Finding Models/People to Photograph?

[JoeW27 1]

Sorry if this is in the wrong area of the forum. Usually for my school projects I use my girlfriend as my model but I want to expand because she's not always available to help, especially on the weekends. My question is how do you find people to work with? Especially one's that will work for free since I can't pay to use professional models.

Yes, you can try MM but I'd advise against it. You're talking about shooting TF (i.e.: no pay). The only models interested in this will be:
--complete amateurs/beginners
--those who have just gone through a big change (gotten some tattoos, cut their hair, lost weight, had a baby) and need to update their portfolio
--if you are shooting a concept that is very different from what they have shot previously and they want to add that to their portfolio.

Now....the problem with the second and third category is that those models will look for a photographer with a good track record and solid portfolio rather than a beginner or someone starting out. So your chances of getting TF work on MM (unless you have an impressive portfolio) are not good.

Best bet is to find a university near you. Post notices up on the bulletin boards for the art and design programs. You will find plenty of models who will pose TF.

As for avoiding flakes and no-shows....sorry, your best bet is to hire a professional/full-time and pay. If you're shooting TF, unless you've got a fabulous rep and portfolio, there is always a significant chance of no-shows.