Modeling 101 - Answering Reader Questions

Unknown Wrote: I have a skin condition known as vitiligo along with acne on my face back and chest. Could I still be a model? Hey, Unknown! There are several celebrities that have vitiligo. Winnie Harlow is one of the most famous since she is a top model who doesn't use makeup to cover her skin condition. Brooke Burke has melasma, which is similar, in that she has loss of pigmentation on her face, which she does use cover up to conceal. So there are ways to pursue a career in modeling with a condition like vitiligo. As far as the acne goes, if you're able to get your skin to a point where it is healthy enough and with few blemishes, there is a chance that you could pursue modeling to some degree. Winnie Harlow has definitely shown the modeling industry that being "different" can be something to embrace and break the pattern but you have to also possess all the other "it" factors that will get an agency's interest in representing you (i.e. phy

Steve Wrote: Dear Dania, Because I am unrepresented and new to the commercial/print modeling, I guess I should pursue my local market, Phoenix. Would you say the smaller agencies of medium-size cities are of a ‘type’ designed to fit part-time models more? I say “part-time” as I’m being realistic about how much paid work a new model in my field can actually secure. Do you think most agents would not object to a model being represented by non-competing agencies in Denver, Phoenix and Los Angeles? How common are the mother agencies, do they consist of both large agencies and affiliates in other states? I am the William H. Macy lookalike in the Showtime TV series, Shameless. Showtime will not talk to me directly, but said they would talk to my agent. But when I talked to agents in Arizona earlier this year about making the connection for me, it felt like they did not have the connections or interest that a mother agency might have. Even the largest lookalike agency in the world, Mi

Princess of Dorne Wrote (in response to the blog post, "When You Get No Support for Modeling" ): I don't know about mine. I already graduated from college, hoping to get their 'favors' yet I feel like, they're still hesitant. Hi, Princess of Dorne! Things with parents take time, especially when it comes to accepting their child's role in the modeling industry. In my case, I am happy to report that my dad is now totally on board and supportive of my career (it only took about 10 years haha). But the fact that he is now on my team made the long wait and obstacles worth it. What changed my dad's mind was when I moved back home to look after him and help take care of the household since my mom works a lot and isn't really home. He got a front row seat to my phone conversations with clients, handling emails related to booking jobs, seeing me get ready for shoots and gigs and my social media posts documenting what I was doing. That's not

(Responding to the Modeling 101 blog post, " Modeling & Taxes (for parents of models under 18 ") Patricia Mendez Wrote: Thank you for writing this informative article. My question is: my 18 year old son is being charged $2,600 to cover the fee for filling out the W9 form in order to work as a model. Is this a scam or is this how it really works? Thank you in advance. Patricia Hello, Patricia! I'm not a tax professional but I have never heard of any filing fee to fill out a W9. For one thing, you can find a blank W9 to download, fill out and submit for free on any government website. Secondly, I've never heard of any company, agency, client, etc. who has required payment for a model to submit this document. As a model I have been asked to provide a signed W9 via email and no money was ever a part of the conversation. This sounds like a scam of the dumbest degree on the part of the person requesting it so tell your son to run for the hills and not

Anonymous Wrote: Hello Dania! Thanks so much to have created a diary. I just discovered it and it helps so much. I've been a life model for art galleries. Recently I have been approached for nude photography and I would like to know if the rates differ from the full clothed photography. Also, I couldn't find where is the limit to quote a nude or semi nude photo shoot. For example, if I have my hair in front of my nipple and a short, then technically I'm semi-nude in the studio in front of the photographer but still, the result of the photo is that nobody sees any erogenous area. How do you make the difference and quote the right rates? Does suimwear and underwear are the same rates than full clothed in the industry? Thank you for your time and for your expertise! Hello, Anonymous! You're super welcome, I'm glad it's proved to be a useful resource for you! I did a post some years ago about types of modeling (including all the ones you mentioned) and the

Anonymous Wrote: Is a test shoot same as tfp or is it a specific kind of tfp? And is it ok to have a resume with both acting and modelling work? Hi, Anonymous! You are correct. A test shoot is also known as a TFP shoot and is used interchangeably with other terms like "TF" or "trade shoot." They all essentially mean the same thing: a free exchange of services between a photographer and model to create images both parties can use for promotional purposes. It is perfectly acceptable to have a resume with both acting and modeling work if you offer both types of services. However, it is also a good idea to create other variations of your resumes, like one with just your acting work and one with just your modeling work. Sometimes you'll have to submit the right version according to the project you're interested in. For example, if you want to submit to an acting job then you should send them the resume that has just acting work on it and not modelin

Anonymous Wrote: Hey Dania, Still such a fan of your blog!  I have a random question that I need some advice on. I reached out to an agency, through Instagram DM, that I've wanted to be signed to for quite some time. They DM'd me back stating they'd like to set up a meeting and asked for my contact info. It's been 2 days since sending my contact info and haven't heard anything from them regarding the meeting yet. I realize they're busy, so just wondered if I should follow up and If so, how long should I wait to do so? Thank you :) Hey, Anonymous! Awww, I'm so flattered to have you as a fan, thank you! Looking at the original date you posted your comment on my Modeling 101 blog post, which was October 3 and given that it is now October 10, enough time has passed that you should follow up if you haven't already done so or if the agency hasn't already contacted you (I hope it's the latter!). In general when contacting companies like mo

Anonymous Wrote: I love your blog! There are lots of useful information. When measuring height, should it be morning or night height? Thank you! Hi, Anonymous! You're very welcome, I'm glad you're enjoying my blog, despite the fact that I've been so busy these past few months that I haven't been blogging as actively as I had hoped, lol. While there is a lot of info out there showing that we tend to be taller in the evening and experience some form of height loss during the day, I would recommend going with measuring your height during the day. I say this simply because when you go into castings, open calls and go-sees to get measured it will happen during the day and not in the evening. That means your listed height will more closely match when you get measured by another person, making it consistent and not like you're just randomly lying about your height. So I would go with the more practical approach. :-)

Maya Wrote: Hi. I have a question regarding height. I've been researching model agencies I want to submit pictures to. I do meet the minimum height requirement which is 5'8. However, I measure out to 5'8 1/2. I am trying to get into the agency's curve division which requires models to be at least 5'9. While doing my research, I notice that there are some exceptions. There are curve models who are 5'8. Now to the question !!! I notice that some agencies round their model's height by a half inch. For example, a model I've been following is signed to multiple agencies. On one agency website the model height is 5'8 and on another agency page, they measure to 5'8 1/2. Is it common for agencies to round a models height to the closet half inch ? Also, is it wrong for an agency to round their model's height? Thanks a lot !!! Hey, Maya! I like to say that nothing in the modeling industry is as it seems--it is a world of make believe, after all

Aria Wrote: Thank you for the wonderful article! I would really appreciate your advice on my situation.  I recently did headshots for a photographer for possible stock images. It was a TFP arrangement and 1 1/2 hour shoot. The photographer was very pleased with my performance and surprised to know that I have not modeled before. He told me he sees the talent in me and if I do more modeling, I may want to make a separate modeling page to help promote myself. He also wants to do another shoot with me.  Two other local photographers approached me the next day after they viewed my posted headshots. They are both interested in a TFP arrangement. They appear to be accomplished photographers and have their own studios. Would you suggest I accept the TFP arrangement and not charge for my time, perhaps use it as an opportunity to build my portfolio?  Thank you very much! Hey there, Aria! I'm glad you enjoyed the article (" Modeling & Pay Rates: How Much Should You Cha

Rosina khininda Wrote: Am Rosina khininda 27 age I want to be a model on fashion but I dnt knw wat to do an WHR to start an am unemployed I Ned help am person who do the job with care an hard worker but I dnt have afortfolio Hi, Rosina! I don't know where you live so I can't really give you much info other than to say that a cost effective way of submitting to modeling agencies is to visit the websites of agencies that are within a 2 hour's drive from where you live as a starting point. The agency websites will have instructions about how you can submit to be considered. You don't need professional images in most cases to submit to modeling agencies as an inexperienced candidate. 9 times out of 10 the agencies request non professional, digital snapshots. Those are easy to take with a digital camera or your phone (as long as the quality is good). Sending digital snapshots to agencies is free, as is attending open calls and interviews so that is one way to try

Steve W. Norwood Wrote (in response to the blog post, " Mature Models: Don't Compare Apples to Orange "): Hello Dania: The mature models in your photo collage all appear over 55, and the 'senior' models over 65. Is there a sub-category for middle-aged models? For looks, I think my appearance is of this age group. I'm not ready to be a senior!lol. How about 35-year models, what category do they fall into? You made that important point that most articles and websites are designed for younger models (and women), the 'meat and potatoes' of the modeling industry. I know of a swimwear designer/manufacturer in Central Florida that issues a yearly on-line catalog, in addition to standard photos of young women, many mature men are also featured, but most of them are beefcake with large chests so I did not apply. Is this what buyer demographics want to see? Do you think for mature and middle-aged male models today, that the fit, slender, athletic look

Anonymous Wrote: Hello, I pretty much enter a question on Google and your blog came out :) this is very interesting. I would like to know what happened to women who have family such as children etc. how do they balance family and modeling, not to mention modeling include traveling. Can you bring family along? Not at the photo shoot, but hotel for instance? Does the agents work out with the model especially if she has a family to care for? Also you mention in one of the post, that a women after they turn 22 or 23, I think so, are considered "old" for catwalks which mean if you past 25 you won't be able to. But what about women that don't look their age at all? I believe they look at the face not age,because the young faces and body sell, not age, or at least that what I think. some women are 20 but look 30 year old. I hope you will answer to me. Thank you. Hi there, Anonymous! Great questions! In fact, I will add a few new blog posts to my Modeling 101 "A

Ashley Wrote: Hi Dania, I've just started reading your blog and really admire how much help and advice you offer here. I have a few questions that I've been struggling with since I've started modeling, and am hoping you don't mind giving me your thoughts. First, I have a rather large nose which makes my face look unproportional from the side profile. People (friends and family) try to tell me it isn't big, but I have never seen an agency represented model with a similar nose to mine, so I am afraid that it will prevent me from ever succeeding in modeling. Do you think this is something that agencies will look at when I submit side profile snapshots? Second, I am 28 years old now and am afraid that I am way past the accepted age for runway and fashion modeling. Is it too late for me to be submitting my information to large agencies? Third, I am a size 6 in pants since I have wide hips. From what I understand, that would make me a plus size model even though I am

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania, I'm 16 and I want to pursue a career in modelling but I have really bad scars and acne on my face and back. Also I have psoriasis on my left feet and my legs. I don't know what to do to make it better or at least make me feel confident enough. Since I have had this I have had so much going on, I've been Bullied, told I can never be pretty or a model because I'm too ugly. I want so much out of modelling and if it works out I want to get into acting. hope you can respond and help me. I really want to improve my skin, so that when I'm 18 I can get on with my modelling career. Thank You :) Hi, Anonymous! First off, I'm truly sorry to hear about you being bullied. There's no excuse for anyone to bash another person and I know that being a teenager these days is hard enough with clowns like that distracting you. It does sound like you have a lot going on with your skin issues and that the first priority is to get that back on t

Anonymous Wrote: Heyy! I was wondering about agencies in general; how critical are they if you have a few physical flaws? Like for example, knock knees or a slightly assymetrical face. If you're balanced out with positive physical attributes, would you be accepted regardless of your peculiarities? Or rather, if this question is too subjective, do modelling agencies only accept completely 'flawless' girls in apperance? Hi, Anonymous! Flawless only exists in Photoshop, lol, so believe me when I say agencies don't only look for models that have absolutely no flaws or imperfections whatsoever. Things like an asymmetrical face (a lot of people don't have completely symmetrical faces), slight blemishes/scars and other things can be worked around, however, something like knock knees would be a bit more challenging--specifically if the model in question wanted to do runway. It'd be hard to disguise that. However, that same model could easily fake it in photo

Anonymous Wrote: Hello! :) So I've just turned 16 at the end of May, and I was considering going into modelling, but only part-time since I'm still at school. (Sorry I've got a lot of questions!) I'm roughly 166cm/ 5'5- I may grow but is that too short for editorial jobs? Since I live in Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country, I've heard height is less of a huge factor when going into modelling but I'm not sure if it's true. As well as that, I was wondering if that since Malaysia has a small modelling industry, would it be better to apply at foreign modelling agencies which can get me bigger contracts but are harder to get into and are far away or local modelling agencies, which are closer but less successful? Which brings me to the next question- since I can only do part-time at this point in time, would it largely affect how good the contract is going to be or which agency would find me more suitable? Thank you for your help!  Hey, Anonymous! Let&

Anonymous Wrote: Hi Dania! I have a question, so I want to be part of this really good agency, so I entered the website to see what the process to apply was, and there's no info about how to summit pictures (don't worry, is one of the top agencies of the country, not scam ;)) but they do have contact info (numbers and emails) so, should I call them and ask or straight forward just send an email to the "new faces" director? Thankss Hi there, Anonymous! When it comes to agencies that just list their contact info and not specifics about what to submit or how, you should send an email submission to the New Faces Director with the following: Subject Line: Your Name + New Model Submission A brief intro with your name, that you're interested in representation and that photos are attached. You'll also want to list the following in the body of the email: - Age/DOB - Height - Weight - Bust - Waist - Hips - Dress - Pants - Shoe - Shirt/Blouse - Ins

Anonymous Wrote: Thank you for writing this article! I just found your blog and have found it really helpful thus far. I have quite a few questions for you, if that's alright. First off, I am 14 and looking to be a commercial/ print model (I am 5'6.5" so I think I'm too short for runway modeling, but I may still grow). My measurements are 30-23.5-35. I am of mixed race (half Chinese, half Caucasian). Would that make me more "appealing" or "exotic" to agencies? Also, I have quite a few blackheads on my nose and some on my cheeks that I have been trying to get rid of but can't seem to find a way to. They are not very visible unless you look very closely, but would this somehow hold me back? Do you have any skincare tips for getting rid of them? Lastly, I'm kinda intimidated with the whole application process...should I apply to multiple agencies at once or should I apply one by one? Should I apply first to smaller agencies so that I have a

Steve Wrote (in response to the Modeling 101 blog post, "Models, Technology & Communication" ): Hello Dania: I agree with all of Sarah's comments! You have written some great advice! Well lets face it, most models are very young, don't have college degrees, many have not graduated from high school, and still learning about the world. So yeah, there are quite a few that haven't learned how to "speak properly to another human being”, but we are understanding, as this is normal for their age. So we teach them proper "etiquette", problem solved! Those who can't hold a "solid phone convo" aren't going to be very successful models, lol! The same advice follows for your proceeding blog (article), “Models, Shoots, Shows + Common Sense Tips”. And yes, you are professional to a fault, mature and responsible for your age, and that is a necessary component of successful modeling. After reading your 5 part series on Modeling and Bran

Anonymous Wrote: Hi ! I am attending some open calls next month and i am so stressed because although i am 5'9" and my waist is 23" my hips are 37/38" which i know is too big for high fashion modelling and the agencies are top agencies!! I dont know what to di because i know i need them to be smaller but i dont know how and i already do a lot of excercise! Do you have any tips or advice ? Hi, Anonymous! The hip area is a huge problem for many people and as you know it can be difficult to slim down for modeling purposes and getting within range of what high fashion agencies require. What makes it even tougher is that you can't technically exercise your way to smaller hip bones. What you can do, however, is try to slim down by getting rid of the excess fat we sometimes carry around the hip area. I don't know what specific exercises you're doing or how long you've been maintaining that regimen but below is a link to an article that descri

Missy Wrote: Hi dania, Im 16 and next month i have an interview with an agency in london!!!!!!!! I read that you should probably wear heals should i still do that even though im 16 and ive never really wore heels, will they be expecting that? Thanks! Hey, Missy! Congrats on your upcoming agency interview, how exciting! If you want to become a model, you've definitely got to make heels a part of your life. I don't know your height or if you plan on pursuing fashion/runway but if so, you need to make sure you've got a pair of nude colored heels that are at least 4 inches tall. Once you've got that pair, start practicing at home so that you are comfortable with walking in front of the agency if they ask you to do so at the interview (it's likely they will). Below are links to other modeling blog posts I've written that are related to the runway walk you can dive into: http://amodelsdiary.blogspot.com/2010/08/few-words-about-runway-walk.html htt

Steve Wrote: Branding & Modeling Pt III: Know the Basics I am yet-to-be represented actor/model, who is unfamiliar with the social media platforms used for branding. After I have established the name I think I will be using, do you think the most important social media platform to establish is Facebook, followed by Instagram? To simplify the process for people new to social media sites, is it perfectly acceptable to have only one profile on Facebook for both branding and family/friends? A big concern of mine with Facebook is privacy in that it is very easy for alleged creditors, sales people or others who don't like what you represent to find you. Both of my Facebook accounts are inactive, and according to Facebook, people are only allowed to have one profile with the same email address, so I'm trying to decide which account to shut down and if I should use my real name or not, any suggestions?  Steve Norwood Hi there, Steve! That's definitely a good place to

Steve Wrote: Branding & Modeling Pt II: Where Do You Start? I am yet-to-be represented actor/model newbie, with no credits. At what point in my career should I establish the name I will be using in social media? Do Actor/models usually use their real name if it is good sounding or memorial? Or should I wait on creating my name until I am represented by a talent agency?  Steve Norwood Hey, Steve! There are no hard and fast rules when it comes using a real name or a stage name so it's a matter of personal preference. A lot of models/actors use their real names when they get into the industry and typically only change it if their agency recommends it. To keep things simple in the beginning, however, it's easier to start with using your real name. Agencies won't be super picky about that part of it. And I think Steve Norwood is a fine name. :-)

Anonymous Wrote: Dear Dania, You are the best, thanks so much for your advice!! I have a question though: I got accepted to a small but reputable model agency. However, they said that before signing the contract with me they would need me to get a test shoot done. They sent me a list of some pretty famous photographers and said I can either have a shoot with one of them or find any other photographer myself if I want. The prices for the test shoots on the list they sent me were 50£ (64$) on average, which is not too much, and the photographers are really famous and worked all over the globe. But do you think it's ok that they will sign a contract with me after I get the test shoot done? I don't know why but that makes me a bit nervous haha Thanks in advance for you reply!!! <3 Hi, Anonymous! Awww, thank you for the kind words! Truth be told, I'm not familiar with the details of how things work with agencies in the UK so while I know that normally it isn'

Steve N. Wrote (in response to the Modeling 101 blog post, " Real Male Models Wear Makeup! "): In the last photo, male models on a runway, they all look very young and skinny, almost anorexic. Do some male fashion models have longer hair like Fabio, do any older male models make it to fashion? Steve N. Hey, Steve! There are male models who have longer hair. Each fashion show has its own look and feel that is determined by the designer. For some shows they want the models to all look the same so that the focus is more on the clothes, while others don't have that requirement and feature runway models of various looks, including hair lengths. When it comes to fashion work, male models have the advantage of being in demand the older they get. However, there is a limit to that age range. Most male fashion models book work well into their late 20s and even 30s. That is in relation to mainstream modeling work. Commercial/print male models tend to lead longer career

Henna Frank Wrote: Hi my name is Henna I would love to be a justice model but although my mom is single hard working parent and doesn't really have the time but it has been my dream to be a model and if you made my dream come true It would be such an amazing honor 🙏😔 Hey, Henna Frank! If I could be a genie and make people's dreams come true like that, believe me I would do it in a heartbeat! The bad news is that I can only do so much for others...I can provide you with info, resources and guidance but ultimately it is going to take more than my efforts to make things happen for you with modeling. Having a working parent who is focused on paying bills and providing for you is definitely difficult and a situation many people have to deal with. The reality is that if you are under 18 years of age (and are living in the US), you're going to need your mom's support and participation to pursue modeling legitimately. You aren't even allowed to submit photos

Rinki Shaw Wrote: Ma'am I'm Rinki and I'm really interested in doing modelling. I'm 22 years old and 5'6.5". And 55 kgs. Ma'am I really wanted to do modelling,is there any gd future of me to become a super success full fashion model...Ma'am i have recently realised my dreams so plz ma'am help out. Hi there, Rinki! Fashion modeling is all about height and while I am an advocate for shorter models being on the major runways, sadly, there is still the industry's preference for taller models and I don't see that changing anytime soon, unfortunately. At your current height it is not very likely that you would be able to pursue fashion modeling as a serious profession in the way you are probably envisioning. Your height and age, however, are ideal for commercial/print modeling so I would suggest looking online for agencies within a 2 hour's drive from where you live that represent commercial/print models. Those types of agencies wi

Anonymous Wrote: my daughter is 10 years old and has an agent that we have been successful with. But I find myself wanting to solicit modeling jobs for her at some local businesses that advertise to kids. My daughter has an edgy look and I think I know which stores would want to use her. Does anyone know how an agent would react to this? Hi, Anonymous! There are a few ways an agency would receive your idea of wanting to work with local businesses: 1) They'd be perfectly fine with it but may require that they be the ones to contact the local businesses to see what the possibility of them hiring your daughter would be, negotiate payment terms, etc. Or may tell you to tell the local businesses to contact the agent to get the ball rolling. 2) They'd be perfectly fine with it and may ask you to contact the local businesses to see what the possibility of them hiring your daughter would be, what kind of budget/payment arrangement they would have, etc. and then report the i