Starting Out
Welcome to the journey of modeling ! It is a big world out there and you will get to meet lots of different and interesting people. It is a life changing experience as you start to know yourself better and express yourself with your own style. To make this journey as smooth as possible, here are some tips and tricks i would like to share with you today on how to create a great portfolio and land yourself with a reputable agency.
How to create a good portfolio
In the starting phrase, don't expect to get paid immediately. You got to prove your worth! So this is where TFCD (Trade for CD) comes in. It means the model and photographer would exchange their time and effort into producing a good images for each other.
1. Look for a photographer WITH a Portfolio
To produce good images, you got to have a affinity with the photographer. Before agreeing to work with someone, view his portfolio first to get a rough idea on his style. If you like his style and ideas, there is a match! The likelihood of producing good photos is much higher as well. It would be even better if you two could work on a long term relationship to develop each other. In this industry, both the photographer and model will get equal recognition and rise up the same time. If your photographer becomes famous, most likely, you will become famous too!
A fine example is zemotion and Kagetsuki.
2. Increase your value over time
It is interesting to note that while some models become prettier and others become unslightly over time. The way around this is to keep working upwards. What i mean is, keep looking for better photographers to work with as your portfolio grows. Remember, a photographer can increase or decrease your face value from the way he portrays you in the photos! It is advisable not to take sleazy shots in an unprofessional manner no matter how much money the photographer is willing to pay as it might decrease your value and have severe consequences on your career. There is a very thin line to fine art photography and plain porn. Be VERY sure before accepting an assignment and bring along a friend especially if it is done in a studio.
3. Respect yourself and your values
As a model, you have the basic right when to say "No" if you do not want to do something. If you learn to respect yourself, others would respect your decision as well. If you feel uncomfortable in certain positions do not hesitate to say "Stop". A model's facial expression is very important in photos. If you are uncomfortable or unhappy, your expression will show through the photos. Stick to your instincts and be yourself. The best photos are always natural. Do not be too self conscious, you have to accept the way your body is and accept it the way it is. Once you are able to let go, the feeling is amazing... and the photos will turn out excellent. This might take some time to develop but don't give up!
4. Work with the Lights and Make Up Artist
Other then the photographer, you have to be aware of other factors that would affect the outcome of the photos. As one of the jobs of being a model, you have to take notice of the lighting conditions. Be aware were the light source is coming from and make sure your features can be seen. Ask the photographer where you should stand or position yourself to "catch the lights". After a while, this will become natural.
Another point to note is that you have to work closely with the make up artist as well. By knowing each other better, she can help you cover up your flaws while you can suggest to her what type of look suits you best.
4. Get your portfolio ready and contact a reputable agency
So you have it! You have a great portfolio and you are ready to enter into the commercial world of modeling. There is where the real bucks are (not clubsnap for the matter). If they ask you to pay for a portfolio, be sure to measure the pros and cons of doing so. Some agencies are out there to make money out of false promises. Do not hesitate to do additional background checks on the agency before signing up for their packages. If your portfolio is good, they have no reason to ask you to do another portfolio (most likely they want you to pay for packages). Be confident and assertive, if you are good, they would see it and they would sign you on without additional fees.
Here is a list of reputable modeling agencies
I wish you all the very best in your modeling career and have fun !
Additional Tips
contributed by Canonised
Personal Health
A good model must not only look good, but feel good about herself. Personal hygiene is prime important, such as a good set of teeth, healthy looking hair, etc. Tattoo restricts one's potential to more opportunity. Exercise to keep one's mental sharp. Eat well and sleep enough. Drink enough water.
Invest yourself.
Spend time reading up related books, see others in action and if possible invest in grooming courses.
Invest in quality and simple dresses, accessories, makeup, etc... Of course when you are famous, sponsors will come by.
Personal Attitude
Good working habits are important ... such as never be late for your appointment, and don't give excuses. If there is a real reason, let the photographer know as early as possible. Try to accept any pose that is requested UNLESS you are totally against it for any reason you have, and don't feel bad to say NO. Walk out of the shoot if the photographer cannot take your NO.
Be professional
If you are new or still learning, do not start charging.
If you demand payment, make sure you are experienced enough.
Good and experienced photographers would know the rates for each model based on your portfolio images.
You may request for all the photos on a TFCD basis.
If you being paid a nominal sum, a few images can be negotiated.
If you are paid at market rate, images are not returned to the model
"A model should also learn how to feel beautiful and look beautiful. The beauty should comes from inner self with purity and sincerity. And learn to smile with your eyes." Sion
Welcome to the journey of modeling ! It is a big world out there and you will get to meet lots of different and interesting people. It is a life changing experience as you start to know yourself better and express yourself with your own style. To make this journey as smooth as possible, here are some tips and tricks i would like to share with you today on how to create a great portfolio and land yourself with a reputable agency.
How to create a good portfolio
In the starting phrase, don't expect to get paid immediately. You got to prove your worth! So this is where TFCD (Trade for CD) comes in. It means the model and photographer would exchange their time and effort into producing a good images for each other.
1. Look for a photographer WITH a Portfolio
To produce good images, you got to have a affinity with the photographer. Before agreeing to work with someone, view his portfolio first to get a rough idea on his style. If you like his style and ideas, there is a match! The likelihood of producing good photos is much higher as well. It would be even better if you two could work on a long term relationship to develop each other. In this industry, both the photographer and model will get equal recognition and rise up the same time. If your photographer becomes famous, most likely, you will become famous too!
A fine example is zemotion and Kagetsuki.
2. Increase your value over time
It is interesting to note that while some models become prettier and others become unslightly over time. The way around this is to keep working upwards. What i mean is, keep looking for better photographers to work with as your portfolio grows. Remember, a photographer can increase or decrease your face value from the way he portrays you in the photos! It is advisable not to take sleazy shots in an unprofessional manner no matter how much money the photographer is willing to pay as it might decrease your value and have severe consequences on your career. There is a very thin line to fine art photography and plain porn. Be VERY sure before accepting an assignment and bring along a friend especially if it is done in a studio.
3. Respect yourself and your values
As a model, you have the basic right when to say "No" if you do not want to do something. If you learn to respect yourself, others would respect your decision as well. If you feel uncomfortable in certain positions do not hesitate to say "Stop". A model's facial expression is very important in photos. If you are uncomfortable or unhappy, your expression will show through the photos. Stick to your instincts and be yourself. The best photos are always natural. Do not be too self conscious, you have to accept the way your body is and accept it the way it is. Once you are able to let go, the feeling is amazing... and the photos will turn out excellent. This might take some time to develop but don't give up!
4. Work with the Lights and Make Up Artist
Other then the photographer, you have to be aware of other factors that would affect the outcome of the photos. As one of the jobs of being a model, you have to take notice of the lighting conditions. Be aware were the light source is coming from and make sure your features can be seen. Ask the photographer where you should stand or position yourself to "catch the lights". After a while, this will become natural.
Another point to note is that you have to work closely with the make up artist as well. By knowing each other better, she can help you cover up your flaws while you can suggest to her what type of look suits you best.
4. Get your portfolio ready and contact a reputable agency
So you have it! You have a great portfolio and you are ready to enter into the commercial world of modeling. There is where the real bucks are (not clubsnap for the matter). If they ask you to pay for a portfolio, be sure to measure the pros and cons of doing so. Some agencies are out there to make money out of false promises. Do not hesitate to do additional background checks on the agency before signing up for their packages. If your portfolio is good, they have no reason to ask you to do another portfolio (most likely they want you to pay for packages). Be confident and assertive, if you are good, they would see it and they would sign you on without additional fees.
Here is a list of reputable modeling agencies
I wish you all the very best in your modeling career and have fun !
Additional Tips
contributed by Canonised
Personal Health
A good model must not only look good, but feel good about herself. Personal hygiene is prime important, such as a good set of teeth, healthy looking hair, etc. Tattoo restricts one's potential to more opportunity. Exercise to keep one's mental sharp. Eat well and sleep enough. Drink enough water.
Invest yourself.
Spend time reading up related books, see others in action and if possible invest in grooming courses.
Invest in quality and simple dresses, accessories, makeup, etc... Of course when you are famous, sponsors will come by.
Personal Attitude
Good working habits are important ... such as never be late for your appointment, and don't give excuses. If there is a real reason, let the photographer know as early as possible. Try to accept any pose that is requested UNLESS you are totally against it for any reason you have, and don't feel bad to say NO. Walk out of the shoot if the photographer cannot take your NO.
Be professional
If you are new or still learning, do not start charging.
If you demand payment, make sure you are experienced enough.
Good and experienced photographers would know the rates for each model based on your portfolio images.
You may request for all the photos on a TFCD basis.
If you being paid a nominal sum, a few images can be negotiated.
If you are paid at market rate, images are not returned to the model
"A model should also learn how to feel beautiful and look beautiful. The beauty should comes from inner self with purity and sincerity. And learn to smile with your eyes." Sion