What are Modelling Jobs like?

So, you’d like to become a model, but you don’t really know what’s involved in modelling jobs?

Well, each modelling job is different and may be at a different location, go on for a varying length of time (from a few hours to a whole week) and each modelling job will pay differently.

Modelling jobs can be in studios or on location. Everything is much easier to control in dedicated studios, whereas if shoots are on location, there can be a lot of unexpected factors to contend with, such as the weather.

Almost all modelling jobs start with a casting (unless you’re a household name like Kate Moss or Claudia Schiffer). This is where several models are invited to be viewed and possibly interviewed by the client, and there may be some test shots. Based on the casting, the client will select his preferred models for the final shoot.

On the day of the shoot, the model will have instructions about whether to come ‘clean’ faced or made up, and whether he or she should bring any particular types of clothing or accessories. On arrival, if it’s a big shoot, there could be a whole team available to dress and style the model, including hairdresser, make-up artist and stylist.

Even if the shoot goes on for some time, the model has to stay fresh looking. There may be many changes of outfit, or lots of waiting around, but whatever happens the model is expected to act professionally and be able to turn on the smile or smouldering sultry look on demand.

Once the shoot starts, the model is expected to respond quickly to instructions and also use his or her own initiative to find the perfect shot for the product. They should try out many different poses and expressions, and use the props in imaginative ways.

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Neon Models Tips on contacting modelling agencies

If you want to become a model in 2014, you’re probably wondering how to start approaching modelling agencies. Neon Models has links with many major modelling agencies and many years’ experience in helping new models get their foot in the door.

If you’d like a personal consultation, then register on our Neon Models website, or read on for some tips to help you have a successful application.

Select your modelling agency carefully

There are many different types of models and many different types of agencies. Some large agencies deal with many different types of models, but others are very specialist and niche. You need to check carefully that the agency deals with the kind of modelling you want to do, otherwise you’ll be wasting your time and you risk getting a black mark against your name for wasting their time.

Read the guidelines

Obviously, this seems obvious, but if people did regularly and reliably read the guidelines, we wouldn’t have to put this as an important point. Some people seem to think they can do things their way and the agency will take the time to deal with whatever they send in whatever format, and if it’s not right, contact them to give them feedback and guidance.

Wrong. The agency does not waste time on people who can’t even be bothered to read their guidelines. If your application deviates from their guidelines in any way, your pictures will go straight in the bin. No consideration, no phone call. You will not hear from them.

Persevere

If you want to make it as a model, you have to be prepared to face rejection and bounce back. Just because one agency doesn’t like you, doesn’t mean you don’t have a chance. You just need to find the right scout, who is into your kind of look. The likelihood that you will be snapped up by the first agency you approach is very slim.

For more personalised tips and advice on how to approachthe right modelling agencies, register on the Neon Models site.

Neon Models – helping you become a model

Do you want to become a model? But don’t know where to start, or how to approach modelling agencies?

Neon Models is here to help! Our team has many years’ experience helping launch the careers of new models based in the UK.

We have expert photographers, make-up artists and stylists, who can get you a great portfolio, looking like a professional model; that you can use to approach modelling agencies, or get freelance work.

We can also provide lists of reputable modelling agencies in the UK, and can recommend what type of modelling might suit you best, and give hints and advice about how to get your foot in the door and start making your dreams come true.

The modelling industry is a very tough one, and you need to give yourself the best possible chance if you’re going to have any hope of making it. That means getting expert advice, and that’s where Neon Models can help.

If you’d to like to find out more about how we can help launch your modelling career, register on our site and one of our consultants will give you a ring to discuss your options.

Freelance Modelling – the Basics

Many people are not aware that even if you are signed to a modelling agency, you’re not actually ‘employed’ by the modelling agency and there is no guarantee that they are actually going to get you any paid work. 

They are an ‘agent’ that means they deal in making introductions and getting a commission of the fee that the model is paid by the client, and sometimes an additional introduction fee. 

For this reason, freelance models may find it more lucrative to go directly to the clients, and cut out the agencies fees.

So, if you want to break into modelling, one of the first questions to ask yourself is whether you’d prefer to join a modelling agency or go freelance. Of course, you might decide to chase both routes and see which one works out the best, and that’s a good idea too, if you have the time and resources to do so.

A freelance model has to take care of the business side of being a model, and that means invoicing clients, chasing payment and making sure all the correct contracts and other paperwork is in place. There is plenty of advice out there and you can find free templates for most contracts, but you need to make sure you do your research.

Of course, getting in front of clients is easier said than done, and freelance models – especially those just starting out – also have to do a lot more legwork, networking, meeting the right people, making the right connections.

If you do have the right kind of drive and skills to become a freelance model, then of course the main benefit is that you get to keep all of your hard earned cash. With agency fees averaging about 20%, that can add up quite quickly. On top of that, you have a lot more control over where and when you work and you’re not limited by an agency contract which restricts who you can work for.

If you want to break into modelling with Neon Models, then visit our website and register today!

Male Modelling Advice by Neon Models

In modern society, men are becoming more fashion conscious and more occupied with how they look, including grooming, clothing and accessories. This translates into more work for male models.

Male models need to have the right combination of body shape, stamina, resilience and the right attitude. Male models are usually aged between 18- 25, although there is call for younger and more mature models for certain products.

 

As you would expect, male models are generally expected to be muscular, fit and toned. However, they

should not be overly muscley, as the body builder’s physique has relatively limited appeal. The exception is male sports models, who tend to have very well defines bodies. As fashions change, there is more call for more slender males and even those with an androgynous look.

As with any modelling, if you want to make it as a male model, location is really important. You need to be where the studios, agencies and clients are and you need to be available to turn up to casting at short notice. In practise this means being based in London, preferably, but if that’s not possible, then being near any major city centre is a must.

Most modelling agencies work with both male and female models, though generally they will have fewer male than female models on their books.

Freelance modelling is becoming a more popular option, which means you can cut out the agency fees and keep more of your hard earned cash for yourself. However, freelance modelling does involve a lot more legwork and running the business side of being self-employed.

If you want to be a male model you should start out by taking some test shots to see how you come across photographically, and also to find out if you enjoy the experience. Some people clam or tense up when a camera is pointed at them, and you need to be able to look relaxed and calm even when a whole modelling shoot team is focussed on you.

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