There’s a pretty funny video that’s gone virile it’s name is “That doesn’t make you a model”. This video is funny because the author combed Myspace for quite some time finding images that goes great with the song. The video has been posted to Facebook and everyone gets a great laugh out of it. That being said, it brings up a good point; Are you a model? or more importantly, what is a model?
Before we go any further, let’s watch the video:
One of the big things I hear is people saying “I’m going to put Colorado on the fashion map”. Now understand, I applaud and will support anyone who wants to do something positive, especially if it’s something to bring together working photographers. That being said, I feel as though everyone should be realistic in their approach.
What do you think is the #1 career killer of many up and coming or want to be models? I’ll bet it’s not what your first guesses are! What do you think it is?
Too short? Nope! Not at all.
Too limited on styles? Nope, not at all.
No money to work with professional photographers? Nope, not even that!
To make a comfortable living at modeling, one has to either be signed with a major agency, or networked their butts off! Agency models if they work hard, can make a normal living at modeling. Other models can make money by networking, getting published and having their own portfolio sites. I’m of the opinion that every model should have his or her own portfolio site! One of the models that does very well with her networking and portfolio site is a friend of mine, Carlotta Champagne. Carlotta was a guest model of mine a few years ago at a Jay Kilgore workshop and she was awesome. She knew her body, knew how to pose so it made it so everyone got plenty of photos and we ended up with a lot of down time!
We’ve discussed the things you need to be a successful model;
Support group or person
Time
Financial means/Support
Dedication
Ability to accept rejection
One of the things I strongly dislike…alright, hate, is when a client is asking about her friend joining. If it’s a male, I don’t mind, but if it’s a female, it makes it difficult. Why? Simple; I tend to navigate to the more dominant personality. That person is the more outgoing and spunky one. I don’t know why I am, but I just am. The other reason I hate doing two people shoots is unless it’s corny family posing, I only know how to put sauce on the poses. Meaning they need to be hot, sexy and sensual. Those are the best kinds of couples photos imho, so that’s what I shoot.
I’m going to break this info up over a few posts. I want to spend a bit of time on each of what I consider to be main points. Most people think being a model is being hot and everyone will flock to you, sadly, that’s just not the case. Being a model-being a SUCCESSFUL model requires a LOT of hard work and determination. It requires money and dedication. It also requires support and the ability to take a licking and keep on ticking. Let’s get started shall we?