I used to get extremely nervous when asking people (the majority women) to pose for me. I would only ask people when I had cards or a sketchbook on hand. To simply ask without any evidence you do this for a living would put a doubt in most people, I assume.
Recently, I have been asking, or better yet, getting requests to be drawn from clients that I've tattooed. We have a computer in the back room where I can pop up my website in a couple of minutes. During the slow season, I bring my drawings to work, and can show the person that I'm legitimate. Funny thing is, no one has said no; it's usually an immediate yes, but I stress that they have time to think about it. I do ask if they are willing to do nudes, but only if they are comfortable with it. I let them know how their drawing will be used and a contract is involved. I also ask if they'd like to bring someone with them to make them more comfortable.
I try to avoid compliments. I won't tell them they look good, but instead they have a good artistic look. Putting the person at ease is my first priority. Tattooing may give me a big advantage, but I'm still surprised how easy it's been to have someone pose.
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