Modeling has a notorious reputation for being extremely
demanding work that has little reward. This may be true for full time models
who work in the higher rungs of the industry, but it is not true for all
models. Thousands of models work in more modest surroundings.
Freelance
modeling isn't just for those who are looking to become big in the industry one
day. These models are typically part time models who have full time jobs in
another industry. Anyone who is looking for a little extra spending cash might
want to consider part time modeling. There is a growing demand for models who
may not meet the expectations of the high end fashion industry.
While your body type usually matters in a casting call you will not be completely discredited because you don't meet the ideals of a traditional model. Advertisers are more motivated then ever to show " real " people in their ads to better relate with their customers.
Now there are modeling agencies that specialize in
placing everything from ethnic models to plus sized models. While on the
subject of agencies it is vital to both your worker's rights and safety to work
with a reputable modeling agency. Modeling is an extremely common industry for
scammers and sexual predators to target. Working alone may be possible but it
is extremely dangerous.
A respectable modeling agency screens all of their clients for the safety of their models. Use the same resources for researching a traditional company for researching your modeling agency of choice. Finding little to no information about a particular modeling agency online is a definite red flag to a possible scam. One key note to remember, "you don't pay them, they pay you", unless you're paying a professional photographer for pictures or purchasing clothes or making a small investment in comp cards and your portfolio, "you" the model gets paid.
Once you've made up your mind on your
career path and chosen a modeling agency you need to prepare for your first
meeting with the agency. Preparation for a modeling job begins well before you
step through the door.
Even though this is part time work you must approach it like any other job. Your looks are much more of a factor here then anything else you may offer, so look your best! Make sure that your hair, nails, and makeup are all top notch. Wear respectable clothing of a neutral color. Most importantly, you must bring a portfolio containing photos of yourself at various angles. These photos should be professionally done by a photographer that specializes in this type of photography. Do not use pictures that you or your friends have taken! Having professional photos shows the agency that you are serious about becoming a model.
This is part two of a two part series on Turning your acting or modeling dream into a part time job.
While your body type usually matters in a casting call you will not be completely discredited because you don't meet the ideals of a traditional model. Advertisers are more motivated then ever to show " real " people in their ads to better relate with their customers.
A respectable modeling agency screens all of their clients for the safety of their models. Use the same resources for researching a traditional company for researching your modeling agency of choice. Finding little to no information about a particular modeling agency online is a definite red flag to a possible scam. One key note to remember, "you don't pay them, they pay you", unless you're paying a professional photographer for pictures or purchasing clothes or making a small investment in comp cards and your portfolio, "you" the model gets paid.
Even though this is part time work you must approach it like any other job. Your looks are much more of a factor here then anything else you may offer, so look your best! Make sure that your hair, nails, and makeup are all top notch. Wear respectable clothing of a neutral color. Most importantly, you must bring a portfolio containing photos of yourself at various angles. These photos should be professionally done by a photographer that specializes in this type of photography. Do not use pictures that you or your friends have taken! Having professional photos shows the agency that you are serious about becoming a model.
This is part two of a two part series on Turning your acting or modeling dream into a part time job.
