Enquire to book me for
- Photoshoots — specific projects or just for enjoyment
- Workshops, Classes & Events - for a patient, knowledgeable, experienced and adaptable model
- Photo Adventures - let’s explore beautiful and unique locations in Europe or abroad
- Mentoring — for helping models and photographers of any level to realize their creative potential based on their interests and personal strengths
How do I work ?
I am an organic and intuitive poser. I grasp concepts very quickly and have a general idea on how the pose will look on camera. My best work is not when I ”strike a pose”, but rather when I flow through a movement which the photographer can then capture.
However, feel free to add small corrections if you think it would perfect the image. I take directions easily. If you are unsure, it could be a good idea to show me the image.
How long to book ?
Booking at least 4 h is strongly recommended, as it allows us a more relaxed workflow and gives us the time to build up a visual project.
I also don’t take bookings over 6 hours when I am touring, with a few exceptions (for example if we are visiting multiple locations). This guarantees that I will stay focused and rested so we can get the best results possible.
If you would be interested in booking me on a shooting trip abroad, I give massive discounts for 3 days+ or week long photography trips.
You would like to work together, but don’t have a concept yet ?
If that’s the case, don’t worry, simply inquire me.
We will discuss initial inspirations, interests and ideas and refining them until it is ready to be taken to our shoot !
Additionally, feel free to check my moodboards for themes I enjoy working with.
How to book a session with me ?
* The deposit can be paid using IBAN/SEPA transfer, Revolut, Interac e‑transfer (Canada) or Transferwise. Paypal and Stripe are also possible with an additional 5% fee. The remainder of my rates can be paid the same way or in cash at the end of the shoot.
Covid-19 special conditions
I keep traveling in nearby Europe, according to states regulations and in respect of safety measures. I apply very strict hygiene habits and distancing, limit my public transportation as much as possible and avoid city centers and crowded places, such that I am in contact with no more than 15 persons each week. I get tested for Covid-19 after each trip, and results went always negative so far.
For shoots booked that should be cancelled due to government measures such as confinement or lock-down, the following conditions apply :
- if I am already in your city/region (I already paid for the trip, I am there and need to pay the trip back home), deposits will be partly refunded. I will keep just enough to cover traveling fees back and forth, split the amount between all the photographers deposits in that city, and refund the rest,
- if I am still at home (the trip is not already paid), deposits will be fully refunded, no question asked.
Terms and Conditions – FAQ
These terms are contractual. The purpose of this document is to state (and agree upon) everyone’s rights, duties and responsibilities, in advance, to avoid misunderstandings and painful situations. This protects you as much as me, and it has been made mandatory by previous experiences (read this to understand the reasons).
By booking me for a shoot, you accept them entirely and without reserve. If you have any further questions, I am happy to answer and clarify if need be.
Thank you for your understanding and I look forward to working with you !
I love working with experienced make-up artists, hair stylists and clothing designers, due to the stunning impact these talented artists can bring. However if you’re working on a budget, I am trained in basic make-up and can enhance my look well with natural or more intense looks.
As for my hair, I can do simple hairdos such as : low/high ponytail, braids, voluminous messy hair and tight bun. I can bring with me as well as short wigs.
I also have a varied and carefully chosen collection of photogenic outfits & accessories I can bring to shoots if needed, from classic pieces to eclectic and colourful wardrobe. This includes : modern outfits (Zara inspired) which can be styled into boho chic, classy casual or glam rock/punk, business/power woman sets, beautiful cocktails and evening dresses, bespoke corsetry, luxurious lingerie, flowing skirts and dresses, traditional Vietnamese and Hanfu Chinese dresses, coloured fabrics, versatile or statement jewelry and loads more. I usually come packed with a medium-size suitcase filled with styling according to the concepts we agreed on.
Hello Minh-Ly,
My name is Michel and I am a semi-professional portrait photographer based in Nancy, France. You can see my full portfolio on my website: http://www.michel-comtois-photography.com.
I am writing to inquire about hiring you for a shoot. I own a studio in the center of Nancy (address X) and I am looking to shoot a mix of simple portrait and conceptual portrait images with various light settings and looks on a weekend afternoon or early evening. I am hoping you could provide some casual outfits and some Asian-style wardrobe, as well as your own hair and makeup (simple natural beauty makeup with a punch to the eyes and loose hair). I am including a link to a mood board so you can see the general feel I am after: shorturl.at/CGMY0
If you could let me know your rates as well as your availabilities for the next several months, that would be great. I am looking to book for half-day most likely.
Looking forward to creating with you,
Michel Comtois
If the shooting details have been agreed upon, the deposit has been paid and I have sent the confirmation, then our shoot is confirmed. If I have not written you an email explicitly containing the sentence “I have to cancel your shoot”, the shoot is still on and planned, even if you don’t hear from me in the 72 h preceding it.
I understand that some photographers have had bad experiences with models not showing up for a shoot and need several confirmations, the week before, the day before, and then the same day, but I can reassure you that I will be present at the agreed time and location (feel free to check my testimonials or ask around for references).
On short-notice queries (72h or less), if I do not reply, I may simply be busy on a shoot, in transit, or lack a stable internet connection, in which case, please call me directly at the phone number written in your confirmation email, or at the emergency number (my husband) if you get no answer. If I am unable to answer your call, I will call you back as soon as possible.
Photographers and Models are able to hire me for 1:1 mentoring.
Mentoring may include:
- Basics of photoshoot ethics and etiquette
- Basics of creative collaboration
- Portfolio, website and social media review
- How to direct your model | Photographers
- Posing techniques and tips | Models
Additionally, as a photographer, if you are new to working with models and you are a bit nervous, here are some easy-to-read ebooks about the subject: How to work with models — A model’s guide for photographers and In Front of the Lens.
US (lbs/inches) | Europe (kg/cm) | |
---|---|---|
Height | 5’5 | 165 cm |
Weight | 120 lbs | 54 kg |
Bust | 36′‘A | 92 cm |
Waist | 28″ | 71 cm |
Hips | 37,5″ | 95 cm |
Dress size | 6 (Small) | 36 (Small) |
Shoes | 6,5 | 37 |
Hair Color | Black with natural light brown highlights at the tips |
---|---|
Hair Length | Long (bust level) |
Eye Color | Dark brown |
Ethnicity | Asian, Vietnamese & Chinese roots |
Skin | Tanned |
Tattoos | None |
Piercings | Ear lobes only |
- The shoot must be what was discussed in our prior communication - don’t hesitate to check with me beforehand if I am ok with whatever project. The scope of the shoot is defined in the confirmation email I send upon receipt of the deposit.
- I do not shoot explicit — An accidental photo (showing my labia and butthole) must be deleted.
- Please do not touch me — no matter the reason, unless consent is given.
- Weather — If this is a nude shoot, temperatures must be warmer than 15°C/60°F (indoors or outdoors).
- Privacy — any nude shoot must happen in reasonably private locations.
- Please inform me at the time of booking if you:
- Want to use clothing or props that leave marks on the skin (ropes, corsets, etc.) — so I can ensure you are the last shoot of the day and avoid showing up with marks on my next assignment.
- Want me to be covered in of any sticky/staining substance (water, glitter, body paint, oil, etc.) — there must be facilities available to clean up, and sufficient time to do so must be allotted (within my billable hours).
- Want me to pose with other models - I am very selective in this regard so my answer will not always be yes.
- Plan on shooting with other photographers — so I can check their portfolio/credentials. If booked with multiple shooters, generally I ask that those involved take turns to shoot separately, allowing for better communication and stronger results for each photographer.
Exceptions
- Temperatures below 15°C/60°F - Shooting under these weather will be considered only if you provide a warm shelter, hot beverages and blankets immediately on the set, and if the exposure to coldness is very limited in time.
Right of withdrawal
I reserve the right to leave the shoot at any time and claim my rates paid in full if :
- the actual shoot does not correspond to the initially agreed upon project, for example (but not limited to) :
- if I discover last minute that I am to pose with another model or for another photographer (or a group) without prior notice,
- if the photographer tries to sneak his way into switching the theme of the shoot from art nude to erotic/pornographic material.
- my security is endangered, for example (but not limited to) :
- if I discover that the shooting location is not safe (dangerous wild animals, risks of drowning, falling or any other injury),
- if I am asked to do illegal public nudity, property trespassing, etc.
- if the location to shoot nudes is in crowded venues and in plain sight,
- if any member of the shooting team displays any inappropriate behaviour towards me (attempt to kiss me, touch me without consent, getting me drunk, etc.).
As my primary role is to be in front of a photographer’s lens, when I am working or traveling, I generally have little time between assignments and commuting. Therefore please allow me a 72 h delay at the least to answer your messages/inquiries/calls.
To help me, I also have my husband (Aurélien Pierre) to assist me with communication and schedule from time to time. Don’t be surprised if he answers for me.
The best means to contact me are (in order) :
- by email for general communications and inquiries,
- by phone/VoIP to discuss projects and ideas in detail (request a meeting by email),
- by phone/SMS only for emergency contacts, in the last 48 h prior to our shoot (my number will be provided in the shoot confirmation email).
Your confirmation email, summarized agreed-upon conditions and project, will contain my phone number and my husband’s phone number for emergency contact.
- Acting / Conceptual Art / Cinematography / Story-telling,
- Artistic nudes,
- Bodypaint,
- Beauty / Editorial / Fashion / Hair / Lifestyle,
- Dance / Movement / Yoga,
- Fetish / Shibari (very selectively. Do not expect to shoot this style with me if we have not discussed in correspondence)
- Live modeling,
- Portrait,
- Underwater (so far, I have modelled around 10 underwater shoots in pools. I am confident and relaxed to pose gracefully underwater).
I am happy working with a team of creatives or one-on-one, in studios, interiors or outdoor locations.
I am diverse and within the genres I model, I enjoy both the adorned and the unclothed, as I think each can be powerful in their own way in making timeless imagery.
In fashion and beauty, I love the mixing of colour palettes, various shapes, contrasting textures and transformative effects of outfits, make-up, hair & styling. I am able to embody entirely different personas, looks, moods, or characters in stories transcending time, age and culture.
Equally, I feel very happy to use my nude self for creativity. Whether it is celebrating the beauty and form of the body or creating imagery exploring the interaction between the human figure and spirit within the environment, be it natural, man-made or metaphorical.
Need some inspiration ? Check my moodboards for ideas.
My interest lie in creating artistic imagery. I reserve the right to not pose in a way I don’t feel is in line with my working style or if I feel my health and wellbeing are at risk. I also don’t pose in a way that portrays me in a degrading or overtly sexual way and so I will refuse any trashy glamour, adult styles, or paysite work (PornHub, Diverxity, Bentbox, etc.).
As a picture is worth a thoudsand words, in addition, I have created an anti-Pinterest moodboard consisting of styles of images I do not model for. Please take a look here: https://www.pinterest.ca/minhlymodel/styles— i— dont— model/
If you require further clarification of my boundaries, don’t hesitate to ask.
My rates include :
- Working on set,
- Makeup (professional cosmetics),
- Hair,
- Styling & wardrobe,
- Art direction before and on set: brainstorming, ideas development, creative assistance (if needed),
- Beginners coaching (if needed),
- Traveling time and fees,
- Communication and planning time.
When requesting to book me for a shoot, please ask for my rates. I don’t have flat rates, they are calculated exactly on a per-project basis, taking into account the actual expenses, shoot requirements and working time engaged for each project.
My regular rates apply for office hours (08:00 to 20:00). For late night and early morning shoots, I charge an additional 40 % plus taxi fares if public transportation is not available at these hours.
Upon request, I can provide you with an invoice.
Throughout my career, many artists have booked me several times because they know when working with me, they are guaranteed to not only get brilliant and different results on each session, but also a great experience in general.
I personally wish to thank all the wonderful artists I had the privilege of working with over the past years and I look forward to meeting many more.
Working with the gorgeous and unique Minh-Ly is a precious experience. As she is quite creative, the energy transforms into successful sets and captures that are authentic, artistic and touching. She’s a model with highest standards, a true artist and a personality that simply goes way beyond the norm.
Highly recommend Minh-Ly to photographers who are into the arts and look for quality and creativity.
So happy that there are models like you, thank you Minh-Ly.
Can’t say enough good things about Minh-Ly. She was constantly in contact before, during and after the shoot. Beautiful, Professional, Friendly, Punctual, Hard Working, Cooperative, Helpful, and all-around Charming.
Worth every second of my time and effort.
If you’re looking for one of the best then this is her! A versatile, emotional and highly intelligent model, Minh-Ly constantly reinvents herself. Always prepared, always morphing during a shoot: it is an honour to witness her presentation of my art. With just a few words, Minh-Ly will absorb a concept and then elevate it to even higher levels of beauty. This lady has an open invitation to my services, any time and always!
Minh-Ly is pure genius. What a pleasure to have worked with a true professional, from start to finish. Very versatile and skillful at achieving all the concepts I asked of her. As the posing was choreographed to achieve the desired lighting effect, Minh-Ly was very patient and skillful with micro movements to get the desired effect. She has beautiful features and a unique appeal for me to achieve a cool folio of images. It is always a pleasure to work with a model who loves her work and always strives to work in harmony with concepts a photographer wants to achieve. We were both on the same wavelength and I loved the results. Minh-Ly comes highly recommended by me, and I hope to work with her in the near future.
Minh-Ly is my personal inspiration. We have worked together frequently and I brag to our mutual contacts (and her future clients) that she could model a shoelace for hours if you asked her. Sure enough, someone finally did and apparently she rocked it — I’m not surprised. Minh-Ly has an insane queue of poses in her mind at all times. She is an everlasting inspiration. Not only will she help you create images you couldn’t think of, her ambition, work ethic, personality, and general personhood will drive you to create other images you never dreamed you would.
I highly recommend hiring her or even meeting her (if you’re lucky enough to steal an hour of her valuable time). She is probably the only person — that I can say with absolute certainty — is one in a million.
The duration of shooting/posing starts exactly at the time agreed and stops after the exact number of hours agreed. Out of respect for my next clients, I generally cannot stretch the shooting sessions past the agreed amount of time without prior notice. If I happen to be late for a shoot, I will either refund the time lost or stay later if I can.
When showing up at a shoot, my makeup and hair are already done with a possible 5 – 10 minutes touch-up before we start.
- If you provide a makeup artist on the shoot, I can allow an additional 45 minutes free of charge.
- Change of setup, hair, make-up, clothing or travel between locations is included in my billable hours.
- Breaks are included in my billable hours (except lunch/dinner breaks).
- If you choose to end our shoot earlier than agreed, my rates will not be prorated.
- If you would like to extend our shoot past the agreed duration, please mention it as soon as possible (at least 48h in advance) so I can make arrangements.
I understand that unexpected things may occur, and I will do my best to accommodate any changes. If a change or a postponement is not possible, my cancellation policy applies.
Cancellation fees in Nancy-Metz (North-East of France) area
- from 48 h notice and above : free of charge, deposit refunded in full,
- between 24 h and 48 h notice : 30 % deposit not refunded,
- less than 24 h notice : payment due in full (deposit + remainder).
Cancellation fees worldwide (except North-East of France)
- from 14 days notice and above: free of charge, deposit refunded in full,
- between 72 h and 14 days notice: 30 % deposit not refunded,
- less than 72 h notice: payment due in full (deposit + remainder).
In the unlikely event that I cancel, the deposit will be returned and any studio fees will be covered by me.
French is my native language, and I am fluent in English.
As a professional freelancer, I ask for deposits, which amount is fixed to 30 % of my agreed-upon rate for your shoot (calculated on case-by-case basis depending on your project, please ask for a quote). These will serve :
- as an advance of treasury, to cover the fees I have to pay ahead of your shoot (transportation, make-up, lodging, visas, travel insurances, etc.),
- as a booking confirmation and a mutual motivation to honor our engagement so that our shoot will go on as planned,
- as a penalty fee, retained if your shoot is cancelled later than the allowed cancellation period (see Booking & Communicating -> What is my cancellation policy ?) and results in a loss of income.
Modelling is my profession and my sole income.
Planning for travel, communicating with photographers, going to the shoots, anticipating and solving logistical issues is part of my job and can take more than 40 h/week. As such, I cannot afford to model for free.
Traveling area

My local, regular, travelling area encompasses Nancy, Metz, Luxembourg, Strasbourg and Saarbrücken.
I also have a valid passport and travel regularly to Paris and mainland Europe, and once a year to Canada.