Public Forums > Photography > What Does ISO Mean?

I see photographers list castings for models and use the term ISO in them--often in the headings. For example, "ISO High Fashion Shoot Needs Models." I believe it has something to do with the camera itself, right? If the term is referring to the camera, then why is it necessary to associate it with a particular casting? Is a shoot that uses ISO going to be different from another shoot that doesn't involve the term? What does the ISO term signify when a photographer uses it in a casting? I'm kind of confused by this and would love it if someone could clarify. Thanks in advance!

Hey Dania

What a beautiful profile shot!

I am perplexed by this too. ISO in photography terms refers to a setting on the camera, basically how sensitive the camera is to light. But mentioning it in a model listing is just weird! I've never experienced that before!

Hi, Rowena! Thanks for the pic compliment. =)

Really? I wonder if that is just something photographers here in the US are doing. It isn't all the time but it's been mentioned enough times in model castings for me to notice and inquire about it. Since it has to do with settings and lighting, I wonder if it means the project is dealing with various types of lighting? I have no clue lol. I wonder if there are any photographers here on Modelfolios that use ISO in their listing?

Hey Dania

This really does have me stunned.  Could it mean standard - since ISO represents a 'standard' perhaps its a quick way for a photographer to ask for a model that is of a certain height, certain measurements? Surely it can't be in reference to the photography, after all thats not the models  job!

I think we have a mystery on our hands, Rowena! =)

It could be either of the reasons you stated but even so, it still doesn't completely make sense. Hmmm...the next time I see that in a casting I am going to contact that photographer and ask them to clarify their purpose for using ISO in their casting. If I manage to get a good answer, I'll definitely post it on here!