Modeling & Acting 101 - A Model/Actor's Diary

I don't know how many of you are familiar with the news radio station NPR (National Public Radio) but I listen to them from time to time to keep updated on various issues and news items both locally, nationally and internationally. My Dad actually called me to let me know that they were doing an interview with a former model, turned professor, who wrote a new book about her journey in the modeling industry. Click the link below and it'll take you to the NPR website, where you can listen to the interview or read the transcript. It's a very informative and insightful account from yet another industry insider who has "been there and done that." NPR: The Life of a Fashion Model: Grueling, Not Glitzy

No, it's not because she's this amazingly talented supermodel. I love Doutzen Kroes because she is one of the prime (and my favorite) examples of how to get into the modeling industry without being scouted, "discovered" overnight or by going to a modeling school or convention with the hopes of making it big. Doutzen made it into modeling by simply submitting non-professional, digital snapshots to a modeling agency in her town. Before sending in those photos, she had NO previous modeling experience. I don't know, but sometimes I think people simply don't believe me when I say the most powerful tool a newbie model has is his/her snapshots. Not a professional portfolio or amazingly retouched images--snapshots! Doutzen Kroes is one of the models who was fortunate enough to make it to supermodel status but getting her foot in the door in the beginning was all thanks to her own efforts to follow the most basic rules for submitting to a modeling agency. Below are...

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania, I was wondering how I could apply? Can you tell me how? Please and thank you!! Jenny  Hi, Jenny! Please watch the video that you posted your comment/question on ( "T.I.L. Darling Model Search 2011 Contest - Now Accepting Applications" ). The video, starring myself, explains the instructions for applying for the model search.

Footage from the San Francisco bridal show I did back in March of this year. Fast forward to 2:10 to see me. Hope to have updated video footage of the most recent San Francisco show I did for the same company, which took place on September 11 of this year.

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania! I was wondering, if you're attending an open call during the winter months and it's snowy outside, should you still wear a solid coloured tank top, or should you upgrade to a long sleeved shirt? Thanks!  Hey there, Anonymous! Oh, man...I do not do snow...LOL! But to answer your question, yes, you can dress weather appropriate with a long sleeved shirt, as long as it is still form fitting. Or you can wear a solid colored tank top and just bundle up with a big jacket and simply remove that once you get inside. Another alternative is to wear whatever you want over your tank top to keep you warm and then simply remove those layers before going into the agency's office. So you've got a couple of options but as long as the clothing you choose to wear inside shows your figure, that's what matters. So stay warm! ;-)

Anonymous Wrote: Hi! I would love to work my way up to victoria's secret, but I don't even know if I have what it takes to model! I have Laetitia Casta's body (the hourglass/not so model-perfect measurements) and her slightly shorter height. They overlooked it for her since she's so drop dead gorgeous! But I have Tyra's big forehead, and I don't really know if my facial features are "defined" enough. I don't know anyone in the modeling area; so is there a way to find out if I have any potential?  Hi, Anonymous! The best way to find out if you've got potential is to seek agency representation. The major opinion that matters is that of an agency's. For now, don't worry so much about pursuing the Victoria's Secret route, unless you live in New York and are able to submit yourself to Elite or Ford. If that is the case for you, then visit each of their websites and see what photos they require or attend their open casting calls...

A reader asked me to address this type of modeling, so here is it! There are many other niches of modeling aside from the typical fashion, runway and even commercial/print. Because models are needed for advertisement purposes, this means the types of looks in demand can vary widely from company to company. As we all know, sports is a very profitable industry, both within the USA and in other countries. Brand giants like Nike and Adidas, as well as other reputable athletic companies have their own line of accessories, products and clothing that targets a specific demographic. And in order to market those products to the masses, guess what they need? Models! The great thing about fitness and sports modeling is that the requirements aren't as strict as with other categories. In general, female fitness/sports models are between 5'5" - 6'0". Male models typically range in height from 5'10" to 6'3". If the male models are actually professional at...