Private Cam Show Etiquette: What Do Models Hate?

Every cam site has definitive rules for how its platform should be used.

But what about the unwritten rules?

There is a code of conduct between models and viewers. We like to call it cam site etiquette. 

At the very highest level, it goes like this:

Just because you've paid money for a show, it doesn't mean you can act like an asshole.

I'm sure most of us would agree.

Much of the behaviour that models frown upon simply isn't recognised by the offending customers as 'a bad thing'. 

Or rather: not every asshole knows that he is being an asshole.

We spent some time engaging with models from AmberCutie's Forum (ACF) and WeCamGirls, and we're going to share some common etiquette guidelines to put this straight.

1. Respect the Model’s Boundaries

First and foremost, boundaries are really important to every single cam model.

Each performer has their own set of rules and limits, which they often state at the beginning of a session or on their profile. Ignoring these boundaries not only ruins the experience but can also get you banned.

One user on ACF shares, “One of the quickest ways to become my mortal enemy is to pay for your show and then promptly ask me to do all of the things I've already listed in my profile as no-go. If a model says no, respect that no.”

2. Avoid: "Hey, I Recognise Your Leaked Work!"

If you met your dream Hollywood actress in the street, would you introduce yourself with the opener: 

"Hey, I really love your content in The Fappening!"

Probably not.

Another user on MCF is quick to point out the... uhh, frustration, of being small-talked with compliments about illegally shared work:

"I had someone watch me as grey (a non tipper) on StripChat, then message me on Twitter to tell me they had watched my videos on one of the scammy recordings sites and loved it so much they would now like a custom video.

I told them to tip to begin with, and told them how uncool it is to do what he did. No apology and of course no tip forthcoming, so I blocked. Fast forward to them finding me on a different site for this exchange."

Nothing we say will stop freeloaders from searching out leaked content of their favorite models. It's inevitable. But if you're going to watch leaked clips, probably best not to use them as a conversation starter with the affected model.

Just a thought, guys!

3. Read Profiles & Be Clear About Your Expectations

It goes without saying - communication is key. 

Before the show starts, discuss what you’re looking for and make sure the model is on board. This prevents any misunderstandings and ensures both parties have a good time.

Most cam sites have a profile section where you can check out what a performer is (or isn't) willing to do. There's no harm in asking if you are unsure, and most models will state clearly that you should message them if you have any special requests.

A word of advice: some cam sites are much better than others at tagging their performers. And some models don't help their cause by using tags that don't actually apply to their shows.

For example, if you're browsing the JOI filter on LiveJasmin, you might reasonably expect than any model in that section will be willing to dish out some jerk-off instructions. Most times, yes. But it's always best to confirm what you have in mind before launching in to a private chat.

4. Tip For Models That Go The Extra Mile

This is a controversial subject. 

The concept of tipping is perceived differently in the United States compared to many European countries. Different users have different expectations of what is considered part of a 'standard' service.

Whatever the case, there's not a cam model on this planet who isn't going to appreciate the generosity of being tipped for a good show.

Many models rely on tips as their primary source of income. If you enjoy a private show, show your appreciation by tipping generously. Lowballing or attempting to get freebies is a big no-no.

A user on WeCamgirls sums it up best: “If a model goes above and beyond to make your experience special, acknowledge that effort with tips. It’s basic courtesy and it gives us an incentive to make your next show even better.”

5. Keep It Respectful

Respectful behavior is non-negotiable. 

You would be amazed how much time a camgirl spends banning assholes.

"There's a lot of entitled guys, or people raised by wolves. So you need strong boundaries and ban at the first red flag." says user FewMistake4413 on CamGirlProblems.

All of the best cam sites are heavily moderated to ensure their models are treated with respect and users are behaving appropriately, but private shows are not always supervised. Drop a 'red flag' and you're likely to see a swift end.

We usually find that the type of users who are paying for private shows are more likely to be respectful, since they've got some skin in the game. But not always.

Being polite, courteous, and kind goes a long way. Avoid derogatory language (unless it's part of a pre-agreed 'fetish show'), and remember that the person on the other side of the screen is a professional providing a service.

6. Avoid Recording or Screenshotting

You know what really wrecks a model's morning coffee?

Finding her shows plastered on leaked streaming sites.

This is a serious no-no.

Here on CamsRank we regularly receive questions about the do's and don'ts of recording private shows. We understand that many viewers love to watch back their private shows and relive the sexy moments. 

The good news is that several platforms offer recordable shows as a paid option when you enter a private chat. Models can opt in or out of the feature, which is the way it should be.

Recording or screenshotting in any other manner is a breach of trust and extremely poor camming etiquette.

The next step up - publicly sharing recorded footage - opens you up to possible legal action.

7. Remember It Takes Two To Tango

No, we're not suggesting you whip your clothes off and start competing for attention.

But models appreciate viewers who are engaged and active during the show. 

Don’t be a silent lurker; communicate and show your enthusiasm. Don't quietly simmer with resentment that a show isn't going as you planned... communicate with the model what you like, or don't like. 

Respectfully, of course.

One thing we've noticed with the top performing models in this space - they are great listeners. They have seen many types of customers, with many differing 'needs'. They can invariably adjust their shows when they know what 'type' you are.

But they can't do that if you're stonewalling or dead-fishing them. 

8. Attempted Freeloading

This one gets old fast.

"Hey babe, we've been talking loads now, I'm your biggest fan. Any chance I can have X, Y, Z for free?"

Your favorite cam model is not a coffee shop. You don't get cashback for the fun you had yesterday. You don't collect a sticker for every time she gets you off. 

Implying any kind of 'mate's rates' based on past interactions is a great way to make a performer feel awkward.

9. Don't Expect a Hookup

Even worse.

We spoke recently to Germany-based Katrina, a full-time cam model who is all too familiar with clients crossing the line:

"I know things are going south when the guy reads in to my accent and starts asking which town I'm from. I have quite a distinct accent, and I try to mask it, but if you're from [this part of the country], it's obvious to anybody else who lives here. The problem with these guys is they think that just because we live within 50 km, maybe I'd like to hook up instead of keeping things online. It's just creepy."

Katrina showed us a transcript of a customer who had worked out that she lived in the same region as him.

"Guys need to understand that we choose to stream online out of choice - not because we couldn't find any escort work nearby. That's not work it works. If I wanted to go work in a brothel, Germany has plenty. For this reason I now block all users from my own region. It hit my overall earnings, but I hate the implication that local = might hookup IRL" 

Indeed. There's a reason why we always advise our readers on CamsRank not to fall in love with cam models.

Camming is a transactional business. Service provider, service buyer. 

It's not a dating site.

Cam Etiquette Fails: What Do Models Hate?

The fails above? This is just the tip of the iceberg.

Models - what annoys you most while you are performing?

And viewers - what about you? (Yep, we know, some models aren't saints either!)

Let us know your examples of cam site etiquette fails below.

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