Model ID
Model IDby IMF

Code of Conduct — Certified Creatives

For IMF-Certified Creatives

Effective: February 2026

This Code of Conduct applies to all creatives certified through Model ID, including photographers, videographers, directors, stylists, makeup artists, hair stylists, and other production personnel. The goal is to ensure a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all models, especially minors and individuals from vulnerable groups, during all shoots, castings, and productions.

1Professional Conduct

  • Treat all models and crew members with dignity and respect at all times
  • Avoid using sexual, demeaning, or suggestive language on set
  • Provide clear communication and respectful direction; avoid shouting, intimidation, or pressuring behavior
  • Never touch models without their consent, even for direction or styling purposes
  • Do not make unsolicited comments about a model's body, weight, size, shape, skin, hair texture, or physical appearance — including comments framed as compliments. Professional direction about styling or wardrobe is appropriate; personal commentary on a model's body is not.
  • Do not accept bookings that require skills or experience you do not have. If you cannot professionally work with all hair types, skin tones, or body types relevant to the job, it is your responsibility to decline the booking or arrange appropriate support — not the model's responsibility to accommodate your limitations.
  • Respect the diversity of all models. Discrimination, microaggressions, or exclusionary behavior based on race, ethnicity, body type, disability, gender identity, age, or any other characteristic is a violation of this Code and may result in immediate action.
  • Avoid being alone with underage models — a responsible adult or guardian must be present at all times

By applying for certification, you confirm that you have never been subject to disciplinary action, formal complaints, or legal proceedings for any of the conduct described above — including sexual harassment, coercion, intimidation, verbal abuse, or unauthorized image use. Any misrepresentation of past conduct constitutes grounds for immediate revocation of certification, regardless of when the misrepresentation is discovered.

2Privacy and Safety

  • Ensure changing facilities are private and gender-appropriate
  • Never take unauthorized images of models, especially while they are changing or in vulnerable situations
  • Do not share behind-the-scenes or unfinished content without explicit consent from the model or their representative

3Nudity and Sensitive Themes

  • Do not request or suggest nudity, partial nudity, or sexually suggestive posing unless explicitly agreed upon in advance by the model and their representative (and guardian, if applicable)
  • All creative work involving sensitive themes must be pre-approved and documented via brief or contract before the shoot begins
  • No model may be pressured or manipulated into removing clothing or changing the concept mid-shoot

4Working with Minors

  • Models under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian or licensed chaperone for all sensitive or overnight shoots
  • No physical contact with a minor model is permitted without consent and clear professional necessity
  • Do not photograph or film minor models in lingerie, swimwear, or suggestive settings without documented parental/guardian consent and ethical review

5Digital Content and AI

  • Do not create, alter, or manipulate a model's likeness using AI or digital tools without their explicit written consent
  • Respect models' rights over their digital identity and image
  • Do not use images from shoots to train AI models or generate digital replicas without consent
  • Be aware that certified models have access to tools that scan the web for unauthorized use of their likeness

6Reporting and Accountability

  • Any misconduct, boundary violation, or safeguarding breach must be reported through Model ID's reporting system
  • Certified creatives who violate this Code may receive warnings, suspensions, or permanent revocation of their certification
  • Model ID reserves the right to investigate complaints and take action based on findings
  • Retaliation against anyone who files a report is strictly prohibited and grounds for immediate revocation

By obtaining and maintaining Model ID certification, creatives confirm they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

© 2026 International Modeling Foundation. All rights reserved.