Modeling 101 - A Model's Diary

Photos From My Visa Signature Collection Shoot

2012-02-02T22:09:00.000-08:00

Back in December, I did a really fun lifestyle shoot for Visa. It was for their "signature collection," which is basically their own private set of stock images, which are used for their various marketing/advertising campaigns. You can read about the details of that shoot here:

Latest Shoot: Visa Signature Collection

I was happy to get an email from the casting director earlier today, with copies of the images from the shoot. I wasn't sure if I would get to see any of them because usually big companies like Visa aren't too keen about sharing pictures from their projects unless they're already published somewhere...and when they do allow models to get copies, it'll be of images they don't plan on using. But even so, it was very nice of the casting director to take time out to email myself and the other models with two of the photos.

That being said, below are the images from the Visa shoot I got for my portfolio (we were playing the role of socialites relaxing poolside at a resort):

Quick Tip #37

2012-02-02T21:55:00.000-08:00

Category: Castings
For: Male & Female Models

When going in for a casting or go-see, put your cell phone on SILENT--NOT VIBRATE. Sure, "vibrate" doesn't cause your phone to ring but it does still make a sound, especially when it's pressed up against a surface or certain material. The room where the castings and go-sees take place is usually fairly quiet so any noise will be amplified. Do yourself a favor and make it a habit to silence your cell to avoid the possibility of it going off while in front of the client.

While on that same note, do not have your cell phone on you in the middle of your casting/go-see. Ladies, stick your cell in your purse and fellas put it down on the floor, on a table or chair--not your front or back pocket. When the client takes snapshots of you, the last thing they want to see is the outline of your phone pressing through your jeans.

Trust me, you'll survive the short few minutes that castings and go-sees take without having your cell in your hand or pocket. The client should be your priority and you're there to impress them so that you'll get booked. So remember: silence, silence, silence when it comes to cell phones!

Answering a Reader Question #309

2012-02-01T14:41:00.000-08:00

DII_18 Wrote:

Hello!
I'm a guy so hopefully you can answer my question.I'm 17 turing 18 in a week. I'm 5ft10.5 or 5ft11. My waist is 29" and my chest last measured at 37" which may have changed slightly and broad shoulders(will that be a problem like with suits). I'm not actually sure if I have model potential despite what people say and also I have some acne on my face and back but not noticable from a distance but I do have a strong intrest I'm the industry. .What do you think? How are my chances?

Hi, DII_18! The best way for you to find out if you have modeling potential is to start submitting yourself to local agencies, as well as attending open casting calls. You're the ideal age and most agencies set their minimum height requirement for male models at 5'11". As far as your size/measurements, the ideal clothing size is standard around a 40regular - 42long.

As far as your acne, you'll want to get that under control as soon as possible. Even though your acne is not as noticeable from a distance, the photos you'll be taking as a model will be close ups and you'll also be center stage when on the runway. Agencies don't expect you to have "perfect" skin but you should have "good" skin that is healthy and fairly even in color.

A good starting point for you would be to go online and look up the official websites for modeling agencies that are within a 2 hour's drive from where you live. The websites will give you all the info you need to know, including what pictures to send and if they have open casting calls where you can go in without an appointment. Additionally, you'll also be able to view the models those agencies currently represent, which will give you an idea of what physical looks they want and are interested in.

If you need help with finding legit agencies to check out, feel free to email me: daniadenise@gmail.com.

Answering a Reader Question #308

2012-01-31T19:24:00.000-08:00

Candy Wrote:

Hi Dania,

I came across your blog when searching for tax information. I have been on the IRS site for hours and can't seem to find the form that I need to file as a freelance model working overseas.

I have been reading quite a bit and have not found my answer, so I thought I would go ahead and ask you:)

I read your blog on taxes that was written back in 2009. The only answer I was not able to find on that blog was what tax form was used to file your taxes.

I hope you are able to help me:)

Hi, Candy! I hope I'm able to help you, too. :-)

There is no specific tax form in order for you to file as a freelance model working overseas. As you may or may not know, in the USA, clients often ask models to fill out a W9, which allows them to then send the models they've worked with a 1099 form for their tax filing purposes for that year. However, in other countries, they operate very differently and forms like the W9 and 1099 may not even exist over there. While I have not modeled overseas, I have provided writing services to a company that was based in Switzerland. When tax season came around, I emailed them to ask for the form I could use for my taxes. It was at that time they informed me that no such forms or tax documents existed in their country so they could not provide me with that information.

That being said, what you will have to do (and what I have been doing since I've been freelance modeling) is report your earnings to the IRS by turning in any of the following documentation to whoever will be doing your taxes:

Paycheck stubs showing the amount(s) you've earned from your overseas clients
Copies of any invoices you used to bill clients directly
Copies of the check(s) you've deposited into your bank account (I don't know what bank you use but I have Bank of America and their online banking services have a feature where I can look up a scanned copy of any checks I've deposited, which I can then print a hard copy of, if needed)

As long as you report the money you've made and have the documentation to show for it, that should be enough to sufficiently take care of your taxes in lieu of having the tax forms. Please note that this info I've given you is based on my own experiences and research but is not meant to replace actual tax advice from a professional tax expert. Hope that's helpful!

Interview with Paul Fisher About His New TV Show "Remodeled" on CW

2012-01-31T13:41:00.000-08:00

I love my job because not only do I get to participate in fun shoots, shows and projects, I get to network with some amazing people. A while back I did a feature on Paul Fisher, who has represented some of the industry's top supermodels...well, he's back and with a new TV show that is actually premiering on the CW tomorrow, February 1 at 9PM (PST). "REMODELED" gives people an inside look into the industry from Paul's perspective as he and his crew aim to completely change the modeling world from the inside out.

I had the opportunity to interview Paul and find out more about his mission and the steps he's taking to reach his goals...

DD: After leading such a long, successful career in the modeling industry, why have you decided to take action now to change things? What prompted you to take things into your own hands through projects like "Remodeled?"

PF: It was not an easy decision to allow the cameras into our business. I started on a journey with my team to empower and connect hometown modeling agencies in 150 cities around the world. These agencies are the ones who are and have been discovering the stars of the modeling world. Our company, The Network, gives agencies in secondary markets the tools to create a star they discover.

More importantly, I wanted to create an environment that was safe for young people entering our business. What better way than to become the largest modeling network in the world, which I think we are now. I wanted to bring health and wellness to the modeling industry and to stress the importance of giving back (social responsibility and volunteering) to the models.

DD: In your opinion, what do you feel are the three most common mistakes local agencies make when it comes to representing their models?

PF: First, they often give away their power. They don’t realize the magnitude of what they can do - that that they can accomplish great things for their talent. They have the power to not just discover talent, but to create a star. Usually, they just do not realize they have this power. I try to help these agencies see if a major designer or magazine thinks a kid is the bomb, they don’t care where the kid comes from or who they have to call to book the kid. So why not develop the stars you discover, instead of giving them away to bigger east or west coast agencies?

Second, most agents big and small let successes go to their head. It is our egos, telling us we are so called "power agents," that tell us a model succeeded because of us. If a young person is suppose to become a great model, I believe it will happen, no matter what. We need to keep our egos in check.

Finally, local agencies sometimes don't put a model's photos in front of the right people. The job of an agent is "if" they think a potential model has "it," they need to introduce the model's photos to as many "top" people in the industry that they know. And then, pray someone freaks out about the kid. If they do, Bam! You have a star. Not brain surgery. Just have the "belief" to start at the top! Versus at the bottom. One booking can create a star if handled properly.

DD: You have an extensive history in working with high fashion models/supermodels. Will "Remodeled" only focus on agencies and the fashion world or will you also be spotlighting agencies with commercial/print, petite, plus size, teen divisions?

PF: Great question. You will see an episode on a teen division, what we call a New Faces division, but I don’t want to give too much away. It's reallllly cool. It focuses on an agency in the Midwest who needs to re-focus its energy on new faces. There are some elements of the show where we deal a little bit with commercials and commercial print, but overall, it is more focused on high fashion. Kaela, one of The Network's New Faces, was featured in our first episode and is a plus size model - but by the way, I HATE the phrase "plus size." I would rather call it "curves," or "healthy women." Plus size suggests some "above normal" size, which is grossly inaccurate.

DD: What are supermodels missing today that makes them so different from the supermodels of the '80s and '90s?

PF: When the Conde Naste & Hearst publishing companies took away the covers of their magazines from models, and instead, 11 months of the year, chose only to use celebrities on their covers, it made it much harder to turn a model into a true household brand name. How many supermodels can the average public name today? Giselle? Kate Moss? Adriana Lima? These aren't even the stars of today's world. And that is my point... The day of the true supermodel has come and gone, and only will come back when the magazines put models on the covers at least four times a year instead of once a year. I also think today's "currency" is social media and we at The Network see a void in models capitalizing on their online presence / followers. We are starting to assist our models to monetize and build their online brand.

DD: What has been your biggest challenge in trying to transform the modeling industry for the better?

PF: I have learned that the only way we know if we are on the right path is if a path is full of challenges. If this is true, which I believe it is, me and my team are on the right path. Many challenges. Transforming one's business is one thing; try being a part of transforming an industry. An industry, by the way, that is controlled by some very serious, smart, gifted, and very rich people.

To be a part of this change, I need to create a platform that can unify a voice, A voice of change. I felt by having the largest modeling network in the world, people would start to listen to us. We are just beginning, but we are gaining steam.

Right out of the gate, one of the issues was, if there were only five agencies as a part of our Network, it wouldn’t really be a Network. So we had to go from zero agencies to twenty agencies very quickly. Then, twenty agencies to forty agencies... Now, The Network is a community of modeling agencies from all over the world. Our agencies share models with each other and work closely together, which has never been done before in this industry.

Finally... financing. It's easy to find financing for a modeling business, if you don't care where the money comes from. A lot of rich guys want to be around the most beautiful people in the world. It was hard to find people who believed in our mission to create an army of "role models" - to bring health, wellness and giving back into the consciousness of models all over the world. That was tough.

DD: What is your definition of the "next generation of supermodels?"

PF: The next generation of supermodels are models who transcend our business, like Andrej, the model who works as a male and female model. Also, models who use their modeling as a "stepping stone" - a platform, to build their brand, like Ala, Tyra and Heidi. Use modeling to get your name out there, and then monetize that name into a brand. That is the new supermodel - a business woman. I also think models who build their brand and online following are very smart; they can alter trends and take advantage of the ability to create and influence a following.

DD: How long do you think your mission will take to have an effect that will be noticed (and implemented) on a larger scale within the industry?

PF: My dream is to be sitting front row at Calvin or Chanel show within the next two years - designers I admire so much - and see them using sexy, beautiful girls with curves vs "kids" weighing 110 pounds. We as company are in a rush, but it is impossible to predict how quickly we will have an impact. We think what we are doing is very important because it deals with how young women all over the world view themselves. We are speaking of important issues - body issues, depression issues, eating disorder issues, etc. I hope an effect will happen tomorrow and the next day and the next day... I hope our show Remodeled resonates with people, I hope people get addicted to it, and I hope our viewers and fans will take away from it the desire to never settle and the desire to be great.

DD: If "Remodeled" wasn't on your plate, what would you be doing with your time/career/experience?

PF: Well you have to know that Remodeled is a show about our business, The Network, Our company oversees a community of modeling agencies around the world. Our day to day business involves teaching, training, and giving these agencies the tools they need to truly create stars. We also have an online magazine for our agencies, our models and the public, www.networktalent.com, which has incredible articles on fashion and health, videos and blogs from our models around the world, and live chats with me, other Remodeled stars and Network experts.

The Network, our company, has approximately 50 modeling and talent agencies around the world, and together, our agencies represent more models than any other agency or network of agencies in the world. Our agencies represent approximately 12,000 models in total, many of whom are quite successful, working for brands and campaigns such as Versace, Calvin, Prada... the very best.

DD: What has been the feedback from your peers within the fashion/modeling industry (other agencies, models, photographers, etc.) about your mission to "Remodel" the industry?

PF: Mixed feelings, I think. I have asked most of my close friends and peers to hold off judgement until they see at least six episodes. I feel the show gets cooler and cooler and cooler. I am very proud of the show. I am very humbled that The CW Network, Sony TV and Fly on the Wall Entertainment would think I was an interesting enough characture to do a show about. I have received some calls, emails and text from people who really appreciated my straight-forwardness; others loved the rawnesss and the fact that it is real. Then again, some modeling school friends weren't too happy with me because of last week's show, when I let people know my feelings about modeling schools.

DD: The whole issue as to whether or not it is acceptable/okay to "pay" agencies for things like development classes, workshops, training, photoshoots, etc. continues to be hugely debated. In your professional opinion, what is your take on the whole notion of paying agencies for such services?

PF: Being a model is like opening your own business. They are business's unto themselves. There is NO business in the world that you can open without any 'startup' money whatsoever. There is always a cost to open a new business. Each model should look at it that way. There are costs... but those costs should not really involve "training," per say. Photos, yes, absolutely. Composites, a portfolio or two, an online portfolio, things like that... Just have good digitals of yourself taken and have your photos seen by real agencies. Period! go to thenetworktalent.com a good way to get scouted, by real agencies…

But should it cost thousands of dollars? No. Could a good set of test photos in certain cities cost $500? Yes. Could you pay $30 or $40 a month to have an online portfolio at an agency so they can market you to clients? Absolutely. The last thing we want to teach young, so-called pretty people is that if you are pretty, people should just give you things for free. When success is earned, and appreciated, it will last. Don’t get me started!

DD: How does your "tough love" demeanor gets results?

PF: My job is not to be everyone's best friend. I have an incredible staff who are experts and former power agents from the top agencies in the world who are very nice.. Very, very nice. My job is to assist agencies to reach their maximum potential. To push them to "want" to become great at what they set out to do in the first place, which is create stars and earn a good living in a tough economy. Tough love, passion, intensity... I know my style is not for everyone. But I mean what I say to these smaller agencies: "Become great." We are only in this physical world for a short time; why not be great? Really great. While you are here...

DD: What would your response be to those in the modeling industry that think things should stay as they are?

PF: In my opinion, people are either part of the solution or part of the problem. People either have a desire for the self alone or a desire to share with others. If one cannot see the responsibility that our industry has, they are blind. We have youth in our hands. That is a huge responsibility. We put out images into the world that young people think are real, and these same kids judge themselves based upon these images. This is a huge responsibility. Models used to be 8% under the normal girls weight 20 years ago. We are now 23% under. You tell me.

Modeling Scam Alert Update: They're Getting Smarter!!!

2012-01-31T13:20:00.000-08:00

(If you haven't done so already, PLEASE read my blog post "Modeling Scam Alert" first, which will put this modeling scam alert update into better perspective for you.)

Boy, I tell ya, these scammers are doing everything they can to entice gullible and naive models into bad situations. If you read my post about the Modeling Scam Alert, you'll know that these guys will do whatever they can to convince models that their assignment is legitimate, will give them tons of exposure and a huge paycheck.

Well, they've stepped up their game--how do I know this? They "almost" got me. By that, I mean, my scammer spidey sense started tingling but I pursued the opportunity a bit further to make sure I was right. What really confirmed my suspicions was that the dummies actually tried to scam me twice...after receiving the first "reply offer" via email, a few days later I got another offer for a different modeling assignment BUT the body of the message was almost exactly the same as the first one...the only thing that was different was the name of the client and the "photographer" in charge of the shoot. To add the cherry on top, both projects were scheduled for the SAME WEEKEND in February! Needless to say, I don't believe in those kinds of coincidences.

Their posting online seemed regular enough but after I submitted, the email correspondence that followed began to smell a bit fishy to me...but don't worry, I didn't get scammed and I didn't lose out on any money. Below are some points that show the scammers are getting smarter by tweaking their offer so that it doesn't resembles their scams of the past (be on the lookout for these signs when submitting yourself to freelance modeling opportunities):

They're Using Legit Designers as the So-Called Client, Instead of Magazine Publications

In the past, I've gotten this scammer offer that was disguised as a legit opportunity to work with a popular fitness magazine. Well, the scammers must know that while working with publications like magazines are all well and good, models get more excited about opportunities to work with actual designers. The reply I got back from the so-called casting, claimed that the chosen models would be working with a famous jewelry designer. I looked up the name of the jewelry designer mentioned in the message--she does exist but I'm pretty sure she doesn't know that her name and business are being associated with this scam (I've already contacted her company's customer service to alert them of the situation).

They Have An Explanation for Their Bad Grammar

Remember how I mentioned before that emails with exceedingly poor grammar is sometimes a sign of a scammer? Well, these guys now have a way to explain why their email message is written so awkwardly--they state that they are from another country, which is why their written English isn't very good. How convenient (that's sarcasm, btw). A few paragraphs up in this post I had mentioned that the scammers sent me two different offers...in the first reply offer email, the "photographer" said he was originally from Spain and that's why this English wasn't very good. In the second reply offer email, that "photographer" explained that he was from Germany and didn't have a good grasp of written English. Really? Gimme a break!

They Use An Actual Model Release Form to Get Your Info

In the past, the body of the email would contain a very sloppily formatted list of info the scammers required models to fill out in order to send them part of the upfront payment for their services. The weird formatting was a dead giveaway that it was copied and pasted into the email, which allows the scammers to send out email blasts without having to retype everything. They've since learned from that mistake and now include an attachment, which is titled "Contract" or "Contract Agreement Form." It asks for your name, date of birth, mailing address, email address, contact info and stats/measurements. It looks pretty legit at first glance--it even names the client and the title of the shoot project, as well as contains clauses that describe the duties of the Model and the Client, including the payment arrangement. What it all boils down to is that they've learned a new way to repackage crap. You can put poop into a nice fancy box with a colorful ribbon but at the end of the day, it's still poop.

They Contact You to Check In on the Status of Your Submission

Whenever I submit myself to freelance modeling opportunities, I include my cell phone number. It's a business decision and so far I haven't had any issues...most times I'm dealing with real clients anyway and they need to have a way to contact me aside from email. Well, the first "photographer" that sent me the reply offer email actually texted me to see if I had received the Contract Agreement form. I couldn't believe it at first. I ignored the text. It's a scam anyway so why should I care that he's waiting on me to reply back?

They've Got Personality

The scammers want to gain your trust so they'll add in little tidbits of information about themselves to make you feel like you "know" them. The first photographer (from Spain) told me in great detail about the name of his wife, how long they've been married and the names of his children. What does that have to do with anything related to the modeling assignment? Sure, I befriend photographers I work with all the time but they've never volunteered intimate info in this way before ever even meeting me.

The scammer also gave me some brief background on the jewelry designer, where she was born, her career highlights, etc. While that was nice, the info he provided was taken right from a Wikipedia article about the designer. I almost died from laughter when I found that out.

They Don't Mention Sending Your Advanced Payment to Anyone

They do this on purpose so you aren't immediately onto their scam. They'll instead wait for you to confirm that you received the money and from there will further instruct you as to what to do with the funds. Just because they don't mention it doesn't mean it's not gonna happen.

They Create Actual Online Profiles on Social Networking Sites

Before, the scammers used to find models online and contact them directly with their offer. But they've learned that raises red flags so they've gotten with the program and now post legit looking casting calls on social networking sites like Facebook, Model Mayhem, etc. They go out of their way to upload photos, write a little blurb about themselves and whatever else they need to do so that they're free to post castings, in the hopes that unsuspecting models will reply. These fake profiles don't stay up too long though and are typically deleted after a few days. They end up just creating new ones anyway with different names and photos, which keeps the scam fresh and hard to trace back.

Despite these new approaches, many of the core elements of the scam have remained the same:

They want to hire models for their seemingly "huge" modeling opportunities without ever meeting the models face-to-face through a casting
They Promise big payouts (the first offer I got was for $2,000 and the second was for $1,500)
They explain that they'll mail the upfront, advanced payment to the model (no legit casting/client I've come across has EVER given a model an advance on the money BEFORE the shoot)
They mention that the shoot will take place in a "rented studio" (this is a specific phrase they use in their messages) that is conveniently located near the city/state where the model lives. They add this part in so that it makes sense to the model when the scammer asks them to take some of the money they've mailed them for the upfront payment in order to send it to the "studio manager" to hold the venue for the shoot. Only thing is, the studio manager doesn't exist and no actual shoot is ever going to happen.

The way the scammers "get you" is that the funds used for the advanced payment they mail are actually stolen funds from a random person's bank account. The model receives the payment--usually in the form of a money order--and is then asked to send the money to the studio manager. The bank won't be alerted of the stolen funds right away so it provides a window of time for the scam to operate. The model then cashes the money order, deposits it into his/her account and sends off the percentage required to the fake studio manager, who is actually part of the scam. Because it isn't smart to mail cash, models will typically write a check for the required amount, unless they're asked to wire the funds over. The scammers get away with the real money and you're left with no client or shoot to participate in.

Models, if you get any offer similar to the one I've described above and/or in my other post about this subject, delete it and don't even bother responding. If you have to reply back, just tell them that you're no longer available to participate in the opportunity, then ignore/delete any further correspondence and they'll eventually stop contacting you.

Latest Shoot: Dating Website

2012-01-31T00:10:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I had a shoot that definitely makes my list of "Most Fun Gigs." It was pretty much a lifestyle shoot. The images were for a new dating website (we won't know the actual name of the site until everything's ready to go), which focuses on the interracial dating niche. There were 8 models total: 4 girls, 4 guys. We were assigned our "significant others" that morning, although a few of us were switched around or photographed with more than one partner, to add variety.

Call-time was 10AM in San Francisco, off the Embarcadero, which is right next to the water and the Bay Bridge. I was super excited that the weather was amazingly gorgeous--totally sunny and (for once) not bitterly windy. I arrived early as usual and eventually the models showed up one by one. I was happy that everyone was very social, outgoing and fun...by the time the production crew showed up, all the models felt like we'd known each other for years. I love it when that happens...it makes the job so much easier!

Everyone introduced themselves to each other, then the project director passed out the model release forms for us to fill out. The photographer also took pictures of our photo IDs in order to make sure that everyone was 18+ (this is a standard practice for some shoots, which companies sometimes require for legal purposes). After the paperwork was out of the way, we were given a shot-sheet, which had reference images of the types of poses we'd be doing. Basically, they were looking for natural, candid poses and a few staged poses. We were supposed to be a couple out on a date (remember, the images are for a dating website) so we had to be comfortable with hugging, holding hands, kisses on the cheek, etc. Definitely rated G stuff (no makeout fests or anything). I managed to shoot some behind the scenes footage...check it out:

My boyfriend for the day was a male model named Paul. Since the photographer was only able to shoot one couple at a time, the rest of us kicked back and socialized with one another. Me and Paul got along right away and I was happy to know he wasn't shy about pretending to be a couple. There was also a video element to the shoot as well. The actual client was on location and he explained to us that they wanted to use video footage to add some variety to the site. We were given a small handheld camera, which we were supposed to use to videotape each other, as if we were a regular couple shooting footage to upload to Facebook. It wasn't supposed to be perfect or anything--they wanted us to be as natural/believable as possible so me and Paul were totally goofy, blowing kisses to each other, pretending to take a still photo of ourselves with the camera, etc.

Here are some candid pictures from the shoot (these aren't the actual images from the shoot itself...some I took using my camera and others were taken by one of the crew):

A candid taken during our lunch break. Yes, he really did put his foot up on purpose for the picture. We were a silly bunch!

Nikki and Shaye playing the role of the happy couple (even though they look super serious right here, haha...don't worry, they were in between shots).

Remember my "hurry up and wait" post about modeling? This is a prime example, lol. A few of the other models hanging out, waiting their turn. All that extra crap in the background is our stuff. That's what happens when you shoot on location!

We did two looks: casual/date wear and sporty wear. The casual/date wear was the first look and after a few hours of shooting, we took a break for lunch at a local restaurant. Once we were re-energized, everyone changed into sporty gear and took turns shooting still images with the photographer and using the handheld video camera to capture action shots of our pretend "dates."

The whole day was so much fun and we laughed the entire time. Everyone got along and there were no divas, attitudes or issues...thankfully! We even finished early, which was awesome. At the end of the shoot, we got our checks and everyone exchanged numbers/business cards so that we could keep in touch--especially to let each other know if we came across our images on the dating website(s). I'm hoping the client will email us to let us know when the photos and site are live...from what we were told, our images will be used as web banners, pop ups and of course the video stuff, as well. All in all, it was the most fun I've had on a Saturday doing modeling and I'm glad I got to make even more new friends in the business. To top it off, the makeup artist was a girlfriend of mine that I went to college with...I hadn't seen her in over 5 years! Talk about a small world!

Latest Fashion Show: Spring 2012 Bridal Season

2012-01-30T23:35:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday was the first show of the Spring 2012 Bridal Season for the production company I've been working with for the past 2 years, Brocade Weddings. As always, there was a lot of changes as far as casting decisions, designer choices, etc. I helped the model coordinator with casting new faces for the season, which took place about a month ago so I was eager to see who ended up making the cut (I wasn't a part of the selection process...my role was to take the models in small groups, introduce myself and explain what the bridal shows were all about. Then I demonstrated the type of "walk" the casting panel wanted to see, so that the models would know exactly what to expect when they went into the room to audition). This season, the designer wanted to include more plus size brides (her boutique specializes in plus size fashions), so we had a really great mix of all heights, shapes, sizes, ages and ethnicities. After all, we're marketing the clothes to "real" people and that's what I love about doing these shows in particular.

So fast forward to this past Sunday: the first show of the season took place at one of The Marriott locations in the South Bay Area (that's in Northern California for those of you that aren't from California). Out of the group, there were about 5 female models that were returning from previous seasons and the rest were newbies. Luckily, we managed to keep the majority of our male models from last season but had two new additions to the group (who we welcomed with open arms into our family, btw).

As per the routine, everyone got into the lines for hair and makeup, followed by doing a rehearsal on stage. Then it was back to finish up hair and makeup, as well as check our wardrobe to make sure all of our dresses were there (fittings took place about 2 weeks before the actual show). Unfortunately, my favorite dress out of the bunch wasn't there because it ended up getting sold...I was SO sad because I was really planning to rock that dress on the stage, lol. But I got a replacement so I wasn't short a dress. Below are some fun flicks from the event:

This is during the "Vogue" scene, where the models come out one by one but remain on stage and strike a new pose each time someone else comes out. I'm always the last model, who comes in acting like a total diva. I strut my stuff and then yell out, "Ladies!!! 1, 2, 3, Vogue!" And then they all pose one last time...I wink at the audience, then lead them off stage. This dress was a huge hit with the crowd...I can't even tell you what an adrenaline rush it was to feed off of the crowd's energy during this scene. I got so many compliments about the dress that I was told to wear it again in the second show for this scene--I was originally supposed to wear something else, lol.

Me and one of my fave models to work with, Jennifer. We totally didn't plan to both have a black and white outfit for the finale scene...guess it was meant to be!

Walking out with one of our flower girl models/newbie, Beyonce (yes, that is her name). She was really shy at first but she did her thing!

Part of the opening scene...it was my first time being paired with Les, who is one of the male models from the previous seasons. He's such a doll.

That's right, we dance down the runway for the scene right before the finale. It's nice to let loose on stage!

Showing off a "destination" style wedding dress during the third scene.

The turnout was really great...the place was packed and the first show went well...although the last scene for the finale got a bit bungled because we weren't able to do a full rehearsal of that scene (we got kicked off the stage because the bridal fair was opening the doors to the guests and it would have been tacky for us to be on stage at the same time). The newbies weren't familiar with the choreography that the rest of us were used to doing, so it didn't go over too well. But the feedback from the crowd was still positive. Many people said they could tell something wasn't right but it didn't make them think negatively about the show's performance overall. To make sure that same thing didn't happen at the end of the second show, the model coordinator ended up having rehearsal for that scene backstage in the hallway near our changing rooms. Thankfully, everyone nailed it during the second show.

Aside from that snafu (and a few wardrobe malfunctions), I was very proud of our new models. Not all the people chosen from the casting were at this first show because we can't use everybody all at the same time, so I'm looking forward to meeting the rest of the new additions at the other shows coming up. As always, I enjoy participating in the bridal shows and was happy to find out that I will be the finale bride for the next show in late February. I'll be reunited with my partner/groom from last season, Sam, and I can't wait...we totally rock on stage together and he is so much fun to play off of.

Answering a Reader Question #307

2012-01-30T23:01:00.000-08:00

Ashley Wrote:

Dania,
First off, great blog.

My name is Ashley.
I'm 21, five foot ten and within the standard parameters of a model.
I have been told that I look like I am 16. Recently I sent some photos to a reputable agency and received a call back for an "interview".

My concern is, do you think I would still be able to do runway at my age?

It makes me nervous because I know runway is very competitive for african-american females.

Thanks,

Hey, Ashley! Congrats on getting an agency interview! 22 is the maximum age for most fashion agencies so you just make the cut. That being said, I wouldn't consider you too old, especially if you look younger. Perhaps the only criticism you may receive is that you may be too "old" (I'm using that word VERY loosely) to begin a runway career. However, you shouldn't be too worried about that because as long as you are a fast learner, develop a great walk and have the right measurements and look that designers want, you'll book work and won't have any problems.

So ace your interview and cross your fingers that you'll get offered a contract! Good luck!!!

Answering a Reader Question #306

2012-01-30T19:10:00.000-08:00

Natalia Julianna Wrote:

hi Dania my name is Natalia and im only 5'1" tall....my passion is modeling and i know i have tlent and the drive to succeed as a model...i cant find any agencies or talent scouts willing to give me a chance because i am so short !! do you have any advice or anytihng i can do to make it ? this is my dream and i dont want to let it go simply because I am not tall enough.

Hi, Natalia! It is tough being a shorter model, especially at your height and I'm sorry that you haven't come across anyone willing to give you a shot so far. Freelance modeling will more than likely be your best bet. This allows you to act at your own agent by finding castings and gigs and submitting yourself to them directly. Many clients that hire freelance models have projects where the height requirement isn't so strict, which could give you more opportunities to look into. Being a freelance model is tough but not impossible. Below are links to blog posts I've done about freelance modeling, which could help you decide if this is something you want to pursue.

What is Freelance Modeling?

Freelance Modeling: Pros & Cons

Answering a Reader Question #305

2012-01-30T19:00:00.000-08:00

Maia Wrote:

I am going to be modeling in a runway show where the proceeds go to fund a safehouse for people who have run away from human trafficking. I am modeling the finale look and have to pose with my wrists at 90 degrees (designer's choice) I have to have eight standing poses. Do you have ideas for me? Thanks so much. I love your blog.
ps. the designer is trying to make black nails an awareness symbol of trafficking like the pink ribbon is an awareness symbol of breast cancer. Think you could pass this along?

Hi there, Maia! That is a really great cause that you're participating in! I'll Tweet about it and spread the word about the black nail/trafficking awareness you mentioned (this post will also be public to my readers, which will also help spread the word). That's interesting that the designer wants you to do 8 poses with your wrists at 90 degrees...hmm...well, since it is a runawy show, you'll basically want to create dynamic poses by changing your stance/position on the stage. For example, one pose could be you facing the crowd face on, then turning to your left for a 3/4 stance, then turning to your right for another 3/4 stance. You could also do a stance where you are posing with your back to the crowd, where you're looking over your shoulder. You could also try leaning your weight on one leg and bending your other leg slightly at the knee, then switching sides and doing the same thing. There is also the option of doing an online image search to see if there are any additional standing poses that would be similar to what you'll be doing.

I hope that helps...I know you'll knock 'em dead! Good luck!

Answering a Reader Question #304

2012-01-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

will i make it as a model ? im 5ft 6' and ive got braces ???

Hey, Anonymous! Your height and the fact that you have braces isn't enough info for me to tell you whether or not you could be a model. However, at your height, I can tell you that you'll want to look into agencies that have commercial/print modeling divisions. It's best to look up the websites of modeling agencies in your city/state and submit your photos/info or attend their open casting calls. Only the agencies themselves will be able to tell you for sure whether or not you have the potential to become a model with braces.

Quick Tip #36

2012-01-27T00:13:00.000-08:00

Category: Castings
For: Male & Female Models

When you submit to a casting and are then asked to contact the client by phone, don't assume they'll know exactly who you are when they call. Clients that cast for modeling gigs are often juggling several projects at the same time and if they've never met or worked with you before, chances are they're going to need you to jog their memory. Don't take offense--that's just how it is sometimes and it isn't personal.

When you call the client and they answer, greet them with your name but also add on where they should know you from.

For example:

"Hi, this is Dania Denise from the Model Mayhem casting for...[insert project name]"

"Hi, this is Dania Denise...I applied for the lookbook shoot for...[insert project or designer name]"

Adding that extra piece of info will help them remember who you are and why you're calling a lot faster. You don't want to have them guessing, which can be awkward. Unless you're a supermodel, people aren't going to know you off your name alone. ;-)

Quick Tip #35

2012-01-27T00:07:00.000-08:00

Category: Wardrobe
For: Male & Female Models

Anytime you are asked to provide your own wardrobe for a shoot, always ask the following questions if you're not already given the details beforehand:

1) What types of outfits should I bring?
2) How many changes/outfits will be needed?
3) Are there are colors, patterns or styles I should stay away from?

The last thing you want to do is bring random wardrobe items that can't be used. Most times you'll be given instructions about wardrobe but if there's any doubt or if you're given vague info, asking the questions above will be very important.

Answering a Reader Question #303

2012-01-26T23:32:00.000-08:00

Raya Wrote:

Hi!!! Well I am aware that I can not wear a two piece bathing suit after having my baby. I have stretch marks on my stomach and butt. So my question is what kind of photos should I take to be considered for commerical print modeling ?

Hi there, Raya! Since you're aiming for commercial/print, you don't have to worry about showing a lot of skin. That being said, you can wear a pair of fitted jeans or shorts and a fitted tank top or tee shirt. No swimsuit necessary. :-) Make sure you wear solid colors that go well with your skin tone and avoid logos, brand names, busy patterns or distracting images. No shoes or socks either.

Good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question #302

2012-01-26T23:28:00.000-08:00

Cara Wrote:

my name is Cara and i'm 19, i've been trying to model for a couple years on the side, but sports injuries have kept getting in the way. now i am trying more actively, and all of my friends tell me i should model for VS. i've been looking into major as my agency. I'm 5'11 with 33-25-35 measurements and can actually walk in heels, the higher the better! any words of advice for me?

Hey, Cara! My best words of advice would be to submit to Ford and Elite in New York before Major. These two agencies are contracted to be the first places VS goes to scout their new faces from. Then they move on to the other big agencies. So go for Ford and Elite first. If you get signed to either one, then you're on your way. If they aren't interested, then submit to Major and see what happens. To increase your odds with the agencies, attend their open casting calls so you can be evaluated in person instead of them just judging you based on photos. Don't forget, you don't need professional photos or a portfolio since you're a newbie. Make sure you visit the Ford and Elite websites, which will tell you when their open casting calls are, as well as what types of snapshots they want you to bring. Good luck!

Answering a Reader Question #301

2012-01-26T23:23:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Hi! I was wondering if you still have to work at Abercrombie Kids to be a model at Abercrombie Kids. And if so, how old must you be?

Hi, Anonymous! According to the Abercrombie Kids website, you have to be 17 years of age or older to work there, which is a requirement to be considered as a model and get info about their castings. If you're younger than 17 then you'll more than likely have to be a signed model to an agency that has Abercrombie Kids as one of its clients so that they'll already have contacts for the castings.

Answering a Reader Question #300

2012-01-26T23:16:00.000-08:00

Demi Wrote:

Hey Dania! I wanted to ask, because I'm not so good at searching agencies and what would best suit me. My height is 5'7 and i know that's only good enough for print modeling which makes it harder for me in what agency to look for. i live in West Covina and Rancho Cucamonga, CA and I am able to drive the distance to LA if there are none around me. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you so much!

Hi, Demi! There aren't going to be agencies in West Covina and Rancho Cucamonga so you'll want to stick to commercial/print agencies in Los Angeles and other surrounding areas. Below are agencies you can check out that have this division (it may also be titled "lifestyle"):

Ford LA
*They have a commercial/print division and according to their website, their open calls for women ages 12-25 is for the height range 5'7"-5'11")
http://www.fordmodels.com
I Model and Talent
http://www.imodelandtalent.com

Siona Entertainment
http://www.sionaentertainment.com

Action Agency
http://www.actionagencyla.com

Nouveau Model & Talent
http://www.nouveaumodels.com

BMG Models - LA
http://www.bmgmodels.com

NTA Life Models
http://www.ntatalent.com

Sports + Lifestyle Unlimited - LA
http://www.sluagency.com

Answering a Reader Question #299

2012-01-26T22:50:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

What is the level of importance of having knowledge of designers when going to open calls for top agencies? Should we at least have favorite designers? Also, is it morally wrong to want to be a model but not have a strong interest in fashion?

Hi, Anonymous! If you're trying to get signed to a top agency that represents fashion models, it is extremely helpful to have at least basic knowledge of designers and their work. You don't have to be an expert fashionista but at least recognize huge names like Dolce & Gabbana, Vera Wang, Betsey Johnson, Versace, etc. Agencies do like to ask potential models who their favorite designers are so if you need to brush up on your knowledge in this area, do this sooner than later. Don't just memorize names, make sure you know "why" you like certain designers. This doesn't require fancy terminology or anything--it can as simple as, "I really like how sleek and modern Vera Wang's dresses are. They're not too overdone but always look elegant." It helps to be able to back up why you like a certain designer's style over another. NEVER badmouth a designer's work. If the agency asks your opinion of a designer whose work you don't like, reply with something polite like, "Their style isn't usually what I go for but I think their work is really creative/unique."

In the fashion world, it is seen as very uncool to not have at least some interest in fashion. A "strong" interest isn't mandatory but like I said above, you should be able to at least have a basic conversation about the topic. If an agency knows you're familiar with fashion, it gives them peace of mind, compared to someone who knows zilch, which may negatively affect the way they perform in a photoshoot or in a fashion show. Many people that know nothing about fashion tend to be overly critical, harsh or plain uninterested in the clothes and that's a huge no-no for a working model. It's like wanting to be a writer for Time Magazine but you've never read a single issue.

You don't have to love everything you wear but being excited about trying on outfits and getting to know the designers makes for a better model to work with.

Quick Tip #34

2012-01-24T14:06:00.000-08:00

Category: Castings
For: Male & Female Models

When it comes to attending castings for a modeling gig, if it is at all possible, do not volunteer to go first. Trust me on this one. Below are reasons why:

1) Being nervous is natural but if you volunteer to go first, that nervousness will double and could negatively impact your performance.

2) Most times you'll be able to watch other models audition, which allows you to "cheat" and already know what the client is going to ask you to do.

3) Waiting until a few other models go first gives you time to practice or at least have an idea of how you will do your casting/audition.

Case & point: I went to a casting recently for a designer and another model got there around the same time as me but she had brought her son with her. The designer asked which of us wanted to go first and I almost volunteered but decided to let the other girl go since she had her kid with her. As it turns out, I was invited by the casting director to peek in on her casting so that I could get an idea of what they'd be asking me to do. We had to put on a pair of their jeans and mimic a specific pose, while being given super tedious instructions on how to pose our lower body (only the waist down was being photographed, not our face or anything). The model was having a very hard time following what was being asked of her. However, I had a perfect idea of what to do and once I got into the jeans myself and assumed my pose, they got the shot they needed after only taking 4 photos. Had I gone first, I would have been awkward like the model before me, which would have undoubtedly affected the quality of my casting.

First Shoot of 2012: Fashion & Beauty

2012-01-24T12:52:00.000-08:00

I did my first shoot of 2012 earlier in the month but just got my CD with the images. I was very happy to be reunited with a local designer, Danielle Busque, who I had worked with about a year ago as she was developing her portfolio for her latest collection. I also brought on board my go-to makeup artist, Sophia Musto, since I knew she would take care of me. In order to find a photographer, I posted a casting call on Model Mayhem and was very lucky to have Paolo Diavolo reply.

Danielle and I loved his portfolio and also the fact that he had a home studio with lights and all other kinds of photography equipment to get the effect needed. After a lot of back and forth email conversations, we set up a date, time frame and got the address of Paolo's studio.

The designer had two pieces she wanted to shoot to complete her portfolio, which was a turquoise corset and a lovely dress that we simply referred to as "The Rose Dress." It was funny because The Rose Dress had been tried on by other models (who were traditional fashion height) and they could not fit into the dress properly. It appeared the dress was made just for me since no one else could get into it--guess it was meant to be, lol.

Below are the best shots from the shoot. This was a trade photoshoot, which means that no money was exchanged and everyone involved got to use the copies of the photos for their portfolios:

The shoot went off without a hitch and our crew put out some great images. Sophia hooked up the makeup as usual and Danielle had fun styling me and making sure the outfits were shown in the best way. It was our first time working with Paolo but it proved to be the perfect fit--not only was he professional, he was so sweet and had a great personality. He bought snacks and drinks for us so that we wouldn't get hungry during the shoot and everything we did was totally a collaborative effort.

Additionally, while I had only asked for my favorite 5-6 images, he ended up mailing me a CD with every image not only retouched but properly resized for various uses (print, online, email, etc.). He definitely went above and beyond what we asked of him and I couldn't be happier with the results. I will be adding Paolo to my list of go-to photographers and can't wait to work with him in the near future.

***Please note that these photos are copyrighted by Paolo Diavolo Photography. Any misuse, manipulation and/or use online or in print without proper credit to either the Modeling 101 blog or Paolo Diavolo Photography will result in legal action.***

Answering a Reader Question #298

2012-01-23T23:56:00.000-08:00

Dominique Wrote:

Hi Denise! I have got to say I am absolutely OBSESSED with your blog. This was exactly what I was looking for when I was surfing the Internet for a look inside what it's really like to be a model not some sketchy shows , bad YouTube videos or company releases. And woohoo! I found it and girl am I hooked. I check up on this blog every few days just to see if there's a new post and I end up reading all of the new ones even if they're directed at male models haha. ( I hope I'm not getting annoying at this point) so I'll just get to the point , yes I am another one of those ( for lack of any other words) wannabe victoria's secret models that knows nothing about modeling. I know you're probably thinking to yourself Oh no, not again, haven't I answered everything VS related already??? and yes actually you have. So I have submitted my plain photos to Elite and Ford just yesterday and in waiting on pins and needles here. I know I shouldn't be getting my hopes up or falling into a some anxiety attack because boy oh boy the chances are so darn slim. I heard that if elite honestly wants you they reply to you in like a day , I'm not sure if that's true but if it is then wow I just blew it. I do have some ( more like a bagillion) extra questions

- does VS , Ford, Elite or any other modeling agency care about shoe size because I see these 5'9" models with like size 7 feet and. Think to myself how??? Do they just shove em in there or something? I'm at 5'8" and at a 9.5 and a size 10 shoe size , its kinda my secret but seemingly stupid insecurity- my big feet
-when I don't get signed to ford or elite not that I don't think I could handle it but I'm being realistic, is there any other route I can take to get VS?
-why do modeling agencies take eye color so seriously if there are contacts nowadays ( I know this is totally off topic but it just came to me and I'm really curious but I'm guessing it defies the whole natural beauty look lol)
-oh when I don't get into elite or ford would it be a bad idea to wait a year or two for myself to grow and mature ( I'm only 15 so maybe some cosmic big breast genes will kick in, haha) and then send in my new photos again? Can I maybe do it sooner or is a one shot per person type of deal?
-okay last thing my body ratio is 33( stupid 34A breasts) 26 (waist) and 35 (hips) I know that this isn't anywhere near VS standards but what can I actually change here to get to the ideal ratio if there is anything oh and what type of body shape would this be , no one has ever been able to tell me so they just say plank. Not sure if that's a shape but alrighty then.

Thank you so much
- with love Dominique

Hey, Dominique! I'm glad that my blog is helping you out...that makes me very happy! :-D

Now let's get you some answers to those questions!

It can take agencies up to 4-6 weeks to get back to models that they are interested in so while some may get back to potential models sooner, it's more common for it to take some time. If you haven't heard back from an agency after about 2-3 months, then you can safely assume they aren't interested in your look at the moment. I know waiting is the hardest part but everyone has to go through it!

You'll be happy to know that A LOT of models have big feet. So your shoe size won't be a problem at all. On shoots and during fashion shows, it is common to have tons of different shoes of all sizes available for the models to wear. However, there are times when your specific size may not be there, and models are known for having to squeeze into whatever fits. But for the most part, your feet won't be an issue.

If you don't happen to get signed to Elite or Ford in New York, you're next best bet would be to submit to the other high fashion agencies in New York. Getting representation from any of them and working your way up in terms of the types of gigs you get, will increase your exposure and help possibly catch the eye of VS within that market. Or if the agency you sign to has worked with VS before, they'll make sure to submit you to any of their castings for new faces.

You know, I never thought about the eye color thing. I don't particularly think eye color has anything to do at all with who they pick, although I will say that having a unique eye color does contribute to that "exotic" look that many VS models have. But you have to remember that a lot of the VS models have been Brazilian or European of some kind so that's why they happen to have unique eye colors. It's not a requirement though so if your eyes aren't some alluring shade, it won't count against you.

That fact that you're 15 and have submitted to Ford and Elite, won't make you eligible for VS modeling anyway until you're 18. So if you're lucky, they'll sign you on for regular fashion/runway work or commercial/print if you aren't tall enough. So if you don't hear back from Ford or Elite right now, it only makes sense to submit to them again for VS once you turn 18. Otherwise, they're not even going to put you and lingerie modeling into the same category since you're underage.

To answer your last question, it is VERY important that you not try to alter anything about your body through extreme diet or exercise because you are still young and not done fully developing physically. Many young girls make the mistake of dieting a certain way or working out in order to get the same body as an adult woman--it's not supposed to be that way. You are a teen and it is vital that you just let nature take its course and see how your body develops naturally in the next few years. Doing otherwise could put your health in jeopardy and may even disrupt your proper growth cycle, which is never good. As far as your body shape, you sound like a rectangular body shape, which is also known as a "straight" body type. This describes a figure that isn't super curvaceous and doesn't have a defined waist.

Be happy with yourself as you are right now...you've got 3 years before you can even consider doing lingerie modeling. Right now submit to agencies for the regular categories of modeling--if you get lucky enough to find representation, you'll be well on your way to starting your career and building experience so that by the time you're legally able to submit yourself to agencies for VS, you'll already have a solid resume and portfolio to show them.

Answering a Reader Question #297

2012-01-23T23:08:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Wow I am so glad I found this blog. Thank you so much for everything you're doing to help aspiring models! Here is my scenario: I am 18, 5'8 and have done some local modeling (local professional photographer - hired as a model for them, high school photography students...) and am moving to Southern California for college in August :) I definitely plan on pursuing modeling while in college. I'll be roughly the same distance from Beverly Hills & LA, and within driving distance of them. Any advice on agencies? I am hoping for Ford or Elite, but realize that some of their models' pictures are pretty risque (not just with them, but obviously with any agency) Would an unwillingness to take more "mature" pictures like these reduce my chances of being signed? I feel comfortable in a bathing suit, but there are pictures of Ford's models in their online portfolios that are topless,(you don't see anything but you can tell they're topless) I would not be willing to do that, even if nothing shows in the picture. Sorry for the long post, but again - would this reduce my chances of being signed by an agency? Do they ask you if you are willing to take these kinds of photos when being signed? Thanks!

Hi, Anonymous! You're lucky you'll be so close to the LA market...there are plenty of agencies worth submitting to, especially since you're 5'8". You can submit to as many agencies as you want at the same time, so definitely send your photos and info to as many as you fit the requirements for. Don't forget to attend all the open casting calls as you can as well. Many agencies in the LA area have open calls and are worth going to since it increases your odds, compared to just mailing or emailing your submission.

Below are agencies in the area you'll want to check out:

Bleu Model Management
http://www.bleumodels.com

Elite Model Management - Los Angeles
http://www.elitemodel.com

Ford LA
http://www.fordmodels.com

I Model and Talent
http://www.imodelandtalent.com

Next Management LA
http://www.nextmodels.com

Siona Entertainment
http://www.sionaentertainment.com

BMG Models - LA
http://www.bmgmodels.com

L.A. Models
http://www.lamodels.com

Nous Model Management
http://www.nousmodels.com

Q Model Management - LA
http://www.qmanagementinc.com

Wilhelmina Los Angeles
http://www.wilhelmina.com

The type of risque photos you mentioned are what is known as "implied nudity" in modeling. You don't have to show that type of skin if you don't want to. When you get signed to an agency, they will have a sit-down with you to discuss how they would like to market you and will find out what your comfort zones are by asking what you would and would not be willing to do. For example, you'll be asked if you're okay with things like nudity, implied nudity, modeling for an alcoholic brand, cigarettes, fur, etc.

Implied nudity or nudity in general in modeling is never something forced onto a model so you shouldn't worry about that and it shouldn't heavily impact whether or not you'd get signed. Not all modeling gigs demand implied nudity so it wouldn't be like they couldn't get you anything if you decided to not do it. So you're good to go! :-)

Answering a Reader Question #296

2012-01-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

Chenoa Wrote:

Hey Dania to piggy back of this post. Do you know if having acrylic and designs on nails is frowned upon?

Hey, Chenoa! :-)

Having fancy acrylic nails and designs are typically frowned upon by agencies and clients because they are super distracting. This doesn't mean models can never have these on their nails but it is important to know that you'll be asked to arrive to castings and gigs with clean, natural nails. I've come across many modeling casting calls where the client will specifically state that models chosen must have clean, natural nails. Sometimes they allow for clear or light colored polish or a French manicure.

If you model part-time or once in a while, this won't be as much of a concern but if you're heavily into modeling and are regularly attending castings and shoots, it's in your best interest to keep your nails more natural. If you do acrylics, opt for a cleaner look instead of a fancy one with designs, glitter or gems.

Answering a Reader Question #295

2012-01-21T11:03:00.000-08:00

Enovy Wrote:

Hello Dania! I LOVE your blog! I've been reading all your posts so far and I learned many many things, thank you so much!
So here is my question:
How do you actually get to walk for well known brands like Versace, Chanel, Armani ect.. I mean there are SO many models which are with a good Modelling agency like IMG, Elite ect, but only very few girls of them get to walk for those brands. What do they actually do to get noticed by them? Connections? Luck?

Hello, Enovy! I LOVE that you LOVE my blog...and you are so welcome! :-D

When it comes to situations like the ones you mentioned, the following are some of the main factors that allow some models to get these types of opportunities over others:

- Agency: A model's agency is their direct "connection" to such brands. If the agency a model is signed with regularly works with those brands as a client there is already an established working relationship. This means they usually get first dibs on notifications anytime a particular big brand is looking for new catwalk models for their shows. Additionally, if an agency has a new model and they feel a certain brand would love him/her, they'll use their connections to contact the brand/designer and let them know of the "new kid" that they should check out.

- The Designer: A common "tale" in the modeling industry is one where a designer will fall in love with a particular model's look. Oftentimes, what gets some models at huge agencies to participate in huge shows for designers over the other models from the same agency is the "love connection" that happens when a designer sees something in a certain model that they really like. It's that "IT" factor for them, which could be their face and/or build/body type. In that sense, it does take a bit of "luck" to draw a designer to you so much that they are eager to use you in their shows because they know you'll showcase the clothing well.

- Reputation/Track Record: It's a lot easier for established models at big agencies to draw designers/brands to them because their face has been plastered everywhere, like major magazines, editorials, billboards, etc. Because these models have experience, it makes the brands/designers confident that they'll know how to represent their brand well in a show and won't have to worry about holding their hand through the entire process.

- A Good Performance at the Casting: While some brands already know which models they want to use in their shows, they will still hold castings to find new faces. The agencies send their girls/guys and like anyone else, they "audition" for the brands/designers by doing a runway walk for them. Models that have a strong walk, the right body type for that particular brand/designer, great personality and overall physical "look" are the ones that get hired.

Quick Tip #33

2012-01-19T12:53:00.000-08:00

Category: Email/Communications
For: Male & Female Models

When submitting to a casting, sometimes a person's specific name isn't available for you to use. For example, the casting may only contain the name of the company instead of their first and/or last name. Or they may reply back to your email and not end their message with their name. The email address itself may not even contain a person's name. But if it does, do not assume that is the name of the person sending you the email. Oftentimes, clients (including photographers) have assistants or other people using their account to correspond with models, which is not uncommon.

What you want to avoid is using the wrong person's name when writing your reply message. When submitting to a casting via email, if you don't have a name to refer to, simply start your message with a salutation and then move on with writing the rest of your email (i.e. Hello, my name is ....). It isn't necessary to address your submission email using the name of the company (i.e. Hello, Amazing Photography, Inc.). It is their email after all so they know you're writing directly to them. While "To Whom It May Concern" is formal, it really isn't necessary but if it makes you feel better, feel free to use this salutation in your email...it won't count against you or anything.

Wait for their reply back and then if you see a name mentioned, you'll know that it's okay to address your follow-up email using that person's name.

Answering a Reader Question #294

2012-01-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Hello! :) Well I'm 16 years old, Native American, and was thinking about doing "modelscouts.com" have you heard of it? but I'm not sure yet. I've had people tell me that I should be a model, but I just always thought I couldn't do it. I can also get insecure sometimes, but people tell me otherwise, so maybe this could be a confidence booster. Any tips? I always thought it would be amazing to model though. :) They are asking for photos and stuff and I'm not sure on what type of poses, do you have any suggestions? By the way, I don't have any experience with modeling yet, so any tips for starters?
Sorry for all the questions! Lol

Hi, Anonymous! I personally and professionally would not recommend doing ModelScouts simply because there is a more direct and free way of breaking into modeling, which would be to submit yourself directly to agencies--you don't need to pay a "middleman." ModelScouts is not a modeling agency, they are a casting agency, which basically collects photos/portfolios and info about models and actors and puts them into a huge database, where you pay fees in the hopes that an agency sees your profile, likes you and signs you.

Since you are a new/inexperienced model, it is not necessary to invest in a professional portfolio or get headshots done. Agencies would prefer to review non-professional, digital snapshots, which really tell a person's true potential to model. Once you get offered a contract, the agency will then guide you in arranging your first test shoot. It is from this test shoot that the agency gets the images they need to put together your professional portfolio, headshots and comp/zed cards.

I don't know your height, measurements or city/state you live in so I can't really offer you advice that is tailored to your situation. But if you are between 5'5"-5'7" you can submit to agencies that represent commercial/print/teen models. If you're between 5'8"-6'0" then you can submit to agencies that represent fashion/runway/editorial models. It is best to go online and look up the official websites of the agencies that are within a 2 hour's drive from where you live. Their websites will tell you what types of pictures they want, how to submit your info and if they have open casting calls, where you can go in and be evaluated by the agency staff without the need for an appointment. All of this is free to do and puts you in direct contact with the agency themselves. Companies like ModelScouts mean well and they do have some success stories but again, they are middlemen who make a profit by accepting anybody that is willing to pay their fees. It's better to hear what your chances are straight from an agency themselves.

Should you need assistance with finding legit agencies in your area you can always post more questions to this post or email me directly at: daniadenise@gmail.com.

Answering a Reader Question #293

2012-01-19T10:50:00.000-08:00

FionaAlanna Wrote:

This might be a bit of an odd question, but do they usually play music or something at photo-shoots? :]

Hi there, FionaAlanna! It's definitely not an odd question at all! :-)

It is not uncommon for music to be playing during photoshoots. Oftentimes the photographer will have his/her iPod hooked up or will use Pandora. Or the model may bring their own music to play. It all depends but in general, music during shoots is welcome, especially since it prevents working in complete silence, which can be awkward and uncomfortable.

Whenever I'm at a shoot and there isn't music, I'll politely ask the photographer/client if it's possible to get some music to play. They're usually more than happy to accommodate this. I actually create my own mix CDs of songs that get me into the right mood, depending on what the theme is. Posing to music is an awesome way of creating dynamic and great poses, as well as help models really let loose.

Answering a Reader Question #292

2012-01-19T10:43:00.000-08:00

Jackie Wrote:

Hi! I'm interested in being a model but i have absolutely no experience and I feel like I may not be tall enough... I'm 18 years old, I'm almost 5'7'' and my measurements are 35-26-35. Am I too short or too old? If not, how would i start? Thanks!

Hey, Jackie! It's okay that you don't have experience--in fact, agencies prefer this because it makes you easier to train and mold into someone they can effectively market. For new/inexperienced models, having previous experience, pro headshots, comp/zed cards and a portfolio already in place is not mandatory or required by modeling agencies in order to be signed. So no worries there.

At 18 you are definitely not too old. But you are shy of the minimum height requirement for fashion, runway and editorial modeling, which is 5'8". If you're not actually 5'7", this will make it even more difficult for fashion agencies to want to sign you. However, you are the ideal height for commercial/print and lifestyle modeling. If you pursue commercial/print and lifestyle modeling you won't have to worry about losing weight or anything, either, because your measurements are fine and proportional.

To begin the path towards modeling, you'll first want to go online and do a search for modeling agencies according to the city/state you live in. You don't want to submit to anyone farther than a 2 hour's drive unless you're willing to relocate. The official websites for the agencies will contain everything you need to know, including what methods of submissions they accept, if they hold open casting calls and what types of pictures they want you to send. Not all agencies ask for the same thing so make sure to prepare each submission for each agency accordingly.

Hope that helps and good luck to you!

Quick Tip #32

2012-01-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

Category: Email/Communications
For: Male & Female Models

The spam folder in your email account doesn't always contain spam and junk messages. Learn how to check your spam folder before deleting/emptying its contents. Sometimes messages from clients, photographers and other industry professionals will get mistakenly sorted and sent to the Spam folder when it is supposed to go to your inbox.

You don't want to risk missing a vital piece of info about a gig or other business matter so make sure to scan the subject headlines of messages in your Spam folder before hitting that "Delete" button.

Models, Do Your Homework on Clients!

2012-01-16T20:05:00.000-08:00

(This post is mainly intended for freelance models.)

Being a freelance model isn't easy. Without the protection and pampering of a modeling agency, freelancers are responsible for every aspect of their career. Unfortunately, this increases their odds for running into shady individuals and scammers. It is vital that anyone hoping to pursue a freelance modeling career learn the importance of doing their homework on anyone they plan on working with. This includes photographers, casting directors, makeup artists, etc. There are different ways to go about this.

If you come across a post for a modeling gig and there really isn't a lot of information available, this is the time to go into detective mode. Submit yourself according to the instructions (if there are any specific ones given) and in your submission, don't be afraid to ask basic questions that the post itself didn't answer for you. This could include questions such as:

"Is there a link to the photographer's portfolio that I could look at?"

"What is the name of the company/brand/client that the project is being cast for?"

Sometimes the person in charge of the casting will be able to provide you with this info and sometimes they may not. I've submitted to gigs where they weren't allowed to release the name of the company/brand/client unless you were officially hired for the project, due to confidentiality matters. So don't be too suspicious if the person you submit to tells you they can't volunteer that kind of information unless you get booked. BUT at a minimum, they should be able to tell you the name of the photographer and/or give you a link where you can check out their portfolio.

Below are some ways that I currently do my homework on potential clients, which helps me decide whether or not I am interested in working with them:

Google. I mainly do Google searches whenever I submit to a casting on Craigslist that mentions the name of the company or a person associated with the project. Sometimes results come up and sometimes they don't. Obviously, depending on what results pop up, I may or may not decide to send a submission email. If the Craigslist post contains a non-CL email address, I'll Google that and see what comes up. This has allowed me to find out which projects are likely scams--a few times the email address I've researched will show online results where the person that posted the project on CL will have also posted on various other casting sites and/or on Craigslist in other cities and even other states. Most times, that's a sign that the project being cast probably isn't legit.

Check The Website. Anytime a website URL is included in a modeling gig post, definitely use it! Unless it's for a well known client or photographer that you're already familiar with, it's in all freelance models' best interest to visit the website for a glimpse as to who they could potentially be working with. There have been many times when I went to a website that was in a casting and I would change my mind about sending in my pictures and info because I didn't care for the quality of the photographer's work or based on the product/clothing, I knew I wouldn't be the right fit.

Read Their Profile. This method applies to models looking for work on sites like Model Mayhem. Unlike Craigslist, these social networking sites aren't buried in anonymity. Use that to your advantage. For example, when I see a casting on Model Mayhem that is posted by a photographer, not only will I look at his/her profile to see his/her portfolio of work, I'll also read the "About Me" stuff on the page, if there is anything written there. Sometimes I'll be impressed by what they write and other times I'll be turned off by the way they come across through their words (cocky, snobbish, foul-mouthed, etc.). Social networking sites are all about learning who other people are so don't be afraid to see what a member is all about, especially if that's who you'll be working with if you're hired.

Right now I use a combination of Craigslist, SF Casting (this is a casting site that is only for talent working within the San Francisco Bay Area/Northern California) and Model Mayhem. So the methods above are as they relate to those sites.

Answering a Reader Question #291

2012-01-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

May Wrote:

Ok so this is going to be a very long comment!haha!Ok so i'm 14 years old i've wanted to be a VS model since I can remember and wanted to get signed with Ford models.ive recently measured myself and have the right measurements for vs 34-23-34 and am 5'9''ive had clear skin until this summer when red bulging stretch marks have taken shape on my hips, but, inner and outer thighs.they came so fast that at first i didnt know how to stop them and really didnt know what they were.i didnt know what caused them because i didnt get any taller and have been 115 lbs since i was 12 i was so devestated because it just seemed like i could never do anything in the modeling carrer. i tried everything from coco butter to a derma roller and although they've become lighter the stretch marks havent gone away. I just wanted to say thanku for all the info uve posted about this kind of thing and how modeling is still an option. i was also wondering what kind of cream or anything you used that helped with your stretch marks?sry if what i just wrote was confusing haha but thanku again :)

Hi, May! Don't worry, I tend to get long winded when I write so no worries about the length of your comment. :-)

I'm glad my post about stretch marks and modeling helped you feel better. You're smart that you got on top of your situation early on. I got my stretch marks around age 14, too, but unfortunately I didn't have the knowledge then that I have now and my mom didn't think to tell me that I should have started treating my stretch marks when I got them. So since mine are super old any kind of treatment would be ineffective so I don't use any special cream or anything on them. Luckily, they got lighter in color and aren't the reddish/purplish type so I just learn to deal with it, lol.

You should continue using the cocoa butter or whatever other cream you've been using because it will continue to keep your stretch marks at a minimum as you get older. It's also important to know that any cream or product you're putting on the area(s) need to be consistent and it takes time for results to show. You can't put a stretch mark cream on and expect to see results in a few days or even one week. Unless the directions say otherwise, being diligent about applying the product twice a day, everyday, for a few months is the best way to see an improvement in your skin. So even if you aren't happy with the results right now, continue using your cocoa butter or other product and just learn to make it a part of your daily routine. While it won't make your stretch marks disappear, this will keep your skin healthier overall, as well as decrease the chances of any new stretch marks appearing. Hope that helps! :-)

Tips for Resizing Your Own Modeling Pictures

2012-01-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

(This blog post will be mainly useful for freelance models but is also ideal for agency represented models that submit themselves to freelance opportunities as well.)

While it isn't necessary for models to be super savvy about photography editing techniques, having basic knowledge about certain things in this category definitely comes in handy, especially since it allows you to be independent and not have to rely on someone else to handle your images. I am very well versed in Photoshop and regularly retouch my pictures and also know how to use this software to create my own business cards, comp/zed cards and other related projects.

However, one of the most basic and useful photo editing techniques all models of any experience level should at least familiarize themselves with is resizing their photos. The good thing about learning this skill is that it doesn't require you to take any tutorials or classes. For those of you that are comfortable with software and playing around with its features, this should be fairly easy for you to do. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll be.

So why is it important to resize your modeling photos? For one thing, it is often necessary when submitting your images to gigs. If you're sending pictures via email to a client, the last thing they want to deal with is an inbox full of huge image files. Not only does it take up room in their inbox, it can also take forever for them to download and view. It isn't uncommon for clients to post casting instructions asking models to make sure the total size of their image submissions doesn't exceed a certain amount. Sometimes it is necessary to also resize your own photos if you're trying to set up a profile on a social networking site. I know of models that had a hard time getting their profile/membership accepted on sites like Model Mayhem because the size of their photo files was too big. One perk to having your modeling images resized is that it makes it much more difficult to people to reuse and manipulate your photos. If the photo is too small, it will become more pixelated if someone tries to blow it up to a larger size, so this discourages any shady practices that can occur when submitting your photos to people online.

The good news is that you don't have to invest in pricey software like Photoshop (although if you already have this program, that's great). While I love Photoshop, I actually use a much simpler program for resizing my images from hi resolution. Right now I currently use a program called Microsoft Office Picture Manager. Below are some easy, step-by-step instructions for when I resize my own modeling pictures:

After opening the Microsoft Office Picture Manager program, select the image you want to work on and "Open" the file.
Click "Picture" from the toolbar at the top, scroll down and select "Resize."
Select any of the following options:

Predefined Width & Height: This gives you a drop-down list of various size options, ranging from Document sizes to Web and Email sizes. Choose the one that best fits the reason why you're resizing the image.
Custom Width & Height: You can enter your own dimensions if you need the picture to be a particular size that isn't in the Predefined option above.
Percentage of Original Width & Height: Do better with percentages? Then you can choose this option instead of entering your own dimensions.

In case you mess up, simply select the "Original Size" option and it will restore the photo back to its original size and then you can start over. I've found this program pretty easy to use after a few times of practicing. Don't forget to do a "Save As" each time so that you don't lose your original hi resolution image. There are other similar photo editing programs that can be used, but this one came automatically with my Microsoft Office software package that was installed on my laptop so that's what I know and use. So far I haven't had any problems with it.

I work on a PC that runs Windows 7 so, unfortunately, I don't know the equivalent of the program for Mac or if they have the same thing so that's something you Mac users will have to investigate on your own.

Answering a Reader Question #290

2012-01-14T11:34:00.000-08:00

Maddy Wrote:

hi, i have braces and i was wondering if you know any talent agencys or you could help me with finding a talent agency that does select models with braces. i am really serious about modelling so could you please help me!
thanks

Hi, Maddy! For me to help you find agencies in your area, I would need to know the city and state you live in (I don't need your mailing address or anything). Then I'll be able to get you the websites of agencies that you can submit yourself to. You can either leave a comment on this blog post with that info or you can email it to me at: daniadenise@gmail.com.

Quick Tip #31

2012-01-14T00:08:00.000-08:00

Category: Modeling agencies
For: Male Models

While many fashion and editorial modeling agencies set the cut off height for male models at 6'2", some are starting to bump up that maximum requirement to 6'3"--namely the San Francisco market in California. So male models, if you're in or near the San Francisco Bay Area and are 6'3", definitely start submitting yourself to the fashion agencies in that market. If you've got what they're looking for, you won't be turned away because you're too tall!

Why "Less is More" Works Perfectly in Modeling

2012-01-14T00:05:00.000-08:00

The end results in modeling are all about the glamour and glitz, fancy hair, amazing makeup and extraordinary clothes. What many newbies trying to get into the industry fail to realize, however, is that the first stage in their journey will begin with the complete opposite. To this day, some models that seek my advice may not believe me when I say that the best way to impress an agency is to dress down and submit non professional, digital snapshots. I know, I know, at first it seems crazy--after all, how can anyone WOW big names like IMG, Ford, Elite, Wilhelmina, DNA, etc. with basic snapshots? But believe me, I would be the last person to steer anyone in the wrong direction. Once you better understand the modeling world and how it operates, the "less is more" mentality will make a lot more sense.

New models that have yet to be discovered aren't expected by agencies to be these amazing glamazons with glossy professional headshots, portfolios and comp cards. That's the whole point of being a "newbie"--in most cases, you're not going to have had previous experience or ever stepped foot into a professional photoshoot. In fact, it is not the agency's desire to see you glammed up the first time they meet you. They desire to see the plain Jane/Joe you are so that they know for sure what they have to work with, should they be interested in representing you.

Dazzling agencies at casting calls in some brand name outfit isn't going to get you far into the door. Why? Because your outfit--not you--is what will draw their attention. Modeling agencies don't care about what designer you're wearing--at least not for the purpose of attending a casting call for representation. They care about what your figure looks like. How can they tell if you've got the model proportions they're interested in if you're swimming in layers of fancy fabric or are wearing a style that doesn't flatter your figure?

This is why the "model uniform" of dark skinny jeans, heels and a form fitting, solid colored tank top or tee shirt (for females) and comfortable jeans/shorts, clean shoes and a fitted tee shirt (for males) works so well for casting purposes. As simple as this outfit may seem, it allows for an easy evaluation of a model's body type. It cuts straight to the chase and makes the agency's job much easier to do. Less is more.

Same with the snapshots new models send to agencies via email or snail mail. Less is more in this case because (once again), a true model's potential is easier to spot when it isn't being disguised by layers of makeup, fancy hairstyles and Photoshop airbrushing. Just as wearing a distracting outfit to casting calls backfires on new models, wearing these same get-ups in your snapshots will also cause your submission to more than likely get stuffed into the trash. Wear the "model uniform" described above and you'll be golden. When agencies say they want non professional, digital snapshots, that is exactly what they mean. No fancy photography techniques, sepia color effects or crazy angles. No agency can focus on the model in snapshots when the clothes, makeup, hair and location are all drawing their attention away.

Makeup is a Godsend in professional photos because it helps to sell the image, product, etc. But in snapshots you're selling yourself so no need for the makeup palette. It makes it extremely difficult for agencies to tell if that's how your complexion is naturally, whether your cheekbones really are that prominent or are an illusion, thanks to contouring makeup.

I came across a pretty cool blog post from a photographer (whose photo is the one associated with this post), who wrote a brief entry about how he helped his friend with casting models for 2010 Fashion Week. His comments further back up how amazing snapshots can be for models that just have that "it" factor:

(Quoted from the post)

"...I couldn’t tell if their I-just-woke-up-barely-in-time-to-go-to-a-casting-call-and-didn’t-have-time-to-get-made-up was real or carefully constructed. It wouldn’t surprise me if their disheveled look was real, and what makes them a model is that they can do that and still look better than everyone else."

Check out the actual blog post, which also has additional snapshots he took of the models that attended the casting. Keep in mind, readers, that these are snapshots of working models that get to attend castings for huge events like Fashion Week and that it is because of the photos the photographer took that some of them likely got booked. They're not wearing any crazy hairstyle, makeup, etc. Less is more yet again! If the pro models are pulling off this basic look and getting work, imagine what the right snapshots could mean for aspiring models looking for agencies!

Dan Nguyen's Model Casting Snapshots for 2010 Fashion Week (Spring/Summer)

Many aspiring models have emailed me for feedback on their photos they want to send to agencies and I have no problem telling them that, in my professional opinion, it would be in their best interest to retake the photos while keeping in mind that "less is more." To further prove that I'm not trying to pull their leg, I'll attach the snapshots that Doutzen Kroes submitted when she was looking for an agent. Are they the most spectacular photos she's ever taken? Definitely not but agencies have a trained eye and they can spot model potential in these simple photos. Learning how to be okay with how you look in snapshots takes some getting used to--heck, I have to submit snapshots from time to time and I cringe knowing that I'm sending them off to a client but in the end, it's what gets me the gig. Same goes for submitting these types of basic photos to agencies.

If you can WOW them with a snapshot where you're not wearing makeup and have on regular clothes, that convinces them even more that once they get you on set in a professional setting, you'll be a force to be reckoned with. I can't tell you how many aspiring models have emailed me back to say that they got an interview with an agency after sending in their non pro, digital snapshots. It gets results for those that have what agencies are looking for. So, ladies and gentlemen, LESS IS MORE...LEARN IT, LIVE IT, LOVE IT!!!

Quick Tip #30

2012-01-13T23:23:00.000-08:00

Category: Grooming
For: Male & Female Models

Before going in to a casting or go-see, do a quick check to see that your fingernails are clean and neat. They don't have to be manicure perfect but it's best if they're at least free of dirt/grime under your nails. You never know if the client/photographer is going to take a photo of your hands. There's been times when I went to a go-see and out of the blue, the photographer has asked me to hold up both of my hands so that he can take a picture for the client. This is usually done if the shoot being cast for will be showing your hands in the final images (i.e. using certain items like a cell phone).

You may be well groomed from head to toe but grimy nails could end up getting the unwanted attention of the client instead of your face. To play it safe, I carry a nail file in my purse that has a sharp end so that I can do a quick cleaning beforehand--you'd be surprised by how dirt can creep up under your nails when you least expect it!

Breaking In Heels for Modeling: Why It's So Important

2012-01-12T23:46:00.000-08:00

(This blog post will be mainly useful to new/inexperienced female models.)

Heels and modeling go together like Oreos and milk. Regardless of the type of model one wants to be, knowing how to walk properly in heels is crucial. Ladies, have you ever put on a pair of heels and automatically felt like a more elegant and grander version of yourself? Wearing heels--for whatever reason--transforms us. It causes us to walk differently and makes us super aware of how our bodies are moving. Don't ask me to explain this phenomenon--it just is what it is.

However, nothing is worse than being in a pair of heels that haven't been broken in. It is vital that models of all experience levels--but mainly newbies that may not know any better--start strutting their stuff in any pair of heels they've just bought. Trust me, by doing this your feet will thank you!

So what's the hubbub about breaking shoes in? For one thing, it makes wearing the shoes themselves much more comfortable. You don't have to deal with that stiff and tight feeling that makes you walk funny. The shoes will feel roomy enough and will eventually mold to the natural shape of your feet. This is so important when it comes to doing a runway walk in heels. If the heels hurt your feet, you're going to walk like they hurt. Very few people can pull this type of painful experience off without giving some hint of their discomfort. It sucks having to walk in a casting for a fashion show and trying to put forth your best performance, when all you want to do is take your heels off and chuck them out of the window. When your heels feel right, you feel right.

Another advantage that comes with properly breaking in your heels for modeling is that it'll keep your feet from looking like they've gone a couple rounds in a UFC fight. Water blisters are among the most common side effects that result from wearing heels that haven't been broken in properly. When shoes haven't been worn in, they tend to fit too tightly and when it comes to the shoe rubbing up against the back of your heel, this typically turns into a sore. This happens when the shoe actually rubs off layers of the skin, leaving it red, raw and painful to the touch. Not only does this hurt like the dickens, when it heals it's going to turn into an ugly, dark scab. Without proper treatment (like applying ointment to speed up the wound healing), it will leave a discolored mark/scar. One of the easiest ways to tell whether a girl is a model and/or wears heels that haven't been broken in is by how damaged the skin on the back of her heels are. It's not pretty.

One of the most painful sights I continue to see while out on the job is how horrible a model does her runway walk because she's wearing heels that she's just purchased. 99.9% of the time when I see a model walk funky and ask her if she just bought her shoes, she'll say yes. While on that subject, NEVER buy brand new heels and wear them to a shoot, casting or fashion show if you haven't had the time to break them in. Sometimes this can't be helped but avoid it if at all possible. It will not only lead to pain, it will mess up your walk.

I've found that wearing my heels around the house while doing everyday stuff is the best way for me to break my heels in. And you don't have to only wear them while practicing your runway walk--wear them while going up and down the stairs, while you're sitting down eating a meal, walking from room to room, etc. Try to wear your heels at home (and outside whenever possible) for at least 1-2 hours straight each day. In the event that your heels end up rubbing horribly against the back of your heels, prep beforehand by applying Band-Aids to the area for protection while you're breaking them in. Other alternatives include wearing thin socks or leggings while walking around in your heels. This will help with making them more "roomy" so that blisters are less likely to occur.

The actual time it takes to break in heels varies. Each person's experience will also depend on the fit and style/design of the shoe. Simply put: the more you wear them, the faster you'll be able to break them in. It will hurt at first and you may end up getting blisters but that's part of the process. It's so worth it in the end when you can slip on a pair of 4 of 5 inch Stilettos and they feel like sneakers.

Sometimes Models Have to Be More Professional Than the Professionals

2012-01-12T22:54:00.000-08:00

(This blog post will be mainly useful for freelance models dealing with clients.)

It goes without saying that even "professionals" in the modeling industry make mistakes. They're human, too, and it isn't uncommon for models to sometimes have to go a bit above and beyond their duties in order to maintain a working relationship with their clients and get results.

To help make this topic easier to understand, below are some examples of situations where a model may need to be more "professional" than the "professional" clients they are either working with currently or planning on working with in the near future:

Reminding the client about stuff: Some clients have super busy schedules and tend to be forgetful. If they promised to get back to you via email or phone on a certain day/time frame and you end up not hearing from them, chances are you'll have to be the one to make contact and remind them about whatever the topic was that they were going to contact you about.

Sending emails or making calls to confirm an upcoming meeting and/or shoot: Again, it's perfectly okay to be the one to reach out to a client and restate the details of a meeting or shoot that you've both agreed to work on. This is also an opening for the client to reply back in case something has changed or if the project needs to be rescheduled.

Following up for copies of photos: Only take the initiative in this situation if it's been clearly past the time frame that the client/photographer has promised that you would receive your photos. Make sure to provide them with your email address in the body of your message (if they're sending you the gallery link or attaching the images) or your mailing address (if they plan on mailing you a disc with the images on them). Even if they have this information already, make it easy for them to have direct access so that they don't have to go back through previous email conversations in order to find the information they need.

Inquiring about project details: Sometimes the client will have all of the information for models well in advance, as far as hair, makeup, wardrobe, location details, etc. But don't be surprised if a client gets too busy or forgets to give you this crucial information. If you find that the client still hasn't mentioned any of the nitty gritty stuff in your correspondence, make sure to ask them about it well before the shoot date. It may seem like common sense stuff for a client to include but like I said, clients are human and prone to making mistakes. You'll find that the client will be super apologetic and explain the reason for leaving out that info. I can't count how many times I've regularly emailed with a client about an upcoming project and it's me who ends up having to ask stuff like, "Do I need to arrive camera-ready or will there be hair and makeup on set?" "Will there be wardrobe or are there clothing items I'll need to bring?" "What is the location address?" "What is my call time?"

Sure, it can be a bit of a pain to have to be responsible for taking care of additional tasks for a client but it is also important to put things in perspective: putting together a photoshoot (especially if it's a major project that involves a lot of people) is a very difficult thing to do and involves a lot of prep, planning and multitasking. If everything is falling on just one person, it's likely that there's going to be something they're going to forget, which could include providing necessary information/instructions to their models.

However, that's just another part of the territory when it comes to freelancing modeling. As a business person, it's within your best interest to develop a natural ability to cover all your bases and think of things you need in order to do your job that the client may have missed.

Of course it is important to recognize the difference between a client that is "unprofessional" versus one that simply requires a bit more maintenance. With time and experience, it will be much easier to tell the difference between the two and avoid unfairly labeling someone as "unprofessional." Being forgetful to mention shoot details in an email or not being clear about whether there will be hair and makeup services on-set isn't a big deal and shouldn't make you think negatively about a client. Not returning emails or phone calls or making super last minute changes that inconvenience you (when such results could have been avoided) are much more serious factors that would put a client under the "unprofessional" category. As with many things in modeling, these are definitely on a case-by-case basis.

Modeling 101 Reaches 300 Subscribers!!!

2012-01-12T11:44:00.000-08:00

It doesn't take much to make me happy--ask anyone that knows me--and when I saw today that I now have 300 subscribers to my blog, well, let's just say it made my day! Readers, I know I always say this but I truly love each and every one of you. Without you, my blog wouldn't be as recognized online as it is today. Just like a hit TV show, without its devoted audience, there wouldn't be much going on.

I really didn't know what Modeling 101 - A Model's Diary would turn into when it began in 2007 or if it would even be around by 2012...but here it is in all its glory and I am very proud of what it has become. I can only hope that I can continue to help inspire and guide others to help them achieve their goals, whether it is in modeling, acting or another passion in life. Remember, folks, there is more to life than being in front of a camera or on a runway. I have many other interests outside of being a model/actor and I strongly encourage others to also have additional interests that draw their attention and passion just as much, if not more so.

Over the years, I've been truly touched by your emails, messages, stories/life experiences, successes and challenges. I applaud all of you that continue to defy the odds and strive to bring your dreams to fruition and even for those that have found modeling to not be for them, I'm even more proud of you for recognizing this reality and not allowing it to discourage you from pursuing other goals.

I'm not a superstar by far (yet) but you guys make me feel like a modeling rock star! :-) Cheers to 300 subscribers--and counting!!!

Answering a Reader Question #289

2012-01-10T21:52:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

hi dania, i love your blog, it's great and really informative. i live in australia in a small town and
there are no modelling agencies around where i live
(ive checked) i was wondering how i could possibly get into doing some modelling cause it looks like something i would really like to do. i am 14 so i cannot travel much, so ging to the cities isnt really an option for me. what do you think?

Hey, Anonymous! Thank you for the kind words about my blog!!!

Hmmm...it seems you have quite a dilemma. You have to be where the modeling agencies and clients are or else pursuing modeling won't be a realistic opportunity for you. Because you're young and aren't able to travel on your own, I don't think this is going to be possible for you at this time--at least until you're either old enough to drive or able to travel more.

The closest option would be to do an online search for professional photographers in your town and seeing if they would be open to doing a free test shoot with you. You'd be able to check their professional portfolio/website to see if they do quality work as well. That would allow you to do some modeling and gain experience doing a photoshoot at least. But if your goal is to get an agent and pursue it more seriously, you'll have to be willing to travel to the cities where the agencies are and/or relocate there.

Answering a Reader Question #288

2012-01-10T21:45:00.000-08:00

Tiny Wrote:

Im 20 im a few days & i'm only 5'1 with long legs.. can I still be a model?

Hi, Tiny! To be honest, modeling "professionally" at your height will be extremely difficult--not impossible but very hard if you want to try to find agency representation. However, you do have options available to you.

The first (if you want an agent) would be to become a parts model. This type of modeling is exactly as it sounds: depending on which features you want to focus on, you could be a leg model, foot model, hand model, etc. Parts models work on clothing and jewelry/accessory photoshoots all the time and appear in magazines, catalogs, billboards and other print and online work. It pays well, too.

The second is to do freelance modeling, which involves acting as your own agent and seeking modeling gigs through your own efforts. This is a bit more challenging to pursue since everything is up to you to arrange but it could improve your chances of finding photographers and clients that are willing to work with shorter models.

Answering a Reader Question #287

2012-01-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Hi,
I might ask you questions too :)
There are two of these:
1. I've to go to a casting the 14 January. There'll be a test shoot in studio. Should I bring some accessories with which I could pose?
2. I'm trans/genderfluid (though most of the time I'm a teenage boy) but not out, going to castings as Max would out me to my family. I don't think modeling will trigger much dysphoria as it is more like impersonating characters you pose as, but *once I'll be out* I want to know if it'll pose any problem in the modeling world? (The only thing that would trigger dysphoria IMO is if they asked me to draw attention to my breasts, but I think it'll be rare and that I'll be able to handle it since it'd be "impersonating characters".)

Hi, Anonymous! To answer your first question, it is best to leave the accessories at home unless you are told to bring them. In test shoots it's all about capturing "you" and focusing on yourself as the model so there should be little to no distractions that would take away from that.

As far as your second question, I hope I'm understanding this right: are you submitting yourself to a modeling agency as a male but you are biologically a female? If that is correct, it all depends on the type of modeling you're trying to do. For example, if it's fashion/runway, modeling as a male could pose issues because oftentimes male models are asked to go shirtless in shoots and in fashion shows, as well as pose in outfits that sometimes are form fitting and/or made of fabric that could make it difficult to properly disguise your chest (not all the time of course). In photoshoots, models do pose as characters but in fashion shows it's another element entirely. As long as the agency is aware of your trans/genderfluid status and is okay with it, they'll work with you to find the appropriate castings where there will be little to no risk of dysphoria occurring.

In many cases clients have no problem hiring models with an "androgynous" look because the models are simply impersonating the opposite sex. Not everyone in the industry knows how to feel or deal with transgendered models but there are a few that have become quite successful so at least there is a positive precedent for it, which could work in your favor. Again, it all boils down to the agency that you're submitting yourself to and if they feel they could market you effectively.

Hope that helps but if you'd like further assistance, you can send me an email directly at: daniadenise@gmail.com.

Answering a Reader Question #286

2012-01-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Lisa Wrote:

Is there anything wrong with model social networking sites like ModelMayhem, for example? According to some of the entries of this website, Petite Modeling Tips, you won't find legit jobs or photographers on those kinds of sites. Is that true? Is it best to just do a search on photographers in your area and contact them for photo shoots, especially when they have a name, address, phone number, and e-mail address all together versus those modeling social networking sites?

Hi, Lisa! Social networking sites like Model Mayhem are ideal for getting connected with professional photographers, makeup artists, wardrobe stylists and other models for the purpose of putting together or updating a portfolio. The more you utilize it and communicate with other professionals on there, the more you'll get out of it. Those that set up a profile and don't really make an effort to do anything (or don't know how to effectively use these sites) won't see the results they had hoped for. Model Mayhem is one of a handful of modeling social networking sites. Not all of them are good, which is important to know but Model Mayhem (commonly referred to as "MM") is one of the better ones, in my opinion.

The casting section is great because it allows you to do an advanced search by city/state and even filter the type of work you're looking for (paid, non-paid and trade modeling gigs). I've personally had a positive experience with MM and have networked/shot with amazing published photographers that are both local as well as in other larger markets. There is also a Browse section where you can look for photographers and other industry professionals according to your location. Their profiles (if they fill them out in detail), show their location, link to their websites and other contact info so this will provide you with all the ways to communicate with them, just as much as if you were to do a basic online search. Additionally, MM also has messaging capabilities so you can contact the photographers directly and their portfolios are also part of their member profile. It is social networking after all, just like Facebook, so there isn't any anonymity like sites such as Craigslist. Oh, and btw, Model Mayhem has photographers on there that have shot the Victoria's Secret models and fashion shows (both on stage and behind the scenes), been published in magazines like W, Elle, Vogue and have worked internationally with top models and agencies--and have the tearsheets to prove it. If that's not legit, then I don't know what is lol.

As far as petite modeling opportunities, there are photographers on there that shoot shorter models all the time. However, there is a large community of members on MM that specialize in glamour modeling but if you're not interested in that, there are still plenty of legit photographers that do portfolio shoots with shorter models that are more along the lines of fashion, commercial/print and beauty work.

I believe it is worth looking into and setting up a profile is free, plus you can upload up to 30 photos. As with anything, it is important to use caution when networking with people for the first time...many MM photographers have a list of their references on their profiles, names and MM profile #s of the models they've worked with, etc. so you can find out how it is to work with certain photographers ahead of time. MM will give you some great results if you put yourself out there, use their casting section and their browse feature to find local photographers close to you. But remember, it is what you make of it. The more you use it, the more results you should get and vice-versa.

Each person has their own experience and opinion but for me Model Mayhem has been a wonderful and effective tool that has helped me find great photographers to add to my portfolio images and casting opportunities that allowed me to work out in the Los Angeles market...something I would not have been able to do, had I not used MM's casting section to find paying gigs in that market. Have people on there had negative experiences? Of course. Have there been members on MM that felt like they haven't gotten anything out of it? Yup. But that doesn't mean you should just forget about it altogether. Never count out sites like MM, which have been around for quite some time...it is a social networking site that caters to the modeling community and that in and of itself is very helpful.

Answering a Reader Question #285

2012-01-07T23:32:00.000-08:00

Ericka Wrote:

hi Dania! this is a random question i just wanted to ask, I was reading an article on a website and I can't help to notice what Russell James said about Miranda Kerr; "It's a fantastic combination ... people want to be around her; she's fun on a shoot … and she's not stupid, which can be a very annoying trait among some models." If you know what exactly do you think Russell James meant by stupidity is a trait among some models? like book smart... street smart, or doesn't know how to model smart. LOL I just wanted to know so I for one know what to watch out for, haha thanks!

Hi, Ericka!

From Russell James' quote, I'm pretty sure he's just referring to the common "stupid model" stereotype that many people--unfortunately--still have. In general, he's talking about how some models don't know anything else except modeling...they can't carry an intelligent conversation, aren't cultured, aren't knowledgeable about basic things not related to the entertainment industry like politics, news, world events, etc. Sadly, there are people that believe modeling isn't very hard to do and "assume" that models only know how to look pretty, take pictures and walk in fashion shows.

Of course stereotypes don't just come out of thin air, either. I have met and worked with some models that (I'm sad to say), were "airheads" and didn't know how to talk about anything other than model-stuff. It's so refreshing to meet models with "substance" and are aware that there is more to the world beyond the runway and photography studio. Having a combination of book smarts, street smarts and a wonderful personality are all things that, in my opinion, make clients fall in love with certain models over others.

Answering a Reader Question #284

2012-01-07T23:19:00.000-08:00

Ericka Wrote:

Hey Dania! I have a question about FORD. I noticed you have applied and got in in the past so I would like a few pointers :/ I'm stuck on what to put for the "Why do you want to become a FORD model" segment of the application. Is that a trick question? are they looking for specific answers from people? What did you put on there? haha thank you I just need help getting past that part :)

Hi, Ericka! To be honest, I didn't get into FORD the way regular models do. I was already signed to an agency and when FORD opened a new office in the San Francisco market, they merged with my agent and brought me on board automatically (not something that is normally done). So I got super lucky, lol.

But rest assured the "Why do you want to become a FORD model" question is not a trick question. There are "stereotypical" answers that many people probably use and that's definitely not what you want to do. They're not looking for specific answers from people--they want to truly know how interested you are in modeling and why you think they would be the best fit.

Of course I can't tell you what to write but if it was me, I would ideally write something mentioning how successful and well known FORD is and that I would only want to be signed to the best agency that could help me achieve my modeling goals. I'd also add something in briefly about how my positive character traits would be a great contribution to their agency.

If it helps, jot down a list of random reasons why you would want to model with FORD--don't think about it, just write it down. Then look over what you wrote and narrow it down to 2-3 things that you could briefly write about on the form. There's nothing wrong with writing a rough draft and then walking away from it for a few hours and then re-reading it so that you can see if you really like what you wrote, or make changes.

Above all, answer honestly and make it unique to your situation and you as a person. :-)

Tips for Packing Wardrobe for Modeling Shoot & Fashion Shows

2012-01-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

A lot of times models will be required to bring "supplemental wardrobe" to their photoshoots or fashion shows. This is done for the purpose of having additional options. However, there are some ideal ways that models should learn how to pack their wardrobe and present it to the wardrobe stylist while on a shoot or in a fashion show.

Perhaps the biggest "don't" of packing wardrobe is to never toss all of your clothes, shoes and accessories into one big bag. This is for obvious reasons: it wrinkles the clothes, make it difficult to find what you need and it just looks sloppy. If this is your method of packing wardrobe currently, it's important to change this bad habit asap.

It is helpful to have packing options for your wardrobe and accessories. Some shoots and shows may only ask you to bring a few things, while other projects may require you to bring nearly your entire closet. Below are ideal wardrobe storage items that are worth investing in over time:

Hanging Garment Bag

Because you can't always guarantee that there will be an iron or steamer on set, it's a good idea to purchase a simple garment bag so that you can have your clothes on a hanger and decrease the chances of them getting wrinkled. I prefer the cloth garment bags that are not transparent. Make sure to write your name on your garment bags as well so that it is easily recognizable. Garment bags can be found at any department store.

Tote Bag

These come in a variety of sizes and are ideal for transporting small wardrobe options that you don't mind getting wrinkled, like swimsuits. They're also great for housing your accessories/jewelry and change of undergarments (bras and panties). You can find tote bags that are plain, fancy, designer or no-name brands.

Small Rolling Suitcase

I personally love these because they are perfect for storing your shoes. I've yet to invest in one but trust me, it's on my to-do list! Sometimes I'm required to bring so many different types of shoes that they end up becoming their own load I have to lug around in addition to my wardrobe items. Having a rolling suitcase that is small enough to hold several pairs of shoes is great when heading to and from locations, not to mention it avoids putting your worn shoes into contact with your clothing, which could result in a stain.

Regular Luggage Suitcase

The traditional suitcase is perhaps my least favorite method for packing wardrobe simply because it requires you to fold your clothes, which means getting wrinkles. But if this is all you have available in the meantime, it will serve its purpose of keeping your clothes in one place and from getting dirty or mixed up with other people's things.

It isn't necessary to purchase the most expense versions of these items. Because these will be exposed to wear and tear over time, make sure to look for products that are good quality as well as affordable. For hanging garment bags, I would recommend buying more than one. The garment bags I bought from Target came in a 3-pack, which was super convenient.

Quick Tip #29

2012-01-06T14:11:00.000-08:00

Category: Headshots
For: Male & Female Models

It is important to make sure your headshot has your name and contact info on it. Models with agency representation won't have to worry about this, since their headshots will automatically be formatted with their name, the name of the agency and the agency's contact information. However, freelance models will want to design their headshot to include the following info on the front, along with their image:

Name
Phone Number
Email Address

Don't worry about your stats and website info--that is what the comp/zed card is for. Limit the info on your headshot to the three things listed above and it will be more than enough for a client to be able to contact you easily.

Quick Tip #28

2012-01-06T14:08:00.000-08:00

Category: Castings
For: Male & Female Models

Have you submitted your headshot, resume and photos to a gig online and have been invited to the actual casting? Congrats! However, make sure you're prepared. It is a must to always bring a copy of your headshot (printed on 8"x10" photo paper) and your resume (if you have one) to the actual casting--even if you have already provided the client with this info via email. Just because a client doesn't tell you to bring these materials, means that you should go without anything to turn in. If they don't want them, then that's okay--you can use it for another casting in the future.

Having your headshot and/or resume available is great for helping clients place the name with the face and also prevents them from having to go online and search through all the emails in order to remember who you are. It just makes things more convenient for the client and shows professionalism on your part.

Answering a Reader Question #283

2012-01-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

Josefin Wrote:

Hi! This is Josefin from Sweden again , i wrote a comment earlier today but i was in a hurry and forgot alot! I can't see what i've already asked and i rather ask twice then never, so i'm sorry if you have to answer the same questions again!

As i wrote in the other letter, ever since a saw the VS show 2010-2011, i has been obsessed with them. I almost actually felt like i was in heaven when i walked in to the store... Right when i know we where going to Miami i looked up stores (VS) becasuse we don't have them in Sweden. Ok, you don't need to hear my hole lifestory, so down to the questions.

#1. Does your grades matter at all? Do they take a look at them or doesn't it mean ANYTHING at all? For i know it's a modell industry, put is it like, a pluss if you have good grades and known for getting in time and to what you're asked to do?

#2. Feet. Ha-ha.. A pretty wierd question but hey, why not ask? Do the big modeling agencies care about your shoesize? Haha i understand if you don't know but it would just be funny to know? If you have size 36 (Europe) would that look silly or a size 45, would that look to clumpsy? I think that they are thinking about it really, but i wonder what you think as a modell your self, how much they would care ;)

#3. Do they care about if you get tanned easy or is as white as snow? Because when i've looked at pictures almost ALL of the models in VS are reeaally tanned.. :) Just another just funny thing to know!

And i want to say that i love what you're doing! You're helping other people to reach for there dreams. You can be the persons who are helping people to begin there careers. So thanks, for doing what you do, you're such an inspiration!

#4. Piercing. It's probably different for different agencies, but over all, can you have piercing or is that something you should remove? Like a belly button piercing and earpiercing i understood, that that could be okey, but what about nose piercing, eyebrow piercing and stuff in your face?

#5. Does your hair matter , how long it is or how it's quality is? Because i know it's better to have healthy hair, but if you have bad hair on the other hand, they could just put in hairextanchins (i can't spell i know)...

Some questions are pretty un nessasary, you might think but i see this as a great oppertunity!

#6. I'm short to be a model, at least a runway model, i'm just 164, even tough i'm not finished growing yet cus' i'm just 14. I'm not asking if they do any exeption, but i was wondering, if you are really short as me, do they give you a shot to see if you're like , crazy talented, or won't they like even let you in, i'm talking about the big agencies now.

#7. Another thing i was wondering, do most agencies care about if you smoke? If you do, is it bad or good? Because in many magazins i saw the girl on the cover holding a cigarett, is that just fake or is it a plus, to be able to do what there asking for? Because i don't smoke and think that it's good cus' many of my friends do and they are like: Cmn, try! Please! But i won't, but is it bad so be saying no if the agency might ask? I really don't want to smoke, it's a promise to my self, but if they want me to i don't want to struggle. Do you know what i mean?

I think that was all for know! I really appreciate all the time you gives to answer questions. This wasn't so much about Victoria's Secret, but i hope it's okey!

Love your blog, you're a big inspiration of mine! Hugs to you, you're worth any happiness and sucess../Josefin

Hi, Josefin! Since you've got a lot of questions, I'm gonna jump right into them and include the number system you used so that you know which answers go with which questions:

#1: Grades from school do not affect whether you can become a model or not. While it is impressive for a modeling agency to know you're a good student, that won't make you a better choice over someone else. Of course you don't want to get bad grades either, haha. However, agencies do like to know if you are a person that enjoys school and believes in getting a good education because it speaks well to your character and your ambitions for the future.

#2: A lot of models have big feet so this is not necessarily something that will make an agency not want to work with you since they are used to this in some cases. As long as it does not affect the way you do your runway walk or when posing, it shouldn't be a problem.

#3: It doesn't matter whether you are tanned or a "porcelain beauty." The VS models are pretty tan but as long as you look good in your natural skin tone, that is what matters most to an agency. There are models of all shades so while the VS models tend to be tan, that is not a reflection on how all the other models in the industry are. So even if you aren't tan, that's not a bad thing. If an agency thinks a model should be a few shades darker, then that's something they'll discuss with the model as feedback.

#4: It is best if a model doesn't have piercings in her nose, lip, eyebrow or anywhere else on the face. This is if a model wants to do fashion and mainstream type of modeling. Models that have these additional piercings may not be accepted by an agency or could be asked to remove those piercings before going on castings, photoshoots and fashion shows. Keep it limited to the ears and bellybutton (although you may be asked to remove the belly piercing during a shoot or fashion show if the client thinks it may be a distraction...but you'll be allowed to put it back in after you're done working). It is also best if a person doesn't have too many ear piercings or "gauges," which are those huge holes in the ear lobes.

#5: Your chances are better if your hair is already naturally healthy (no split ends, roots showing...for those that color their hair, etc.). As far as length, medium to long is usually preferred because there is more that can be done with it but agencies do sign models with shorter hair if it looks really good on them. Or they may have a model with long hair get it cut shorter so that she has a fresh look they like. When it comes to hair it is on a case-by-case basis. And yes, hair extensions are used often so that is great for models with naturally short hair.

#6: Smoking is a personal decision and not one that has to do with a model's job. A lot of models do smoke but that is for their own reasons and not because the agency tells them to do it. It is much better if you do not smoke: it's a bad habit, makes your hair and clothes smell bad, contributes to bad skin and it makes your nails yellow. Yuck! There are models that pose with cigarettes in photos/ads but sometimes they are not really smoking it. Photographers use Photoshop to retouch the image to make it look like the cigarette is lit, when during the actual shoot, it is not. So it's just pretend in those situations. When you sign with an agency, you will fill out a profile type sheet and it will ask what you are comfortable with doing, such as smoking, promoting alcohol, nudity, wearing fur, etc. Simply check all the things you don't want to do and the agency will make sure to only submit you to modeling assignments that are within your comfort zone. So do not feel pressured to try smoking! I'm smoke-free and have never smoked a cigarette in my life so stick to your goals with that! :-)

I hope those answers help you better understand the modeling industry! If not, feel free to email me at: daniadenise@gmail.com and you can ask as many questions as you'd like--I don't mind at all! It is also important to remember that VS models do not represent all of the models in the world--they are a small niche. Models come in all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, etc. and there is more than lingerie modeling that can be pursued. I feel it's important for all aspiring models to know that because in reality VS is an opportunity that is only available to a very, very small group that meet the requirements and as fabulous as it looks, it doesn't last very long so it is better to aspire to do more than just VS modeling and get into other categories that promise a more realistic chance of success. :-)

Thank you, also, for the kind words...I truly appreciate you and your interest in asking me your questions! Oh, and it's okay if the questions weren't all VS related...you can ask any questions regardless of what the blog post is that you are commenting on.

Good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question #282

2012-01-05T23:18:00.000-08:00

Rangitau Wrote:

Hey, I want to be a Victoria Secrets model. But I'm only 13. So what are some other modeling agencies that I can do before I Vs?

Hi, Rangitau! The rule of thumb is to submit to modeling agencies that are no farther than a 2 hour's drive from where you live. Since I don't know the city/state where you live, I can't give you any specific names of agencies to look up. But if you post that info as a comment on this post or email it to me at: daniadenise@gmail.com, I can get you the websites of agencies in your area to check out. I don't need your mailing address or anything, however, just the name of the city and state you live in.

Answering a Reader Question #281

2012-01-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

Sarelle Wrote:

Hi :) im Sarelle and i have some questions for you. Ive always wanted to be a model and my what seems like has been my whole life people have been telling me to do it and i never felt like i could. I felt like i should ask a real model what i should do and then all of a sudden i found your blog so i made one so i could ask you questions. I would love to be a VS model of course but i feel that is way out of my league. Im a little over 5'8" im 18 and my measurements are 34 28 38. Im trying to really do this so im enrolled in Barbizon for modeling. I am wondering if your actual weight itself matters or just the way you look? and what do people look for because ive seen some pretty unattractive people in magazines so it makes me wonder if its just because of the fact that they are really skinny or is that what they were looking for. like you what i love about the whole VS thing is that they look healthy and thats my main thing i want to do this the right way, no short cuts. my thing is though is that i just dont think i can do it. im not fat but im not model skinny i just want to know what needs to be done i guess. i dont think im making any sense at all so if im not just let me know and ill try to clarify. i hope to hear a reply soon, thank you :)

Hi, Sarelle! Thanks for the questions and don't worry, I understand what you're asking and where you're coming from. :-) So to answer your first question, when it comes to modeling--specifically fashion and runway--the measurements are what matters more than the actual weight. Measurements are just as important as a model's look. The ideal agency standard for fashion models is 34-34-24, which is bust, waist and hips in inches. You can be smaller but no larger than one inch in any of those areas so the largest agencies would allow you to be is 35-25-35. Your waist and hips are larger than that so just know that when it comes to seeking agency representation, this could be something an agency may bring up.

There is no universal "look" that all agencies and clients look for. This is why you'll see models that are gorgeous as well as models that are not exactly the public's definition of "attractive", "pretty" or "handsome." For example, commercial/print models are known for being the attractive/pretty/handsome girl or guy next door, while runway and high fashion models are known for being exotic, alien, odd or strange looking (that's not meant to be a bad thing, either). Most traditional runway models aren't perceived as being conventionally "beautiful"--it is because of their unique, out of the ordinary look that agencies and designers like them. But all agencies look for something different. So that's a good thing.

Self confidence will take you a long way. I always say that what one agency may not like in a model, another agency may love. Just because one agency decides to pass on a model doesn't mean the rest of them will. My best piece of advice to you would be to attend open casting calls for agencies in your area (go to as many as you can since it will increase your odds) and see what their feedback is. If the general feedback is that you're too big size-wise to do fashion, then go to plan B, which is finding agencies that represent commercial/print models. This type of modeling is very flexible on what size you can be as long as you are proportional and healthy in appearance.

If agencies are telling you to slim down that is your decision to make and should only be done if you know you can do so in a healthy way. If you know for a fact you can't get down to 34-25-35 without jeopardizing your health, don't risk it and instead go for commercial/print, which will accept you exactly as you are without forcing you to meet unrealistic requirements as they apply to you.

Go online and look for agencies that are within a 2 hour's drive from where you live. The websites will give you all the information and instructions you'll need as far as what kinds of pictures they want, how to submit yourself and if they have open casting calls. Feel free to send me an email at: daniadenise@gmail.com if you need help finding legit agency websites and I can give you further assistance with that, as well as answer any other questions or concerns you may have.

Hope that helps and good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question #280

2012-01-03T22:22:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Hi Dania, Happy New Years to you too!
I was wondering, for high schoolers applying to colleges would it help at all to mention that you are a model, or would it be a negative thing? Thanks!

Hi, Anonymous! Happy 2012! :-)

I would actually advise not mentioning modeling when it comes to submitting college applications. Unfortunately, the general public still has a lot of negative conceptions about the modeling industry and reality TV shows haven't really helped to convince them otherwise. The people that review college applications in the admissions office could end up being unfairly judgmental and fall back on the negative stereotypes they associate with modeling. Even if you feel that modeling has contributed positively to your life, they may not see things from your point of view.

When it comes to filling out your college applications, stick to the academics and extracurricular stuff you know will impress them. Being a model is usually pretty cool to friends, family, etc. but college folks...eh, not so much.

Hope that helps and good luck with those college applications!

Happy New Year, Modeling 101 Readers!!!

2011-12-31T12:33:00.000-08:00

WOW, yet another year has come and gone! Man, 2011 was really something! Lots of changes and lots of challenges: I dropped my agent, got a new agent, watched friends get married and bring children into the world, let go of one of the greatest loves of my life and found hope in someone new, lost very important loved ones and cried as they were laid to rest--life really does throw a lot of curve balls at you!

But there was an aspect of my life that remained a constant source of happiness: contributing posts to my Modeling 101 blog, answering more Reader Questions than I've ever done before and having the opportunity to receive emails from a whole slew of aspiring models with amazing and heartfelt stories/experiences. I truly hope you readers understand how much I love and appreciate your support and for keeping me motivated to continue sharing my knowledge and experiences with you. Some of you have been with me since Modeling 101 was started in 2007 and others have just stumbled across my blog just a few days ago...regardless, I appreciate each and every one of you!

So what's on my plate for 2012? No one (not even me!) can predict the future but with a new agent I am even more excited to see where their representation will take my career. I also plan on continuing my freelancing efforts to acquire even more gigs and networking connections--that'll never change! A new year means new opportunities, clients and chances to continue building my name and I've never been more amped! Of course you guys will get the complete 411, since I plan on keeping you posted with what's going on in my own career, as well as adding even more informative and insightful posts about modeling and the industry. I've got a long list of blog post topics that I'm eager to write about!

Thank you for sticking with me through another crazy year...I look forward to the new year that is just around the corner and for those of you heading out to celebrate tonight, please, please be safe.

That being said, I'm gonna stop being a workaholic for the day and enjoy some much-needed lazy "me" time before I have to get dolled up and head out to ring in the new year with my new sweetheart. :-)

HAPPY NEW YEAR, READERS!!! SEE YOU IN 2012!!!!!!!!!!!

Answering a Reader Question #279

2011-12-29T18:54:00.000-08:00

Lina Wrote:

Hi!
I was wondering what was your opinion on submitting yourself to modeling agencies in different countries? Also, would it be good or bad to submit yourself to a lot (fifteen-twenty) at the same time?
Thanks!

Hi, Lina! I think submitting to agencies in other countries is a good thing and I encourage it. The process is very similar to submitting to a local agency: visit the official websites for the agencies you're interested in and follow each one's instructions/guidelines for submissions. Of course attending an open casting call is probably not going to be realistic for you so you'll have to stick to sending them your pictures and information online. It is important to note, however, that should you be invited for an interview at an agency's office in another country, the expenses related to airfare/travel and lodging will have to come out of your pocket. Agencies do not cover such costs if it is just for an interview. So be prepared to possibly accommodate that kind of expense.

Your chances of working with an international agency are better if you are currently signed to an agency in your area that has experience with placing models in other markets. This is typically the case with the mother agency situation. You can learn more about how mother agencies work by clicking on the link below:

Understanding the Role of Mother Agencies in Modeling

It is a good thing to submit to as many agencies as you meet the requirements for. There is no rule or limit so submit as much as you want. Doing so helps to increase your chances of gaining interest from one or more agencies. Remember, never hold out for one agency's response if there are others just as good (or better) giving you offers. Go with the one that you feel most confident and comfortable with once you've gotten to the interview stage.

Answering a Reader Question #278

2011-12-29T18:41:00.000-08:00

Sophia Wrote:

hi, my name is sophia and im turning 13, and i have always wanted to be a vs model and i know the requirements... so i went online and looked up agencies but all of them were really far from wear live so i dont know what to do, my mom wants to move so thats not a problem but what if their not good enough agencies to get me where i want to go like to be a vs model? also im kind of short like only 5'0 and i dont think im going to get my grandpas height he 6'5 ... so what do you think i should do or can do?

Hi, Sophia! I would suggest that you look into local agencies in your area that have teen and commercial/print divisions. Those are the two types of modeling that you more than likely qualify for. As long as the agency you sign with has a good list of clients they've worked with and book you for paying gigs to build your portfolio, they will put you on the right path towards gaining experience. Plus, you can always work your way up over the years and move to a bigger agency in a larger market/location as you get older.

Don't count out the local modeling agencies...they are just as effective as the larger agencies in the sense that they will only submit you for the highest paying work and give you the best exposure possible until you're ready to move up to a market like New York. But remember, until you can manage to reach at least 5'8", fashion and runway agencies won't be an option for you. However, you do have a few years ahead of you so that could change.

Why You Should Watch "Scouted" Instead of ANTM

2011-12-28T12:21:00.000-08:00

This post is not meant to belittle or insult ANTM in any way but I believe in calling things like they are. When ANTM first premiered, I was an avid viewer and enjoyed the fact that the modeling industry was hitting the mainstream. However, I quickly lost interest after Cycle 3. I haven't actively watched any cycle of ANTM since then (although I did watch a few episodes of the petite cycle and the finale episode of the All Stars). Here are my reasons for no longer being interested in ANTM:

It doesn't accurately depict what being a model in the industry is really like.
As with any other reality show, it focuses a lot on the drama between the contestants, which in reality, no one should care about because it doesn't contribute positively to showcasing how real models in the real world work.
It doesn't follow the "protocol" of how models really are discovered and "make it" into the industry.

Am I saying that no one should ever watch ANTM? Definitely not. If you love the show, then watch it...I think my main concern for fans of this show is that some take what they see on there SERIOUSLY. This gives them a super false impression of what being a model is like and what it takes. The ONLY thing anyone should take seriously when watching ANTM are what happens during the photoshoots and the part where they go to another country and are sent on go-sees with designers. Those two aspects are pretty much the ONLY fairly accurate depictions of what models encounter on a daily basis in their careers. The fashion shows in the finale episodes are okay as well, since it does show the hustle and bustle of what happens both onstage and offstage.

Now when it comes to the show "Scouted," THEY have it right. I strongly encourage new and aspiring models (who aren't already watching this show) to begin doing so--mainly because this reality TV actually shows the "reality" of what it takes to become a signed model and all the things that factor into the final decision as to whom 1 Management will/will not represent. For all of you readers who constantly wonder what it's like to be scouted or wonder if you've got what it takes, Scouted does a great job of spotlighting actual situations where the everyday girl gets spotted on the street, at the mall, on campus at school, etc. and interacts with a legit modeling scout.

The scouts themselves are all different and many of them don't even look like they'd be affiliated in any way with the industry...and I LOVE THAT! Scouted hasn't created any over-the-top characters with personalities that tend to distract from what's going on. The scouts are the real deal and their interactions with the potential models and their families is genuine. 1 Management is a top agency in New York and I love how they go about the selection process in the right way--not by hosting ridiculous "contests" and "competitions" but by looking at a potential model's test shoot images and video and discussing their realistic chances of being successful. Does Scouted promise that the models 1 Management signs will become "Top Models"? Nope. They're simply looking for a person that has the whole package so the agency can make them a SUCCESSFUL model that earns good money and gets hired by big clients.

Not many agencies open up their world to cameras so Scouted is the perfect way for anyone interested in becoming a model to see how the day-to-day operations of this type of business works as it relates to how they find new faces. In particular, pay attention to the feedback 1 Management gives to the people that appear on the show. They talk about everything from the model's physical look to attitude, maturity and even their family life, among other things. This is the ideal situation where viewers hoping to become models can learn from another person's mistakes and better understand what a top agency expects from them, should they get offered a contract for representation. Another thing I like about this show is that they deal with many individuals that have no experience in modeling. For those of you also lacking any previous experience and are concerned as to how it could affect your chances of working with an agency, watching Scouted will help you get a better idea of what you can expect.

It is important to note, however, that 1 Management doesn't look for exactly the same thing as other agencies like IMG, Ford, DNA, Elite, Wilhelmina, etc. What you see on Scouted is what applies to 1 Management only. A new model scouted by any of the agencies I mentioned may or may not have a similar experience. So keep that in mind.

There aren't many reality TV shows that deal with modeling that I care to go out of my way to watch but Scouted is one of them. I can't say strongly enough how I applaud this show for telling it like it really is. Of course it is still a reality show so I'm sure there are some parts of it that are played up just for TV but when compared to ANTM, Scouted has everything right, in my opinion.

Answering a Reader Question #277

2011-12-28T11:09:00.000-08:00

Julia Wrote:

Hi Dania!! I'm Julia and I've been wanting to be a VS model since I was little I'm only 12 years old, I meat all the requirements except for the breasts, I don't have big breasts (aww!!). OR maybe their just growing slowly.....

Do we have to have big breasts?? Because I really, really want to be a VS model. Thanks!!

Hi, Julia! First off, you're 12, sweetie...you're not supposed to have big breasts yet. Lol. There are some girls your age that may have them but in general, you've still got a few more years to grow physically. You are NOT supposed to have a Victoria's Secret body at your age. Please understand that the VS models are 18 years of age and older. So for now your bust size shouldn't be a major concern. Besides, you can't do lingerie modeling until you are 18 anyway so you've got some waiting to do.

You don't have to have big breasts in order to be a VS model. Many of them are between a B and C cup. What many people don't know is that in order to sell the bras better, the VS models wear bras that are 1-2 sizes too SMALL so that their cleavage pops out a lot. It just photographs better and is a marketing trick. You'll find that not all of the VS models have these enormous breasts that many people believe they do. Remember, nothing is as it seems in modeling. :-)

For now, please enjoy being 12 and do not agonize over how your body currently is. Being young only lasts a short time and being an adult lasts forever, haha, do don't be in a rush to grow up just to be a VS model.

Answering a Reader Question #276

2011-12-28T10:54:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

hi you said that no vs model is under the height of 5ft8, however Laetitia Casta is 5ft6...
does that mean there is still hope for the rest of us short people out there?

Hey, Anonymous! Laetitia Casta is what is known in the industry as "an exception to the rule." Similar to Kate Moss. While it's a positive thing because it shows that there are short models who can make the cut when it comes to fashion modeling, it is just that--an exception and not the norm. Just because Laetitia Casta and Kate Moss made it doesn't mean the modeling industry is going to open its arms to accept even more models that are short. Unfortunately, it just doesn't work that way.

While shorter models can find hope in how successful Laetitia Casta has become, Victoria's Secret isn't going to suddenly start hiring models 5'6" or shorter. Remember, VS is a client, not an agency...just like any other client, they turn to high fashion modeling agencies to find their new faces. So it's not VS you have to convince to sign you as a shorter model--it's Elite, Ford and the other high fashion agencies in New York. Must easier said than done. What made Laetitia Casta stand out, like Kate Moss, was that the decision makers in the industry felt she had an exceptional physical appearance that they knew would market very well. And it did. Sadly, not every short model is going to be considered "exceptional" or "extraordinary" enough to make it to the big leagues. That is where the problem is for shorter models.

While it's great that Laetitia Casta has become a supermodel in her own right being 5'6", the sad part is that the industry doesn't recognize her as a short model. Her agencies list her as being 5'9" or 5'10". In interviews, she has been known to say she is 5'7". So it isn't like the industry is shouting out to the world how amazing this short model is--they lie about her height on purpose so that high fashion clients will continue to work with her. Of course her success can now allow her to get gigs based on her name alone but even she doesn't own up to her true height. So that should put things into perspective that even though there are some "exceptions to the rule," it hasn't kept the modeling industry from lying about the height issue so that it won't work against the model.

Answering a Reader Question #275

2011-12-28T10:13:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Hi everyone! being a vs model seems like the funnest job on earth! how to i get that far though? i am 13 5"5 and still growing. i have grown an inch in the past month LOL. my stomach is pretty much flat and i have really long legs and i weigh about 90-95lbs. any suggestions?

Hi, Anonymous! Unfortunately, unless you can manage to get to 5'8" or 5'9" by the time you're 18, there won't be anything you can do to get closer to be considered for Victoria's Secret. You're still young though and at your current height, you can do teen and commercial/print modeling. If you want to begin this career now, you'll want to do an online search for agencies within a 2 hour's drive of where you live that represent teens and/or commercial/print models. Since you can't do lingerie modeling until you turn 18, you've still got a few years of waiting.

Answering a Reader Question #274

2011-12-28T10:05:00.000-08:00

Katie J. Wrote:

Hi Dania, you mention model mayhem a lot on your blog. Can you tell of other websites besides model mayhem that I could use. I need to find a photographer to do some test shoots and I am more than willing to test for free I just want to gain experience in front of the camera. the reason I ask is because I was rejected from model mayhem and I want to find other ways to make things happen with or without an agency. Also one more thing do you know of commercial print/lifestyle agencies in N.Y. I plan on moving to N.Y. in February.

Hey, Katie J! Did Model Mayhem give you a reason as to why they rejected your profile registration? Below are other websites similar to Model Mayhem that you can check out (I've only used the first two but am no longer active on them. The rest I can't personally vouch for):

- One Model Place (www.onemodelplace.com)
- Miss Online (http://www.missonline.com/)
- Model URL (http://modelurl.com/)
- Moo Faces (http://moofaces.com)

Below are the websites for agencies in NY that have commercial/print and lifestyle divisions that you can look into:

BMG Models
www.bmgmodels.com

Funny Face Today Model Management
www.fftmodels.com

Model Service Agency, LLC
www.modelserviceagency.com

Monarch Agency
www.monarchagency.com

Silver Model Management
www.silvermodels.com

Answering a Reader Question #273

2011-12-26T20:49:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

I have always wanted and still want to be a model but i now have five kids i have streach marks on my butt and arms and my hips but i really dont know how to get them clear because i just want to do apperances not be naked but i really need some input please i need help

Hi, Anonymous! The more stretch marks you have, the more difficult it is going to be to pursue modeling seriously. However, that doesn't mean you can't do it at all. I don't know your height, age or if you want to get signed to an agency or pursue freelance modeling, which makes it hard for me to really recommend the right path for your situation. If you do want to go the agency route, you'll want to look online for websites of modeling agencies that have a commercial/print division. Commercial/print models typically don't show a lot of skin, unless it's for mainstream swimwear type stuff. So this category could be more suitable for what you have in mind.

As far as how to get rid of or clear up your stretch marks, as my blog post stated, there really aren't many options that are completely perfect. The older your stretch marks are, the harder they'll be to get rid of. Have you made any attempts to try and treat them, such as using special lotion for lightening/fading the marks or doing laser surgery? Your stretch marks won't go away 100% but if you try a few different methods and stick to the most favorable one over the course of a few months (never expect overnight results), you should be able to find something that will at least make them a bit less noticeable than they already are.

I hope that helps!

Answering a Reader Question #272

2011-12-26T20:38:00.000-08:00

Karen Wrote:

Hey! Great blog, it's really nice of you helping aspiring models out there.
I'm from Argentina (thats why my english sucks lol), and i have always ALWAYS wanted to be a model, ever since i can remember. I know by heart every single episode of america's next top model.
My height is 1.65 (i know, short. but here models arent as tall as in other countries so thats not a major problem) and my weight is around 52 kilos. im curvy and i have a really nice body actually. my hair is light brown and my eyes blue.
But the problem is that my mom isnt very supportive about this! what can i do?
also do you think i would be able to succeed in modeling if i move to new york when i turn 18? how can i do that?
thank u so much!! xo

Hi, Karen! Don't worry, I can understand your English just fine. :-) Please click on the links below, which will take you to blog posts I've done about how to deal with parents and telling them about wanting to model...it should help:

The Parents
When You Get No Support For Modeling

Unfortunately, your height doesn't qualify you to do fashion/runway/editorial modeling and in New York they are very strict about height. The minimum most agencies in New York want you to be is 5'8", which I believe is something like 1.75m for you. However, you are fairly ideal for commercial/print but I would not advise moving all the way to New York in order to pursue that particular type of modeling. Most commercial/print models only work locally and do not travel outside of the state or internationally. Plus, living in New York is very expensive and unlike runway and fashion agencies, commercial/print modeling agencies do not typically have model housing or model dorms for people who are coming from out of the area.

My best piece of advice to you would be to find a legit and reputable agency that represents commercial/print models in your area and pursue a serious career there. Should you get signed, you can talk to your agent about your hopes of modeling in the USA and see if they have any suggestions or ways to help you achieve this.

Being Camera-Ready in Modeling

2011-12-25T19:47:00.000-08:00

(This post will be mainly useful for freelance models)

Booking a modeling assignment is obviously something to be excited about. Because no two gigs are the same, this sometimes means dealing with different ways to prepare for a particular shoot, show or other related project. It is not uncommon for a model to be told to arrive "camera-ready" to work. So what does this mean and how does it apply to one's modeling career?

When you are told to come camera-ready to a modeling assignment, it means you're responsible for doing your own hair, makeup and/or wardrobe because the people that typically take care of this for you won't be on set. Sometimes you may have to take care of everything yourself or may only have to be responsible for one or two of these things. It's often hard for clients to find the professionals they need to do these services, which is why they'll ask the model to handle it themselves.

However, this doesn't necessarily mean the client and project aren't worth being a part of. Times are hard, people flake and sometimes the right person can't be found for the job within the time frame needed. So clients have to work with what they've got. For example, it's difficult (for whatever reason) to find a great hair stylist for shoots and projects but it's pretty easy to find a qualified makeup artist. In the best circumstances, the makeup artist also has the skills to do hair, which kills two birds with one stone.

Arriving camera-ready ensures that the client doesn't have to worry about the model's appearance and knows that soon as he/she gets to the location, they can get right to work. Being camera-ready speeds up the shooting process, too (sometimes getting the hair and/or makeup done on set can take as long as 1-2 hours).

This is why all models (freelance and agency represented) should learn how to apply their own makeup and do their hair to the point where they know it will photograph well. In most instances, models won't have to worry about doing super fancy and complicated hairstyles or crazy makeup. If the concept calls for such extreme looks, the client will ensure that hair and makeup pros will be available to get the desired end results. The majority of the time when models are asked to arrive camera-ready, the look usually needed is natural or slightly dramatic. Even male models should have basic knowledge as to how to properly apply concealer, foundation (if needed) and powder to eliminate shiny spots on their complexion.

Don't be surprised if you come across a casting that requires the model to know how to do their own hair and makeup in order to submit themselves. It's becoming more commonplace in the industry these days. Knowing how to make yourself camera-ready without hesitation is a valuable skill to have and one that all models should take the steps to master sooner than later. Not only does having this skill make you more likely to be hired by clients, it also saves you from having to spend time and money on going to a pro before the shoot in order to get everything done for you, which sometimes isn't always possible.

Did You Know...? #8

2011-12-25T19:26:00.000-08:00

...models with agency representation sometimes have to wait a long time to get paid for a modeling assignment? It can sometimes take up to as long as 90 days to see a check! Why is this? It's mainly because of the payroll process. The agency has to invoice the client for the work/services performed by the model and then it is up to the client to get things together to send out the check.

The sooner the client completes payroll, the sooner the model (and agency) get to see payment. The slightest interruption/delay means the longer it'll take to see the money. To avoid this becoming an issue, modeling contracts typically have a clause that states that by signing the document, the model understands and is okay with knowing that receiving payment could take anywhere from 30-90 days.

Modeling Agency Representation: Pros & Cons

2011-12-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

Seeking agency representation is the ideal way to kick off a modeling career. However, modeling agencies and the system they follow isn't always perfect. Just as with freelance modeling, getting signed to an agency also comes with its own list of pros and cons. It is important that aspiring and established models have some kind of idea as to what to expect, should they find themselves with a modeling contract on the table.

Agency Representation Pros:

Legal protection from the agency: Modeling agencies serve as a model's protection and almost like a guardian, who has the industry expertise to negotiate rates, ensure the safety of their models while on assignment and deal with any legal issues that may occur.

Deal with only reputable and legit clients: 99.9% of the clients agencies book for their models are certifiably legit, reputable and (most times) recognizable by name. This means no worries about dealing with shady scammers or individuals with ulterior motives.

Secure the highest pay rates: When models make money, the agencies make money. It is the agency's job to find and secure top pay for its models. If the client is unwilling to pay what the model is worth or has a small budget, the agency won't bother with them and will continue on to the next client.

Greater chance of exposure: Needless to say, modeling agencies are experts in their field. They know the right people, have the best connections and the kinds of reputations that attract clients and give them business. With the right agency, a model can gain much more exposure than they could through their own efforts.

Have the work done for you (looking for gigs, payroll, etc.): Agencies have the resources and manpower to do the bulk of the work that it takes to get a model recognized and hired for assignments. The models themselves don't have to do anything but make sure to go where they're told and perform well on any gig they're booked for. Even when it comes to getting paid, the agency takes care of this process--all you have to do is wait for your check to arrive in the mail.

More pampering: The majority of the gigs agencies book for their models automatically come with a crew, whose job is to make sure the model is camera-ready. This means having a hair stylist, makeup artist and wardrobe stylist on hand.

Agency Representation Cons:

Must be available on short notice for castings and gigs: Clients don't always plan ahead and castings often come up very last minute. Models with agencies must be ready and available for such last minute notices. You could be notified within as little as 24-48 hours of a casting or gig you've been booked for.

Have to deal with a contract: Regardless of the type of contract signed (exclusive or non-exclusive), models are entering into a legally binding agreement. Contracts come with guidelines and clauses that contain information as to what their responsibilities are. Breaking the terms of the modeling contract can result in legal consequences.

Deal with agency commission: Each time your agency books you a gig, they receive a commission. The rates are adjusted over time but currently agencies are able to command between 20% to 25% per booking (5-10 years ago the commission rate used to be 10% to 15%).

Being under the command of someone else: Unlike freelance modeling, those with agencies are playing by someone else's rules. While agencies work with its models, the models themselves may feel like they're being controlled, pushed around or limited to doing only what their agency allows them to do, as it relates to their career.

May not receive any work: Agencies cannot promise or guarantee work for its models. However, it is still discouraging for any model to have a contract signed and be with an agency for a period of time without securing any type of work in the industry.

Freelance Modeling: Pros & Cons

2011-12-25T18:56:00.000-08:00

There are always pros and cons when it comes to many things in life. Opting to become a freelance model is one of them. Because this route is not for everyone, it's important to look at a list of notable pros and cons, which can help a person decide if this is a step in the right direction for them. There are definitely more that can be added to the list but I wanted to keep things fairly simple but may add more to each list over time.

Freelance Modeling Pros:

Make your own schedule: Freelance models act as their own agency representation so you get to pick and choose when and what types of castings to attend. This is ideal for people with part-time or full-time jobs.

Choose your own clients: Being able to select who you want to work with is yet another type of freedom that freelancers enjoy.

Negotiate/set your own rates: Unless the budget/rate is already set by the client, freelance models have the opportunity to either negotiate the possible rate or state the amount they would prefer to make, should a client want to hire them.

Work as much or as little as you want: Because freelance models make their own schedules, they can decide how much work they can (or want) to take on.

Flexibility with pursuing different types of modeling: Agencies tend to make it very clear what types of modeling work they will and will not book for their signed models. However, freelancers have the flexibility to market themselves towards as many modeling categories as they want.

No agency commissions to pay from each gig: Perhaps the greatest perk of being a freelancer is the fact that you don't have to pay anybody commission--you take home everything you make at the end of the day.

Freelance Modeling Cons:

More prone to dealing with shady individuals/companies: There are some clients (not all) that target freelance models to hire because they know it's more likely that the model in particular may be easier to scam or take advantage of. With no agency to serve as a filter/protection, freelance models work with clients at their own risk.

Harder to command high pay rates: One of the main reasons why clients work with freelance models is because they don't have huge budgets to afford agency represented models and commission fees. It isn't uncommon for freelance models to work on projects that are offering very low to moderate pay rates.

Often have to settle for little to no pay for gigs: Similar to the item listed above, freelancers aren't as likely to secure the same caliber of high paying gigs as models with agencies and may have to resort to accepting whatever pay is available or settling for no pay in exchange for images.

Difficult to find consistent work: Finding work on your own is difficult, especially if you don't have a network of industry professionals to help you. Even the most diligent freelancers won't catch wind of every modeling assignment/gig being cast.

Responsible for marketing yourself, finding gigs and doing your own payroll: Being a freelance model means doing 100% of the work and then some. Agencies help models with their first test shoot to put together their headshot, comp/zed card and portfolio but this is not a luxury available to freelancers. Models representing themselves have to hire photographers, get their images printed and put together their own portfolios, headshots and comp/zed cards. Additionally, it's your responsibility to make sure you get paid by the clients, which sometimes requires tracking down people that may be slow in paying you or may have not paid you at all as promised. These types of issues come with the territory for freelancing.

Quick Tip #27

2011-12-25T11:46:00.000-08:00

Category: Communication
For: Male & Female Models

Never be afraid to ask questions, especially when it comes to attending a casting for a client. For example, if you've submitted yourself to a casting for a photoshoot and receive a reply, inviting you to the event, the message may be missing basic info, such as what to wear and/or what to bring. It's totally okay to reply back and ask if there is anything specific you should wear in terms of wardrobe, as well as if they would like you to bring a headshot/resume/book, etc. In these cases, it's acceptable to make such inquiries.

Never assume that asking these types of questions will make you look bad or appear "stupid" to the client. It's better to ask and know for sure than to guess and possibly wear the wrong thing or forget to bring an important document. Whenever I send an email asking such questions, I'll usually also add a sentence like, "I just want to make sure that I show up fully prepared!" This shows them that I'm asking the questions in the interest of making the best first impression and to make their job easier.

However, keep your questions to the basic things. It is not appropriate to plaster the client with tedious questions. They won't have the time or patience to explain everything to you. Once you arrive at the casting, they will inform everyone what they'll want them to do at that time. Any questions should be limited to wardrobe, materials that should be brought and those that are related to the casting itself (location, parking situation, etc.).

Answering a Reader Question #271

2011-12-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

Bramz Wrote:

hello!! interesting topic! may I ask, can I be a model if I lack in height? I'm 19 years old, and just 5 feet 10 tall.

Hey, Bramz! I'm going to assume that you're a male since 5'10" is definitely perfect for female models but is on the shorter side for male models. :-) The quick answer to your question is, yes, you can still be a model. 5'10" is ideal for commercial/print. As to whether you can do fashion/runway, that will depend on a couple of factors:

The market/location you live in (sometimes smaller to medium market agencies will sign fashion models that are 5'10" but 5'11" is usually the minimum for larger markets)
Your look...just like with female models, there are rare exceptions to the height rule for fashion agencies if they know they can sell your look.

While most agencies that represent fashion/runway models set the minimum at 5'11", I have seen agency websites where the minimum height was 5'10" but again that all depends on where you live. To cover all your bases, you'll want to submit yourself to agencies that represent commercial/print models as well as those with a slightly lowered height requirement that represent fashion male models.

Good luck to you and I hope that helps!

"Special Skills: How They Help in Modeling"

2011-12-24T22:16:00.000-08:00

This blog post was inspired by Kat's question, which is below:

Hi Dania, can you do a post on special skills. I noticed on some agency websites they list skills that the models' can do independent of modeling. For instance some of them are singers, actors, dancers, musicians, etc can you list the importance of having a special skill in relation to the entertainment industry. I personally play the flute, I'm a mediocre singer I'm def. not American idol status(nor do I want to be... I won't be making cd's or holding concerts any time soon) but I've been told I can hold a descent tune. In addition I'm always looking of creative ways to improve my acting and my modeling. In regards to acting I'm taking classes at my local junior college. I guess I really want your opinion on the ability to have or create another skill that can be used in the industry besides acting and modeling:)

Having special skills that fall outside of modeling are extremely beneficial to male and female models of all ages. As I'm sure you'll recall me always saying, modeling is a business and being able to make yourself as marketable as possible is music to any agency's ears. What makes having special skills so significant is the fact that it increases the various types of modeling assignments your agency can book you for. More bookings means more money.

If you've ever filled out an electronic form on an agency's website, they almost always have a section that deals with special skills, where they'll either have a list of options for you to check off or type in manually in the designated field. Examples of such skills include but are not limited to:

Dancing (Tap/Jazz/Contemporary)
Singing
Gymnastics
Sports
Musical Instrument

Some of the skills can be as basic as that or as off the wall as wanting to know if you can juggle or roller skate. The talents/skills don't have to be specific to athletic abilities or performance, either--people that can draw, paint or individuals with strong writing skills can also list these as a special skill.

So what does this have to do with being a good model? You may remember a blog post I did about Sports & Fitness modeling, where I talked about how clients oftentimes want to hire models that have real-world experience doing certain physical activities to sell not just their look but make the poses and gestures more authentic. The same goes for other special skills. Models with backgrounds in dance and/or acting are especially sought after. Dancers typically have great physiques, tend to be naturally graceful (which makes for some amazing and dynamic poses) and can get hired for gigs that call for this skill set. Acting skills are appreciated by agencies and clients because many times models have to assume "roles" in their photoshoots and having the natural ability to play a character helps to produce great poses, genuine facial expressions and interactions if they are shooting with other models.

Additionally, having talents outside of modeling makes it more likely for a person to "cross-over" into other forms of media/entertainment, which means being able to command a larger audience and more exposure. These are all good things for anybody hoping to be successful in more than just modeling.

People that possess special skills also typically tend to be outgoing, social, perform well in front of others and are anything but shy. Any model that has the ability to learn, master and perform a particular skill (or more than one) is someone that more than likely an agency can depend on to do well and not worry about being self-conscious or insecure.

However, aspiring and established models that don't have any such special skills don't necessarily have to feel pressured to go out and start taking tap classes or enroll in ballet. If you decide to create or learn a special skill, make sure it's one that interests you and that you are passionate about. The majority of people that have special skills don't do so because they "need to" but because they "want to." Don't feel like you have to acquire a bunch of special skills, either. It's all about the quality and not the quantity. A model that knows 6 different skills is impressive but if she can only do 2 or 3 of them very well, the overall impression loses its luster.

In the instance that you're faced with a questionnaire that asks you to check off your "level" of expertise in a particular skills/activity, be honest. There's a huge difference between being "Excellent" or "Professional" at something and being "Average" or a "Beginner." If the skill/activity in question is one you've never done before, the obvious answer is to keep that field blank or check "N/A" if that option is there.

Models with natural talents and abilities are always a natural sell for agencies and clients and if you fall into this category, consider yourself a very valuable asset.

Answering a Reader Question #270

2011-12-24T21:28:00.000-08:00

BReal Wrote:

Becoming a male model seems like it would be exciting. I'm presently 32, 5'11", with about a 38 inch chest. Would it be recommended that I get up to at least a 40 inch chest size before seriously considering finding an agency to consider working with? Merry Christmas by the way!

Hey, BReal, Merry Christmas to you as well! At this point, I would recommend going to agency casting calls as you are and then seeing what feedback you get. I say this because it is easier to know what agencies think of you now and know for sure because you'll have heard it straight from their mouth, instead of trying to guess. No two agencies have the same opinion so you could end up coming across an agency that is fine with your chest measurement as it is, while there may be another that would tell you otherwise.

Get as many different opinions as you can from the agencies in your area and then decide what your next step will be based on their feedback. This will save you a lot of time and effort.

Good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question Video Reply #3

2011-12-24T21:05:00.000-08:00

Answering a Reader Question #269

2011-12-22T17:29:00.000-08:00

Celeste Wrote:

Hi! My name is Celeste and I'm 13 and 5'8. I was wondering what the BEST agency would be to go to in about 5 months after my braces are off. (I live in Ohio)

Hi, Celeste! To best improve your odds, I would highly suggest submitting to as many agencies as you can that you meet the requirements for. There are actually many Ohio modeling agencies that are very successful and have an impressive list of clients. Never hold out for one agency. What qualifies as the "best" agency, in my professional opinion, is one that has a reputable history of doing business, has a list of recognizable clients and produces results for its models by consistently booking them quality work and sending them out on castings they know their models have a good shot at getting hired for.

That being said, below are a list of Ohio agencies that are definitely worth looking into and submitting yourself for--don't forget to attend as many open calls as you can since this increases your odds of gaining interest from an agency:

Midwest Model Management
http://www.midwestmodelinc.com

Heyman Talent
http://www.heymantalent.com

MTM - Model Talent Management
http://www.mtmcincinnati.com

New View Management Group
http://www.nvmodels.com

Wings Model Management
http://www.wingsmodels.com

Docherty Model & Talent Agency
http://www.dochertyagency.com

The Talent Group
http://www.talentgroup.com

Active Image Management
http://www.activeimagemodels.com

Stone Model and Talent Agency
http://www.stonemodels.com

Understanding the Role of Mother Agencies in Modeling

2011-12-21T18:31:00.000-08:00

***Just FYI: When I use the word "market," this is just industry lingo for "location" and usually refers to a specific city***

In your attempts to pursue a modeling career, you may or may not have come across the term "mother agency." Not all models deal with this type of agency arrangement but it does help to know as much as you can about the industry and all its aspects, including this concept. While reading this blog post, keep in mind that having a mother agency is not mandatory, nor does a model need one to be super successful. The choice to become involved in this type of deal should be based on each person's needs, goals and situation as it relates to becoming a model.

So what is a mother agency? Like regular modeling agencies, mother agencies sign models, use contracts and market them to clients in order to book paying assignments. However, the major difference is the fact that mother agencies also groom, develop and prepare their models to work not just in other markets/locations but with other agencies as well. HUH????

Your brain is probably firing off tons of questions after reading that part but be patient--hopefully the rest of this post will answer those questions and demystify this concept.

It's helpful to think of mother agencies as "loaning" out their best models to other agencies as needed. This often happens when the mother agency is located in a small to medium-sized market where there isn't as much high caliber, top paying work. Because they know the good stuff is in places like New York, Los Angeles and even in international markets, they'll use their industry know-how and skills to market their models to attract the big fish agencies in those desirable places.

The benefits for the mother agency includes but is not limited to:

Gaining more paying work and exposure for their models.
Vital networking connections with bigger, well established agencies.
The opportunity to make more money.

The benefits to the model include but is not limited to:

The chance to work in one or more larger markets.
The opportunity to make more money on assignments and work with big name clients and agencies.
The chance to travel either nationally or internationally.

However, there is a catch to this situation that isn't always 100% great. So you know how agencies make their money by charging clients a commission? Well, mother agencies not only make commission on the gigs they get their models locally, they also get a bit of commission from the gigs their models get booked through OTHER agencies. While the traditional commission agencies take is currently at 20%, the amount mother agencies get to charge agencies that use their models is somewhere between 5% to 10%.

However, while regular commission rates are typically added on top of the rate a model will be getting paid, mother agency commissions often take their cut directly from the model's paycheck. They're allowed to do this legally but that doesn't mean it's fair. While there are instances where the mother agency will directly charge commission to the agency they're loaning their models out to, it isn't uncommon for them to simply take money from the model's earnings because it's easier and the model doesn't have a say in the matter (hey, I don't support this practice and I don't make the rules so don't shoot the messenger).

An additional downside is that signing to a mother agency sometimes involves paying fees related to training and development. This includes professional photos, comp cards, runway training, etc. I'm sure you're thinking to yourself, "But Dania, you always say that upfront fees are red flags and that legit agencies train new models for free!" Yes, this is true BUT remember, mother agencies don't operate like regular agencies. And the fees related to the costs of grooming and preparing a model for work in other markets normally are not upfront fees--they come into play after a contract has been signed, which they are legally allowed to do.

While this may seem like a total ripoff to some of you, there are times when working with a mother agency can be beneficial for a model's career and justifies investing the money. However, like I said earlier, it isn't mandatory to sign with a mother agency.

Here's when it's okay to look into a mother agency situation:

If you're in a small market where you know little about the industry but want to prep yourself to make the jump to a major market (and realistically know you meet the requirements to make this possible).
If the mother agency in your area has legit and solid connections to not just top agencies in big markets, but well paying and recognizable clients that want to hire you.
If the mother agency has proven experience with placing models from small and medium markets to larger ones, especially overseas.

Here's when it's not necessary to get involved with a mother agency:

If you already have sufficient knowledge about the modeling industry to find a regular agency on your own.
If you currently live in a big market where you're close to all the major traditional modeling agencies.
If you're signed to an agency already and are doing just fine with your career.

Think of the mother agency as your coach in a sport: You spend the time and money to hire them to give you experience, training, development of your skills and the knowledge so that you can move on from the minor league to the pros. Some people feel better having access to such a coach, while others feel confident enough to go about things on their own. Either way is fine but it has to be what works best for you and that you're comfortable with.

Do not feel pressured to try and hook up with a mother agency--again, they are not mandatory or necessary to be successful in modeling UNLESS you live somewhere that isn't known for getting much action in terms of the types of modeling assignments or agencies available. Also keep in mind that there are scammer operations that use the mother agency method to get money from people. If you're thinking about possibly submitting to an agency that offers mother agency services, do your research and check out their site. If they have a proven track record of placing models successfully in bigger markets and getting results, then chances are you'd be working with people that know what they're doing and will be your partner in helping you reach your goals with modeling. Otherwise, you can stick to seeking information about the industry on your own and by opting for the more affordable way of seeking traditional agency representation by attending open casting calls and sending in your pictures and info via email or snail mail.

Trunk Show Modeling

2011-12-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

This may or may not be a term you guys are familiar with. Trunk show modeling, sometimes also called "trunk fashion shows" or simply "trunk shows", are an event that involves a fashion designer showcasing their latest creations to a select group of people. Typically designers that produce one-of-a-kind pieces will host trunk shows as an affordable way to promote their line. The word "trunk" in this concept comes from the fact that the designer arrives with their clothing line in a special trunk, which they can easily set up and display for the group of consumers and/or buyers to view.

Oftentimes the select group of people at trunk shows are in charge of buying merchandise for department and boutique stores. Most of the time, the events are by invite only. There are a couple of reasons why designers use trunk shows as a method of exposure. Such reasons include but are not limited to the following:

It give clients a sneak peek at their newest fashions before they go on sale and become available to the public.
It offers clients/buyers the chance to pre-order or directly purchase certain clothing items at the trunk show.
It allows designers to get consumer feedback on their line and whether or not it would be successful.
It gives designers the chance to find out which pieces they should mass produce if the feedback from the trunk show is positive and vice-versa.

Not only are trunk shows great for the designers, they are beneficial for the buyers as well. Some boutique clothing stores and other related businesses usually do not have the same huge budgets as larger department stores to purchase entire lines from designers. By being present at trunk shows, these types of stores are able to network directly with the designer and have the opportunity to place orders for the items they want to carry at their store at a fairly affordable price. So this event works for both parties involved. However, these types of fashion events aren't just limited to small, local designers. Heavy hitters like Vera Wang, Nicole Miller and other well known brands also participate in trunk shows.

Sometimes trunk shows use models and sometimes they don't. For the ones that do, the models show up to the venue with the designer and simply wear the designated outfits and then model them for the group. Because trunk shows mainly take place in intimate settings, this means modeling in front of a much smaller group of individuals instead of a large crowd. Additionally, there is not a runway for the model to strut his/her stuff on. Instead they may simply walk out in the outfit and stand in front of the group, while the designer or sales rep explains what he/she is wearing. They may walk a bit or they may only be required to stand and turn around to show all views of the clothing.

In terms of pay, trunk shows don't normally pay big bucks because the designers participating in these events are often on tight budgets. However, it is not uncommon for models to do trunk shows in exchange for a free clothing item of their choice, a gift certificate or discounted price on an outfit they want to purchase. The actual pay a model could receive would more than likely be $100, more or less. Models working trunk shows for huge designers that are well known are likely to make more money. The time commitment for trunk show modeling could be a half day or a full day--it depends on where the venue for the show is and how many outfits the designer wants you to wear.

Doing trunk shows are great for exposure and networking so they're worth signing up for if you get asked to be in one. It adds to the resume of experience and if you work well with the designer, it could lead to future opportunities to model more of their designs in photoshoots, fashion shows, etc.

More Craigslist Crap to Be on the Lookout For

2011-12-20T18:27:00.000-08:00

Needless to say, Craigslist continues to dwindle when it comes to the caliber and quality of the modeling assignments/projects posted in "Gigs" under the "Talent" section. However, there are still a few legit gems to be found, which is why I still use this site when freelancing. But in recent months, I've noticed a few trends that--to me--are red flags of scammers, shady individuals and/or gigs disguised as modeling assignments but are actually for adult modeling/pornography related stuff.

The types of postings in the Gigs section may vary from city to city but here are some red flags/types of posts that I would warn others to stay away from if they are looking for modeling gigs in the San Francisco Bay Area Craigslist:

- Repeat Posts/Posters: If months have gone by and the same ad is still being used over and over, this likely means it's bogus and the person posting the ad has yet to find anyone dumb enough to take them seriously.

- Similar formatting in ads but for different projects. For example, there's someone on the SF Bay Area Craigslist site that posts a need for models for all kinds of projects, but in the body of the ad, they list the same criteria they want models to send all in the exact same order:

Reply With:

Name
Phone Number
Age
Height and Weight
Dress Size and Shoe Size
Include Some Photos

One day they are casting for models for a fashion brand lookbook, the next day they're casting for Playboy style nude models, the day after that, they're casting for auditions for a feature film. While keeping the body of the ad the same, they switch out the type of project they're casting for because they believe it will increase the number of naive models who reply to them. Sometimes they'll switch out the order of the stuff on the list above or remove/add something but in general, this is a classic sign that it's the same person posting all the ads. Not cool.

- The ads are hiring models for important, recognizable brands/products but ask that models have no experience. Yeeaaahhhh...no legit client with such a recognizable brand would willingly spend money on a model that has absolutely no experience. Such posts are aimed at newbies who are looking for exposure or to network with well known people. New/inexperienced models, always be wary of such Craigslist posts and if you decide to reply, ask for referrals, a website, the names of the photographer, director in charge of the shoot, etc. If they can't or won't give you this information, delete their email and forget about them.

- Ads that claim they are casting for a billion different types of projects all at once. Now, these aren't necessarily scammers or shady individuals BUT in terms of whether the work they're offering is legit and going to be beneficial to your career is very questionable. There's been someone posting fairly frequently on the SF Bay Area Craigslist, looking for models for their "company" that is hiring models for films, calenders, promotions, prints, ads, TV, commercials, photoshoots, all media, etc. Ummm...dude, what kind of company do you have and why is it all over the place? It just raises red flags for me. I believe they write their ad the way they do to--again--entice models that are looking for exposure. It could also be a start-up company trying to build its employee base but this isn't the right way to go about it.

- Posting ridiculously high pay rates. I'm sorry, but it's not often that I come across a Craigslist post looking for models that pays $1,000 that is actually legit. A few hundred dollars? Sure, I've seen and booked work through Craigslist that paid that kind of money. But if it's starting at $1,000 or something even higher, it's 99.9% a ploy to get you to reply to them because they're betting you're looking for a way to make some easy cash. Be wary of what they're asking you to do for that pay rate. Of course if it's a legit client that you've heard of or if the info that pops up about them when you do online research checks out, then that's a different story. But if the ad is vague or you can't find much info about the project outside of the ad, it's not worth your time.

- Looking for models within a huge demographic that is unrealistic according to industry standards. Craigslist posts asking for models within the ages 18-40 and all sizes are ones to be wary of simply because of the credibility (of lack thereof) of the project. People that want to model professionally and build a strong portfolio should look for clients that have projects that are of professional quality--and that sometimes means staying within the limiting requirements when it comes to height, weight, age, etc. Ads casting a super wide net by inviting models of all ages and sizes sometimes don't always equal professional results. Again, they cast wide nets to make it easier to increase the number of applicants they will receive. Unless the nature of the project is in need of "real people" models and is something like a print job, chances are the gig isn't worth looking into further because it's probably being run by amateurs that are looking for anyone willing to respond to their ad, and whose work won't contribute professionally to your career or portfolio.

- Listing weird pay rates. For the ads that actually offer pay, be a bit cautious if the pay rate is not a rounded number of a typical rate you'd see for modeling assignments. It may seem like a little thing but I'm a stickler for detail and when even the smallest thing seems "off" to me, I tend to go with my gut. Most clients pay models rounded figures like $100.00, $250.00 or an hourly rate like $15.00, $25/hr, etc. I've seen Craigslist posts for gigs stating they'll pay $243.00, $328.00, $144.00, etc. It's just strange...how they come up with such figures is beyond me. Not sure why people posting on Craigslist do this but it doesn't do anything to justify their credibility, in my opinion.

- Asking for models that are "uninhibited." This is a covert way of really saying, "I'm looking for a model that isn't shy so that she'll be willing to take off her clothes and let me take pictures of her." Simple as that.

The things I've mentioned in this post don't apply to every single Craigslist ad you come across but if you've been on there as much as I have, you start to notice things and if anything you come across seems questionable, don't pursue it. It's always better to err on the side of caution...the legit and beneficial gigs are there and those are the ones worth your time and effort.

Answering a Reader Question #268

2011-12-19T01:15:00.000-08:00

Yakkilyn Wrote:

I am currently 22 years old and am borderline 5'7". I am constantly told that I look to be about 17 years old due to my biracial ethnicity. I've always wanted to be a model, but have only just recently grown more comfortable in my skin. I am approximately 120-125 lbs. (my weight tends to fluxuate) and I could stand to lose about 5 lbs. I would just like to know that, once all the weight is lost, would it still be possible for someone like me to become a professional model?

Hi, Yakkilyn! At your current weight you can become a professional model so you don't have to lose anymore pounds if you are comfortable with your weight as it is--just make sure you don't go over 125 and you'll be fine. At 5'7" and age 22, you're not going to grow any taller so at this point you're not going to be eligible for runway or fashion modeling (even if you appear younger physically, you'd still be lacking that one inch to meet the minimum height requirement for that type of modeling). When it comes to height, there are some exceptions to the rule but that depends on your location/market area and the agency.

So if you want to become a pro model, you're going to want to submit your photos and information to modeling agencies that represent commercial/print/lifestyle/mature models. So any agencies within a 2 hour's drive from where you live that have any or all of these divisions should be the ones to check out. Their official websites will give you all the info you'll need to know about what to send to them and how you can be considered.

Hope that helps and good luck to you!

Quick Tip #26

2011-12-18T23:37:00.000-08:00

Category: Clothing
For: Male & Female Models

For shoots where the models are asked to bring some of their own wardrobe, it is not uncommon to have the creative director or wardrobe stylist on set have another model wear your clothes and vice-versa. This doesn't happen every single time but it's important to know that the person in charge of making this decision will ask you if it's okay for someone else to wear your clothes, shoes or accessories or if you'd be comfortable wearing something that belongs to someone else. However, it's usually only one article of clothing and not an entire outfit, unless it's a dress or something similar.

If the thought of another person coming into contact with your clothing makes you queasy, focus on the fact that it's a work related thing and will show good sportsmanship if you agree (and besides, that's what washing machines are for). The models hired show up showered and well groomed so it isn't like a filthy stranger is going to be sporting your outfits the entire time.

So don't be shocked if you get asked to swap clothes you've brought with another model or to wear another person's clothes. It's just another part of the modeling business.

Did You Know...? #7

2011-12-18T23:25:00.000-08:00

...that if you're in high school and have to miss classes because of a modeling related event (go-see/casting, photoshoot), it is recognized as an excused absence? This means it won't be a negative mark on your record. As long as your parents follow the guidelines set by your school and keep your teachers notified of upcoming absences, students won't have to worry about suffering consequences.

Answering a Reader Question #267

2011-12-18T23:19:00.000-08:00

Ashley K Wrote:

How hard is it to become a model? If i give some of my physical look can you answer, because i am interested but dont know how to go about starting modeling while i am still in school.

Hi, Ashley K! To keep it straight to the point: modeling is very hard. It's even harder to be a successful model who can do it full time. However, the only way to find out if you have a shot is to put yourself out there and submit to modeling agencies who can help you further your career.

You're more than welcome to email me some photos for an evaluation, just as long as you understand that I don't work for or have connections with any agencies, so my opinion on whether you have the right look or not may not be the same viewpoint as the agencies you choose to submit to. But I'd be more than happy to review your images and provide feedback. You can send them to: daniadenise@gmail.com.

As far as modeling while still in school, agencies work with models that are also students all the time. They do their best to work around your school schedule and if you have to miss classes for a day, they are considered excused absences. So you don't need to worry about that affecting your academics. Here's a link to a blog post I did about modeling while in school that will help give you a better idea about balancing the two:

Modeling & School

Hope that helps and good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question #266

2011-12-18T23:08:00.000-08:00

Noelle Wrote:

Hi, Dania. I'm 15 and more likely than not not 5'8" like I've recently dreamed of being ever since I saw Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon. My Dad is either a solid 6'0" or 6'1", but my mom is a severely disppointing -5'0". I will admit that i have fussed over my disapointment in not meeting the height requirements and have (I am sorry to admit) been slightly depressed about "not being good enough" for something so spectacular. I have looked up modeling agencies after having taken the initiative and joining my High School's Modeling Club and (again, sorry to admit) have cried over the fact that there are probably more beautifully petite models than there are beautifully prefered Sumpermodels. But I can't get over the fact that I have more likely than not reached the height requirement to become a Victoria's Secret Model, and, in the future, a Victoria's Secret Angel. I knwo it's time to quit moping around and start working for what I want. (I apologize for slightly venting and now on to my actual question) I would very much liek to know if there is any chance that, even with my not meeting the height requirement, that, if I was the best model I coudl be and signed with the right agencies, would Victoria's Secret quite possibly consider me to be a model? (And yes, I know about the age requirement also, and I've only got 3 years to go, thank God. and sorry for the ridiculously long comment and the more likely than not oddly worded question, lol.)

Hi, Noelle! No apologies needed for venting...trust me, I've had my tantrums about the whole height issue over the past few years, lol. It is indeed frustrating to know that your options become dramatically reduced when you don't meet the industry's standards. However, I am glad to hear that you're ready to get in gear and try to make the most of things by working with what you have. To date, Victoria's Secret hasn't made any such exceptions for agency represented models that didn't meet the height requirement, among the other criteria. So at this point, I would say that the odds of such a thing happening would be super slim--I never say "impossible" but not likely. Sorry, sweetie. Right now VS has stuck with its magic formula and I doubt they would see any reason to change things the way they are. But I'm sure if a change or exception were to be made, we'd all know about it!

I know that's not the answer you were hoping for but please be encouraged by the fact that if you are currently a height that agencies would represent for modeling, you should go for it and see how far you can take it. Even if you don't become a VS model, if your agent markets you to the right clients, you could end up doing big things for another reputable company/client and establish yourself that way. Remember 5'5"-5'7" is ideal for commercial/print and 5'8"-6'0" is ideal for fashion/runway/editorial...petite modeling has yet to really gain a stronghold to the point where agencies are actively signing them on, although they are out there--it's just not as easy to begin a career in this category.

Good luck!!!

Answering a Reader Question #265

2011-12-14T18:41:00.000-08:00

Carrington Wrote:

Heyy, i am carrington. i am 14 years old and one of mii life long dream is to be a victoria secret angle but now it all crushed :(. only because i also want to study to be a devorce aterney. so the whole going to new york thing (out the picture) i do happen to meet almost all the requierments.
*i am 5'6" and still growing
*i am not anerexic . have wide hips and a great curve.(although i have some streach marks hear and there).
*oh and theres another problem i am only 14 (-__-)... what should i do??

Hey, Carrington! It doesn't seem that VS would be a realistic thing for you to pursue but at your current age and height, you are ideal for commercial/print and teen modeling. Getting signed to modeling agencies that represent these types of models is a great way for you to gain professional experience and build a strong portfolio.

That being said, you should do an online search for modeling agencies in your city/state that are no farther than a 2 hour's drive from where you live. Browse through the official websites of the agencies you find and they will list all of the information you'll need to about how what to submit and how to submit to them. Be sure to send your pictures and info to as many agencies as you can to improve your odds. You're still really young so you've got time to enjoy a regular modeling career before pursuing a serious career as a divorce attorney. Plus, doing commercial/print and teen modeling is safe for you to do that won't harm your image once you are older and become a divorce attorney.

Good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question #264

2011-12-14T18:36:00.000-08:00

CourtneyVR Wrote:

ive wanted to be a VS model since i can remember.im not perfect like the VS models but i am thin.im 17 and only 5'6. do you think i have any chances?any advive?

Hi, CourtneyVR! Unfortunately, you don't meet the height requirement to be a VS model. At your age, you're more than likely done growing and the minimum height to be signed to Elite and Ford in New York to have a shot at being considered for VS is 5'9", which is actually one inch taller than the standard 5'8" minimum for fashion modeling. Odds are you won't jump an additional 2-3 inches by the time you're 18. :-(

Instead of trying to pursue VS modeling, I would recommend that you look into agencies in your area that represent commercial/print models. This is the type of modeling your height makes you eligible to do. It won't put you on the runway during Fashion Week but it will get you into catalogs, magazine advertisements, billboards and other print publications. So try your hand at getting signed to an agency for commercial/print and see what happens!

Answering a Reader Question #263

2011-12-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

Blaire Wrote:

Hey my name is Blaire, im 14, 5,9, 26 inches around the waist and 32 around the hips, and 125 pounds I really want to model but I am really afraid and confused! where do i start! I mean I know I should get a agent and agency but im not stunning and I just dont know if i can do it. How hard will it be to get into an agency? and how hard is it to balance life modeling and for me, school?

Hi, Blaire! Getting into an agency is very difficult because oftentimes there are many girls and guys all competing to get signed. You definitely have the height and you're just at the minimum age requirement most agencies allow to sign on younger models, so you have that going for you. Remember, if you're interested in doing fashion and runway, you don't have to be stunning like VS models--they are a different type of fashion model. Traditional fashion and runway girls often vary in appearance, from exotic to odd, strange or even "alien" lol. But those are good things, according to what agencies look for. So don't worry about being insecure about how you look...chances are they may be an agency that loves the way you look!

The more agencies you submit to in your area, the better your chances will be of possibly getting signed. Don't just limit yourself to the big agencies, either. Send your pictures and attend open calls for both small and large agencies to improve your odds. If you become an in-demand model and get constant work, it can be challenging to balance school with modeling but it's not impossible. Missing school for modeling gigs are excused absences since it's for work purposes and in most cases, agencies will do their best to work around a student's schedule. They work with school-age models all the time so this is not new to them.

Do an online search for modeling agencies according to the city/state you live in and this will narrow down the results and give you the official websites of agencies in your area. Make sure to visit each agency website, which will give you all the information you need about like what pictures to send, if and when they have open casting calls, etc. You'll want to submit yourself to agencies that are no farther than a 2 hour's drive from where you live.

Hope that helps and good luck to you!

Answering a Reader Question #262

2011-12-12T18:09:00.000-08:00

Shayla Wrote:

Hello Dania, I just found your blog and thank you!!! Very helpful. I do have a question tho I'm 33, 5'8". I've had 4 children, however i've lost all the baby weight and was wondering if there might be a slim chance for me? When i was 17 I was offered to go to NY, but I turned it down; not that means anything now. Anyway, again thank you!!
Shayla

Hi, Shayla! I'm glad my blog has been helpful to you! :-)

At your age, you'd be ideal for what is known as lifestyle/print/mature modeling. You've got the height for fashion but unfortunately, your age won't give you the opportunity to be on a high fashion runway (fashion agencies typically cut off the age requirement at 21 or 22). But like I said, many of these same agencies also have lifestyle and commercial/print divisions and because you are tall, I would think you could book a lot of work, especially if your physical appearance is one that would be highly marketable to clients. Doing these categories of modeling won't put you on a catwalk in Milan or New York but it will give you the chance to appear in magazines, catalogs, advertisements, product packaging, billboards and other print media. Depending on your look, you'll more than likely be cast as a "mom," "businesswoman," "wife," "girlfriend", etc.

I would recommend looking online for the websites of modeling agencies that are no farther than a 2 hour's drive from where you live. Make sure they have any of all of the following divisions:

- Commercial/Print
- Lifestyle
- Mature

I hope that helps and good luck to you! If you need help finding agencies to submit to, feel free to send an email to: daniadenise@gmail.com

Addressing a Reader Comment #7

2011-12-12T18:02:00.000-08:00

Janasha Wrote:

I would love to become a VS Angel really.I think it shouldn't matter how tall you are because once you step into your heals your going to get tall anyways so why would it matter.I know that im going to be short , but I would love to become a VS Model its every girls dream and that dream is mine's.

Hi, Janasha! Unfortunately, until the modeling industry says otherwise, height does matter. Even if a short model wears 5-6 inch Stilettos to give her some height, the other models that are naturally tall will still tower over shorter models because they, too, will be wearing high heels. In fashion shows and similar projects where the models all appear next to each other, they're always going to want the models to be uniformly similar in height.

While I don't agree with the whole height requirement aspect to modeling, these standards have been in place for decades and take a long time to change enough to where much shorter models will have the same opportunities as the taller models. What you have to understand is that modeling, including VS modeling, is a business that makes millions/billions of dollars a year. They keep things the way they are because so far it has continued to make profits for everyone involved. Sadly, what many aspiring/newbie models do not understand or fail to realize is that the people that hire models do not do so to make the model's dream come true--it's so they can hope to make the most money off of them, among other reasons.

It's not fair but it is the reality that all models have to work within. It's nice that VS modeling is a major dream/goal of yours but it won't be a realistic one to pursue unless the VS company changes its height requirements, which it won't anytime soon, unfortunately. However, I would advise that you find the right kind of modeling that your height qualifies you for and try to break into the industry that way.

Remember, you'll get better results by working with what you have instead of wishing for what you don't. If you focus all your efforts on trying to be a VS model when you know they won't accept you because of your shorter stature, you'll be missing opportunities and overlooking agencies that represent models of your height (I don't know how tall you are but if you're 5'5"-5'7" you're ideal for commercial/print).

Answering a Reader Question #261

2011-12-12T17:52:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

HI, how does one get into being a pinks model? im 14 and love lengerai modeling :) and would really like to get into it.

Hello, Anonymous! To be a Pink model you first have to be a regular VS model. So that means you have to meet the requirements that were listed in my post about becoming a Victoria's Secret model. You'll have to wait until you're at least 18 before you can be considered for VS/Pink modeling and make sure to meet the height and size requirements, as well as the agency representation part as well. Please refer back to the VS post you commented on, which lists the detailed requirements you'll need to know.

As far as regular lingerie modeling, you also need to be at least 18 years of age to do this type of modeling so you've got a few more years to go. :-)

Want to Be a Victoria's Secret Model? Part 2 - FAQs

2011-12-11T14:32:00.000-08:00

I can't even begin to tell you how many emails and blog post comments I've received because of my one blog post about how to become a Victoria's Secret model. In fact, I was seriously considering deleting the post, not because I don't care about or don't want to help others try to become VS models but mainly because SO MANY readers DID NOT read the blog post closely enough before sending me tons of questions about stuff that is literally right there in the content.

If this applies to you, please don't be offended...I'm not mad at you and it's not like I never want you to contact me again...it's just that for a while there it got really discouraging to have to answer the same things over and over when all people have to do is read the blog post carefully. That's all. It's like someone asking, "How do I submit my pictures to Elite?" when their computer screen is on the Elite website page and it says, "Here is how to submit your pictures to Elite." Get it? :-)

But don't worry, I plan on keeping my VS post up. However, I have decided to do another, more updated post that speaks directly to what so many reader questions are centered around. I don't know how much more plainly I can speak about the requirements to be a VS model so I'm hoping this easy to read FAQ type of blog post helps to get the message across in a very clear way.

Okay so here we go...here are some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to wanting to be a Victoria's Secret model:

Q: Can I become a VS model if I'm short?
A: NO. Nada. Nope. Period. Sorry. You HAVE to be fashion/runway height.

Q: Doesn't VS make any exceptions to their requirements?
A: Rarely. They've had success for many years by sticking to the requirements already in place so they're not likely to change things up if they don't need to.

Q: I don't want to move to New York. Can I still be a VS model?
A: No. You have to be signed to Elite, Ford or another top fashion agency in the New York market as a first step to possibly being a VS model. You don't have to work/live in New York full time but you have to be signed to an agency in that market.

Q: But there are VS models that don't live in New York or are signed to other agencies. Why do they get to be VS models and not me?
A: 99.9% of the models that don't fall under the VS requirements that I've stated in my other blog post are already successful and world-known models/supermodels. Because they're already famous, it makes sense for VS to make an exception for them. This does NOT apply to new/undiscovered models.

Q: How do I become a Pink Model for VS?
A: In order to be a Pink model you have to be a regular VS model so the same requirements apply. There is no separate requirement or submission process for Pink models.

Q: How do I become a VS Angel?
A: VS Angels are a select few that are the actual spokesmodels for the brand/company. You have to become a regular VS model first through the requirements I've listed below. All Angels first start off as regular VS models. After they've been working as this type of model for a while (no specific time frame), it is up to the main recruiters at VS to decide who they will promote to Angel status.

Q: Why do I have to be signed to Elite or Ford in New York?
A: I don't know how things came to be that way but these two agencies have an arrangement with VS to be the first two places where new faces for Victoria's Secret are scouted out of. After VS does castings at these two, then they'll consider models from other New York fashion agencies.

Q: So if I get signed to an agency other than Ford or Elite in New York, does that mean I can't be a model for VS?
A: It decreases your chances of being submitted to a VS casting but it doesn't eliminate you altogether. As long as the New York agency you're signed with is well known in that market and gives you exposure through the work they book you, it's possible you could still be considered.

Q: How do I apply to VS to become a model for them?
A: You don't "apply" and VS is not your employer that you go directly through. VS is just a client who uses modeling agencies to find the models they want. That being said, the only way to get to VS is to FIRST GET SIGNED TO ELITE OR FORD in order to have the best chance.

Q: Will VS like my look?
A: I don't know because you'll first have to hope that Elite or Ford in New York likes your look. Again, you've got to get signed to an agency first so in the beginning, it's not about what VS is looking for, it's about what Elite and Ford, followed by the other top fashion agencies (if you don't get signed to Elite or Ford) are looking for. If your physical appearance and build is good enough for these agencies, chances are it could also work for VS. Your agency will submit you if they know you stand a good chance at being booked for this type of work.

Q: How tall do I actually have to be?
A: I did some researching and while traditional fashion/runway agencies want their models to be at least 5'8", if you're applying to Ford and Elite in New York, they actually raised the minimum height requirement to 5'9". Yup, they raised the bar. So if you're 5'8", you've automatically become the industry's version of 5'7", where that one inch could make you ineligible to submit to these agencies. That being said, 5'8" models hoping to do VS work don't have to give up on this dream but just know that Elite and Ford are looking for 5'9" girls initially so you'll have to be an exceptional 5'8" model with a look these agencies can't afford to pass up. Unfortunately, this also dramatically decreases the chances for models that are 5'7". One inch may be easy to overlook for the right girl but if it's two inches AND you're trying to get signed in the New York market, you have to be Kate Moss exceptional.

Q: I'm 15, 16, 17 years old...can I model for VS?
A: NO. You must be at least 18 years old.

Q: I want to be a VS model but I don't live in the USA. What can I do?
A: I would highly recommend trying to get signed to Ford or Elite if they have those agencies in your country. Getting signed to them could give you a chance to be placed for work in New York, where you could then be considered for VS. Plan B (if there is no Ford or Elite in your country or if you don't end up getting signed by them), is to sign with another top fashion agency in your country that places its models in other markets/locations so that you can try to get the opportunity to work in New York.

Q: But, but, but, but...but
A: I'm sorry, when it comes to VS modeling requirements, there are very little "buts" that will result in a different outcome or answer. If you don't meet the bare minimum of the requirements listed, you cannot become a serious candidate for VS. Exceptions are made very very rarely so if you currently do not fit those requirements to a tee or know that you won't in the near future, then this is not going to be a realistic goal for you to pursue.

To drive the point further home, I'm going to relist what the requirements are to become a VS model here:

Be between the ages of 18-30 (yes, you read right...you can be a bit older. Trust me, I did the research and know it to be true. Of course the younger you are, the better).
Be signed to Elite or Ford in the New York market. OR signed to another top fashion agencies in New York. Other locations do NOT count!
Be between 5'8" - 6'0" in height. HOWEVER to get signed to Elite or Ford in New York, their minimum height requirement is 5'9" so you'll have to be exceptional if you're 5'8" and hoping to get signed to either of these agencies.
Have a curvy but still slim/slender build.
Be within the industry standards, measurement-wise: 34-24-34 or smaller. You can only be one inch larger in any of these areas. (If you're going to debate with me about how VS models are much curvier than fashion models, please don't because I'll simply give you the stats of the VS models who--despite appearing much thicker--actually have the same/similar measurements of traditional runway models...again, there are exceptions to the rule but they're not the norm).

Portfolio Mills/Photo Mills: Why They Should Be Avoided at all Costs in Modeling

2011-12-11T13:37:00.000-08:00

It's unfortunate that there are many agencies out there that would rather make profit for themselves than book legitimate work for their models. I've talked rather extensively about how legit and reputable modeling agencies operate and what signs people should be on the lookout for to tell the difference between a real opportunity and one that is a scam. However, I've yet to talk about portfolio mills and the "agencies" that run them.

Also known as "photo mills," portfolio mills are businesses run by people passing themselves off as a legitimate modeling agency. BUT what makes these types of "agencies" different from the ones that are the "real deal" is the fact that they use the loopholes in the industry (or downright just break the rules and hope not to get caught) to focus on getting money out of its models for expenses related to photography and portfolio images. They choose this route because it's a faster, easier way to get money from naive models, instead of relying solely on the commission they get by booking paid work for their models. BTW, commission is supposed to be by law in the United States (not sure about other countries), the ONLY way modeling agencies are to earn a profit.

So what does a portfolio mill operation look like? It goes something like this (not all mills operate exactly the same way so this is just a general description):

- A new, unsuspecting model gets "discovered" or "accepted" to model for an agency.
- Before being offered a contract or similar type of agreement, the model is told by the agency that the most important part of the process is for the model to build a strong, professional portfolio.
- In order to do that, however, the model has to use the agency's in-house photographer(s), who will help them put together their portfolio. They are not allowed to find their own photographers.
- The model is then required to pay hundreds to thousands of dollars for a "professional modeling shoot" to get images for their portfolio and comp/zed cards.
- The model pays the money--usually by credit card online--and does the shoot with the photographer(s).
- The agency uses the photos to promote the model on their website but usually doesn't end up booking them any work or making any further effort to help the model pursue a serious career

What makes photo mills so terrible is the fact that not only does the "agency" and its photographers make a killing off the money models pay them, the quality of the photos from the shoots are often not top quality or the right kind that would actually give a model a shot at getting hired by a legitimate client. Oftentimes, the wardrobe, makeup, hair and setting are below par so even if a model wasn't with that agency anymore, the photos they've paid for would be useless to submit to a legit agency.

As if that isn't the worst of it, these "agencies" are famous for signing up people that in reality, do not have a realistic shot at being a serious, professional model. I hate to say it, but we all know that modeling is not for everyone and to take a person's money and build them up with false hopes of starting such a career is just cruel.

How does one spot a portfolio mill? There is no set list of criteria exactly but I will say that most times, agencies that operate using the portfolio mill method typically are the ones that label themselves as "online agencies." This means you don't go to a physical agency office location...everything is done virtually. Does that mean all online agencies are scams? No, but it's a much easier way for shady people to do business without being caught...at least not right away because of the anonymous aspect of being online.

If you happen to be in contact with an online agency that tries to get you to sign up with them, be wary if they use a hard sales push and constantly try to persuade you to pay tons of money just for comp cards and portfolio pictures. Also be suspicious if they require additional fees for things like producing more comp/zed cards, enlarging certain images, etc. All it translates to is more money going from your wallet straight to their pockets.

"Agencies" that focus too much on getting a portfolio together and insist that models only use the photographers they have on staff, are major red flags of a portfolio mill. Check out the model photos they have on the site. Do they look like glamour shots that could have been taken at a photography studio in a shopping mall? Are the people in the photos clearly not modeling agency quality according to the industry's standards? Do the quality of the photos look like some average Joe took them with a fancy point and shoot digital camera? Then this is clearly a company you need to stay away from.

Latest Shoot: Cisco

2011-12-10T21:44:00.000-08:00

After being signed to Scout Management for a little over a month, I got booked my first print job through them! It was for Cisco Systems, which is a huge tech company that's worldwide but based in Silicon Valley. There was no casting or go-see for this gig...I didn't even know about it until my agent called me randomly out of the blue one day and asked me to submit two snapshots of myself to email to her (headshot and full body shot), which she would send to a client that she told me was interested in using me for a print job. At the time she didn't tell me it was for Cisco. After getting my snapshots done, I sent them to her and a few days later she told me I got the gig!

Below are the actual snapshots I sent to my agent. They're terribly unflattering but, hey, like I said, clients see things in these types of pictures that we don't. All I know is that these images got me hired...'nuff said! LOL

A few days before the shoot, my agent emailed me blank vouchers to bring with me on set, which the client would fill out at the end of the day. There were two copies: one for the client to keep and one for me to mail to my agent. The voucher form is what allows my agent to invoice Cisco so that they can get payroll to cut a check. There were both freelance as well as agency represented models hired for this shoot. Freelance models were paid $800 flat. I know the agency repped models will get paid more but I wasn't informed what my actual rate would be, but I'm guessing it's going to be $1,000 (give or take), plus an additional 20%, which is my agent's commission. Both types of models were contracted out for a 10-hour shoot day.

I was playing the role of a college student and was given a call-time of 8AM at Santa Clara University. Similar to the Visa shoot I posted about before this one, Cisco will be using these images for their marketing/advertising campaigns. However, the difference is that these won't be for their stock collection but for their actual campaigns. A representative from Cisco was on-set to help direct the shoot and he told us that our images would be used worldwide in different countries to target certain markets. I thought that was pretty cool! So you international Modeling 101 blog readers, be on the lookout for anything from Cisco either online or in print that you may see me in! ;-)

The production crew set things up in the library of the university on the third floor. We got our own section to store our stuff and I was happy to be on this shoot since it was fully catered. They brought in a bunch of different breakfast and lunch options, as well as coolers filled with beverages. The hair and makeup folks set up in the same room, which was pretty spacious, and the wardrobe stylist had her rack of additional clothing on hand. There were about 15 models total and we were each given instructions as to what wardrobe options to bring to the shoot. I brought along my garment bag and displayed my clothes for the stylist to look over. I got to keep my light pink turtleneck sweater I showed up to the shoot wearing but had to change out of my black skinnies into dark blue, wide-leg pants with black, closed-toe boots. She finished off my look with a really cute pink and red striped scarf. I arrived camera-ready (we were told to have our makeup and hair ready to go just in case the makeup artists didn't get to finish everyone in time for the first shoot). However, the makeup artist did freshen up my face with powder and lip color.

Because there was a large group of models to shoot, we were broken up into smaller chunks and taken to various parts of the school's library, where we were given laptop bags, notebooks, pens and other "props" so that we could accurately portray college students. These were all candid shots with natural expressions and the photographer called out directions from time to time when he needed a specific pose or expression. After shooting in the two library computer rooms, we went outside and shot in front of the library doing stuff like walking around campus, sitting at a table checking our phone, etc. After about 4-5 hours of shooting, we took a one hour break for lunch then moved indoors to one of the cafe areas where more shots were taken and then inside an actual classroom where the additional models--who were older and supposed to portray college professors--came in and pretended to give us a lecture/presentation using the Cisco tech products they wanted to feature.

All in all it was a super long, tiring day but so much fun and the models and crew were really cool to work with. I ended up making three new friends and hope to possibly work with them again in the near future. The production crew said that if I wanted to request photos from the shoot, all I had to do was contact the photographer, which I'll probably end up doing but I definitely want to see if I can get the actual digital tearsheets once the official images have been chosen by Cisco--remember, tearsheets are ALWAYS better than the regular picture by itself.

Latest Shoot: Visa Signature Collection

2011-12-10T20:55:00.000-08:00

I was really excited to get chosen to do a print shoot for Visa's "Signature Collection." Basically, it's similar to a stock photography shoot, except the images chosen will be exclusively for use by Visa for their various ad campaigns. These could range from online banners, filler photos for their website or in print materials like fliers, magazine ads, etc. Many times huge companies like Visa have their own library of stock images so that whenever they need a certain picture, all they have to do is turn to their own resources. This is much more affordable and convenient, compared to going out and doing an entire photoshoot every time.

I booked this gig through freelancing and was given a call-time of 8AM at a residential home in a city called San Anselmo, which is a ritzy neighborhood in Northern California a few minutes away from the Golden Gate Bridge/San Francisco. San Anselmo and its surrounding cities in that area are regularly used as locations for various photoshoots because they are super fancy/expensive houses that are nicely furnished and are perfect for such projects.

Weeks before the actual shoot date I was sent an email with all the specifics, including the wardrobe items I needed to bring, which were supposed to be for the summertime. I packed swimsuits, a sarong/coverup, sun hat, various strappy sandals, shorts and a few tops.

I arrived early and the rest of the production crew showed up a few minutes after me. I introduced myself to the people in charge of the shoot and was directed to the pool house, where the models were supposed to get hair and makeup done. The scene for the shoot was supposed to appear like a resort, where I and three other models were going to be hanging out next to the pool. Although this was being shot at someone's home, the way they structured the shoot will make it appear as if we're at some fancy resort hotel (See? Nothing is as it seems in modeling! LOL).

After meeting the other models, I got into hair and makeup. Then I met up with the wardrobe stylist to find out what outfit I was going to wear. Even though I had brought some of my own wardrobe, the stylist also had a collection of stuff on a rack so we did a bit of mixing and matching. I used my sun hat and strappy sandals with a short heel, as well as a white tank top. The wardrobe stylist gave me a long, blue wrap-around sarong to wear from her collection and I just had my regular underwear on underneath (since the wrap was long, I wasn't worried about accidentally showing anything).

When all the models were ready (there was another female model and two male models), we were directed to a set of steps, which led down to the pool. We were given wine glasses filled with champagne. We were told not to really drink it but to "pretend"--this wasn't because they didn't want us getting drunk but because it would mess up the glass from out lip imprints, as well as require extra time refilling the champagne in each glass. The scene was that we were a group of friends lounging at a resort by the pool, having a good time and engaging in lively conversation. The photographer was going for candid shots where we weren't looking at the camera. The client from Visa was also on-set to make sure the photographer got the images they needed. The sun was super bright outside and I was glad I had my hat to block it out, although halfway through the shoot they asked me to take it off (darn!). Because it was so bright, we ended up having to close our eyes and have the photographer count to three, which would signal us to open our eyes as much as we could (without looking like we were psycho or a deer in headlights, haha), throw our heads back and laugh. It's a LOT harder than it sounds. But we eventually knocked out the shots and were done in no time!

After the client checked the images, we were free to go. I returned the wardrobe items to the stylist and packed my things. Then I met up with one of the production crew folks to sign out and was given my check (I LOVE projects that pay at the end of the shoot day!). I exchanged business cards with a few people, shook hands and thanked everybody. Then I went about my merry way.

Here's a behind the scenes pic of us on set in between shots:

I don't know how long it'll take for the final images to come out but I do know that in cases like these, the models don't always get official copies. Visa and companies like them are super strict about releasing images that aren't approved by them or already in use for projects so I'll have to shoot the production company an email to see if they can check on that for me. If anything, they'll probably let me see the pictures Visa ended up not choosing to use but that usually means they're gonna be the sucky ones where I'm like blinking or something, haha. I'm not sure where my image will end up being used for Visa's projects but I'll definitely keep an eye out and if I come across them, I'll make sure to save it and share it here. Or if any of you end up spotting me in a photo for Visa, I'd love you forever if you let me know! :-)

Quick Tip #25

2011-12-10T20:18:00.000-08:00

Category: Pictures
For: Male & Female Models

This quick tip is great for all models but freelance models will find it especially useful. When it comes to submitting yourself for different modeling assignments, it's great to have more than one type of headshot. The reason for this is so that you can, in a sense, customize your submissions to various clients/projects. One universal headshot sometimes isn't enough to convince a client that a particular model has the right look they want so it helps to send a picture that won't leave any room for doubt. You don't have to go overboard and have a bunch of headshots...2-3 is more than enough.

For example, I have two main headshots I use--one for fashion projects and one for commercial/print:

Fashion Headshot

Commercial/print/lifestyle Headshot.

Latest Casting Call: Citrix

2011-12-10T20:10:00.000-08:00

Went on my second casting call through my new agent for a company called Citrix about a week ago. They specialize in creating technology and software for a variety of different uses. I was told to choose wardrobe from either of the following descriptions: business casual, casual or business professional/formal. I opted for business casual and wore black heeled boots (closed-toe), black slacks and a white short-sleeve blouse with turquoise and green flower designs on it. I got to the casting early, signed in and filled out a short info sheet, which asked for my name, email and my agency information (agency name, main contact, phone number).

I knew it could be a bit of a wait so I brought a book along with me. When it was my turn, I was taken into a room where there was only one person running the casting. She actually worked for the casting office and wasn't an employee with Citrix. So I knew the client wasn't going to be present and the casting office would simply email everyone's photo submissions to them, which they would then use to choose who they wanted to hire.

The girl was really nice and she gave me brief instructions about what kinds of photos she was going to take. The first photo was a close-up headshot, with me holding a piece of paper that had my name and a random # on it. Then I got rid of the paper and she took a regular headshot, followed by a full body shot, 3/4 full body shot where I was facing to the right of the camera and then another 3/4 full body shot where I was facing to the left of the camera. It took about 5-6 minutes total and that was it.

Since I haven't heard back, I'm assuming I wasn't chosen but it's all good--there's always tons more castings to attend! Just another day at the office, lol.

Answering a Reader Question #260

2011-12-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

Abigail Wrote:

Hi Dania!

I've been considering pursuing a career in modeling for sometime but I'm 18 years old and I'm only 5'6 and I also have sisterlocks, which (if you don't already know) are like a smaller, neater version of dreadlocks. So my question is should I pursue a career in modeling with my height disadvantage and my very distinct hair?

Thanks!

Abigail

Hey, Abigail! You certainly don't have a height disadvantage if you pursue commercial/print modeling instead of runway/fashion (the height range for commercial/print is 5'5"-5'7", so you're right in there). Not only is this category of modeling much more open in terms of height, there are no crazy size or weight requirements to worry about. Clients that hire print models are always looking for unique and distinct people. With your height, age and sisterlocks, I would highly recommend submitting yourself to agencies with commercial/print divisions. :-)

Answering a Reader Question #259

2011-12-10T18:30:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

I've recently been offered a contract from Silver Models and I'm not sure how to tell if the contract is a good one, not to mention the agency. They said I should have my lawyer take a look at it...what kind of lawyer would be familar with a modeling contract? Are there lawyers that specialize in this? I'm a man and I'm new to the fitness & modeling industries...so I feel a bit lost. I've searched the internet for info about the agency but I haven't found much and considering I'm not living in NYC and new to the industry...I don't know who to get advice from. Any words of wisdom?

Hey there, Anonymous! Silver Model Management is a legit and reputable agency that's been around for a while so if they're interested in you, it's worth looking into. I do agree, however, with the agency's suggestion to review the contract with someone experienced, since you are new to the industry. You'll want to look at local lawyers/attorneys in your area that have experience dealing with what is known as "Entertainment Law." If there isn't anybody near you that has such expertise, then a regular lawyer/attorney who is skilled at evaluating contracts in general will do.

How did you come across the opportunity? Were you scouted or did you submit your pictures to their site? Since you don't live in NY, will you have to relocate or is it close enough to commute there? Either way, make sure to get the contract looked over and if you feel it'd be a good fit, go for it and see what happens. If anything, you can always terminate the contract according to the instructions given in the contract so don't feel like you'll have to be locked in forever.

I hope that helps and good luck to you!!!

Answering a Reader Question #258

2011-12-10T18:20:00.001-08:00

Karina Wrote:

hello Dania. my name is Karina and im currently 16. it has been a dream of mine since i was a little girl to become a victoria's secret model but the only problem is that i am only 5'4 do they make any exceptions

Hi, Karina! While there are always rare exceptions, unfortunately, 5'4" is just too short for companies like Victoria's Secret. At this point in time, VS wouldn't be a realistic modeling goal for you unless they made a drastic change to the requirements, which more than likely won't happen anytime soon. :-(

Answering a Reader Question #257

2011-12-10T18:15:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Wrote:

Hey Dania, it's Jennifer. JD power Associates seems more like a scam. My friend basilia signed up. She went to audition and when she went back to the mall they noticed 2 different things. On the (idk what you call it) boutique cart it said Agency, but they offered classes and said they werent an agency (something close to that)then when they asks the ladies they said they were an agency. My suggestion was DO NOT go with them because I remember them and it clicked to me about stories of them being fraud's. they almost paid those people to. SO my question is, what are someways to know to stay away from those companies? Also for kids like me in the bay area, what would be another agency?

Hi, Jennifer! Great to hear from ya! Are you sure it's JD Power & Associates you're talking about or is it another company with a similar name? That is a global marketing company that conducts surveys for consumer use when it comes to certain products and services. They aren't affiliated at all with anything dealing with modeling. If there's someone else using their name or something close to it, it's more than likely something to stay away from. Based on your description, it sounds like your friend was signing up for a modeling school like John Robert Powers, John Casablancas and Barbizon.

As far as how to stay away from such fraudulent companies, below is a link to a blog post I did about how real agencies operate so you know what to expect:

What a Real Agency Does

Here are links to legit agencies in the Bay Area that represent kid/teen models:

Boom Models & Talent
http://www.boomagency.com

JE Models SF
http://jemodel.com/

Look Model Agency
http://www.lookmodelagency.com

Marla Dell Talent
http://www.marladell.com

Stars Model Management
http://www.starsmodelmgmt.com/

Latest Dania Denise Interview with Online Magazine The Network Commmunity

2011-12-10T17:26:00.000-08:00

Some time ago I did a featured blog post on industry professional, Paul Fisher, who is known for representing some of the world's biggest supermodels (Naomi Campbell, Janice Dickenson and Eva Herzigova, among many others). You've probably started seeing the television commercials for his new reality show "Remodeled." I'm personally super excited about the series because it FINALLY shows what really happens in the modeling industry. What impresses me about Paul the most is his attempt to not only show agencies how they should be going about pursuing the industry and finding new faces, but how important it is for models to know and understand health and wellness and that they no longer have to put themselves in harm's way just to "make it."

The Network Community is an online magazine that Paul is a part of, which is part of his mission to turn the modeling world into a more positive and healthy one, compared to what it's become known for in recent years. One of the magazine's writers, Sarah, contacted me and said she'd love to do an interview with me about my career and my Modeling 101 blog. Needless to say, I was all for it!

The interview is now live and you can check it out by clicking the link below...it's also on their homepage:

The Network Community - Industry Profiles: Dania Denise Interview

I highly recommend that my readers check out "Remodeled" when it premieres on The CW (I believe it starts in mid-January 2012). It'll give you a must better idea as to what models and all related professionals in the modeling world deal with on a daily basis and is so far the most accurate depiction, which I think will be super beneficial to models of all experience levels, including newbies.

Answering a Reader Question #256

2011-12-07T13:47:00.000-08:00

Anonymous Wrote:

Hi I'm 15 years old, and i know probably a million girls have said this, but i have the very exotic look, just recently got a curvy body with really long thin legs and I'm a size 2 everywhere but my bust (which is know to big to fit most dresses)! I almost have the height as i am 5'6 and a half but apparently I;m supposed to be 5'10 when I'm fully grown.....I am with a small agency in Toronto right now and was just wondering if it is worth looking into New York right now, or if i should wait to see if i grow to 5'8.

Let me know what you have to say and please don't lie so I don't feel bad.

Hi, Anonymous! Don't worry, I'm not known for lying or sugarcoating things when it comes to the modeling industry, lol. You'll definitely want to wait until you get to 5'8" before submitting yourself to agencies in the NY market--it'll give you a better shot at getting signed. However, some New York agencies have lower height requirements for younger models but you'll have to visit each agency website in order to see which specific ones do this. For example, they may sign a model that is 15-years-old and 5'7" because they know there is still a few more years left for them to get taller and finish growing/developing physically. But if you go to them at 5'10" (or the minimum 5'8") your chances will be much better.

Hope that helps and good luck with your career!

Easy Ways to Tell If a Modeling Agency is Worth Looking Into

2011-12-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

This blog post was inspired by Kathleen's question. Kathleen wrote:

Hi Dania. I would like to ask how to know if the modelling agency is a good one? Thanks

Kathleen

Although what Kathleen is asking about is similar to a post I just did ("How to Tell If a Modeling Agency is Big"), this entry has more to do with modeling agencies in general and not just the top ones, which will be more relevant to the larger demographic of unsigned models.

The Internet has helped make modeling agencies much more accessible to people doing research on the industry, especially those seeking agency representation but it has also made it easier for scammers to mislead people. To avoid any mishaps, all models looking for an agent should pay attention to the following factors, which will help you distinguish a "good" agency that could be the perfect fit for you and one that you may want to stay away from.

- They have an official website that is fully operational and updated. While fancy Flash animated sites are pretty impressive, not all agencies have sites of this caliber. As long as the site they do have isn't super amateurish in appearance, that is a good sign that they're serious about promoting themselves online. Additionally, it's best if they don't have a bunch of outdated pages or ones that are "Under Construction." If they're new, that's one thing but if the company's been around for a few years and they still haven't updated certain sections, it's not a good sign.

- They state on their website that they don't charge upfront fees. Anytime you see this on an agency site, it's a great thing because there'll be no unpleasant surprises. It's also a winner if they mention that they are not a school but are, in fact, a legit and fully operational modeling/talent agency.

- They have examples (either in office or on the site) of previous work they've gotten their models. Examples include tearsheets and/or links to campaigns. This shows that they do book work for the models they've signed.

- They have a list of clients on their website. This isn't always on agency websites but it helps if such information is publicly available. In addition to showing they've active in the industry, it gives unsigned models an idea of what types of projects they receive (local, national, international, etc.).

- During the interview or casting call, you get a good vibe from them. Sometimes it's good to trust your gut once you've stepped into an agency' office. Not all models match well with agencies but if the people you interact with seem genuine, positive and excited to talk to you, those are signs that they'll be pleasant to work with, should you get offered a contract.

- They don't try to pressure you into signing the contract. Any legit agency will want you to understand what you'll be signing. Allowing you to take the contract home to review gives you the chance to make sure you really want to sign with them and understand what you'll be responsible for and vice-versa.

- They're more than happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have and don't get irritated or put off getting information to you in a timely manner.

- They offer both non-exclusive as well as exclusive contracts. Not all agencies offer both but if they do, it gives models a bit more of a choice.

- They're okay with letting you find your own photographers to create your portfolio, especially if cost is a concern for you. If the agency doesn't want to cover the expense of getting your headshot, comp/zed card and portfolio test shoot done, it's helpful if they don't force you to use a photographer of their choosing. Just make sure to pick a photographer whose quality of work the agency will accept.

- If they're not affiliated with a modeling school or convention. In my opinion, I wouldn't deal with an agency that heavily promotes such businesses on their official website, blog, etc. Be on the lookout for the logos of schools and conventions being placed on the agency websites as well. Agencies that have a relationship with any of these businesses are more than likely going to try and sneak in fees of some kind (whether upfront or otherwise) or make you sign up for training/events, that are more about recruiting people to get extra money in their pockets instead of focusing on signing exceptional models they know they can book work for. Unfortunately, some modeling agencies find loopholes in the rules and regs and exploit them for additional profit.

- If you know someone signed to the agency you're interested in (or who was signed to them in the past). Nothing beats getting a personal testimonial/reference. This is the quickest way to learn the inside scoop on how a particular agency operates. However, take into account that each model's experience varies and isn't always the same. Get more than one person's story, if possible, for more accurate results.