Making a Model Pt. 2
“With the industry becoming increasingly more diverse and the current requirement for models of various shapes and sizes, there’s more chances to be taken, even if you're not a size zero.”
Portfolio Example, Photography: Simon Carter
It's a question I get asked a lot in the industry. I’ve received a lot of emails over the years from aspiring models asking for tips and whether or not they’re the right size. The question isn't are you the right size, it’s do you have enough confidence to carry yourself well in the industry.
Now, not many get to walk straight onto the catwalk at fashion week.There are still to this day, certain requirements for catwalk models but this doesn't mean you cannot become a professional and successful model. With the industry becoming increasingly more diverse and the current requirement for models of various shapes and sizes, there’s more chances to be taken, even if you're not a size zero.
You have to find your niche and categories that best suit you by working with companies and agencies that compliment you and your style of modelling.
Before you start going to agencies or companies, you will need:
1. Up to date measurements
2. Paper work
3. Head shots / portfolio images
4. Training
5. Contacts
These are the five things you need to get started so let's begin.
Model Card Example, Photography: Jamie Dannunzio
1. Up to date measurements
I would advise every model to know their measurements off by heart going for castings. You won’t always have a tape measure to hand so it is very important to have your measurements memorised.
Starting from your head working you way down, including you inner and outer legs, some casting agents will also ask for glove size so get someone to help you with those. Be sure to add your height and shoe size too.
2. Paperwork
Paperwork is boring but we all have to do it. You will always need your National Insurance number and photographic ID (passport or driving licence) when attending castings.
It’s also worth getting a DBS check which cost between £25 to £70, depending on the type of check you get done. This lasts for up to two years and it’s definitely worth having as it can determine whether or not you get a job.
3. Headshots / portfolio images
These are very important as this will be when people see you for the first time.
Headshots should be taken from the front, back and both sides. Many people ask why include a photo of the back for your head? This is to show the length and style of your hair. When taking headshots, there should be an option pictured with NO MAKEUP. You may wear moisturiser, but no tinted moisturiser as the casting agents need to see the real beauty of your complexion.
Your portfolio should have a good variety of different styles from clothing, to beauty and full body shots. It's great to be creative, but just remember to add in some full length images in plain jeans and tops to present a natural look to casting agents.
Headshot Example (with makeup), Photography: Dave Cook
4. Training
When starting to build your portfolio, I always advise going on training days such as posing classes or group shoots.
Really work on creating angles, definition and facial expressions. Your eyes can tell a thousand words without changing a facial expression.
Even if you feel confident with your pose, it is always worth booking on to a couple of posing classes or catwalk classes to give you more confidence in front of the camera.
Another great technique for poses is practicing delicate dances such as classical ballet play as the movement is fluid and soft. A lot of people can lose their way in a picture just by having their hands out of place.
5. Contacts
Within the creative industry, contacts are your most valuable asset. As they say, it’s not what you know, but who. Whether it requires going to events, working on set or working with other models, it's all about finding people you can work with that can help you on your journey.
So going to catwalk shows or fashion events is a great way to network and get talking to people and get your name out there. Always remember to take personal contact information such as business cards with you ready to exchange with people you meet.
I hope this helps. I will be going into more details in the next couple of blogs.
All my love, Rhiannah x
