FAQ
Believe it or not, but over the years we've received the same few questions a bunch of times. Here we'll attempt to address those topics!
General Questions
01
"How can I be a part of this awesomeness?"
Jump on over to our MEETUP.com page (www.meetup.com/nypinupclub) and join over 3,000 other pin up lovers! Once you sign up (totally FREE, btw!) you'll stay up to date on our shoots and events (including burlesque performances, fashion shows, walking in the Coney Island Mermaid Parade, etc...). Be sure to fill in your profile! If you see a listing that interests you, sign up (or drop us a line about it!).
02
"How are models selected for the shoots?"
We're putting this question in the 'General' section because both would-be models AND photographers ask about it. We get our models in five basic ways. 1.) We've been doing this a long time and have a good network of fantastic models. 2.) We search Model Mayhem and other sites for new models. 3.) We research recommendations made by photogs and models we work with. 4.) We get out there and network with models and burlesque performers at events and shows. And finally 5.) New members approach us through our Meetup site. A quick note about this: it's amazing how many people join the site, send an email about modeling for us, yet haven't uploaded a single photo to their Meetup account.
We occasionally offer Model Workshops where ladies can hire us to produce their pin up images. Several times someone who we met in Model Workshop has been invited to come back and model at our group shoots.
All that being said, for each individual shoot we have a specific concept in mind and are casting models we believe will best embody the theme.
Photographer Questions
03
"What kind of lighting will be at the shoot?"
We use 'continuous' lighting at the shoot instead of flashes/strobes. (This is sometimes referred to as 'video' lighting. It just means that the lights are always on, not just when you snap the photo.) This allows a large group to shoot simultaneously.
Depending on the specific needs of the shoot, we'll use tungsten bulbs, daylight balanced bubs, a powerful 1k movie-set light, a set of softboxes, reflectors, etc....
04
"What kind of gear should I bring?"
or "Do I need to bring my own lights?"
Gear:
This is something everyone realizes after their first shoot with us: you will go through far more batteries and memory cards than you think you will. Bring extra!
Also, and this is just a recomendation, but we find lenses in the 24-75mm range work best for studio shoots. Location shoots might work for a longer lens.
Lights:
You DO NOT need to bring lights! We will have lights set up.
Still, people want to bring their own. We allow people to have their own lights with a few rules:
1. we're talking BATTERY powered Speedlights and very small strobes only
2. it can't be in anyone else's way
3. your light can't be casting a shadow because it's in front of one of our lights
Again, we don't think they're necessary.
Model Questions
05
"Can I just show up?"
​
For each shoot, we have booked a limited number of Makeup Artists and Hairstylists, and we have a finite amount of space. For these reasons, only models we specifically book are able to attend the shoots. If you would like to be considered for future shoots, send us an email with a link to some sort of portfolio or at least a few images. (Also, consider signing up for one of our Model Workshops.)
06
"Do I need to bring my own wardrobe?"
and "What will I be wearing?"
​
You will recieve a consultation (via phone or online) from our stylist, Jessica. You may be able to bring your own clothes, and if you have a vintage-style wardrobe, you will be encouraged to bring pieces! We will also have our own wardrobe, as well as items provided by designers, boutiques, etc. It is important to stay 'on-theme,' so while you may bring something you wished to be photographed wearing, it might not get used.
You will probably be photographed in dresses, bathing suits, and lingerie. Again, consult with us beforehand!
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