Today, we’re diving deep into the “must-knows” for modeling. I hate seeing so many people get taken advantage of and want to help prevent it as much as possible. I hope that this post provides awareness and preparedness for your future in modeling.
A Little Background
If you know me, you’re fully aware that I’ve been a diehard fashionista ever since I set foot onto this earth. I genuinely believe that it’s in my genes (pun very much intended). Fashion magazines are sacred and billboards are things that I worship. It’s still hard for me to put into words how enthralled I am by the various forms of art that come to life through the world of fashion. I’m constantly learning about new styles, genres, cultures and practices which only makes me more eager to explore all that this miraculous world has to offer. The more I learn about art, the more intrigued I am to investigate its source.
So, at this point, I’ve penned over 15 destinations that are must-sees simply because of an intriguing fact that I’ve learned about it. I feel most fulfilled when I’m building or partaking in a community and my dream is to learn as much as I can about the intricacies of our world and its many offerings. It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day trivialities and forget that there’s so much more life happening than what meets the eye. When I was younger and played the “if I had one wish” game with my friends, my wish would always be to have the capability to meet every single person that inhabits this world. I just love people and the uniqueness that comes with each individual.
Something that fascinates me just as equally as art are those partake in it. So in this instance: models.
Why I Started My Modeling Career Later (Not “Late” Because The Universe Is Always On Time ?)
Modeling had always been an invisible dream of mine. I didn’t even recognize my profound adoration as being something much deeper because it never felt remotely possible for me. It was one of those passions where you adore it so much but blindly accept that it’s out of your league. I shut down this dream for myself before anyone even had the chance to reject me first. Why? Because when I was younger, I unknowingly made the industry’s obsession with height standards into my very own stop sign with my only viable reason being “he said, she said..”
For a while, I tried to redirect my fate by wishing upon the “anatomical” stars to help me grow at least two more inches so I could teeter on the brim of 5’7.” However, by the time I was 15-16 years old and worn out of reading conspiracy theory articles that notate strange but “proven effective” methods to help you grow past your limit, I finally accepted that I would be 5’5… 5’6 when I maintain immaculate posture 😉
You Can Do It. Yes YOU.
Fast forward… Senior year comes around and I stumble upon an article celebrating a petite model who was taking the industry by storm. I think I was in class and on my phone at a time that I shouldn’t have been (hey it was senior year and I was on the honor roll), but if I wasn’t in class my mouth would have dropped. Suddenly, my mother’s words came flooding back to me: There’s always an exception to the rule. I could have kicked myself out of disappointment for giving up on myself so easily. But instead of proceeding to throw a pity party, I was excited by the clear indication that I could do this. Modeling is possible for anyone, regardless of looks or background. Sometimes, we just have to be brave enough to forge a path that isn’t very clear at first.
How I Finally Started My Modeling Journey
I went to Providence, RI (not a state in New York) for college and just like that I was a few hours away from the fashion capital: NYC (the one that’s actually in New York). That is where my path into modeling began and here are a few things I wish I knew right off the bat:
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Mindset
I debated saving the best tip for last but in case you don’t make it to the end, I want to make sure that I leave you with the most important advice. Make sure your headspace is in the right place. The modeling industry is relentless. It will challenge you in ways that you don’t expect and it’s so important remember your worth. Rejection is a repetitive rite of passage and you NEED to remember the beauty that is you. No matter what anybody says or how many suggest otherwise.
On a more positive note, when you walk into a casting office or agency, remember that the team WANTS it to be you. The modeling industry is like a business problem that’s constantly looking for new answers to its equation(s). Each time that you go to an audition (or even a walk-in) the scouts are truly hoping that you’ll be the answer they’re looking for. I try to remember this whenever I get nervous. They want it to be you, so walk in as your best self (which can look different from day-to-day and that’s okay). We are evergreen.
Digitals
The first thing you’ll need before submitting to a modeling agency or attending a casting are digitals (also called polaroids). These are images that showcase what you look like in your most natural state. You’ll typically need anywhere from 2-7 and they usually follow the same framework: close up, full body, 3/4, headshot, right and left profile, personality shot… some agencies ask for more, some less. When you’re going to a casting you’ll need to bring a comp card which will showcase four snaps of you. A simple black tee and black jeans are the perfect attire. Some agencies will ask for swimsuit shots but you should NEVER submit nude photos to anybody. If this is requested of you, the agency is not legit or the person is trying to take advantage of you. Beware of scams.
Modeling Agencies/Casting Directors
The best place to find agencies and casting directors in your area (and worldwide) is through models.com. It’s definitely possible to find more sources as you begin to research on your own but I recommend starting here so you can familiarize yourself with the telltale signs of a legit agency and/or person. You’ll begin to learn that the industry is quite small and the six degrees of separation theory will make complete sense because everyone in the industry knows someone in some way. If you come across an agency, casting director, or photographer that isn’t listed through models.com, you can try determine whether or not it’s a safe bet based on who they’re connected with. It’ll all make more sense as you go.
Social Media
Social media and casting websites like Model Management and Backstage can be a great option to build your portfolio as a freelance model. Always vet the people you’re working with and if you can bring a friend with you to the shoot(s), please do so! There are also a number of casting agencies who post opportunities across social media, so figure out the go-to’s for your region. Some agencies have specialized divisions (ex: petite models).
SCAMS + Contracts
YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY TO SIGN WITH AN AGENCY. YOUR AGENT GETS PAID BY COMMISSION ONCE YOU BOOK WORK. AND IF YOU’RE WORKING WITH A PHOTOGRAPHER, CLARIFY IF IT’S PAID, TFP (TRADE FOR PHOTOS) OR IF THERE’S A FEE. Get clear on the terms BEFORE you go to the shoot so there’s no confusion. If there’s a contract, ALWAYS read it.
Be Patient
Many people will dip their toe into this industry but as the old saying goes, the most successful ones are those who are crazy enough to keep going even in the midst of doubt. Determine what you want out of this industry and in your life. The two may not always align.
You’re Insane
Yes, I said it. If you’re pursuing modeling (or any career in entertainment), you’re nuts. Welcome to the club. Make sure it’s worth it for you.
Bonus Modeling Tip
Practice your model faces in front of the mirror. Learn how each expression feels, which muscles are moving and keep the energy alive in your eyes. What are you thinking about when the camera is shooting? This is important. There were a number of times that I thought I was giving “glamorous” but ended up looking zoned out lol. Learning how your face moves and looks with each movement is a skill in itself. I’m serious.
Also, don’t go heavy on the makeup or wear acrylics for digitals.
And relax.
I hope I was able to help you. Remember the two C’s: Confident and Cautious. I don’t know if I said this already but it’s wild out here. Don’t forget to enjoy the ride.
XOXO,
Mila Fox
