How do you ask people to model?

[Tygerson]

Maybe this is kind of a weird question, but how do you ask people to model for you? Nothing embarrassing, but like for portraits or a fantasy scene? Or if you have, how have people responded?

None of my friends are into fantasy, so I feel like a dork saying, "Hey, can you pose as an elf warrior for me?"

Or for example, there's a lady I sort of know who is stunning and has an aquiline nose, which you just don't see enough of on stunning characters. I've wanted to paint her face since I met her. But again, feel kinda weird asking. Especially since my art skills are still lacking.