. Right now the only “safe” place in the US to shoot hardcore porn is Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley. All other States, countries, areas, communities, cities…well, it’s your risk and your ass so be careful.
