Public Forums > Photography > Working with models with stretch marks

I would like to know how you photogs feel about working with models with stretch marks? If you have a client that is casting models, would you pass on a model if she has stretch marks (even if she has everything else you and the client want) or would you still submit her and not mind retouching it in Photoshop?

I recently applied to a casting for underwear models and the photog really liked me. I sent non pro digital pics as asked of my torso (chest to knees), front and back, wearing a bikini. In my email I did tell him that I had stretch marks on my butt and slight discoloration on my stomach and that I would totally understand if that didn't make me a right fit for the job. I'm kind of worried now because although I have the look he wants, my stretch marks may affect me getting cast for the gig. However, it wouldn't require extensive retouching (I know, I retouch my own photos in Photoshop). On the bright side, my stretch marks are old and faded so they are a shade lighter than my regular skin color and not those raised, nasty purple-reddish type.

I'm a bit nervous but I didn't want to not say anything and then show up to the shoot and have the photog be like WTH?

Sooooo...what's your take on working with a model that has stretch marks?

No Dania! It wouldn't bother me as a photographer - for one thing thats what the make up lady is for. Most models in body shoots require body make up, nearly all, even if its just some concealer and powder on top.  Very few WOMEN have perfect skin all over.

You'd be suprised at how many images of full body models if you look close still have some marks and veins.  Its the glamour model types that look flawless because they have a ton of body make up on and lots and lots of retouching.

It's nice to know that you are such a cool photographer, Rowena! =) I didn't get that gig but I'm not going to agonize over the "why" because that would just drive me crazy so I'm just going to keep it moving. What you said makes a lot of sense and definitely makes me feel a LOT better! Thanks!

Ah that's good!

I've never met a model who hasn't needed some retouching anyway.  Make up & Retouching will sort a lot of things out!

beauty lies in imperfections

So simple, yet so beautifully said and couldn't be more true, Filippo! It's so great to know that there are photographers out there that really don't mind that a woman, well, looks like a real woman! haha. If a model has everything you're looking for but has minor things like stretch marks or whatever, I don't think that alone should completely dictate whether you decide to hire her or not.

Hey ! This is all very "cute" ! I was a professional model working....BEFORE PHOTOSHOP.... wah.... so all I can say here is....Go for it... if you are IN..you are IN..... and if not..... well off to the next. Thats the name of the game ! Always TRY !  Yes or YES ?

The thing is I have seen models recently (on these modelling competition shows) and also in adverts who have had stretch marks (but not very very noticable ones).  I thought this was great because I felt like it was a real woman - many many man women have stretch marks somewhere on their bodies!