Having Model Troubles

[Abigail the Strong]

The problem is, I don't have any models. I try to use family members but they won't stay still for very long. Should I take my own pics of people in different poses, or should I just do really quick sketches of people? I've heard that it is better to draw from life, so I wasn't sure about magazines and books.
I'de also like some suggestions for getting people to stand still longer.

[HunterKiller_]

Try find life drawing classes.
Any art schools in the area would be a good place to start.

[MephistoLV]

Get a large mirror. You are always available to be your own model.

[Seedling]

I'de also like some suggestions for getting people to stand still longer.

Bribery. ;) Offer to take them out for coffee, or offer to give them their pick of your drawings. (After you have scanned the drawing, of course.)

[Felicia]

Pick a pose that they can watch TV, read or play a game while you draw them.

[eezacque@xs4all.nl]

Team up with fellow artists and take turns...

[DavePalumbo]

all good suggestions. Also, if you do work from photos, it's always better (in my opinion) to shoot them yourself. Actually being there and seeing the pose in life is helpful, as well as being able to shoot from other angles, as well as the obvious of being able to control your lighting, pose, model, and costuming.

Also, check out your local community college. Most have some sort of night classes (often with open enrollment) for figure drawing. What I've seen typically ranges from $5-$15 a 2-3 hour session depending on the school/institution.