contact

Click here to add text."Getting Your Foot In The Door"

by Constance Fioni

"Remember, in order be a successful model or actor, it takes time, hard work, perseverance, and a rejection-proof attitude. If you are really serious about pursuing a modeling career, you will make a firm commitment and stick with it. Each year many newly successful models appear. Become one of them."

Quick Tip

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Before thinking about your wardrobe and portfolio, you should decide which activities interest you in each modeling category.

For example, Glamour Modeling ranges from posing in evening dresses, to posing in lingerie or swim-wear, to posing seminude or nude. To get a clear idea of what activities are typical in each category, refer to the list below.

High Fashion

Editorial

Glamour

Catalogue

Runway

Specialty

Character

Conventions

Photographers

So many beginners think of modeling in vague terms. Their goal is to be a "model" and that's all they know. I have also had many a beginner walk into my studio and not know anything at all about modeling. They may have spent hundreds of dollars on modeling or acting lessons and not learned a thing. This is so true. Can you believe that modeling schools are taking peoples money? I can!

TYPES OF MODELING

HIGH FASHION MODELING

High Fashion Modeling is the modeling of designer clothes, either at fashion shows or in publications. Sometimes, the modeling of jewelry and cosmetics falls into this category. The models are hired through agencies, and the pay rate is the highest among all modeling jobs. Of course, the advertisers' expectations also run high. The agencies choose models with a proven track record for this type of modeling.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH FASHION MODELING

Usually, modeling agencies have the following requirements for new models:

Age under 26.

Height 5'8" to 5'11" for women, 5'11" to 6'2" for men.

Weight proportional to height.

Long legs, especially from floor to knee.

Women with a long neck preferred.

A good complexion.

However, there are exceptions to the physical requirements. For example, height requirements may be relaxed for jewelry or cosmetics advertisements.

EDITORIAL MODELING

Editorial Modeling is similar to High Fashion Modeling, except that the model works for a particular publication. The readers of that publication make up a target audience for the photographs taken. Images in the non-advertisement sections of the fashion magazines, such as Glamour, Vogue, or Seventeen, are good examples of this type of modeling. The physical requirements are less stringent than for High Fashion Modeling, but the pay rate is considerably less. Many more models are needed for Editorial Modeling, and Editorial experience opens the door to High Fashion Modeling.

GLAMOUR MODELING

Attractive women have always been featured by manufacturers in their advertisements, in order to draw attention to their products. Such advertisements often contain photographs, seen in magazines, newspapers, posters, billboards, calendars, or TV commercials. More books are written about glamour photography than any other type of photography, and many models are used in these books as well, to demonstrate different photographic techniques. There are no established physical requirements for Glamour Models, other than the model must be beautiful and/or sexy in the photographs. An elegant lady in an evening dress, the eye-catching face of a beautiful girl, a shapely woman in casual dress, swim-wear, or lingerie can all become subjects for glamour photography. Some of the nude photography also falls into this category. Pay rates can be very good for Glamour Modeling. Usually, the pay rate doubles for posing in lingerie or in the nude.

Some Figure and Art Modeling, typically artistic nude photography, is included in the Glamour Modeling category.

CATALOGUE MODELING

While some Catalogue Modeling involves posing with products, most is done wearing store-brand clothes. Even though pay rates are considerably lower than for High Fashion Modeling, it is desirable to get booked as a Catalogue Model, because hours are consistent and repeat-modeling opportunities are high. Look through some mail-order catalogues to get an idea of what is involved. Physical requirements are not stringent. Usually, the side of the clothing not shown on the photograph will have many alteration pins attached, and some models find this inconvenient.

RUNWAY MODELING

Runway Models must have measurements that fit an actual standard clothing size. There are many different kinds of Runway Modeling. Many modeling agencies specialize in Runway Modeling bookings. Two of the opportunities for Runway Models are:

Designer Fashion Shows, where clothes designers present their upcoming designs.

Fashion Shows, run by a store or by a designer in a store, mall, hotel, or club.

Runway Modeling pays less than photographic modeling. Pay is on a show-by-show basis, ranging from $100 to $400 per show.

SPECIALTY MODELING

Models with long fingers and well-manicured nails have opportunities to display their hands demonstrating domestic products. For men, a demand exists for the husky, masculine hand, or alternatively the more elegant, long-fingered hand. Women with well-proportioned feet are needed for shoe advertisements. Advertisements of stockings, pantyhose, and razors require women with nicely-shaped legs. Hair products call for female and male models with good hair. There are numerous other Specialty Modeling opportunities. However, you should not start by concentrating solely on Specialty Modeling. Just prepare a standard portfolio, including a few photographs that emphasize areas of your body you might use for Specialty Modeling. Most agencies pick models for Specialty work from their regular modeling pool.

CHARACTER MODELING

Some jobs require models with an everyday look, such as a truck driver, mechanic, grocery clerk, schoolteacher, cleaning person, appliance repair person, and so on.

CONVENTION AND TRADE SHOW MODELING

These shows use many female models to demonstrate products and answer questions.

MODELING IN TV COMMERCIALS

TV Commercials offer a growing area of opportunities to models with some acting background. Many modeling agencies now include a TV Commercial Department.

MODELING FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Like models, photographers need a portfolio, which they must constantly update as they develop new skills or keep up with fashion trends. Occasionally, professional photographers agree to do test shoots of established models with good portfolios. Even though there is no pay involved, these test shoots can lead to well-paying opportunities for the model. Advanced amateur photographers are usually willing to pay an experienced model, for helping them to improve their skills.

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR MODELS

There are opportunities for the oversized or undersized model. The demand for ordinary-looking models with whom a majority of the audience can identify continues to increase. Many other opportunities exist that might fall into one of the modeling categories mentioned above.

So What Is A Portfolio?

A portfolio should include a number of different photo's.

Head Shots, Bathing Suit, Lingerie, Fashion clothing, and if you decide, Semi Nude, and Nude Photos.

Before I go on to explain the details I want to say ....

A WORD ABOUT NUDE MODELING!!

Every model, even a High Fashion model, sooner or later is asked if she will pose in the nude. When I was 18 in California I can't tell you the people who walked up to me and wanted me to model, most of them were photographers, legite ones, but photographers wanting to do a nude photo session.

Unlike modeling in lingerie or bathing suits, nude modeling still has a stigma attached to it. Many models do not pose in the nude for this reason. As a consequence, the pay rate can be twice as high for nude modeling. You can make some really good money if you want to model nude, imagine that?

Anyone considering nude modeling should keep this in mind. If you sign a model release without carefully studying its content your image could be seen by your grandparent or turn up anywhere at any time. Usually, modeling agencies advise their beginning models not to pose in the nude, and they carefully evaluate model releases for all their models.

Quick Tip

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you plan on getting your foot in the door you should have the following:

WARDROBE

In most modeling jobs, the clothes are supplied by the advertisers. However, you need some in- style clothing of your own, for use in interviews and your portfolio photographs. You should have appropriate shoes to complement your outfits. If cost is a problem, you might borrow clothing from your friends and relatives, as long as it fits.

PORTFOLIO

The first thing most modeling agencies ask is to see your portfolio or pictures. However, if you are going to try to work through an agency don't spend to much money on your portfolio, visit the agencies first. They might require completely different look for your portfolio. Freelance models need more complete portfolios.

Ideally, a portfolio should have 16-20 eight-by-ten photographs. However, most modeling agencies will agree to interview a beginning model if the applicant has at least two good photos that includes a black and white natural smile headshot and a glamour full length body shot that shows your true figure. Here are some photographs you might include in your portfolio:

1. An informal head shot.

2. An editorial-style photo, in evening dress.

3. A full-length photo, in a casual outfit.

4. An editorial-style photo, in a sporty outfit.

5. An editorial-style photo, in a coat.

6. A photo of product-demonstration.

7. A full-length photo, in a swimming suit.

8. A full-length photo, in a T-shirt and shorts.

9. A full-length photo, in lingerie.

10. A profile head shot.

11. A profile head shot, in a hat.

12. A head shot, in perfect makeup and hair.

13. An advertising-style photo, in full-length dress.

14. A full-length sport-action photo.

15. A full-length editorial-style photo, outdoors in a dress.

16. A situational shot, or character shot. . For example, getting surprised. Another example, reading a magazine in a real cafe.

17. A catalogue-style photo, with another model in casual dress.

18. If interested in specialty modeling, a photo featuring the part of your body that you want to model.

19. If interested in figure, art, seminude, or nude modeling, a tastefully-done photo showing your figure.

Your portfolio should show your ability to do any type of modeling. A portfolio might also include a voice tape, video, business cards, and a letter of thanks to the person who is interviewing you.

If you planning to work through a modeling agency, don't spend to much money on your portfolio, untill you visit some agencies. For freelance models having a good portfolio is a neccesity. Also the more different photographers you use to built your portfolio the better your portfolio will be. Every photographer photographs differently. You can also take some of your own photos. I teach photography as well so think about doing some of your own portfolio prints and save hundreds of dollars.

Photographic modeling is an exciting, glamorous, and creative career that can also be financially rewarding. However, modeling is a competitive field. Sometimes people with patience and perseverance, rather than looks, are more successful. Rejections are part of the modeling profession, and should never be taken personally. Other than being genetically fortunate, there is usually no luck involved in becoming a successful model. It requires developing some basic skills, following some established business practices, and using common sense. The purpose of this Model Manual is to highlight the necessary skills and acceptable practices in modeling, as a help in guiding you toward a career.

First and foremost a model must learn how to smile. It is natural for people to tend to squint their eyes or show too much gum when smiling.

When you pose for your portfolio you also gain valuable experience as a model. Just the same as if you work as an extra for an acting agency you learn a lot about the industry, and even get to meet famous people.

Therefore, before you choose a photographer, make sure that:

You won't be rushed. A beginner's portfolio might take up to six hours if done in one session.

The photographer takes Polaroid shots in order to check your makeup. When I first started photographing this was one of the biggest mistakes I made when photographing models. The makeup looks fine on the face but may photograph as extremely weird. Don't make the same mistake. You never know what the makeup will look like in print if you don't take a polaroid first, which is why polaroid cameras still sell. LOL. This is a regular practice in most modeling jobs.

You do your own makeup. In most beginning and intermediate modeling jobs, there is no makeup artist, and so you are expected to do your own makeup. You must learn about doing fashionable makeup and not overwhelm your potential new employer or casting director with harsh or too much makeup. However, if you have not improved your makeup skills sufficiently yet use a makeup artist. You may go to a salon and pay say $50.00 to have a real professional do your face. There is a lot of free information on the net that will help you improve your makeup application techniques. Mary Kay parties are cool for that reason. Have your own party for that matter, where your friends and family each have a crack at doing your makeup on a completely clean face then photograph the results.

Quick Tip

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You are to get all the proofs. Modeling agencies and clients often like to evaluate the proofs before hiring a model.

The photographer plans to use plenty of film, about five rolls of 35-millimeter, plus at least one roll of 6X6- or 6X7-centimeter for closeups (Please note that using 6x6 and 6x7 film is not that important any more due to improvements in the 35mm film quality, and touchup of the negatives is usually not done for portfolio pictures)

There is to be no touching-up of the photographs. Touched-up images are useless to the modeling agencies. Besides, photographs without touch-up are much less expensive than portrait photographs.

You are given ample opportunity to work on your hair and makeup every time you change into another outfit.

The photographer varies his style and alters the backgrounds, so that the photographs do not appear too much the same.

The photographer has the capability to convert photographs into scanned digital images. The popularity of the Internet's modeling agencies is multiplying every month.

The total cost of the portfolio is up front. For example, get an estimate for five hours' sitting fee, plus your selection of ten 8X10 prints, plus five scanned images.

You bring your makeup kit to the portfolio session.

You bring enough outfits and shoes for at least 10 changes. The photographer may not like one outfit or the other. Try to trust the photographers opinion, and if in the end you really want to be photographed in one item or the other then by all means have them photograph you the way you want.

You vary your expressions during the session. This is an old rule but practice in front of a mirror.

You check your makeup and hair often.

After the proofs are ready, study them carefully with a magnification glass, and pick the ones that you want made iinto 8X10 enlargements.

If modeling agencies express an interest in representing you, they might ask you to get some more pictures taken, either for your portfolio, for your composites, or for a head sheet. Don't hesitate for a minute, get going so you can get your foot in the door.

Now Let's Get Started

Unless you are unusually lucky, it is hard to make a living as a beginning model. Don't plan on working more than part time but part time is very likely if you have any talent at all.

Typically at the start, modeling jobs will be few and short. Therefore, you should have another source of income, preferably in a business related to the modeling industry, such as:

Photo Stores, where professional photographers shop.

High quality clothing stores.

Fashion coordinators, individuals who obtain clothing for use in fashion shows.

A majority of models start their professional careers through modeling agencies, also referred to as modeling managers. Select the names of several modeling agencies from the telephone book, or obtain the names through other reliable sources. Then call the closest Better Business Bureau (BBB) in order to check the BBB's report on each firm you have selected. Call or visit only the reputable agencies.

Below are some of the services for which a modeling agency will usually charge a fee, once you are accepted by the agency. Shop around for the best prices.

Additional photos for your portfolio, your composites, or a headsheet.

Printing cost for your composites.

A resume.

Being included in a headsheet.

If you are going to make TV commercials, you might be required to join a union, and to pay the initiation fee.

Remember, rejections are a big part of the modeling business. It's how you handle a rejection that might land you the next role. Modeling agencies and casting directors remember great attitudes sometimes over great looks.

A modeling agency might already be representing models of your type, and adding another person to the pool might not be fair to you or the others. Don't get your feelings hurt. If you are too sensitive this is NOT THE CAREER FOR YOU.

Keep revisiting model agencies that you like at least once a month. Your repeated visits will tell an agency that you are seriously interested in a modeling career, making it more inclined to represent you. If after a few visits nothing has happened, openly ask for advice. You might obtain some very useful hints.

How much should a beginning model expect to be paid?

The first few months don't expect to make any money. If you are accepted by a modeling agency, expect to be sent out for many test shots.

By this time, agencies should start sending you to paying jobs. They will negotiate your fee with the client. If you are a Freelance Model, you have to negotiate your own fee. Depending on supply and demand, set your fee for about $75 an hour, with a two-hour minimum per session. However, it might be beneficial to accept a lower rate, if the duration of the job is longer than two hours.

After this beginning period, your pay rate should rise steadily, and the number of jobs should increase overall.. Typically in the modeling industry, there are busy and lean periods, even for experienced models. When busy, don't forget to save for leaner times.

Pay rates vary greatly between metropolitan areas and on a seasonal basis. Therefore, it is hard to pin down exact pay rates. Try to find out what the other models are making for similar jobs in your area, and set your rates accordingly.

Occasionally, photographers conduct test shoots for established models, or for serious beginning models. There are many different reasons why photographers do test shoots. Please refer to the Getting Started and Modeling Terms section of this manual for more information about test shoots. Listed below are my own reasons for doing test shoots, and my expectations of models selected for test shoots.

DETAILS OF THE TEST SHOOT

As I explained in this manual, a test shoot involves no fees. However, if a test shoot is well planned and executed, both model and photographer come out winners. To make our test shoot successful, please do the following before setting up an appointment:

Read the Model Manual carefully.

Follow the instructions up to the Portfolio section.

Pick about ten photographs from the suggested portfolio list. Have enough outfits for about four changes.

Remember, you are expected to sign the release, permitting my use of your photos in the typical-portfolio section of my WEB page.

In return for signing the release, you will get:

All proofs of negatives from two rolls of 35mm and one roll of 6X7cm film. It will take about one week to get the proofs.

8X10 color prints from selected proofs. If you select more than six photos, you are expected to pay the cost of developing the extra prints (about $6.00 to $10.00 per print). It will take one week to get the prints.

Great job opportunities. After a short try-out, my WEB site will be listed by more than 50 search firms. In addition, you may permit Virtual Modeling Agencies to copy your images from my WEB Page, and add you to their head sheets if they wish.

You can bring along a friend or relative to the test shoot. If you are under the age of 18, you must bring a parent or guardian.

What do I get out of the test shoots?

I get to try out new photographic styles that cannot be done yet during regular jobs.

Hopefully, I will discover a great new model!

I get to work with models that are truly interested in modeling.

I can make my WEB page more interesting and popular, by presenting a greater variety of models.

Getting a reputable photographer to take test shots for you is a great way to get your portfolio done for just the cost, giving the photographer an opportunity to build his or her OWN PORTFOLIO of samples to show the public, and you may both also negotiate selling the prints to magazines.

Work For Youself!

Freelance Modeling is an alternative way to work as a model. As a Freelance Model you are responsible for your own billings, promotions, safety, etc. Here are some ways you can promote yourself as a Freelance Model:

Get a composite and resume done.

Call professional photographers in your area to find out if they use Freelance Models. If they do, visit them and leave your composite and resume.

Do test shoots. Sometimes a photographer recommends a model to an agency if the test shoots turn out well.

Visit businesses that use models, telling them of your interest in modeling. Leave them your composite and resume.

Visit commercial film developers and camera stores used by photographers. Tell them your interest and leave your composite and resume.

Call camera clubs. Deliver or send your composite and resume.

Advertise your services in photography magazines.

PRECAUTIONS FOR FREELANCE MODELS

These precautions apply to all models. However, modeling agencies take most of these precautions for the models they represent.

Don't have your own phone number, address, or real name on your composites and resumes.

If you get a job offer, find out the address and phone number of the job location. Somebody you know must have the name of the person you are working for, the location of the job, and how you can be reached. The person you are working for must be aware that your whereabouts are known.

Take a friend or relative to the job location. If that is not possible, drive yourself to the job location.

Know exactly what kind of modeling you will be doing, the pay rate, and the duration of the session, before accepting the offer.

Prior to the job, get a copy of the model release agreement. Study it carefully, or seek assistance.

More about agencies

Model agencies are covered by special legislation for staff agencies and recruitment businesses. The Employment Agencies Act 1973 and regulations made under it apply to all employment agencies.

The Act and regulations cover a range of different matters, including:

•

general conduct and treatment of workers

•

young workers

•

agencies' obligations and workers' rights

•

record keeping requirements

•

advertising standards

•

charging fees to workers

•

For a summary of the Employment Agencies Act 1973 :

The Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994 removed the requirement of employment agencies to register. However, they are still routinely inspected by the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate of the DTI to make sure that they are complying with the regulations.

In April 2004 the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003 were introduced. They replaced three previous regulations made under the Employment Agencies Act 1973.

In general, these regulations strengthen the rights of workers. One important change is that modelling agencies are no longer permitted under the regulations to charge models an up front fee. However, they are still allowed to take a percentage of their models' earnings as commission.

There is other employment legislation that applies to recruitment agencies including modelling agencies. Key issues include:

•

employment contracts

•

minimum wages

•

working hours and paid holidays

•

discrimination prevention

•

the employment status of workers

Web-links: (If the following links don't click, taking you to the respected site then copy and paste, or type the exact links into your browser to be re-directed to the link)

www.fashionrock.com

www.commercialkids.com

www.CastingAudition.com

www.Baby-Model.com

www.newfaces.com

http://www.starsearchcasting.com/castingdirectors.php (Casting Directors List) Star Search Casting

WARNING SIGNS OF A NON-REPUTABLE AGENCY, OR A NON-REPUTABLE TALENT SCOUT

Charges an advance fee, or "registration" fee.

Places nonspecific ads in the "Help Wanted" columns in newspapers, such as "M/F models wanted, no experience necessary."

Uses a name which sounds similar to a well-known agency or person.

Displays pictures of famous models in the office, even though they have never been represented.

Schedules appointments for after-work hours, perhaps in your home.

Pressures you to leave a cash deposit, or wants you to sign a contract immediately.

Doesn't answer questions about the specifics of a modeling job.

Asks you to have more photographs taken by a certain photographer, perhaps demanding a deposit for the photographs and payment of the balance before you have even seen the photographs. Unfortunately, some non-reputable firms make all their money from this forced photography.

Some modeling agencies also run modeling schools. These schools may be quite good. However, know that you don't have to attend a modeling school in order to become a model. Mediocre modeling schools are a waste of time and money.

MODELING TERMS

Here are some modeling terms that you should be familiar with:

A MODEL RELEASE is a contract signed by the model. It gives permission to the photographer to use photographs taken at a particular sitting. If photographs are used without a release, or in a way different from what is stated in the release, then the model can sue for breach of contract.

A PHOTOGRAPHER RELEASE is a contract signed by the photographer. It gives permission to the model to use the photographs taken during a particular sitting.

A HEAD SHOT OR CLOSE-UP is a photograph of the head and shoulders.

RUNWAY MODELING is fashion show modeling. Models work on a long, raised platform about four feet wide.

A COMPOSITE is the model's business card. It is also called the ZED card. Currently, postcard-size is popular. One side contains a head shot, the other side several small photographs together with information about the model.

A CONTACT SHEET, also called PROOFS, is a contact print of negatives on 8-by-10-inch photographic paper. These images are the same size as the negatives, and require use of a magnification glass to evaluate them.

A DRESSER is a person who makes sure that clothes fit the model properly, and pins them if necessary.

A FITTING is when the clothes are fitted to the model. Usually, a model gets paid less than the normal modeling rate for this time.

A FREELANCE MODEL is a self-promoting model, one not associated with a modeling agency.

A HEAD SHEET is a poster displaying head shots and information about models represented by a modeling agency.

A PORTFOLIO OR MODEL'S BOOK is a collection of photographs or tear sheets demonstrating a model's abilities in front of the camera.

A TEAR SHEET is a page containing the model's image removed from a publication. This sheet is usually added to the model's portfolio.

A RESUME is a sheet listing a model's education, experience, and vital statistics. The resume is usually attached to an 8X10 or a composite.

An 8X10 OR GLOSSY is an 8-by-10-inch photograph of the model, usually a head shot.

A TEST SHOOT is when a model and photographer work together on a new idea or on their portfolios. No fees other than sharing film-and-developing expenses are involved.

Model and Photographer Releases should be signed before the session.

A GO-SEE is a model's appointment to see a potential client.

A CATTLE CALL is similar to a Go-see, but involves many models being interviewed by a client.

Know at least these basic terms so that when you are being interviewed and asked some questions you appear to know what you're talking about.

REQUIRED SKILLS FOR MODELS OR ACTORS

MAKEUP

The makeup that a model uses for her photographic assignments is different from what she uses every day. In photography, the skin must be blemish-free and smooth, and it must have a matt surface to prevent unwanted highlights. The eyes and mouth should have a fine definition. Otherwise, the fine details of the face will be lost in a magazine image. The loss of detail is due in part to strong photographic lighting, which penetrates the makeup layer, and in part to preparation of photographs for mass printing.

Black and White (B&W) photography has a special set of problems. For example, since B&W film is less sensitive to the color red, with normal makeup the red areas appear too dark in the print. To overcome this problem, a purple color with lots of blue in it is used on the cheeks and lips (newer films record the tones of different colors more realistically).

In general, photographic makeup is heavier than regular makeup. For head shots the makeup can be lighter, because larger image-size holds up better during the magazine printing process.

Faces come in many different shapes. Photographic makeup should maximize the natural beauty of your face while minimizing any facial irregularities. The ideal photogenic face is oval in shape. If the face is too round, a darker shade of makeup is used on the front edges to simulate shadows, making the face appear more oval. If the face is too narrow, a lighter shade is used on the sides, with the same result. The photographer can also compensate for facial irregularities, by using various lighting arrangements.

In many modeling jobs makeup artists are not available. Therefore, you must learn to apply your own makeup. When you apply for modeling jobs, questions will be asked to determine your skills in applying makeup.

The best way to learn more about applying photographic makeup is to visit local "beauty supply" stores and ask for suggestions. Sometimes the staff will do a free evaluation of your face, and recommend the most suitable makeup styles for you. Look through the yellow pages of the phone book to find locations of local beauty supply stores. After you have completed your research, build a photographic-makeup kit and start practicing the techniques. Most young women are already familiar with basic makeup techniques, so it usually takes only a few days to complete the research, build a kit, and learn how to apply the makeup. By the way, children and men also use makeup during photographic modeling assignments. The makeup kit that you build will go with you to every interview and assignment.

(Please note that i'm not an expert on makeup or responses of film, to my best knowledge the statements above are correct, but confirm it through polaroid or test shoots)

HAIR

Long hair, at least to the shoulders, is best for female models. No matter what length your hair is, start with a good basic style that allows for versatility. Which hairstylist you choose is critical. Pick a good one based on your own experience, or ask for recommendations from your friends or relatives.

After you have your hair styled, practice changing the look of it. Remember that every time you change your outfit during a modeling session, the look of your hair should also change. Some of the variations are as simple as adding a scarf or flower, or fashioning a wind-blown or a wet look. Most photographic modeling jobs include a hairstylist, to assist you in changing the look of your hair.

POSING

Learning to pose is a career-long process. No matter how much experience you have, every time you work in front of a camera, you will discover some new way of showing your creativity.

As a new model, you must first learn to relax in front of the camera, so that you can begin to develop creatively.

Here are two suggestions on how to enhance your posing skills:

Every time you are in front of a mirror, try a different expression. Show happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, boredom, etc. through the medium of your face.

Go through some fashion magazines and mail order catalogues. Pick 10 photos that you like, cut them out, and paste them into a scrap book, in pairs. Step in front of a mirror, and imitate the pose in one photo of the first pair. Then slowly transform your pose to imitate the pose in the other photo of the pair. Repeat this exercise with the rest of the photos.

In actual modeling jobs, you will be doing exactly what was just described, except that you will have the benefit of a photographer guiding you through the steps.

As you can see, posing is not extremely difficult. All you have to do is learn to relax in front of the camera, have fun, and let your creativity come through.

An Important Note About Modeling Agencies

Modeling agencies are one of the few types of recruitment business that are exempt from the rule that prohibits charging fees to workers for finding them work. The Employment Agencies Act and regulations make special provision for modeling agencies to charge their models commission fees.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall - 5 minutes at a time at least once a day

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mirror Work. Do you do it? Do you know what it is?

If you answered "no" to either of these questions - you shouldn't be calling yourself a model. Top models practice daily and Mirror Work is how they do it.

Athletes, Musicians, Singers, Actors - they ALL practice to become good at what they do.

Models need to do mirror work for TWO reasons.

The first and most obvious is posing. A smart model learns quickly that nobody has a perfect body. Learning to pose yourself in flattering ways will be key to your success.

You must learn your best as well as your worst features and more importantly how to make them work for the camera. It is important to learn the basic bikini pose and more importantly understand why it makes the body look so good.

Every model should have about 20 poses that they can do well and have the confidence of knowing that their body looks great in these poses.

Your goal while practicing in the mirror is not just to find attractive poses - but to concentrate on how does your body feel when you are doing a pose correctly.

Quick Tip

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The second and most important reason for doing mirror work is facial expressions. Modeling is acting and your face is your MOST important communication tool.

Mirror work allows you to learn how your face "feels" when you smile correctly. It also allows you to learn how your face feels when you do a big look of surprise or anger or the classic open mouth smile.

Do it alone - nobody else in the room, radio and TV turned off.

Only work on one pose or expression in each session. Remember - anybody can look in the mirror and do a perfect smile in 2 seconds - your purpose is to learn how that smile feels. Keep your sessions short and focused.

Be critical but constructive. Nobody has a perfect body or perfect face. Don't watch yourself in the mirror thinking that you are "all that" and don't look in the mirror and totally tear yourself apart. Learn what your strengths and weaknesses are and in the words of Tyra Banks, "Work it girl!"

Thanks to the technology involved in the digital darkroom - we are now able to shoot almost anywhere in the world - without really being there!

Using technology similar to the Blue/Green screen that TV weather reporters have been using for years now - we are able to put models in almost any setting by putting our own backgrounds in.

Even when I am not carrying my professional camera equipment - I carry a small digital camera with me to shoot setting that would make excellent backdrops. These can include restaurant interiors, offices, scenic locations, beaches, etc.

The key to making this technology work so well is planning. I maintain a database of several thousand background images that I have shot, however I always select the background image BEFORE photographing the model so that the composition and lighting can be arranged to match.