This is where a model’s inner beauty can allow their career to grow on a realistic level. When a model is aware that modeling is a business all about projecting a certain type of image for their client…it becomes “less” about the personal ego or preference of the model and ALL about what their client wants and is hiring them for. Sometimes it’s not all about being the best looking or hottest model around. Some clients may prefer to choose a model that is “approachable” in a commercial way…it is possible that a model may be too exotic, too glamorous, too “high-fashion”, etc. Clients who pay for the service of a model get to choose what traits and characteristics of a model that they want to hire. Models need to listen to their agents, photographers, clients, etc. for feedback regarding what kind of models are in demand in your area of the country.
If you want to be a model in your local area, you need to know what type of work is available. There’s NEVER a shortage of photographers willing to photograph “young, sexy models”, so finding the reputable photographers is the most important issue. The second question is the type of work (fashion, commercial, glamour, or artistic) and quality of work that those photographers can add toward your portfolio. Some photographers have incredible talent and preference shooting fashion and glamour, but if a model wants to earn money…will that type of portfolio get them a commercial booking in a secondary model market that is known for its’ catalogue print. Both the photographer and model need to follow their own styles that they are seeking for their books, so the question should arise about “what kind of work” is happening in your market...or the market you want to be in. The same is true if a model has a predominantly “commercial” portfolio and brings their book to a top modeling agency in NYC that specializes in fashion models. The reality is to know “where” you are modeling and compensate either way.
If you are always told that you have a commercial look and you live near a commercial secondary market…that may be just your ticket to earn some pretty good money. What if it means that you must cut your long hair? This is where your “inner beauty and confidence” realizes that you are a model and this can be part of your job…even if it’s not your preference. Of course, speak to your modeling agent if you have representation and seem not to be getting booked as much as some other models they represent. They may offer their opinions or feedback that can help you…remember, they only make money from you if you work for them, so it’s in their best interest, too, to offer their honest feedback. If you do not have representation, visit a few modeling agencies and check out what they are looking for and the kind of clients that hire models. Some agencies will just not be interested in assisting you, but you’ll get a better idea by their pictures on the wall of their models, their tear sheets, their model’s comp cards, magazine ads & covers, etc…of the kind of work they do or don’t do.
Dealing with industry professionals takes some “class”, not arrogance, but “confidence” and a special beauty that they can see with their eyes, but feel when you speak to them. This helps you be remembered in a very good way…the kind that may get you that special opportunity or help you build a network of people that enjoy working with you. Equally important as your physical appearance is in modeling is your attitude and how you handle an environment full of MANY factors that can play a part in whether or not you get booked for a job. Always try and have some CLASS whether you’re at the top of your game or aspiring to the top…you’ll have a better chance of being of being respected, hired for jobs, a pleasure to work with, and overall…it sets a good example as a role model in an industry where some past models have left a negative reputation with society and fellow industry professionals.
IT'S ALL ABOUT "BALANCE"...in all of the choices a model makes, how they physically present themselves, how they manage their attitude and business image, and how they balance their self-esteem. It doesn't have to be such an uncertain experience for the model if they just take care of their own business and do what they have to do to just be the best they can be.
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