Thanks to the internet, almost anyone can be a ‘model’ these days with a camera phone and a myspace account. In fact, it’s become almost cliche to hear someone proudly proclaim “you know, I do a little modeling” during a casual conversation. I can’t tell you how many times a day a woman tells me that she currently models, has modeled in the past, or is ‘getting into’ modeling. It’s no wonder the title isn’t taken seriously.
Every woman wants to hear that she’s pretty – and I agree – but not every woman is a model. Real modeling is real work, and as ugly as it sounds, models need to fit a specific standard. Like any business, a model’s job has requirements and standards that need to be adhered to in order to succeed.
First and foremost, you need to have a mind for business. Modeling is 2/3 business and 1/3 how you look, so don’t think that just because people call you pretty that you can get away with being a flake. Treat your image as if it were a product; market it, package it, shine it up, and sell it. Agencies can be a great way to get your name on the map, but be weary of any agency that asks for a check – no matter how they dress it up – an agency is not there to take your money. A good agent will get employers to pay you, which is how they earn a commission.
Secondly, you need to know your look. Fashion models are generally tall, very slender, and have a very strong bone structure and piercing facial features. Commercial models have a more ‘girl next door’ look, and often take an interest in acting, television, or sales. What I call ‘Maxim’ models generally have a larger bust, a soft face, and take an interest in swimwear, lingerie, and implied nude work. And then there’s genre or niche models, these models almost exclusively appeal to a specific demographic (ie: gothic, heavyset, fetish, etc.).
Get some real opinions on this. Just because you see yourself as a fashion model – it doesn’t mean you are!
The next step is proper grooming and maintenance. This may seem like an obvious expectation, but many hobbyist models let themselves go without grooming under the assumption that a stylist (or retoucher) will fix their chipped nails later on. Not always the case. Again, thinking like a business person, would you pay for a product that was dirty, unkept, or improperly maintained? When arriving on set, assume the following:
Your roots should be touched up and hair color/style should match your most recent comp card, portfolio, or website photos unless you have already notified the casting director or whomever is organizing the event. Hair should be in good order, healthy, recently trimmed, and the style should be versatile enough to manipulate into anything the client needs for his particular project. Always show up on set with clean, dry hair unless otherwise noted.
You should not be wearing any makeup to the shoot, and your skin should be clean and moisturized. A model needs to have good skin, so make sure that you’re regularly exfoliating in addition to your daily skincare regimen. Notify the client if you have any abnormal skin conditions, allergies, or are victimized by a sudden acne breakout before the event. It’s a good idea to bring your own face towel, cleanser, makeup remover, and moisturizer to prevent any reactions to the makeup artist’s kit cleanser.
Eyebrows should be plucked or waxed, facial hair should be removed, nails should be trim and neat (manicured or painted), and any piercings that are not in the lobes (particularly facial) should be removed unless noted by the client.
Bring a mix of clothing and accessories (on hangers wherever possible), even if wardrobe is being provided.
Most importantly, a model should care for her body. Drink lots of water, eat well, and exercise – a model’s body is her calling card and career!
Lastly, always remember that this is a business – be on time (or early), be proactive, be professional, and be grateful!
SO true, great post. I enjoyed reading it. so many “models” need to read and learn from this.
Hi Jordan,
I’m a photographer and I love your work since I found you on Model Mayhem. This article is right on (I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had models show up with underarms unshaven). I thought you might like to read an article I posted on my blog regarding avoiding ‘agency’ scams in the industry. My website is mtmstudios.com and it’s in the blog area. Great fan of your style, you are doing Philly proud! Cheers, -Matt
Two snaps and a high-five!