MicrostockGroup

As you can see in my portfolio there arent any photos of people. I would like to start also with this kind of photography (really interested in portrait shots ).

I have two questions

1. How do you usually find models ( friends, ads, you see someone and approach them???  )
2. How mush do you usually pay them?

Thnks!

Thanks! But as im from Europe - someone from old continent ?

Everyone in my portfolio is someone who I know personally either friends, relatives, or referred by friends and relatives.  If you make it fun for the models, they will tell their friends.  Pretty soon you are turning people away!

In the beginning, I didn't pay models, but included portraits for them in every shoot, so they were getting a free portrait session and I got some stock concepts in exchange.  I also have a rewards system for models, where if their image gets flames at IS, they get an 8x10 print and a certificate of appreciation.  If they get red flames, they get a $25 gift certificate to a restaurant or movie theater. If they get blue flames, they get a $100 gift certificate. 

Now I do pay them, but only after the first session.  First session is still a barter (time for pictures)  until I see how well they work out.  If I want them back, and they want to come, then I pay a flat rate for the modeling session.  Usually $50-$75 per person for around 4-6 hours.  I also take them out to dinner afterwards.  It's a great way to reward them and myself after a long day of shooting, and helps make it fun, so they want to come back again. 

Hope that helps

Be sure you let the putative model know how widely the images may legally be used (to promote any product, e.g. Viagra, or cause (e.g. religion or politics etc.), include some worst-case scenario examples, and explain that the images can be manipulated heavily in their end use. Doubly do this if not paying 'models'. E.g. if the person is a well known supporter or opposer of a cause, they could appear in adverts for the opposite point of view. The terms of use usually say they can't imply that a person endorses the product/cause, but of course that's subjective. Also that the images may be misused, and usually the worst that will happen is that the agency may issue a cease and desist.
Also be prepared that if you get a model from e.g. Model Mayhem, they may not show up.
But hey, there are lots and lots of models pics out there. 

Splitting royalties would be crazy trouble.  Pay them something based on experience and complexity and be done.

 I shoot my friends : ) They were ppl I knew already, or aproached them thru facebook, etc, or on the street (I only do that with gals, would feel weird with men), but we became friends anyawy usually. I never payed any of them, they get nice shots of themselves for their time, they seem to be very happy with that.

TFCD with models in my area on Model Mayhem, plus friends daughters