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Mommy marks (stretch marks)?

Sarah I — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 03:52:08 GMT

Just wondering. I am an 18 year old mother. I've always wanted to model for lingerie or just model. But since I had the baby.. I got the worst case of stretch marks any of you have probably seen. Is that going to stop me? I mean don't they represent the gift of life? or is my dream officially ruined?

Can models be replaced by actresses?

rowena — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 01:36:12 GMT

I was reading an article recently where a model was complaining that actresses are now more likely to grace the front cover of a magazine rather than models because famous faces sell magazines. This is definately the case now and if I am honest, I do prefer to see a celebrity because it gives me an idea of the features inside the magazine - and many actors are very beautiful too -

How do people feel about this? Is it just taking work away from models?

Doing my First Boudoir Shoot

Dania — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 20:59:38 GMT

This Wednesday I'm supposed to be doing my first boudoir shoot. I'm organizing it myself and am doing it for my portfolio and because I need such images to submit to lingerie related gigs. However, I am not doing any implied nudity or anything like that. I got a hotel room and will be shooting in the bathroom area, in front of the mirror. I plan on wearing a bra and panty set and thigh high black stockings. It should be fun. The poses are going to be pretty simple and I want the images to tell a story. I plan on having the images mostly in black and white but will have some color images as well. The makeup will be like old Hollywood glamour from the 1940s and 1950s. I'll be sure to post them on my Modelfolios page when I get the images back. =)

How do you choose a photographer?

rowena — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:36:25 GMT

If you are looking for a photographer, how do you know who to go for?

If I were a new model wanting a portfolio I would first go to an agency to see if they have recommended photographers they work with. If I was doing it independently I would check out their portfolio and see similar work.

I would meet them and see if they felt comfortable with me and vice versa. I would see what the rates are and if they are flexible about giving me a CD to print off my own work.

When do you give up?

rowena — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:32:48 GMT

This may sound like a strange question but...

As an aspiring model, when do you decide to 'give up', if ever?

As a model booker some girls I know keep trying and trying even when given a fact like, they are not tall enough or they just aren't photogenic. I understand that a model will get a second, third, forth opinion, but if everyone keeps telling you you aren't going to make it as a working model, when, if ever, do you give up?

Drastic Changes

rowena — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 04:44:59 GMT

As a model do you save yourself from dramatic changes? For example - would you risk a radical hair cut if you really really wanted the style (might work for Kate Moss but as a normal model, could you do it?)

Would you do something drastic like get a tattoo or piercing?

What's in your go-see bag?

rowena — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 04:37:50 GMT

I'd like to know what models carry in their go-see bags.

The go-see bag is something models take with them when they go to castings. At the agency I worked at we told models to take a number of items with them - things like nude coloured underwear, black underwear, hair bands, make up removers, deodorant, gum...

What do you carry in yours?

Saving Dates for Shoots

Dania — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:20:01 GMT

It's always a challenge for me to set aside certain dates in the future for potential shoots, especially if there are other shoots that are happening on that same day. I'm always afraid that if I keep a certain day or days open for one project, that something else will come up and then I'll have to choose. Argh, I just wish they could all fit perfectly into my schedule! haha. I had promised to keep the 24th and 25th open for a possible shoot but then I just got a call for a shoot on the 24th from 9am-6pm. It's a paying gig so I went ahead and booked it. The first client that asked me to keep both dates open is still casting and I haven't even been hired for it so I figure, why turn down a gig that is booking me for one that isn't even sure if they're going to cast me for it, you know?

Any other models have to do this type of schedule juggling? Have you ever held out for a casting and ended up turning down other opportunities so is it first come, first served?

Lingerie Modeling

Dania — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 20:55:31 GMT

In the past I've shied away from doing lingerie and stuff but lately I've been toying with the idea of doing this type of work freelance. Of course I have my standards--I don't do nude or adult work and I am very wary of implied or semi implied nudity. The only way I would do lingerie is if it were a paid gig and for a company that has a solid website/portfolio of work that doesn't look sleazy. When I look at some local castings for lingerie models I tend to get excited about submitting until I see the website. Usually the photos are very amateurish and I'm not sure if they even had a professional photographer shoot it. So even if it was a good paying gig, I would turn it down if the photography on the site is shoddy/unimpressive.

I'm looking for more of the caliber of Frederick's of Hollywood or Victoria's Secret--the photography is excellent and the shoots are tasteful. Hopefully I'll be able to come across such clients and have a good shooting experience.

Anyone have any lingerie modeling experience? Are there any companies you know of that do good work and are in need of models?

High Fashion Models

Dania — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 20:40:31 GMT

Sometimes I look at the whole size zero controversy and the weight/size issue that fashion models have to deal with and I can't help but consider myself lucky that as a mainly commercial/print model I don't have to deal with that. In all the time I've been modeling I have never been asked to lose weight or gain. Are there are fashion models on here that have to deal with their agents nagging them to lose weight? I think it's terrible when such criticism and pressure to lose weight comes from the agencies because to me, they are not only supposed to work with their models they are supposed to protect them. Anyone agree? Disagree?

Commercial/Print Modeling Isn't a Free for All

Dania — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 20:44:10 GMT

I think that some people have the misconception that because commercial/print is more flexible in terms of height and weight requirements than other fields that this type of modeling is open to everyone. But that's not entirely true. While it is true that commercial/print models don't have to be super tall or super thin, there are other requirements that should be met at as well. Such models should still be within the 34-24-34 measurement range or at least proportional and should have a great commercial look: nice smile, good skin, healthy hair, symmetrical features, etc. Unfortunately, not everyone can be a model and such requirements are in place for a reason. So before you think that you can be a commercial/print model, look into it and learn more about what it required so that you don't get your hopes up too high. Being realistic about your potential will go a long way, whether the industry is made for you or not.

Looking for an Agent

Dania — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 20:47:21 GMT

So I'm in the search for an agency and I forgot how difficult it can be sometimes. I would really love to get an agent in Los Angeles but since I am 4-5 hours away, I know that's not always realistic, although I know of models that have an agent in LA and one in the SF area so I'm hopeful that I can get a similar arrangement. Right now I have extensions glued in so I am waiting until I get them removed before going to open castings since I figure they will want to see my natural hair like in my photos but I'm wondering if it will really make a difference? We'll see!

Anyone else on the agency hunt right now? How is it working out for you?

National Exposure

Dania — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 03:00:34 GMT

While I've had some successes in my career, I've yet to really hit the mainstream in the way of a national gig. I've been to castings for them but for whatever reason I end up not getting it. It is definitely frustrating at times, especially when I know that I have what it takes. It can be difficult to know what the client is looking for.

Has anyone snagged a major/national modeling gig? What was your casting experience like? What did you do that made you feel secure that you got it?

What Else Do You Do?

Dania — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 03:04:43 GMT

I'm curious to know what my other fellow models (aspiring or already working) do aside from modeling? Do you have a job? Are you a student in school (high school or college)? Do you plan on doing modeling as a part time thing or do you want to make it a full time gig?

I'm self employed and work from home as a writer and artist/illustrator. The ability to make my own schedule allows me to pursue modeling and acting more freely. It definitely helps to have a flexible schedule!

Any Actors Out There?

Dania — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 03:07:20 GMT

Are there any models on here who also act? I think it's always interesting to meet someone else who does both. Which do you like better, acting or modeling? There are definite pros and cons to each and I'm not sure if I necessarily like one over the other. I think it depends on my mood but for the most part I enjoy doing both kinds of work.

Underage Models Be Careful

Dania — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:56:28 GMT

It worries me sometimes when it comes to younger models trying to break into the industry. They are so much more prone to being scammed or taken advantage of so if there are any of you out there in this position, it is always important to exercise caution when dealing with people claiming to have the ability to take your modeling career to the next level.

If you're an underage model in the United States (under 18 years of age), it is crucial to know that you are not allowed to pose in lingerie, glamour, or other adult oriented type of work. It is against the law and any good, legitimate photographer knows this and follows the rules. I get many questions from underage models asking if they can be a Victoria's Secret model and they'll be like 15 or 16 years old. The answer is no, not until you are 18. So if a photographer ever approaches you and tells you they want you to shoot in lingerie or some other type of sexy shoot, and you are underage, tell them no. Chances are they are shady.

Underage models also need to have a parent/guardian present at the shoot. No exceptions.

Wanting to make it in the industry is one thing but putting your personal safety at risk to pursue it isn't smart at all. Always exercise good judgment and if something doesn't seem right, follow your instincts and do your homework. It's important to learn who you are dealing with.

Busy Seasons?

Dania — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:00:57 GMT

I couldn't wait for summer to come around because I knew that a lot of people would be hiring models for various projects and so far I've been keeping pretty busy, which has been cool. Although I do notice that sometimes the Fall season is pretty good, too, when it comes to finding modeling work. I dread Winter or the other colder times of the year because for some reason it always seems that modeling gigs doing hiring at that time require models to act like it's super warm and hot out when it's really freezing. I think if it's a summertime shoot, it should take place in the summer. But that's just me. =)

One photographer was telling me about a shoot done in December in an orchard for a catalog shooting their summer line of clothes and it was so frigid that the models had towels and jackets hidden on the floor of the orchard so they could warm up in between shoots.

Ugh, sometimes modeling is not glamorous at all! What are your favorite seasons to do modeling work?

Don't Stress Out

Dania — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:05:03 GMT

I'm sure that's easier said than done but if you're new to modeling and have a photoshoot coming up, it's important to keep your stress level to a minimum. Some new models are all thumbs and tend to over react when trying to figure out how to prepare for a shoot. Photographers are very understanding people and if you're new to it all, they won't expect you to be a pro. If you have questions, ask them and make sure you understand what is being asked of you. To get the best results, you'll all have to be on the same page.

When in doubt about wardrobe, bring more. It's easier to choose from more clothing options than less. Ask for references like certain brand names or styles and look them up online to get an idea of what look the photographer is going for. Make sure to find out if you need to do your own hair and makeup or if there will be someone on set to do it for you. The photographer is there to help you so don't be shy about communicating with them.

With practice you'll come to master preparing for a photoshoot. If you're anxious or stressed out, don't run around like a chicken with its head cut off. Take deep breaths, contact the photographer with your questions, and make sure you prepare everything a day before the shoot or the night before at the latest. Avoid packing everything the morning of because chances are you'll forgot something. The less stress you have, the better your complexion will be, too.

Exclusive Contracts

Dania — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:36:14 GMT

How do you feel about exclusive contracts? I've had photographers advise models never to sign an exclusive contract because it basically means that they own the model and doesn't allow them to sign with any other competing agencies. Are any models on here under an exclusive contract or have been? What was your experience? I would think that if you're a supermodel then it isn't a problem but for regular working models I don't see the need for exclusive contracts--in smaller markets I can't imagine there is enough work to justify an agency owning a model body and soul.

Any thoughts?

Brand new to modeling

Megan D — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:37:01 GMT

Hey um i've never modeled before but i want to become a plus size model and i dont know wut i should do to get started

Don't Feel the Need to Change

Dania — Wed, 20 May 2009 03:56:13 GMT

It amazes me how many aspiring models will ask me what they need to do to their looks to attract a modeling scout or impress an agency. It amazes me even further when I get questions from girls that have been scouted and asked to come in for an interview, asking what they need to do to their hair, how they should take care of their skin, etc. It is common sense to know that if an scout showed an interest in you then your best bet is to show up to the agency looking exactly like you did when you were scouted. That means do not make an appointment to get a fancy hairstyle or buy a new wardrobe or slap a lot of makeup onto your face. You want to be recognizable to the scout and show the rest of the agency what potential the scout saw in you.

If you feel the need to change your hair in a drastic way, and are signed to an agency, be sure to run the idea past your agent first. It is important that they agree with the change because this means you will need to retake your portfolio pictures and headshots to reflect the new change. Never make such a drastic change to your appearance without running it by your agent but in the beginning stages when you have just been scouted, be sure to stay as you are. Let the agency fall in love with how you look naturally, don't feel the need to change yourself if it isn't even necessary.

Finding Nude Models

rowena — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 11:50:08 GMT

I am currently researching a project for a photographer friend and he is interested in nude photography (art type!). It has been interesting looking in to it for him - do any models with experience in this area know the best places to scout. Obviously it is important to be professional and transparent because nude photography is not always what the model expects. Any tips / hints here?

Update Your Portfolio

Dania — Wed, 20 May 2009 03:51:35 GMT

Nothing is more important than updating your portfolio when it comes to modeling. It is wise to have a print version of your portfolio in a simple, black portfolio case. Online portfolios are good, too, and easier to put together but having a hard copy portfolio is crucial when it comes to meeting with clients face-to-face. Your portfolio should have between 10-15 of your best images. If the image doesn't make you go "WOW" then it shouldn't go in. You should update your portfolio every other month or so but will mostly depend on how much work you get and how many images you receive.

You don't need to have an image from every single shoot you've done but you do want to make sure to change out older photos with newer, better ones. Each time you do a photoshoot, look over your pictures and if there are one or two that you think look great, then add them to your portfolio.

Don't feel the need to spend a ton on getting a portfolio put together, either. You can buy a portfolio case at an affordable price at any office supply store. Keep it basic and don't add designs or fancy stuff to it. The purpose is to show off your pictures, not the folder holding the pictures.

ANTM !!

rowena — Sun, 31 May 2009 18:54:40 GMT

Ok so I am sooooo slow but I finally finished watching the end of the latest series of ANTM! Did any one else watch this?!

Posing with Animals

Dania — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:01:42 GMT

Has anyone done this? What was the shoot for, what animal and what was your experience like? Lately, I've been seeing a lot of editorial images that involve models and animals, namely horses. I think posing with animals is such a cool concept. I would love to do such a shoot one day. I just wanted to know what other people have experienced when it came to posing with animals.

I know I'd have a blast modeling with a horse, dog, or cat. Not sure about snakes but the idea is pretty cool so I think I eventually would want to pose with a snake.