Do you think you have what it takes to be a model? We wanted to know what sets a good model apart from the flock, so we asked international photographer, Elsa Mark, to tell us what she looks for in a model and what the rest are doing wrong.
DO know how to move
Feel comfortable in your own skin and practice poses in front of the mirror.
DON’T use a shoot to boost your own ego
You’re there to sell a product, not yourself.
DO be willing to try new things
If the photographer asks to to pull funny faces, hold a snake, pose on a horse chances are you’re going to have to take the plunge (even if it’s out of your comfort zone!) in order to get the shot.
DON’T lie about your measurements
Fibbing about your size means that the clothes and shoes on set won’t fit you properly.
DO groom
Especially hands, feet and hair! Always arrive on a shoot looking your best.
DON’T make drastic changes
Change your hair colour or get a piercing without asking your agent’s permission before a shoot is a big NO! Clients book you based on your z-card and your appearance in a casting.
DO know your angles
Knowing which of your body parts are less photogenic helps! Hey, we all have a ‘good’ side.
DON’T take things personally
Didn’t get that last big campaign? Don’t worry, you’re not going to book every job.
DO be enthusiastic
Sure, you may be freezing because you’re shooting a summer catalogue in the middle of winter and yes, you’ve been on your feet for 12 hours already! Always maintain your composure and crack a smile. Clients won’t book you if you develop a reputation for being ‘sulky’.
DON’T starve yourself
Skinny or curvy – there is a market for all types of models.
DO find your niche
Tall and skinny may be perfect for the runway, but curvy girls land the lingerie jobs. If you have a beautiful smile, you’ll probably be great for advertising. If you have unusual features like big lips, freckles or a space between your front teeth, consider modelling jobs for editorial. Fashion shoots are a bit more difficult to get because promotional clothes only come in sample sizes. If you’re 1.75m tall and a size 36, you’re spot on! Beauty products however don’t care that much about your size, as long as you have perfect skin and symmetric proportions, you stand a chance.
And remember: beauty is not only fixed on a photo or video – it’s inside of you!
Looking for more modelling tips? Here’s how to take a Selfie like a supermodel (no Photoshop required!)
