Friday, June 29, 2012

How to Use Casting Websites the Right Way...


       A lot of aspiring models think they can throw a cell phone pic up, pay for a casting website, and become famous ...that's not the way it works, life...or the industry.

      There are a lot of great casting websites available, some completely free, that can get models and actors legitimate, paying work.... But only if you one how to utilize them!

       Very quickly I would like to list some websites I do not recommend at all for ASPIRING models to obtain work:
-Facebook (professionals do not use Facebook to cast models with no experience)
-CRAIGSLIST (too many scams, perverts...more perverts... for models with no experience to sort through)
- model mayhem ( you need professional pics to get approved, and if you make it on the site without them, you'll pretty much be viewed as shark bait ....or scam bait)
     Model mayhem can be a great resource, but not for models with no experience, and no or low quality professional pictures to try to start getting paying work.  The dangers of scams and unsafe situations will out weigh the benefits. (using mm to BUILD your modeling portfolio is perfectly fine, with caution of course)


       Now, you certainly don't need a full portfolio to be successful on casting websites, but you should definitely have a few great professional pics. A good head shot and a good full body shot at the bare minimum. If you have Lots of pics already, but no official portfolio, select the pictures that are the best quality and make you look best, while keeping in mind diversity. If you have commercial pics, fashion pics, bikini pics and a great head shot....make sure you use one pic from each category, don't simply select your best pictures overall. A casting website will usually allow you to have about 10-15 pictures, so consider this your online portfolio. Look at your pictures once you load them. Do any of them look too similar??? ...then delete one!!!  Don't use 2 pictures with the same outfit!!! It's not the quantity of pictures you have it's the quality.


       If your an actor, the minimum you need (and sometimes all you need) is a head shot. I would recommend models sign up for acting casting sites too, there is a very fine line between modeling and acting. A commercial modeling agency will supply a client with talent for a tv commercial....but so will a talent (acting) agency.  It only helps your resume to have experience doing both! You might find you think you want to be a model, but you like acting more! Or the other way around. Below is a list of casting websites and sources that will get you legitimate paying work when you utilize them correctly:
- Actors Access (pay)
- Model Mayhem (free)
- CRAIGSLIST  (free) for EXPERIENCED models/actors only!
- Modelwirenetwork (free) relatively new, so be aware of possible scammers just like on every other new casting website.
- GC Marketing Services (free) for PROMO MODELS, BRAND AMBASSADORS, EVENT MODELS, MYSTERY SHOPPERS ETC. - this website is 100% legit, no worries here. (this is a great website for aspiring models to join)
- Casting Networks (paid) You WILL GET WORK FROM THIS SITE!
- Heery Castings (for Philadelphia, PA area actors)

       The suggestions above are websites I've used personally, however, there are so many more out there! You just have to search for them in your region/state!  If you don't know.....GOOGLE IT! I don't just say that over and over because this blog is powered by google! I found about 20 casting sites that I didn't even know about by just doing research for this article! So if I can find them by accident....I know all you aspiring models and actors out there can find enough sources to get you lots of work! GOOD LUCK! ; )
Here are links to additional casting sources:
TheDailyActor.com
Taltopia.com
Top20Sites.com

*(Disclaimer: I am not personally or professionally associated with any of the websites, or authors of articles provided in the links above.  Please always use your own common sense and discretion when applying for casting calls found online.  If you have any doubt in your mind, double check everything!)

**sources: TheDailyActor.com, Taltopia.com, Top20Sites.com, CastingNetworks.com, Modelwirenetwork.com, HeeryCastings.com, ActorsAccess.com, .craigslist.org, ModelMayhem.com GC Marketing Services

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

How to Promote Yourself and Stay Classy...San Diego...

       Now there are many different ways to "make it" some of the highest earning fashion models have names you have never heard, they are not 'famous' and they lead normal lives.      
        On the flip side, there are models and personalities who got a lot of attention first and as a result, began making a lot of money.  Whichever route your planning on taking, or think your planning on taking....even if it's a combination of both..there is definitely a code of professionalism.  Just because there are models who don't follow it, does not mean it doesn't exist.  There is always a right way and wrong way to go about things, and I'm going to tell you about both..right now.  KEEPING IT CLASSY!
............................................................. WRONG WAY ...........................................................................         


        *DON'T NAME NAMES!        


 When you have a job/go to a casting. It's fine to be happy/proud/excited about it.  You probably want to let everyone know what your doing and talk about it on Facebook and twitter. That's fine.  Just make sure your doing it in moderation.  DO NOT GIVE EVERY DETAIL OF YOUR JOB OR CASTING! It can be considered unprofessional by a client, agency or potential client.  It can also be considered a breach of confidentiality.  When projects are in the works, not all clients want every step of the process advertised o the public.  You may think your helping yourself, but you could actually be doing the opposite...to yourself and the client.       
         Beyond that, nobody who will potentially hire you will be impressed with your "buzz" on Facebook or twitter. The only people you'll be catering to are those not in the industry....not anyone who is going to potentially pay you.  If your looking to get paid hosting gigs and other "personality" work.  Your resume, acting reel, music videos and our business sense will have to speak for itself.  There is nothing wrong with promoting yourself and having lots of fans.....but they definitely don't need to know everything you know, and definitely not every step you take through out the day.  
        If you tell them everything, there's no reason for them to research you, subscribe to you or be interested in you beyond a few minutes.  Don't f*ck on the first date....save something good for later...for certain people : )   
          Here is an example of an acceptable Facebook/social media post: 

                                               "Was at my movie casting all day! Lots of A-listers already signed on for this production...I hope I get it! Wish me luck!" Or something along those lines.        

Here is an example of what NOT to do (and I will paraphrase): 

"I just got back from my casting for the independent film Blue Sky! It went great! After I read my lines, the casting director called me back to do more lines and improv! Then he asked me to tell him about other stories funny stories I had...,everybody thought I was so funny and great! The director was Channing Tatum, the star actors/director/producer from GI Joe and 21 Jump street! Wow! Isn't that awesome!" 
        
Please, just don't do that.  DON'T NAME NAMES! Especially when the production/project is in the works.  What if the project falls through, or completely changes, or was supposed to be kept confidential???        You are just going to look desperate....and you WILL NOT impress anyone you need to impress in order to improve your career by bragging to random people.  This goes for models/actors and all other talent. 

 ACTIONS GET YOU PAID AND GET YOU FAMOUS.....NOT WORDS!!!     

    After the movie is released, the runway show is televised, the tv show airs....then go into as much detail as you want and tell everyone if you want to, but it's best not to talk too much until you have something to show people to back it up.  
        

*DON'T DO THINGS UNLESS YOU 
KNOW FOR A FACT YOUR DOING THEM RIGHT!  

I recently saw a models profile on Facebook which had albums for each "type of photography" one album was labeled "commercial" one was labeled "promotional"' etc etc.  As I looked through the albums it was blatantly clear the model had no idea what the categories of photography actually were, which means she had no idea what each type of modeling entailed at all.  And she was charging for photo shoots! Really???        People who know what they are doing won't work with her! All she's attracting are people/photographers who have no idea what they are doing. She might make a few dollars freelancing....literally...a few.  But she will never attract anyone who can help take her career to the next level.         If you don't know what the categories of modeling are, GOOGLE THEM! If our too lazy to do that just label the album "pics" don't do things when you don't know the right way...don't try to sound professional or experienced when your not...it just ...again...makes you look desperate and dumb.        

*DONT SHOOT WITH EVERYONE just to get free pictures.  Be more concerned with quality over quantity. 
........................................................................RIGHT WAY.............................................................
.DO: 
1) MAKE PROFILES ON NETWORKING SITES LIKE ModelMayhem.com, Modelwirenetwork.com etc. 
2) BE SURE THAT YOUR PICTURE IS ON YOUR AGENCIES WEBSITES 

3) CREATE YOUR OWN WEBSITE WITH YOUR PORTFOLIO, BIO, CONTACT AND BOOKING INFO, RESUME, AND agency info as well acting reel or clips from runway shows or other work you've done.  PROMOTE YOURSELF WITH YOUR WORK! 

4) Make a fb fan page

5) A twitter

6) Always be looking for free modeling profile sites, don't forget about specialty ones like fitness modeling and whatever else your qualified for. 

7) Getting a few hosting jobs (even if they are low paying or non paying) is also a good way to get out there

8)  look into marketing, promoting, and managing sources...think of yourself as a business because you are, you are the business, the product, the advertising all in one. 

9) Attend networking events 

10) Weigh the pros and cons of having a manager. (a manager is not an agent!)

*AS ALWAYS, IF YOU WOULD LIKE ACCESS TO FREE CASTING CALLS, CHECK OUT THE LINKS PAGE! 

Saturday, June 23, 2012

How to Walk the Runway...

        Fashion/Editorial Models (Male and Female) and Plus Models need to have a strong runway walk.  As a model in one of these categories, you not only need to be able to take great pictures but walk a runway as well.  People have a habit of either oversimplifying a runway walk or over complicating it.  It's not rocket science, but at the same time, it requires more thought, body awareness and control than you would use while walking down the street.        

        This video sums it up.  This is how to accomplish a basic runway walk.  As the video states, different designers and different shows will want different types of walks, but they are all just a variation of the basic walk.

 Walk Like A Runway Model (Video)
       
         Posture: stand with your back against a wall, your entire body should be touching the wall....head, shoulders, butt, feet.  Now step away from the wall and walk while holding that same posture.  If you've never tried this before, it might take a few tries before it feels comfortable.  Some models will push their hips forward and lean their shoulders back to create the same posture instead of trying to focus on their entire body.  This works pretty well as long as you do it right! Don't over exaggerate or under....exaggerate. A runway walk should look as natural and effortless as possible.  
  
         Your arms should move naturally, but as little as possible. Don't swing them on purpose, just let them move on their own.        
        Your feet should point straight ahead of you.  Either imagine walking a straight line, or actually cross your feet across your body as you walk. (only slightly so it doesn't look forced)      
        Your facial expression should be RELAXED AND NATURAL!!! Don't look stiff, scared, awkward etc etc etc. There are a million pictures being taken of you as you walk down the runway, so you don't want a bad facial expression to get in the way of a great shot.  Think of something that makes you feel happy or calm.  Smile with your eyes, not your mouth.       
        Keep your hips under control.  Some girls can get away with not manipulating their natural hip movement at all, while others will need to focus on NOT allowing their hips to sway from side to side.  This depends on your size and body type as well as the way you move naturally.     
 
       * CLASSES:  Some agencies will train you to walk at no cost, others will want you to take classes.  I would recommend taking the advice of your agency UNLESS.....  
         1) you already have runway experience and you know the basics  
         2) you have a background in dance, gymnastics, or other types of movement.   
         3) they ask you to take a series of more than 3 classes (there's just not that much to teach)   



*Commercial Models do not need runway classes.   
*Promotional Models do not need runway classes. 
*Fitness Models do not need runway classes. 
*You do not need to attend a modeling school in order to learn how to walk the runway.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

How to Deal with...D*Bags...

        So this is a recent Voxer conversation I had:

RandomNameHere: "Hey looking to cast you in modeling/video projects that pay up to $800-$1200 depending on your limits.  I could pay you to come by my studio and audition.


Me: "You can book me through __________ (my agency) Contact: _______(my agent) __________(my agents email). ________(my agents office phone number).  Thank you.


RandomNameHere: "Do you do xxx"


Me: "No."


       Now didn't that conversation seem like a waste of time for both of us? Of course.  However for an inexperienced or naive model that might have seemed like a great idea and she might have landed herself in a bad or even dangerous position.


Let's break this down:

           1) Voxer.  That's already wrong. There are certain ways a professional will contact you FOR THE FIRST TIME.  They are: phone call or email.  (If you are connecting with someone through Facebook, ModelMayhem, or another networking source this won't be the case for obvious reasons.)  People who are after something more will use more casual methods to make their first contact.  Unfortunately Voxer automatically connects people based on a variety of information so it's less private than other methods of communication.  It's too easy for them to get shut down quickly over the phone and emails from a stranger are usually deleted unless they provide CLEAR job details.

        2) I had no idea who this person was.  If I had submitted my personal information for a casting call of his he would have stated that casting call so I would know who he was.  If someone just finds you out of the blue offering you work it's usually a good time to either let it go or look into it much much further.

         3) He threw "large" amounts of money into his initial contact, meant o impress an inexperienced model.  Once you start working as a model you get an idea of the general pay rate your working with.  Conveniently...for comparison sake... I have a photo shoot next week paying $750 and there was no casting. My agency booked me directly. (that's not always the case but it happens more often than not when your dealing with a good agency/agent) So why would a working model be impressed by that pay rate?  She wouldn't. He was targeting an inexperienced model.

          4) He said he could pay me to come audition. WHAT? Auditions are not paid...that's why they're called auditions.  Again, an attempt to target an a non-pro. I'm assuming in this case his "audition" would have went something like this: RandomNameHere: "So if you sleep with me you can have the jobs and lots of money....and by the way, it's not modeling..it's web cam modeling." Web cam modeling is code for Porn, and XXX directors/producers/casting agents who are looking to lure real models into porn use this term to attempt to confuse girls who don't know the difference.

         5) He didn't mention anything about XXX until after I had given him my agency contact info.  Of course, I already knew what he wanted, but it's always good to let people know that you can't be booked directly by just anyone, that you are an agency model (if you are) and you have standards....also I like to see some of the ridiculous responses.  Had I not thrown that info in his face right off the bat (assuming I didn't know any better) then that conversation would have continued long after it did.
        ............................................HOW TO STOP THEM IN THEIR TRACKS................................................     ..        (Them= time wasters, non-professionals, porn directors, perverts, predators, and guys/photographers who are just out to try to meet and hook up with models)
       Whenever someone contacts you without all the proper information (Pay rate, hours, date, time, clear job description) up front...just refer them to your agency immediately.  If you don't have an agency, then your independent agent.  If you don't use any independent agents, then you have two options:
     
          1) Refer them to your website, or another place them have to go to see your rates and booking information.  You can say "All my booking information can be found on my website ." By giving them another step, our differing a lot of bs.  If they are a person who is serious about booking you, they'll do what you say and follow the steps they're given.  If you don't have a website, just get one.  You need one anyway if your a freelance model.  There are lots of completely free websites you can create, like WIX.com for example.  There are also very low cost ones set up specifically for modes portfolios like 4ormat.com
       
        2) You can simply create an alternate email address and tell them that is your agents contact information.  While "posing" as your agent you can ask them the job details as an agent would do anyway....if they don't give clear details, or if they don't contact tha email address just let it go.  You've probably just saved yourself from becoming a rape victim.


   ....................................THESE QUESTIONS SHOULD SEND UP RED FLAGS........................................
 - What kind of modeling work do you do/are you looking to get?
 - Who do you model for?


         This experience has brought a lot of other hilarious (to me) but potentially dangerous (to some) situations/attempts back to my mind.  The point is, it happens all the time, there are people who use the modeling industry and even the word "modeling" to manipulate inexperienced and aspiring models into harms way.  Don't be one of those girls! THIS IS WHY I ALWAYS SAY "DO YOUR RESEARCH' and "LOOK INTO IT."             You should never be afraid that you'll lose work because you haven't handled something correctly.  If you handle yourself professionally and watch out for situations like this, you'll never lose a legitimate day of work, and you'll keep yourself safe at the same time.

   If any other models/actresses have any situations of stories similar to this and would like to share them for a future blog post please submit them to: AddikennTalent@gmail.com
       Remember: STAY SMART AND STAY SAFE!




Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Blogs and Sites with Related Content...

If you have a blog or website with related content, please submit your URL to AddikennTalent@gmail.com and I will link back to you and include your site in a "Links" page.

How to get FREE casting calls and more...

* For FREE Casting Calls: Send a request to join the "Become a Model in Less than 7 Minutes" Facebook Group! Become a Model in Less than 7 Minutes Facebook Group

* Please "LIKE" the "Become a Model in Less than 7 Minutes (blog)" Facebook Page! There will be information on model contests, article submissions and more! Become a Model in Less than 7 Minutes (blog) Facebook Page

* Send industry related article submissions to: AddikennTalent@gmail.com


Sunday, June 17, 2012

How to Do Your Research...

        There are many many myths and scams within the modeling industry. This causes many potential models to lose thousands of dollars, their motivation, and their faith in the industry itself. If you are serious about starting a career, please take a few minutes to read this article. It explains the how, what, why and who behind scams and myths. It is rather long, but it needs to be. Explaining the modeling industry is not an easy task, and this author did it very well. (I have no personal or professional affiliation with the author or company, nor have I read any of their works beyond this essay)
MODELING MYTHS ESSAY

Friday, June 15, 2012

How To Become a Freelance Model...



        Freelance Models are models who are not represented by a Modeling or Acting Agent or Agency.  They manage themselves and decide who they want to work with, where, how, and for what price.  I DO NOT RECCOMEND ATTEMPTING TO BECOME A FREELANCE MODEL  IF YOU WANT TO MAKE A FULL TIME INCOME!  I know people who have freelanced full time, and I've done it myself briefly with a good success rate (working about 3-4 times per week); however, if you looking for a full time career I suggest you refer back to agency representation.  There are few models who have enough knowledge of the industry and at the same time are willing to put in the time and energy to make it work.  If you have kids DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BE A FULL TIME FREELANCE MODEL...if you go to school full time...DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BECOME A FULL TIME FREELANCE MODEL...if you have a full time job....You get the idea.  It's a very busy lifestyle that involves a lot of travel and a lot of .....everything.

        Now if your looking to supplement your current income or you feel your agency is just not getting you the amount of work you want, then freelancing can be a great option to get extra work, free portfolio images, network, and make industry connections.  As a Freelance Model, you need to have a few things in order before you start attempting to get yourself work.
        - Do you have a portfolio?  It's ok if you don't, but you should always be working towards having a complete protfolio and constantly adding better pictures as you aquire them.  The minimum amount of shots I would reccomend to start getting paying work would be roughly 4.  This gives the client a good idea of what you look like and what you have done.  Until you have 4 strong portfolio looks, I would reccomend sticking to TF shoots.  Freelance Models shouldn't make investments such as paying a photographer for a portfolio, because it's just not neccessary.  You can do TF (Trade For) shoots with photographers who are looking to add to their portfolio as well.  What you want to pay close attention to is the quality of the photographers work.  If you don't like the way it looks, guess what, your pictures will probably turn out something like that, so skip it.  Freelance Models need to educate themselves about what kind of pictures they will need for the work they want to do.  Example: Are you only interested in doing commercial and fashion work? Then it makes no sense to do an artistic nude TF shoot.  Your portfolio should contain the type of images you want to be payed to create.  If you are uncomfortable with a photographer, a concept, a shoot...just skip it.  You are your own boss.  You can do whatever you please.

        That being said, Freelance Models still need to maintain a professional attititude.  Having a portfolio, a comp card, a business card, a personal website and a WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE about the industry can take you a long way!  If you don't know the answer...THEN GOOGLE IT! Then ask a few people to see if you get a similar answer.  It amazes me how aspiring models will get themselves in bad situations because they haven't looked into something.  When you are a freelance model YOU NEED TO LOOK INTO EVERYTHING! You are the only one responsible for your well being and safety! If you were represented by an agency, they would worry about that for you.  Questions to ask yourself before shooting with a photographer or accepting an assignment would be:
1) Have I worked with them before?
2) Have I seen their portfolio? What is the content and quality? Do they have a portfolio?
3) Have they given me a clear description of the job so I am in full understanding and agreement? If the answer is no, don't even think about shooting with them or accepting the job.  You'll have no idea what you could be walking into.
4) Have they given me a set pay rate? Or have they agreed to my pay rate? (When you are a freelance model, you must set your own hourly, half day (4hours), full day (8hours) and overtime rates.  Clients will ask for them if there is not already a set rate for the job.  You should also always ask if the client will pay your ttavel expenses, especially if the job is low paying and you need to travel a considerable distance to got there.  Figure out ahead of time how far you are willing to travel for work and at what rate.  Set your rated lower when you start out then raise them as you gain experience.  No one will pay a ridiculously high rate for an inexperienced model, no matter how pretty she is.  Remember, your not being payed for how you look per say...your being payed based on:  How you look + experience + professionalism + quality of your portfolio.
5) Do I know anyone else who has worked with them? Were their reviews good or bad?
Until these questions have been clearly answered, do not accept a job.

.           ... HOW TO FIGURE OUT WHEN YOU SHOULD BE PAYED FOR SHOOTS......
As you start out, you will be working for free doing TF shoots.  This simply means that you and the photographer will both provide your services for free because you will mutually benefit from your collaboration.
        You might be able to pick up a few paying jobs along the pay, and you should accept them for experience sake, not matter what they pay. (I never reccomend working for free after you have a quality portfolio and a solid resume)
        As your portfolio becomes more complete, you need to observe the quality of the photographers portfolio even more closely before agreeing to a shoot.  If the quality of their portfolio is better than your than gladly accept a TF shoot with them, it will help add quality to your portfolio.  If the quality of the photographers portfolio is lower than yours, it's time to start charging!  Give them your hourly, half day and full day rates.  Don't be surprised if you don't hear back from them or they think that you should shoot with them for free.  If they are less experienced than you, they won't know any better.  I know photographers and even worse "photographers" aka a guy who owns a camera, who think they should be payed for every shoot they do, which is fine, if they are contacting models who need and are willing to pay for their services.  However if you are a Freelance Model and you only plan to do freelance work, then you simply won't benefit from paying a photographer for a photoshoot.  If a photographer is seriious about improving his skills, and he likes your look, then he will pay! Keep in mind you won't be charging an unreasonable rate. There are too many quality photographers that are more than willing to shoot with you TF for one reason or another, some just might be willing to help you because you asked, and some might just be updating and adding on to their portfolios and you crossed paths at the right time.  All you need to do is go find them.  Don't just shoot with every photographer you meet without figuring out what you'll accomplish and gain from it first!

                                         $$$ HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR RATES $$$
        You are free to charge whoever, whatever you wish, since you are your own boss.  However, overcharging won't get you much work, and undercharging won't get you much....$  So here's a good way to determine a fair rate to charge: (Warning: this involves actual research! ..told you freelancing wasn't easy!)
        Do an internet search for the Modeling and Casting agencies in your area.  Believe it or not, some actially have their talent rates posted somewhere on their website.  (It won't be on the home page, you'll have to look around) Write down the general or average rates that the agencies are chargng.  If you can't find the info on their site, which you will not be able to with the majority of them.  Then simply call and say that you have an interest in modeling and/or acting and you would like some information on the general rates.  Not every agency will 1) Know the answer (every job has a different pay rate, so they may not have a set minimum. or 2) Be willing to tell you.  Write down the numbers that you can collect.  If you aren't getting enough consistency then you have to just do the research via internet (remember to use only the info from the agencies in your area)
        Take the rate that you come up with as your average.  Divide it in half.  That's the number you shoudl start with.  As you gain experience you can raise your rates slowly, but never go above the average rate you came up with.  Stay slightly under it.  While you might find a few individual situations where you can charge the same rate or even more than an agency model, stick to less that the agency rate, as your rule of thumb.  People willing to pay for an agency quality model, won't be willing to pay the same rate for a non-agency model.  This is because clients know what they are getting when they go through an agency.  Their relationship is with the agency, not the model.  When you are a freelance model, you are your own agent, and the first time you work with a client, they won't know what to expect from you, or even if you'll show up, so therefore they won't shell out the same amount of $ they would for an agency model.
        WARNING: Beware the phrase "Compensation: EXPOSURE" Exposure is not compensation.  Money is compensation.  If you are a freelance model planning to become an agency model, then the only people you want to expose yourself to is an agency!  So "exposure" won't help you! If you are planning on only doing freelance work, I still would not reccomend it! Yes you have a chance of networking and possibly connecting with future clients...but the odds are no different than they are anywhere else you go in your daily life.  If you network everywhere you go already, then you won't have to worry about working for "exposure" aka FREE! Models don't need exposure, they need paychecks! If you are an aspring actor, that's a different story.  If you get an audition for a student film or something that will add quality to your acting reel, then you should definitely take it! However, don't continue to work for free if you have a good reel! Get yourself an agent!

                                                            HOW TO GET WORK
        In addition to networking, you will need to make profiles on websites for freelance modelig and you should also attempt to make connections with independent agents.  These are agents who will take their commission if they get you a job, but they won't require you to have a full portfolio as an agency will, and they submit you for work using the photos you already have, if they are interested in working with you.  They will not charge you any fees upfront.  I do not reccomend paying for any modeling or casting websites as a freelance model.  There are enough free castings available, you just need to be searching for them, that is also part of your job, always looking for new sources to find work and castings.
Some websites to join:
                                           modelmayhem.com
                                        modelwirenetwork.com
        There are a lot of agents who operate more locally as opposed to nationwide.  Find their websites before you pay to join a nationwide casting network.  If someone can give a an actual success story from using one of those I'll listen, but I honestly just don't know anyone who's had any success using them.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

How to Become a Fitness Model....


           Fitness Models are models who are hired to promote and advertise fitness related products.  The appear on tv, in magazines, and in body building and fitness competitions.  A Fitness Model must have a great smile and a commercial look.  They must look and be in shape and live a healthy lifestyle.  Their muscles must be defined, however not all Fitness Models must look like body builders.  Fitness Models must be involved with the health and fitness community and have actual knowledge of health and fitness practices.  The more "in the loop" you are, the more likely it is that you might already know people or companies who want to hire or sponsor you as a Fitness Model!

        There are two main courses of action to take if you want to start working as a Fitness Model.
        1) Contact an agent or agency.  As with most other areas of modeling, there are agencies dedicated to ONLY representing Fitness Models.  There are also commercial modeling agencies with fitness divisions.  Do an Internet search for agencies in your area, and ask around with people who you know from the gym or playing sports.  The agency will advise you about what type of Fitness Models they represent and what type of pictures you should have in your portfolio.  You will have different steps to take if you are a Body Builder versus a (female) Bikini Fitness Model.

       2) Attend or compete in fitness competitions.  There are different types of competitions for different models.  Examples : Figure, Bikini, Muscle, Sports Fitness etc...  Find out which competitions are in your area and their categories.  Realistically determine which category fits you best and go from there.

         -  In addition you can also sign up and create a profile on free websites for Fitness Models.  These websites will advertise you to potential clients and provide you with casting calls.

        - Be where the media is! Attend fitness expos, workshops and other events and mixers! The Fitness Modeling world is smaller and less complex than the Fashion and Commercial modeling world, therefore you can actually potentially meet people who can get you contracts and deals by just being an active part of the community and social scene.

       - If you don't belong to a gym.....you should join one.  I know people who were approached by companies offering them sponsorships while they were going through their daily workout.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

How to Become a Parts Model



        Parts modeling involves modeling specific body parts in order to advertise and promote products on tv, in magazines etc.  Examples of individual parts would be: feet, hands (yes there is actually such a thing as a hand model), legs, certain facial features, or even entire bodies.


        If you think about the advertising for products like: nail polish, hand cream, shoes, stockings, jewelry..... This should give you a good visual reference of what a Parts model does. 


        There are agencies who only represent Parts Models.  They are far less common than commercial or fashion agencies.  The most well known Parts Modeling Agency is PARTS MODELS in New York City.  On the west coast there's BODY PARTS MODELS INC.  In addition to these, some commercial modeling agencies also have Parts Modeling Divisions or will represent Parts Models.  If there are no Parts Modeling agencies near you, start calling around to your local commercial agencies and ask if they represent Parts Models.
        In order to submit yourself for representation you must have professional pictures of the parts you model.  Hire a local photographer or do a TF ("Trade For") shoot with a photographer who has experience with Parts Modeling.  Research your local agencies and submit your photos in the format they request and inquire about Open Calls.  If your going to attend an Open Call or you get a call to meet with an agency after you've sent your photos, dress appropriately to display the parts you model. 
Example: Don't show up in jeans and sneakers if you are modeling your legs and feet. 
        The parts you model should be well kept and groomed to perfection.  There should be NO visible veins, stretch marks, scars, bruises, cuts, tattoos or piercings.  Since the focus is on one specific body part, that increases the pressure for perfection in that area.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

HOW TO BECOME A PLUS MODEL.......



        This article is dedicated to explaining how to become a working Plus Sized Model.  There are a lot of weird misconceptions and myths about plus models so I'll start with clearing them up.
        - Just because you are "Plus" does not make you a model.  Plus models adhere to strict guidelines and height/weight/size requirements just as traditional models do. A plus model is generally between 5'8" and 6'0" and a size 10-20, however, I have seen girls as small as a size 6 be considered Plus.  Every agency has it's own specific requirements, so you'll need to look into the requirements of the agency you wish to work with in order to make sure you are a fit.
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS PETITE PLUS SIZE MODELING
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS MALE PLUS SIZE MODELING
         Now that that's all clear.  Plus models have the same job as a regular model.  Advertising clothing and products.  Several top agencies (which represent traditional sized models) also have Plus divisions. You'll have to research the best ones in your state.  If you are anywhere near New York, I suggest you just search New York.  Below is a list of the top plus modeling agencies:
Close Models (UK)
Ford
Wilhelmina ten20 division
Dorothy Combs Models
Goddess Models
12 Plus (UK)
Agence Plus (Paris)
Model Team (Germany)
        Contact the agencies you would like to be represented by, and inquire about Open Calls.  Check out their website ahead of time to find the specific height and size requirements.  Wear little or no make up to the Open Call and keep your hair natural and your clothing casual.  Walk in with a smile! Your attitude matters!  You can also search for company sponsored Plus Modeling Contests. (example: Torrid.)
       Plus models DO NOT need a full portfolio to attend agency open calls.  Just a good head shot and a full body shot.  It's best to contact a local photographer and take shots that are natural.  Not too much make up.  Solid colored clothing.  No jewelry etc.  This is confusing to some aspiring models because of their (incorrect) perception of modeling, but please trust me.....ALL YOU WANT IN YOUR PORTFOLIO SHOTS YOU TAKE TO AN AGENCY IS.....YOU! They don't want to be distracted by crazy prints on clothing or large jewelry or overdone make up.  They just want to see what you actually look like.  It is the job of the client (who you'll be working for in the future) to turn you into whatever they want in order to promote and advertise their product.
        As a plus model, you have the same responsibilities...maybe even more so...as a regular model.  Your body must be proportional, you must have shapely legs, and you must be in good health.  Your skin, hair and nails need to be well cared for and groomed.
        Plus models who want to work as FIT MODELS may have more flexibility as far as height and size.  Fit models are used to fit clothing that will be sold to people of all shapes and sizes.  If you are a Plus size woman, and you don't fit the specs I've listed here, you may still have an opportunity to become a Fit Model.  Fit modeling can pay very well and some Fit Models even make a full time income.  Doing an internet search for Plus Fit Modeling in your area should produce a few agency or company options.
        Plus models may also SOMETIMES work as Promotional Models.  This depends on your size and what the client is looking for.  Most promotional modeling clients and agencies are looking for traditional size models, but there are always exceptions in the modeling industry, so it's worth checking it out!
        Thanks for reading! If your looking for FREE casting calls for paying work, add me on Facebook.  I regularly post casting on my page.  Thanks for reading and check back soon for updates!

Saturday, June 9, 2012

GOOD AND BAD HEAD SHOTS....


         The link below is a great reference for good Commercial head shots and good Theatrical (actors) head shots.  Most commercial models do some level of acting as well, but focus on what applies to you and what you want to do specifically.

http://www.headshots101.com/commercial-theatrical.html

This is what NOT to do....





SCARY FACIAL EXPRESSIONS  You should always looks relaxed and happy.

        As simple as taking a good head shot may seem, there are still photographers, models, and agencies out there who will make these easy to avoid mistakes.  REMEMBER: your headshot may be your first and only impressions a client gets....so you better make it GOOD! 
        Looking for FREE access to paying modeling and acting casting calls? Add me on Facebook.  I regularly post castings on my page! My Facebook Page. 
        The next post will cover the ins and outs of PLUS SIZE MODELING! So check back soon for updates!




Friday, June 8, 2012

Modeling/Acting Casting Calls

Quick side note: IF YOU ARE AN ASPIRING MODEL/ACTOR OR A MODEL/ACTOR LOOKING FOR FREE CASTING CALLS FOR PAYING JOBS, I REGULARLY POST THEM ON MY FACEBOOK PAGE. ADD ME: http://www.facebook.com/AlisonDancho

GOOD AND BAD Commercial Fitness Portfolio Shots


        Continuing on with GOOD AND BAD commercial portfolio pictures.....  If you are athletic or play a sport it is a great idea to include a fitness shot in your portfolio.  Think about all the advertising that is done for fitness and sports related products.  A good fitness shot will clearly show you performing some kind of movement.  It should look realistic.  If you are a female you should not have your hair overdone or wear a lot of make up.  The shot should look as genuine as possible.  Click on the links below to view examples of both GOOD AND BAD Fitness shots.

GOOD.
   
         This is a good fitness shot.  You can clearly see the models muscle definition.  She looks as if she is in the middle of an actual work out.  The outdoor lighting suits the picture.  Her wardrobe is appropriate and her hair is pulled back. This girl is ready to sell any workout supplement or product out there!

BAD!!!

        This is a bad Fitness picture.  The entire picture is confusing.  The background is cluttered and distracting.  The poster on the right of the model gets more visual attention than she does.  Her pose looks as if she is doing ballet or trying to be sexy....or both at the same time.  Her body position doesnt make sense. What is she doing? Is it a stretching move? An exercise? If the answer is no, then it is a BAD Fitness picture! Her top is not something you would see either at the gym or in a Fitness product ad.  Her hair is overdone, her make up is overdone. Her face is angled down so you can't see what she looks like. REMEMBER the point of ALL of your portfolio pictures is to show what you look like!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Commercial Portfolio Picture Examples........



        A good commercial portfolio will get you PAID.  A bad one will get you disregarded.  Your portfolio is your visual resume, besides your comp card, it's the most important thing you'll need.  I'm going to show you a few examples of good and bad commercial portfolio pictures.  Try your best to ignore the actual model in the pictures and pay attention to what she is doing (or not doing).  #1 The bathing suit shot. Click on the links below to see the examples of GOOD and BAD!!! bathing suit shots.

GOOD.

        This is a good bathing suit shot.  The model looks relaxed and natural, her expression matches what she is doing.  The picture shows what her face and body look like and her bathing suit top and bottom are solid colors.  She is in the water, which makes sense considering she is wearing a bathing suit.  The picture on the right is better than the one on the left becasue you can see her entire arm and hand in the picture on the right.  You never want to put a picture in your portfolio where it appears you are "missing a limb" or any other part of your body.  Her hair and make up are natural, as they would be if she were really at the beach. The belly ring should be removed but other than that, that's the GENERAL OUTLINE of what a good bathing suit shot should be.  I am not going into lighting and shadow in depth right now.  In general, as long as the lighting is natural and there are no awkward shadows, you're good to go!

BAD!!!!!!

         This is an example of a bad portfolio picture! The models pose is unatural and awkward.  The props don't make any sense.  Her expression is cold.  Her make up is over done.  She is wearing distracting gold jewelry on her wrist and ankle. YOU SHOULD NOT WEAR JEWLERY IN YOUR PORTFOLIO PICTURES.  It takes away from YOU in the picture and in addition, different people have different taste in jewlery, you don't want the person flipping through your portfolio to be distracted by a necklace they hate.....or love, when they are supposed to be thinking about HIRING YOU! The models bathing suit is a busy print. The picture is just unflattering as a whole.

         In the next post I'll be giving you examples of a good and bad commercial FITNESS shot, so check back soon for updates!