Know the right questions to ask before booking your next shoot.
As a porn performer and independent contractor in the adult entertainment industry, it is your responsibility to ensure that you know the details of the shoot before agreeing to perform in a scene. By asking the right questions you will be able to make an informed decision on whether or not to book a shoot and perform the scene to best of your abilities. You don’t want to show up on set and be caught off guard by something that could potentially ruin a shoot and waste everyone’s time and money.
What
What is the scene or video about? What will you be required to do?
You will want to find out what kind of scene you’ll be shooting. Is it hardcore, softcore, VR, BDSM, Fetish? Will you be performing with a partner, solo, or group? Make sure you are comfortable with the acts you are being asked to perform. Never be afraid to say no.
What is the pay rate?
Simply put, how much will you be paid and how? Some companies may pay by the hour or in blocks, such as a day-rate or half-day. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the pay if you feel it is too low. You will want to find out how you’ll be getting paid. Is it paid in cash or by check? Do you get paid the day of the shoot or is it a payroll check that gets issued at a later date. If you are receiving a payroll check, find out if you need to pick it up from an office or if it will be mailed to you.
What company is it for?
Find out what company the video is for. Research the company and make sure you are okay with working for them and being associated with their brand. Check out the type of content they have produced in the past.
What are the makeup or wardrobe requirements?
You don’t want to show up on set assuming that you will be provided wardrobe and makeup. You may have to supply your own. So ask if wardrobe and makeup is supplied. You may have to do you own makeup or bring wardrobe options for the shoot. Ask if time will be allowed for makeup, if not you’ll have to show camera ready, meaning full hair and makeup done before you arrive on site.
When
When does the shoot take place? When is the call time?
You’ll want to find out when the shoot takes place and what time you are expected to be on set. Make sure the shoot fits into your schedule and allow yourself enough time to prepare for your performance.
When does the shoot end?
What is the approximate length of the shoot? Is it a feature that requires long shooting hours or a quick video that can be done in a couple hours?
Who
Who are your co-stars?
Research your scene partner or partners, make sure you are comfortable working with. If you are not comfortable working with that person you have the right to say no. Is the person/persons you’re working STI tested? Will they be able to show their results on the day of the shoot?
Who is the director?
You may want to find out who the director is and research them. Find out if they’ve worked with other performers. Sometimes the director will also be your scene partner if it is POV (point-of-view) video.
Who will be on set?
Ask who will be on set. If it is a larger shoot, then there may be several people on set during filming, such as production assistants, photographers, audio engineers, and makeup artists. Be sure you will be able to perform in front of an audience.
Where
Where will the shoot take place?
Is the shoot local or out of town? Is somewhere that you can get to on your own or will travel be required. If travel is required ask if expenses will be covered. Also, porn is not legal everywhere. Be aware of the local laws in that jurisdiction and that the acts you are performing are legal.
Find out details about the shoot location, such as where to park, where to enter, and who to contact in case you need directions.
Knowing the answers to these questions can help you decide if the shoot is right for you. You will be able to except the booking with confidence that you know what you are getting yourself into.
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