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Modeling in 2020 Pt. III: What to Keep & What to Leave Behind

In the FIRST INSTALLMENT of this mini blog series, I talked about modeling portfolios. The SECOND INSTALLMENT covered comp/zed cards.

For this third entry, let's tackle the subject of modeling vouchers. To catch you newbies up on what modeling vouchers are, check out this blog post I wrote about them: MODELING VOUCHERS.

The use of modeling vouchers to receive payment from clients is pretty exclusive to agencies, meaning 99.9% of the time you, as a model, will encounter or deal with these types of vouchers is if you're signed to an agency.

KEEP IT OR TOSS IT: IT DEPENDS

I know...that's not definitive answer but hear me out. Models signed to an agency that still uses vouchers will likely keep using vouchers. The decision to discontinue their use is entirely up to the agent so if you've been using modeling vouchers and haven't been told otherwise, then these will keep being part of your life in relation to your modeling career.

Freelance models don't have to use vouchers, however, it's purely based on personal preference. The more updated and convenient way to get paid is by sending an invoice.

Both modeling vouchers and invoices serve the same purpose: to make sure you get paid by the client/recipient. The main difference is the layout/design/template of this document. Some freelance models may swear by using vouchers and aren't interested in the slightest with switching over to invoices and that's totally fine.

There are blank voucher templates online for customization and even booklets with blank voucher forms that can be purchased online or found at office supply stores so if that's more your speed, there are options to choose from.

The reason invoices are popular is because it's a simple 1 page document you can create in Microsoft Word or modify from a free template online and email directly to the client or print and bring onsite to submit.

Both modeling vouchers and invoices create a paper trail that makes it easy to keep track of in regards to processing, is ideal for tax filing purposes, keeping track of income earned and also serves as documentation if any legal issues ever arise and proof is required.

What is considered more "convenient" or "user friendly" is different for each person so pick your poison and stick with it. But when it comes to the specific subject of modeling vouchers and whether they still have a place in the modeling world of 2020, the answer is they do but could be considered a dying breed thanks to the popularity of digital invoicing and emailing as well as payment platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, Zelle and Square, among others.
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