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Modeling Tips, How To Become A Model

April 26, 2010 11:00 pm

Do I want to be a model
Despite the glamour and hype you have seen about the modeling profession, it’s hard work. It’s boring (sometimes) and it can be tedious. Prepared to be constantly rejected, get ready for some major ups and downs. Modelling is a lifestyle, not an 9-5 job. Not all jobs pay well. Unless you are seriously committed about modeling, willing to work at it on your own time, live a healthy life style, etc., you will not succeed as a model.
You have to understand that there are lots of other people who want to be models, it’s a very competitive business. Are you willing to put the time and energy into competing with pretty much everyone you meet, 24 hrs a day?
Where do I start
You’ll need a modeling portfolio, I’m sure you’ll all know what one of those is but for those that don’t it’s basically a selection of pictures showing yourself in different outfits and poses. The standard size for the photos is 9 by 12 inches and you’ll need around 10 – 12 photos. Make sure you focus on quality rather than quantity, remember, you’re only as good as your worst photo. Make sure your portfolio has a selection of both head shots and full body shots. Make sure you get a variety of different looks such as swimwear, catalogue and lingerie, you get the idea, also get a couple of black and white shots in there. Avoid using pictures of the same shot.

It can be very advantageous to have photographs from different photographers in a portfolio. This will show the versatility in terms of styles and it will prove that a model can work with a variety of different people. Obviously, the cost of hiring different photographers for a portfolio is prohibitive, but there are many excellent photographers out there who will do prints for time – and of course many more bad ones. If you research what’s on offer well, it can be an excellent alternative.
Before going ahead with a photo session ask to look at the photographers portfolio to see if you like his style of photography. No doubt if you go to the photographers studio to book the appointment he will have examples of his work on display anyway. If you’ve never done modelling before this will also be an excellent practice run for you. Avoid photographers wanting to take nude shots, if possible take a friend with you to the shoot.

The Comp Card
You’ll definately need one of these. A comp card is what your modelling agency will use to market you.
What is a comp card? A composite card (sometimes called a ZED) is a model’s business card. In most cases, your comp card is your one and only opportunity to make a good first impression. With that in mind it is important that the images on your card are your absolute best and nothing less. Additionally, the printing and reproduction quality is extremely important. Poor reproduction makes your images look bad and as a result – makes you look bad. Besides a great head-shot, the comp card will have other photos that show your experience, your versatility, range, and what type of work you are seeking. For best results all of the photos should be the highest quality you can obtain at your stage in your modeling career. Make sure the you have them printed on rigid card that will withstand a bit of wear and tear.

Be careful! Do NOT have a modeling agency print your comp card. If you do – they will put their logo on it. You are going to want to sign with as many agencies as possible if you are serious about getting work. Comp card printing can get expensive – print them yourself and give each agency copies – they have stickers that they can put on them with their contact information and you will save money.

The Agency
An agency or co-ordinator should represent models. The model must have a portfolio, and comp cards. The agency/coordinator provides you with work (That is their main purpose. It is safe to say that they work for you!) They make a commission on your fee.

GOLDEN RULE – Don’t go with an agency who asks for money up front! You’ll probably never hear from them again and I ceratainly doubt you’ll ever get any work from them.

Also check to see if they are reputable and genuine. The agency/coordinator provides you with a safe working environment and looks after legalities of the paper work for the job. They provide their clients with “Professional” models. Keep copies of all-important papers, such as contracts etc. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency/coordinator. It is wise to choose the agency/coordinator carefully so you can stay with that them.
How do I approach an agency?
The oldest way to go about it is to visit them. Book an appointment ahead of time by phone. Bring at least 2 pictures. They don’t have to be professional pictures. A head shot, natural and clear. Also a full length shot that somewhat reveals your figure, a clingy dress , swimsuit, figure flattering clothes or other tight fittings garments should be worn. Forget about baggy clothes! It will tip off viewers that you have something to hide. Ask lots of questions. A sk to see what work their models are currently doing? Ask for names and phone number of clients and call them to verify the information, be concerned if they promise you work right away or promise you high salaries. If they don’t allow you time to think about it or if they use pressure techniques to sign the contract, be concerned. They should not ask for money up-front for classes or training. Be concerned if the they claim to be looking for ordinary people. Reputed agencies/coordinators might have open interviews during the week, give them a call and find out.

Our Top Ten Modeling tips
1. Always be on time, if you cannot, be let the Photographer know. Punctuality is very important.”safety tip”: If you are not taking anyone with you to the shoot, let someone know where you are and with whom. And be sure to tell the photographer that someone knows where you are.2. Always go prepared : ie…clothing changes that you know will fit you. Don’t always think that he/she will have everything that is needed for the shoot.

3. Always take your own make-up; even if he/she has told you there will be a make-up artist there. Always think of the could be’s.

4. Get references, as many as you can. That would include other models and/or assignments that the photographer has had. Check and double check. And be sure that a legitimate photographer is doing the same with you. Never take anything for granted.

5. Get phone numbers and addresses if possible, if he/she is hesitant. You might want to rethink the shoot.

6. Make sure that you know exactly what the shoot consists of, and never feel pressured to do anything that you do not feel comfortable doing. If nothing else, go by your gut feeling.

7. Always take along enough “cash” for cab fare etc. In case the photographer cannot provide adequate transportation. Most will, but always be prepared for the “just in case”.

8. Keep in mind that modeling is a business, not a personal venture. You need to be prepared to negotiate with prospective employers, regarding everything from pay to content. Don’t just drop out of contact because you don’t like what’s offered – either negotiate or say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” You never know, the employer you turn down could well have your dream job later – and if you treat him or her rudely or with disrespect, you’ll likely miss out.

9. Don’t ever do anything that you might be sorry for later. What you do today can affect your carreer later down the road. “If you pose for a photo that you cannot show your family and friends, and be proud of it, it wasn’t worth doing”. Mainly YOU should be proud of it.

10. If you have a verbal or signed agreement on traveling expenses etc. Make sure that it is followed up on. Written is sometimes the best.

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Amateur Modeling

April 25, 2010 7:02 am

Not everyone can become professional models, that much is true. Some may have the same physical attributes as the world’s top supermodels have. Some may be as tall as Nigerian supermodel Oluchi Onweagba, or as gorgeous as any of the Brazilian supermodels who have taken the modeling world by storm. But in very much the same way that not all good basketball players make it to the NBA, not all good-looking men and women can break into the world of professional modeling. That’s just the way the cookie crumbles.

But don’t let your modeling dreams crumble just because you’ll never make it to the runways of Milan, Paris, London and New York. There are other more viable options, and all of them are just within reach. By getting into the world of amateur modeling, you’ll get to live out all your modeling fantasies, and more!

There is a world of amateur modeling opportunities out there, and it’s up to you to grab any of them. Unlike professional modeling, amateur modeling is not replete with restrictions and requirements. Basically, amateur modeling is open to people of any age, size, height, or modeling experience. You can even do modeling work without any previous modeling experience at all!

Amateur modeling work consists of just about every imaginable type of modeling in existence. In doing amateur modeling work, you can either choose swimsuit or bikini modeling photo shoots, as well as lingerie or underwear shoots. Or if you are more daring than usual, you can be featured in countless websites that are constantly on the lookout for amateur models who are willing to shed their clothes for the camera.

Then of course, there are the amateur fashion modeling shows where you can display modeling skills that could compete with the best of them. These amateur fashion shows are sometimes held in malls, in community halls and gymnasiums, showcasing creations by local designers or fashion stores.

Joining amateur modeling contests is also one good way of breaking into the scene. Radio shows, television programs, local firms from all over the world often find themselves holding such amateur modeling contests, and sometimes stumble on real modeling gems. Like Heidi Klum for instance, who once joined an amateur modeling contest in her home country of Germany, and look how far she’s gotten. For all you know, you could be the next Heidi Klum. Try joining any of these contests and find out for yourself.

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Types of Modeling

3:00 am

When we think of modeling, we often see images of statuesque men and women walking down the runway sporting the latest creations of famous fashion designers. But modeling, as you very well know, is not limited to the fashion modeling we see on the catwalk. There are many types of modeling that men and women who do not fit the typical idea of a model can dabble themselves in.

Lingerie modeling, for example, does not require a woman to be six feet tall, but pays just as well. All it requires is a perfectly toned and well-shaped body, and a woman can become a model. Men, on the other hand, can go for underwear modeling, just like Mark Wahlberg did for Calvin Klein in the 90s. There are lines of boxers and briefs that need men with well-toned bodies to model them. Swimsuit modeling also demands that models have a good physique.

Fitness modeling, meanwhile, is on a whole different level. Those who are into fitness modeling are usually muscular, and sometimes look like bodybuilders. There is, however, less focus on muscle size and more emphasis on displaying and athletic and healthy body.

Now someone might say that a majority of the world’s population do not have perfectly toned and well-shaped bodies. As a matter of fact, more than sixty percent of women are a curvy Size 12 and above. If this is the case, then they’re just the perfect fit for plus size modeling. With designers like Elena Mirò, Jean-Paul Gaultier and John Galliano now creating clothes for those who are a bit on the heavier side, plus size modeling can only get more and more popular.

But there are people who dream of becoming a model but are just too shy to try their luck in the field. Fortunately for them, they can be models nowadays without having to show their faces or their bodies. All they need to display are their feet. Through foot modeling, shoes, socks, foot jewelry, toenail polish and other get the advertising that they need.

Now let’s move on to the sexier types of modeling. There’s glamour modeling, which, more often than not, is more sexual in nature. We’re talking about photographs that would merit a page in a men’s magazine, on calendars, posters and other products that feature a pin-up girl. Playboy spreads also qualify as glamour modeling, which is starting to become a big industry and paying its top models good money. Just look at how Pamela Anderson, Keely Hazell and Carmen Electra have been very successful in this field.

There many other types of modeling that you can probably give a try, just be sure you pick one that would suit you best.

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Your Modeling Portfolio – What is it?

April 1, 2010 7:00 pm

It’s a collection of your modeling pictures. How many pictures you need varies. You should only keep strong pictures, you are only as good as your worst picture! Models should aim for quality not quantity! Avoid using 2 pictures of the same shoot (same look) Black and White is the favourite of the industry. 9 by 12 inches are the standard size. Your agency will require you to buy an 11 by 14 inches for their book (portfolio). A basic but versatile portfolio would have a casual head shot, styled head shot, body shot (conservative swimsuit or lingerie), a fashion shot (sexy), action shot, an editorial shot and even a catalogue shot. As you gain experience replace the older pictures with newer one. Keep your best picture at the end to leave a lasting impression! Do not wear jewellery for those prints, it takes the attention away from you. The wrong choice of undergarments may show panty line or bra straps and will distract the viewer (on the job, or in interviews it can mean the difference between looking professional or not). Tailor your portfolio for your strengths and the type of modelling you are doing.
Portfolio is a set of professional pictures that helps you in getting the best assignments. Generally in a portfolio 5 rolls are clicked. In each roll one to two dresses are used and the Best 2 pictures are selected. So in all you get around 10 pictures in a 5 roll portfolio.

Portfolio Tips

The tools of your trade are your portfolio photographs and your resume. Portfolio is a model’s basic promotional tool consisting of an album showing the best photos from tests and bookings.

At the beginning of your fashion modeling career, your portfolio should include: At least two head shots with two different expressions (one smiling and one serious, or one in the studio and one outdoors). At least two fashion shots (one casual and one a little more formal). If you move well, you might like to include an action shot. At least one full-length shot showing the proportion of your body (feet to knees, knees to thighs, thighs to waist, waist to shoulders, shoulders to the top of your head). You could wear a leotard or a body suit, depending on what makes you comfortable and flatters your figure. A full portfolio consists of about twenty-four 9″x12″ photos and tears ( from magazines). Remember: it is better to have less photos, but ones that are really strong, than a full portfolio with photos that are mediocre. Every portfolio needs a mix of commercial and editorial shots, location and studio. You will also need at least one great body shot (professional and tasteful – editorial style is best) and one beautiful B&W head shot with minimal makeup.

Get trained in the various techniques required to be learned before going for a folio then Go to an Expert, trained and an experienced Fashion Photographer who could advice you about your best looks and specifically could give you more time as you are a learner, so you require more time to be comfortable with the camera and the shoot (never give shot unless you are comfortable).

A strong portfolio opens doors, a weak portfolio closes them. Your portfolio is often the only thing a person sees before deciding whether or not to contact you, and in many cases you may not be present to explain it (particularly on-line portfolios). There are fundamental qualities that all outstanding portfolios share, and a variety of principals and techniques that can help take your portfolio from average to excellent. If at all possible, your portfolio should be appropriate to the situation and reviewer, and all portfolios should show creativity, skills, range, thought, and ambition. It is the overall combination of these, plus that “special something,” that makes one designer stand above the others.

How many photos do I need to have?
Less is better! You will not impress with quantity – you will make a lasting impression with quality. The purpose of the modeling portfolio is not just simply to show that you are attractive – it is to show your ability to portray different characters, age ranges and importantly personality!
As a new model – 6 – 12 pictures is adequate to present yourself to a new agency. 20 should be a maximum – but only if they are 20 “WOW” pictures. Good pictures don’t make the grade.

Should the pictures all be in Color?
Black and White is not only an artistic medium that can be effectively used to create and convey a mood, but it is also a medium that is still very much in use today – so don’t be afraid to include a few great Black and White photos in your portfolio.

Your portfolio should be organized and visually appealing
Loose photos, cut up contact sheets, loose slides, torn or bent photos, are signs of a poor portfolio presentation. Just as an accountant wouldn’t present his resume on a crumpled piece of paper, you shouldn’t have a sloppy portfolio. Your portfolio represents you, make it a lasting, positive impression.

Kinds of Photos
A high quality headshot is a must. After you get some experience, you should have a couple different headshots showing different hairstyles and makeup looks. Your book should also contain shots of you showing the kinds of work you want to do. If you want to be a swim wear model, have swim wear shots, not high fashion, in your book. Versatility is good but don’t get caught up in trying to be everything. Stick to what you are suited for and are interested in.

If you take the time to review and select your work, and put together a well thought out book, you’ll be rewarded many times over throughout your career.