Modeling 101 - Answering Reader Questions

Julie Cran Wrote: I dont understand the difference between "modeling agencies" and "talent agencies" and why would I buy the "backstage" newspaper if it is al about "acting"? Why Should I look for talent agencies as well, if I wanna be a model, independently of the division I'd fit in. Can you explain those facts? Thanks! Hi, Julie! Modeling agencies only represent models. Talent agencies represent both models and actors. Since you have no interest in acting, you don't need to buy the "backstage" newspaper. Because talent agencies also have modeling divisions, they are worth submitting to for modeling representation. You do not have to do acting work just because you are signed to a talent agency. If you get signed to a talent agency and tell the agent you only want to do modeling, then that's the type of work they'll get for you. Many models first submit to modeling agencies only and then if they don'

Nattan P. Wrote: Dania, is there any email that I could send you my snapshots, so you can take a look and see in what type of modeling division do I fit? I will send you my measurements as well. Thanks. Hi, Nattan! Feel free to email me at: daniadenise@gmail.com. You don't have to necessarily send photos...the main info I would need from you in order to help you figure out what modeling division you'd be ideal for would be your height, age, weight, chest, waist, hips and suit size. But if you want to send your pictures, that's totally fine, too. :-)

Robert Speciale Wrote: If I go directly to an open call in an "X" agency, should I bring with me, snapshots or my own portfolio with professional and different kinda of pictures? Even though I'm just giving my first step to start my career. -- If I go to an open call, what the agency expects to see from me? Can I bring all my pictures, composite card or snapshots? or nothing? I'm really confused, and my anxiety is going worse because of that. Thanks! Hey Robert! First thing's first: breathe! LOL. If you have a portfolio with professional images already established, bring that to the open call BUT ALSO bring your snapshots. Agencies prefer to see snapshots but will also view any professional images you may have. Your portfolio should only contain photos that reflect the type of modeling an agency could realistically market you for. So for example, if you're too short to do high fashion modeling, don't have high fashion themed pictures in you

George Wrote: I live in Watertown, MA. Next to Boston. New England area. So, what are the mother agencies you recommend for a print/commercial model? Hey, George! Below are the names and websites of agencies in the Boston area that represent commercial/print male models: Dynasty Models & Talent   http://www.dynastymodels.com Model Club, Inc. http://www.modelclubinc.com The Cameo Agency http://www.thecameoagency.com None of them state being a mother agent on their websites so you'll want to contact them each to find out if they offer those services or not. It is recommended to submit to all of the agencies and not just one since it increases your odds of getting signed.

Lizbeth Wrote: I live in Boston, MA. What are the nearest agencies for beauty/glam modeling that I could contact? How would it be the best way for me to contact them? Sending snapshots or going for a open call? Hey, Lizbeth! Unfortunately, after much searching I wasn't able to find any legit agencies that have beauty divisions or that represented glamour models in the Boston area. The agencies that were available mainly represent fashion/runway and commercial/print models. That being said, your best bet would be to pursue freelance modeling. So you'd basically have to go about putting together a professional portfolio so that you'll have images to submit to modeling gigs that are looking for beauty and/or glam models. Model Mayhem (www.modelmayhem.com) is one site I suggest creating a free profile on. It is a social networking site for people in the modeling industry. It'll allow you to upload photos and your info, and lets you network with local photograp

Anonymous Wrote: Hi! I'm a 20 year old (21 in April) 5'10 130 pounds. I have been trying to pursue my dream of modeling since I was 16 years old. After some scams finally got linked up with a good small agency here in NC where I live problem being my agent is mostly focused on her younger girls she can move into the New York market. I am by no means high fashion or a runway model I've always been told I'm very commercial although I have done a few local fashion shows. Thus being said these are my questions!! 1)At this age do I still have a shot? 2)Could I still be signed to a larger agency and travel? 3)If either of these is yes, what is my next step? Hi there, Anonymous! Here are the answers to your questions (thanks for putting them in such a nice, organized list): 1) Yes! Since you said you've got more of a commercial/print look that actually works in your favor because print models lead much longer careers, compared to fashion/runway models. You

Amethist Lover Wrote: Hello, I had a question about payments... I have a job today and am suposed to get paid 60$ an hr; the time of the actually job is 8-10 but i have to be at the place by 7, do i get paid for that hour as well? Hey there, Amethist Lover! That is a question that you need to ask your contact person about (this could be the photographer or whoever hired you for the job). I've been in situations where both happened: I got paid starting from the time I got on-set or I only got paid according to a specific time frame that was scheduled for the actual shooting. That kind of payment arrangement is something that is worked out between the model and client specifically so I unfortunately can't say for sure whether you'd be getting paid for that additional hour or not but I hope it turns out that you do!

Lizbeth Wrote: What are the best agencies that select only "very pretty" models to do fashion printing/ commercial printing? I mean, "glam modeling", "beauty modeling". thanks! Hey, Lizbeth! A large number of models that specialize in glamour modeling do so in a freelance manner so they act as their own agent and find their own work. However, more agencies focusing solely on glamour models have been appearing in recent years. Many of them are solely online agencies but there are some actual agencies that have a physical office and staff available. However, they're located all over the country so the best way for me to get you the names and websites of those agencies would be to know the city/state you currently live in. It's ideal to only submit to agencies that are no farther than a 2 hour's drive from where you live, unless you're willing to relocate. So once I know your city/state, I'll be able to get you more accurate

George M. Wrote: Would you recommend me good agencies that also works internationally? Sending their models to work outside of the country. -- Also, are there good agencies outside of US that accepts submissions from models all over the world? Can you tell me who are they? Ps: Printing/commercial. Hey, George! The best way for you to find yourself in a situation where a US agency would send you to work as a model overseas is if the agency you're signed to operates as a " mother agency ." So to answer your question, I would need to know what city/state you currently live in so that I can narrow down what agencies are available to you. It is the rule of thumb to submit to agencies within a 2 hour's drive from you. Not all of them work as mother agencies, however, so you'd need to find out that information from the agency websites or by contacting them to inquire about those types of services. There are tons of international agencies that accept submissi

George M. Wrote: Hello Dania. My question is, what is a "cover letter"? If I'm a new face and I have no experience working with agencies, modeling and stuff. What would I put on my "cover letter"? Hi, George! A cover letter is a very brief (1 page) document that basically allows you to introduce yourself to whoever you're writing to and explain your reason for sending them the letter. So in this case, the cover letter would be your way of formally introducing yourself to a modeling agency and letting them know that you're interested in seeking agency representation. Below are two links to blog posts I've done about this very topic...it'll give you a better idea of how to prepare a cover letter/letter of introduction, even if you're a new model: Tips for Writing Cover Letters to Modeling Agencies Did You Know...#12

True And Natural Beauty Wrote: Hi! So I don't wear makeup very often but I know how to apply it and all tht stuff, and I can wear cute clothes and things like that, but when I go to take a photo is looks horrible! I've been told by many friends and family that I am pretty etc., and I read all sorts of photogenic tips and stuff but they never seem to work out. Thanks! Hey, True And Natural Beauty! Having an issue with being photogenic can be a huge obstacle, especially if your goal is to get into modeling. I have met a handful of people that in person look amazing but for whatever reason, it doesn't translate well on camera. But it's good that you've been reading tips and experimenting though. Have you done a test shoot with a professional photographer to try out the tips you've read about? Taking pictures with a friend that's using a nice camera doesn't always produce the same results as when working with a professional photographer. If you

Bentley Duval Wrote: Dania, I have all the requirements wrapped up for pretty much any modeling, I'm 16 and was just wondering how long male models can stay modeling in comercial/print, and runway/high fashion. Thank you so much!! This blog is unbelievably terrific!!!!!!! -Bentley Duval Hi, Bentley! Thanks for the wonderful compliments about my blog...I'm glad you like it! :-) The good news for you is that male models can literally work as long as they want to. For commercial/print, the longevity for a male modeling career is much longer...men in this category can book work well into their 40s, 50s and 60s. There are even agencies that specialize in representing senior models. For runway/high fashion, the shelf life is different for males than females. While the industry wants female runway and fashion models to start young (like 13 or 14) and typically cut off their careers by the time they're 23-25, male models usually start later (17 and older most times) an

The Blogger Wrote: Hi, I'm an aspiring male model and I just started following your blog yesterday. I stumbled on it while checking for perfect poses for male models and so far, everything I've read has been so enlightening, well done! I wanted to know- is the procedure exactly the same way for male models when sending pictures to agencies? Thanks Hey, The Blogger! Thanks for the compliments about my blog...I'm happy to have you as a new reader! The requirements for snapshots that agencies want from male models is very similar to female models. The only difference is that the 3/4 full body pose usually isn't necessary. In general, male models should submit a closeup headshot, full body frontal shot and profiles of either your face and/or full body. To help you out, below are the snapshots of a top French male model that you can use for reference: Make sure you first check if the agency websites have specific instructions on what types of photos to se

Anonymous Wrote: hi dania! i just got signed to scout in san fran. as a high fashion model and I have my portfolio shoot this upcoming Saturday. I'm also meeting with the director for the first time that same week and i was wondering what to expect from both of these. I knew you would be the best person to ask because you've worked with scout :) oh by the way, i was recruited to scout after meeting with ford in LA and they told me they work with and have close ties to scout. They said they are still interested in me but they want me to start my portfolio at scout. I'm kinda confused as to what might happen there too so I was hoping you can help i know it's a lot :/ i just have a lot of questions haha thanks so much!  Hey, Anonymous! Congrats on getting signed to Scout! They're a great agency and I'm happy to be on their roster. :-) The portfolio shoot is pretty straightforward...when you meet with the director, you'll more than likely get

Bee Wrote: Hi Dania! I love your blog. I've bookmarked several pages. Okay, now to my question. I've been told I should model (Hasn't everyone? :P), but I haven't pursued it seriously. I have the height (5'10") and I believe I have the look, but my hips are too big (35-25-38) and I weigh 140 lbs. Also I am turning 20 early 2013. I sent my pictures into several NYC agencies on a whim and just to experience it. (Whatever happens, happens) My question is: Should I keep trying to lose weight and inches off my hips? My gut is telling me to keep going for it. I just don't want to waste my time, but I don't want to regret anything. Sincerely, Bee Hi there, Bee! I would only suggest working on your hips and losing weight if you can do so in a healthy way. But based on the info you've provided, it seems like you would have to change your body shape and that's not typically something that can be realistically done. Just to put t

Cesar M Wrote: Hi Dania. What type of model are you? Commercial/printing? By the way, do you know good some agencies around the new england, specially in new york that has printing/commercial departments?   Other question, Im about to make a new composite card. would it be more interesting if i have it done with only snapshots?  Thanks! Hi, Cesar M! I mainly specialize in commercial/print modeling although I do other categories of modeling as well. Unless you are a model with previous experience or are told to do so by the agency, I wouldn't recommend submitting a composite card to agencies, nor having it consist of your snapshots. Agency websites (most times) have specific instructions/directions on what types of photos they want and how they want them delivered. They almost always want the snapshots submitted as individual files/photos. So I would suggest visiting the websites of the New York agencies below that represent commercial/print/lifestyle models and fol

Larissa Wrote: hey, hows it going? i have a doubt. agencies work with other agencies? i mean, agencies can offer their models to other agencies or not? for example, an agency offering its model to ford models. thanks and success for you, have a good one!! :) Hey, Larissa, it's going great, thanks! The concept you're talking about describes the "mother agency" situation, which is legit and does happen regularly in the modeling industry. To learn more about the mother agency relationship with models, click on the link below: Understanding the Role of Mother Agencies in Modeling

Luke Wrote: Dania, is it possible for a small/not very known agency, to give you great and excelente jobs? -- What modeling website would you suggest for me to publicize my composite/portfolio? Those websites are competent? Better than being managed by agents? Hey, Luke! Small agencies have the potential to get their models the same high caliber/well paying clients and jobs as medium and larger sized agencies. Many "boutique" agencies have their own roster of clients they regularly work with. The advantage of being smaller in size as an agency is that they can work one-on-one with each model to ensure they're being marketed/promoted properly, instead of just being another "face" on an agency's list who may or may not get the attention they deserve. It sounds like you're more interested in freelance modeling (acting as your own agent). If that's the route you'd rather pursue, the websites you can use for resources will vary based on

Anonymous Wrote: I have an upper ear piercing ( just one anyway) . U think that's gonna be a problem for me cause I aspire to be a model someday.... Hi, Anonymous! One upper ear piercing isn't going to hinder your chances at modeling so you don't have anything to worry about. If you're willing to take the piercing out (if asked) when attending go-sees, castings and shoots, then that'll be even better. When asked to remove your upper ear piercing, it wouldn't be for too long where you would have to worry about the hole closing--it would only be for the duration of the casting or modeling job.

Anonymous Wrote: Question- Say if I were to sign with an agency in New York when I live a couple states south. I remember seeing something on your blog about how you'll be dormed with other models(or maybe that's for a completely different circumstance and I totally misunderstood that), so my stupid question is: would I need to find an apartment in New York? Hey there, Anonymous! You are correct...there is "modeling housing/dorms" available for models, depending on the agency and contract agreement. This type of living arrangement is reserved for fashion/runway models (not print models--at least not that I've ever heard of). Should you get signed to an agency in New York that offers model housing, you won't have to worry about finding your own apartment in the area because the agency will take care of that for you. However, if model housing isn't offered by the agency, then it will be your responsibility to find a place to stay at in New York

Tara Wrote: Hello! I am in London for a year and a half on my husband's military assignment. Do you think it is worth it as a new model to seek out an agency with that short amount of time? Do you know of any reputable commercial print agencies here? Hi, Tara! A year and a half is a pretty long time and I think it would be perfectly fine to get started with an agency while you're stationed in London with your husband. Below are some notable agencies in London that have commercial/print divisions: Sandra Reynolds www.sandrareynolds.co.uk/ Elliott Brown Agency www.elliottbrownagency.co.uk/ RMG Models www.rmg-models.co.uk/ Absolute Models SA modeling agency www.absmodels.com/ Looks London http://www.lookslondon.com/ Norrie Carr Agency http://www.norriecarr.com

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania first of all just wanted to say you have an amazing blog, its really great! So my friend is taking a couple of photos of me tomorrow to send in to modeling agencies. I'm a girl 5'4 1/2 almost 5'5 and was wondering what type of modeling would be best for me? Also my chest is a 32 b, does size chest matter a lot? Oh and I'm 16 years old.  Hi, Anonymous! Thanks for the kind words...I'm happy to have you as a reader! Given your age and height, you're ideal for commercial/print and teen modeling. So any agencies you submit to should have either or both of those divisions. Chest size doesn't matter for that type of modeling so you're good to go. :-)

Anonymous Wrote: What about liver spots? I have spots on my lower back lighter than the rest of my skin. Im only 18 so I know its not age. Is there anyway Ican help it? (im a guy btw) Hey, Anonymous! Thanks for letting me know you're a guy...that actually makes a difference most times when I'm trying to answer a question! The good news is that your lower back isn't going to get a lot of close up attention (it'd be more problematic if it was your chest, stomach or upper back) so it could be worse. Based on the research I've done (I'm a skin care and health and wellness writer), it sounds like you've got a case of simple hyperpigmentation. That's just a fancy word for skin discoloration. Liver spots mainly target the face, chest, shoulders, forearms and back of the hands. There's a number of causes for hyperpigmentation but in most cases you can turn to over-the-counter bleaching creams to try and lighten the spots. Home remedies include

Darian Wrote: hey Dania, your blog really helps me understand modeling. I am 14 years old and I am 5'4 1/2, My family says I am going to grow more. I applied for ford modeling, and I am really nervous, I dont really know if they will take me. Any advice? Im sorry that its not really a question. Hey, Darian! Glad my blog has helped you with figuring out this crazy modeling business, lol. You're still young and at your height, you'd be ideal for teen and/or commercial/print modeling. If the Ford Models office in your area has either or both of those divisions, then you definitely have a shot. Not all of the Ford offices/locations represent the same kinds of models. It's normal to be nervous but it's pretty much a 50/50 shot so it could go either way. If you don't hear back from Ford after about 6-8 weeks, then it's a pretty solid sign that they're not interested in your look right now but you are welcome to resubmit to them after about 6 mo

Nika Wrote: Okay this is my last question for the night! I've been fighting with this hair thing. I haven't decided how I am going to wear my hair in the photos I want to submit to agencies. I am natural. I know they typically like to see hair worn off the face. Should I just wear my hair in a bun or puff for the photo? I would prefer to wear my fro but know I might encountner some prejudice. I'd hate to have to straighten my hair for the photos as that isn't me. What are your thoughts? Hi, Nika! Lol, no worries! You should wear your hair how you normally would on a daily/regular basis. So if you always sport an afro, that's what you should submit. As long as it's out of your face, that's all that matters. Contrary to popular belief, in the print world, it's all about "natural" looking models, especially when it comes to ethnic women and men...clients love it. So you don't have to straighten your hair or make it appe

Nika Wrote: Hi Dania, I am pursuing commercial print/lifestyle modeling. Do I need to learn runway? I have no interest in it. Should I learn it just in case I'm requested to do it? I'm 5'5", wouldn't think I'd have many requests. Hey, Nika! Learning runway is not mandatory and if you have no interest in it, don't even worry about it, unless your agency mentions something about it. However, it doesn't hurt to at least know a basic walk so that in the rare instance you are asked to do it, you'd at least know have something to show. But not being a pro at it won't hinder your career as a print model.

Nika Wrote: Super long question, sorry!! Hi there! Thanks so much for this blog. I am 35, 5’5” and wear a size 2 dress. I just finally got the guts to pursue modeling. It’s been heavy on my heart for years. I know that my age and height puts me into the commercial lifestyle sphere of things. Problem is, how do I get experience? I started a Model Mayhem account but most of the photographers are fashion or glamour focused. Would it be beneficial to take these jobs just to get comfort and experience in front of the camera? How do I get commercial lifestyle experience? Also, even though I am small and look great in form fitting and even very little clothing, my body is not exactly swimsuit ready. Does it make sense to send my stuff to agencies now in just leggings (or tight jeans) and a tank? Or should I wait until I’m able to submit swimsuit photos? At my age, I’ll probably play somebody’s mama anyway, not much swimsuit. I’m afraid to wait because right now I’

Anonymous Wrote: I'm 16 years old, 5'9 140 pounds, hips: 27 Bust: 33. Am I skinny enough to be a model? Hey, Anonymous! You're missing your waist measurement so I can't accurately say for sure whether your skinny enough to model since it takes knowing the bust, waist and hips to get those results. However, I find it hard to match up your tiny bust and hip measurements with your weight being 140. Are you sure your measurements are accurate? My hips are 35 and my bust is 34 (granted I'm much shorter than you) but by that comparison alone for the hips, you'd be waaaaaaay smaller, which makes it hard to see how you could possibly weigh 140 pounds. Maybe you got your hip measurement of 27 confused with your waist measurement? If you could reply back with your most accurate/complete measurements for your bust, waist and hips, I'll be able to put things into better perspective for you. Also FYI: the agency preferred standards for models when it comes

Anonymous (aspiring model - London) Wrote: hey! i love reading your posts so please keep posting :) i just wondered if you could give me an honest answer. is 22 too old to start modelling? im 22 however most people guess im 17 i look alot younger. is it too late for me to start?? aspiring model- London xx Hey there, Anonymous! Glad you enjoy my posts...I've got plenty more on the way so thanks for reading! 22 is considered too "old" for runway and fashion modeling but it is not too old to do commercial/print and lifestyle modeling. A majority of fashion/runway agencies set the age cut off at 21 (few have it at 22) so you technically could still meet their age requirement BUT it isn't likely that a fashion/runway agency would sign you to start modeling at that age for that type of work. It also depends on your height. If you're not fashion height (5'8" - 6'0") and are 22, a fashion/runway agency will more than likely pass on you. Howe

Erik T Wrote: Hey! First I just wanted to say that your such an amazing person for having this blog! Thank you! Second, I'm an aspiring male model. I know your supposed to practice poses, but I'm not really sure what poses I need to have mastered. Also, is the photographer going to let me know what he is kind of looking for? Thanks so much! -Erik T Hi, Erik T! Awww, you're so sweet, thank you! :-D So on the subject of posing...the types of poses you want to practice will be determined by what category of modeling you plan on pursuing. I know I've received questions from you before but I can't remember if I know your height or whether you wanted to seek an agent or do freelance so I'll try to cover as much as I can to answer your question accurately. If you're trying to do fashion/editorial modeling, I would recommend looking at high fashion magazines/publications and studying the male models in the ads/photo spreads. W Magazine, Vogue, Elle, G

Anonymous Wrote: Hi! My son is interested in modeling. He is 14 and 6' We want to get started, and are in the process of making comp cards. He is too tall for children's, but is seen as too young for adult open calls. I know the Industry loves young girls on the runway, but what are the chances for a young boy? Hi, Anonymous! Wow, that's incredible height for being so young! Unfortunately, I think what you're going to have to do (unless you find an agency willing to take him on for runway) is wait until he is at least 16. It mainly depends on how he looks physically. If he still has a bit of the boyish/baby faced look, it's not likely to work for him doing runway. Young girls are more viable for runway work compared to young boys. In a majority of cases, agencies prefer that their male models (even with the right height) be a bit older in order to use them for runway work. I'm sure there are younger male runway models out there but I p

Anonymous Wrote: Hi i am 17 and 5'10 and i really want to be a model, ive been told by my doctor that i will at least grow to be 5'11. however i am also overweight(193lb) and ive been told my doctor that by my bmi if i were at leqst drop down to 170-175lb that i can get peetty tall. and another thing that i was really worried about in modeling is. i feel like in modeling. photographers and fashion designers look for the "angel" look which what i mean by they tend to photograph people who have multicolored hair and light eyes. I am half puerto rican/african american. i have basically all of my fathers features(light skin, face structure, lips you name it) so im scared that i may not land in an angency. Is 5'10 a good height? Hey there, Anonymous! Not all agencies look for the same things and what doesn't work for one agency may be perfect for another. It is important to feel confident about your overall appearance. Because agencies look for di

Anonymous Wrote: Hey Dania! I have a few questions to ask! i love your blog btw. Very informative! :) First question is.. does your inseam matter? Do modeling agencies care about how long or short your inseam? Is it important for Commercial or Runway modeling? Do agencies measure/ask about your inseam? I am 17, 5'6" 32-23-34, from Chicago and I am looking for commercial/print modeling representation. What are some good agencies? Should I still attend a FORD open call even though on their website it says 5'8-5'11? Sorry A lot of questions in one :( Hi, Anonymous! Trust me, you can never ask too many questions. :-) All right, let's get to it... Your inseam measurement isn't as important as the main measurements (bust, waist and hips for female models and chest, waist, hips, suit size for male models). So your inseam alone wouldn't make or break a shot at getting agency representation. All agencies take full measurements, including the inseam

Anonymous Wrote: When did u start modeling? Also, will an agency be less eager to sign u if u have a school schedule? Or if ur inexperienced? Hi, Anonymous! I first started modeling when I was 15. Agencies work with students/school aged models all the time so being in school won't make an agency less likely to sign you unless you're so busy that you can't find time to attend castings/modeling jobs. The same goes with being inexperienced. Having previous modeling experience isn't mandatory. If you're new/inexperienced, agencies are totally fine with this because it gives them a chance to train/mold you into exactly what they need. Below is a link to more about being a model while in school: Modeling & School