Photographic Model - PART 8

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The Model Report - What every aspiring model needs to know.

Modeling can be a great experience, offering both a glamorous, creative and exciting career and can be tremendously financially rewarding. On the other side of the coin, modeling is a job like any other and can be very demanding and difficult to break into.

What many aspiring models don't realize is that modeling does not rely on looks alone. There are skills involved in modeling and these can be learned just the same as in other careers. Knowing this concept and pursuing what it takes to be a professional model is a major asset to you being successful in this field.

The purpose of this report is to provide the aspiring model with an insight into the modeling world and what is required by the industry. You can then pursue the necessary skills and knowledge to be more confident about pursuing and presenting yourself to this career path.

The majority of this report covers photographic modeling but also includes other modeling areas that are not in front of the camera. Although the non-photographic modeling areas are quite different to photographic modeling, the same principles apply.

This is PART EIGHT of a series in this report. This report is provided by Online Photography Courses blog and its sister site Digital Photography Coursesblog. If you would like to contribute to these blog or just look around see Online Photography Courses blog and Digital Photography Courses blog for more.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

How much can I earn as a model?

The answer to this question depends entirely on the demand for you personally and the type of modeling work you are doing. Most models that have steady work are earning between $200 and $500 per day. High profile models can earn $000's per day. Packaging and daily rates are usually negotiated with the model or agency. Lingerie, semi-nude and nude work attracts different rates.

Do I need a portfolio?

Absolutely. The minimum a model will require to attract work is a composite (see section on the model's sample photographs for further information). Photographs are they medium which sell your appropriateness for a particular assignment. The prospective client will be looking for certain characteristics for the assignment and will make an initial selection by composites and portfolios.

How often do I need to update my portfolio?

Your portfolio should always be current and look like you (do not have a five year old photograph in your portfolio with different hair length and color). If you decide to change your hair color, length or overall look dramatically, you will have to update your photographs. Most models before going on assignments are testing approximately every two months. This helps to improve your posing, movements; hair and makeup style and keeps your portfolio current. This is also a good way to meet photographers and build a working rapport. Photographers like to see how they can make a model look before they would recommend the model for any assignments.

How do I get an interview with an agency?

Cold calling is really the only way unless you can get an introduction or are 'discovered'. Some agencies specialize in terms of age, size and weight. You will certainly be asked for photographs. If you don't have any photographs, most agencies will not see you until you do.

What are the basic necessities I will need for an assignment?

You should be given a brief in writing for any special requirements if they are not to be supplied on assignment. If in doubt or you are not given any instructions, ask. Some standard items that can be useful for females in a kit form include: a skin colored bra and a skin colored body stocking or pantyhose; several different styles of jewelry items and two pair of shoes, one neutral and one black. A scarf is useful to wrap around your chest if doing a bare shoulder shot and a small towel to wrap around your head for a makeup session, brush, comb and a robe if you are doing any nude or semi-nude work.

Always take your portfolio in case the client or photographer hasn't seen them. It is also useful to illustrate different styles you can offer.

What makeup should I take to an assignment?

See section on The Model's Personal & Makeup Kit

Are any cloths or other items I use for tests tax deductible?

No. You can only claim for cloths if they are used specifically for modeling only and not for personal use. It is the opinion of accountants that you cannot argue that you will not use these items for some personal use.

Can I keep the clothes or items I model?

No. All items that you model have to be handed back and they will be returned to the client or owner. However, some designers and manufacturers may be generous and give you an item, It is sometimes in their interest to have their products seen. If they believe you will be a walking/working advertisement for their products, you may receive free samples. This is particularly so if they believe the product will be photographed and advertised in various media.

This is the final lens in this series, click here to return to the Directory.

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by roodujardin

Work: Ranges from magazines, posters, album covers, portraiture, some
editorial and private commissions. Has taught at various institutes, exhibits an... (more)

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