Modeling Tips For the Beginning and Professional Model
I hope that these modeling/photographer tips are as helpful to you as they have been for me.
These tips are based on my own experience. And, not to be compared to other viewpoints.
I do not advise anyone under the age of 18, without parental consent.
Important for "Web-based" models, there are tons of free listing sites online for Models.
If you list with them remember these important tips:
Never give out more information than is necessary
Always check references and ask for samples of the photographers work
Ask other models if they know the person
Think Safety first!
1. If you want to be taken seriously, when sending e-mails - Do NOT use "cutsie" names, don't use "pink" colored fonts, and do not use a background that is hard to read.
Try to have at least your first name in your e-mail address. When corresponding with people in the business, unless you know them don't "LOL" etc. in e-mails. Your professional approach to modeling will carry a big impact on those you correspond with.
Always try to 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 consist 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. There should always be a modeling agreement"release" signed before the shoot, some might prefer after. As long as you get one it should be ok. Make sure in the agreement that you have knowledge of where and how your images are going to be displayed. Try to have full say in this.... If at all possible.
9. Don't ever do anything that you might be sorry for later. What you do today can affect your career 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.
11. Home studios are fine, just make sure that there is a separate changing area, with a lock. Always check your surroundings. Check for exits etc.
12. Remember your body is yours, and if anyone comes within your safety zone, be sure to let them know. I have found that more reputable photographer's will NOT touch you. If you feel uncomfortable as stated before, tell them so. That is your right.
13. Always try to be rested before a shoot, especially if alot of travel is involved. The best shoots are ones where you feel rested and fresh.
14. Time for Prints is just that, your time in exchange for prints.
15. Always remember you are not considered a professional after one or two shoots. It takes alot of work to get to that point. Nothing comes easy, most of the time.
16. Always present yourself in a very professional manner whether it be your first or 100th shoot.
17. Never assume that one image is going make a career. Try to keep up with styles, clothing trends etc.
18. Keep your portfolio updated with new looks etc. We all change from time to time, never present yourself as something that you are not.
19. Remember there are modeling opportunities for almost everyone. Make sure that you fit into the one that best suits you and your goals. Marketing today is very diversified, different looks, shapes, sizes, ages, etc.
20. Be you, and be the best you can be. You will have times when this business will get you down and that is ok, if this is what you really want....reach for your goals.
21. Communicate, with the photographer, as much as possible. If he/she writes to you answer as quickly as possible. Communication is very important.
22. Ambition. A model goes after her goals. You won't become a model by sitting at home and waiting for agents to come to you! (Note: Never sign with the first agency you visit. Always go to at least five before making a Decision!)
23. Confidence. Clients are looking for someone who is self-assured and whom they think can sell their product. A model must be able to sell herself before she can sell a product. It is also important to be able to handle the rejection that every model must face. No model could meet the expectations of every possible client. It is always best to go into a casting not caring whether or not you get it. That way it's a pleasant surprise if you get the job but you aren't let down if you don't get it.
24. Independence. Because models must sometimes travel away from their Friends and family for a job, or move to a big city to pursue a full time career, it is important to have a great deal of independence. You must be comfortable being by yourself for long periods of time.
25. Organization. A model must be organized in order to keep track of the different dates, times and locations of appointments so that she can show up at appointments and go-sees on time.
26. Stamina. A model is sometimes on her feet all day in the freezing cold or the hot sun. She must be healthy and in shape to be able to work all day and still look good. Eating healthy, going for walks/jogs and working out at a gym three times a week is a must.
27. Will-Power. Unfortunately, the international modeling scene does often involve drugs and partying. A model must have strength of character and will-power in order to stay away from drugs and too much partying. An agency will drop a model very quickly if it becomes known that she takes drugs or parties a lot.
The following was contributed by a Photographer.
28. HAVE YOUR NAILS DONE BEFORE YOU ARRIVE FOR SHOOT, NORMALLY A "FRENCH MANICURE" WILL GO WITH MOST OUTFITS. UNLESS OTHERWISE DISCUSSED, ASSUME THIS
29. KEEP TAN LINES TO A MINIMUM. NOTHING WORSE THAN A DARK TAN LINE SHOWING ON THE EDGE OF AN EXPENSIVE OUTFIT.
30. IF YOU ARE ON A SPECIAL DIET, DON'T EXPECT THE PHOTOGRAPHER TO KNOW, OR PROVIDE THIS. BRING YOUR OWN.
31. IF YOU DO BRING A FRIEND, MAKE SURE THEY KNOW TO STAY OUT OF THE MAIN SHOOTING AREA. NOTHING MORE IRRITATING TO A PHOTOGRAPHER THAN SOME MODEL'S FRIEND TALKING TO HER ON THE SET. AND NEW MODELS HAVE A TENDENCY TO LOOK AT THEIR FRIEND FOR APPROVAL. TOTAL "NO NO"
32. NEVER STARVE YOURSELF BEFORE A SHOOT. SOME SHOOT'S TAKE ALL DAY, AND IF YOU DROP ON THE SET, THE WHOLE DAY IS SCRAPPED. NOT TO MENTION THE MONEY LOST.
33. DON'T ASSUME, JUST BECAUSE YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL, THAT ALL PHOTOGRAPHER'S ARE WANTING TO SLEEP WITH YOU. ANY 'REAL PRO' IS MUCH MORE INTERESTED IN HIS F-STOP, LENSES, FILM, YOUR MAKE-UP, AND THE POSITION OF THE SUN TO WORRY ABOUT GETTING PERSONAL. AS I SAID BEFORE, TIME IS MONEY !!!!
34. ALWAYS CARRY 2 FORMS OF I.D......OR BETTER YET, PHOTO COPIES OF THEM. A MUST IN ANY MAJOR PHOTO SHOOT.
35. IF A PHOTOGRAPHER SAY'S HE SHOOTS FOR A CERTAIN MAGAZINE......LOOK IN THE MAG AND SEE IF HIS NAME IS IN THE MAST- HEAD.. IF IT ISN'T, CALL THE EDITOR TO VERIFY HIM. IF THEY DON'T KNOW HIM, DROP HIM/HER IMMEDIATELY.
These tips are based on my own experience. And, not to be compared to other viewpoints.
I do not advise anyone under the age of 18, without parental consent.
Important for "Web-based" models, there are tons of free listing sites online for Models.
If you list with them remember these important tips:
Never give out more information than is necessary
Always check references and ask for samples of the photographers work
Ask other models if they know the person
Think Safety first!
1. If you want to be taken seriously, when sending e-mails - Do NOT use "cutsie" names, don't use "pink" colored fonts, and do not use a background that is hard to read.
Try to have at least your first name in your e-mail address. When corresponding with people in the business, unless you know them don't "LOL" etc. in e-mails. Your professional approach to modeling will carry a big impact on those you correspond with.
Always try to 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 consist 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. There should always be a modeling agreement"release" signed before the shoot, some might prefer after. As long as you get one it should be ok. Make sure in the agreement that you have knowledge of where and how your images are going to be displayed. Try to have full say in this.... If at all possible.
9. Don't ever do anything that you might be sorry for later. What you do today can affect your career 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.
11. Home studios are fine, just make sure that there is a separate changing area, with a lock. Always check your surroundings. Check for exits etc.
12. Remember your body is yours, and if anyone comes within your safety zone, be sure to let them know. I have found that more reputable photographer's will NOT touch you. If you feel uncomfortable as stated before, tell them so. That is your right.
13. Always try to be rested before a shoot, especially if alot of travel is involved. The best shoots are ones where you feel rested and fresh.
14. Time for Prints is just that, your time in exchange for prints.
15. Always remember you are not considered a professional after one or two shoots. It takes alot of work to get to that point. Nothing comes easy, most of the time.
16. Always present yourself in a very professional manner whether it be your first or 100th shoot.
17. Never assume that one image is going make a career. Try to keep up with styles, clothing trends etc.
18. Keep your portfolio updated with new looks etc. We all change from time to time, never present yourself as something that you are not.
19. Remember there are modeling opportunities for almost everyone. Make sure that you fit into the one that best suits you and your goals. Marketing today is very diversified, different looks, shapes, sizes, ages, etc.
20. Be you, and be the best you can be. You will have times when this business will get you down and that is ok, if this is what you really want....reach for your goals.
21. Communicate, with the photographer, as much as possible. If he/she writes to you answer as quickly as possible. Communication is very important.
22. Ambition. A model goes after her goals. You won't become a model by sitting at home and waiting for agents to come to you! (Note: Never sign with the first agency you visit. Always go to at least five before making a Decision!)
23. Confidence. Clients are looking for someone who is self-assured and whom they think can sell their product. A model must be able to sell herself before she can sell a product. It is also important to be able to handle the rejection that every model must face. No model could meet the expectations of every possible client. It is always best to go into a casting not caring whether or not you get it. That way it's a pleasant surprise if you get the job but you aren't let down if you don't get it.
24. Independence. Because models must sometimes travel away from their Friends and family for a job, or move to a big city to pursue a full time career, it is important to have a great deal of independence. You must be comfortable being by yourself for long periods of time.
25. Organization. A model must be organized in order to keep track of the different dates, times and locations of appointments so that she can show up at appointments and go-sees on time.
26. Stamina. A model is sometimes on her feet all day in the freezing cold or the hot sun. She must be healthy and in shape to be able to work all day and still look good. Eating healthy, going for walks/jogs and working out at a gym three times a week is a must.
27. Will-Power. Unfortunately, the international modeling scene does often involve drugs and partying. A model must have strength of character and will-power in order to stay away from drugs and too much partying. An agency will drop a model very quickly if it becomes known that she takes drugs or parties a lot.
The following was contributed by a Photographer.
28. HAVE YOUR NAILS DONE BEFORE YOU ARRIVE FOR SHOOT, NORMALLY A "FRENCH MANICURE" WILL GO WITH MOST OUTFITS. UNLESS OTHERWISE DISCUSSED, ASSUME THIS
29. KEEP TAN LINES TO A MINIMUM. NOTHING WORSE THAN A DARK TAN LINE SHOWING ON THE EDGE OF AN EXPENSIVE OUTFIT.
30. IF YOU ARE ON A SPECIAL DIET, DON'T EXPECT THE PHOTOGRAPHER TO KNOW, OR PROVIDE THIS. BRING YOUR OWN.
31. IF YOU DO BRING A FRIEND, MAKE SURE THEY KNOW TO STAY OUT OF THE MAIN SHOOTING AREA. NOTHING MORE IRRITATING TO A PHOTOGRAPHER THAN SOME MODEL'S FRIEND TALKING TO HER ON THE SET. AND NEW MODELS HAVE A TENDENCY TO LOOK AT THEIR FRIEND FOR APPROVAL. TOTAL "NO NO"
32. NEVER STARVE YOURSELF BEFORE A SHOOT. SOME SHOOT'S TAKE ALL DAY, AND IF YOU DROP ON THE SET, THE WHOLE DAY IS SCRAPPED. NOT TO MENTION THE MONEY LOST.
33. DON'T ASSUME, JUST BECAUSE YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL, THAT ALL PHOTOGRAPHER'S ARE WANTING TO SLEEP WITH YOU. ANY 'REAL PRO' IS MUCH MORE INTERESTED IN HIS F-STOP, LENSES, FILM, YOUR MAKE-UP, AND THE POSITION OF THE SUN TO WORRY ABOUT GETTING PERSONAL. AS I SAID BEFORE, TIME IS MONEY !!!!
34. ALWAYS CARRY 2 FORMS OF I.D......OR BETTER YET, PHOTO COPIES OF THEM. A MUST IN ANY MAJOR PHOTO SHOOT.
35. IF A PHOTOGRAPHER SAY'S HE SHOOTS FOR A CERTAIN MAGAZINE......LOOK IN THE MAG AND SEE IF HIS NAME IS IN THE MAST- HEAD.. IF IT ISN'T, CALL THE EDITOR TO VERIFY HIM. IF THEY DON'T KNOW HIM, DROP HIM/HER IMMEDIATELY.
source : www.abrightimage.com
