dear fairy model mother: should i take it all off and go nude?

“everyone has to make their own decisions. i still believe in that. you just have to be able to accept the consequences without complaining.” – grace jones

Hello darlings. It’s your Fairy Model Mother here.  Today we’re going to talk about something a little risque.  This question will come up in almost every fashion model’s career, so we might as well discuss it now. “Should I pose nude and how does it affect one’s career?”

Before I get down to the nitty-gritty, let me say this: The following words will sound very similar to that sex talk you had with your mother when you were a teen. Like her, I’m not going to say you shouldn’t do it, but I will give you advice to guide your decision.

There are different levels of nude modeling. There’s implied nudity where only certain areas of skin are revealed, but your girly parts are still covered. You can go topless or just do butt modeling where only that specific part of your anatomy is exposed. And then there’s full frontal nudity where all your business is out there. Whenever you sign up with an agency, you will be asked if you are comfortable doing any of these types of modeling.

Stripping down to your bare essentials is a big deal. As a model, I’m used to taking it off and changing clothes in front of other people, but posing naked… whoa.  Nude modeling is a completely different ball game than taking photos with your clothes on. While couture covers up your flaws, nudity exposes your vulnerability. It takes a very secure person to be able to do this.

Jobs that include nudity seem to be more prevalent in European markets. When I was in Milan, I told my agency that I was ok with topless and implied nudity. Within the first week, I was sent out on a casting that required me to take my shirt off. It felt like a dare, but I did it. I thought it was ok if the photos were just for an Italian magazine, but then I realized that with the internet, photos can spread like wild fire.  Thank goodness my bosoms didn’t make the cut and I didn’t get the job.  Although I thought I was ready, I was not mentally prepared to have my goods on display.

Are you considering taking it off? Here are a few tidbits:

1. If you’re not comfortable in your own skin, this is not for you. Your  awkwardness will show in the pictures. You want to look confident instead of scared.
2. Once you get naked and the camera lights start flashing, that’s it.  These images will last longer than your career. Your grandchildren may see them.
3. Work with a photographer you trust. That person will see a side of you many others don’t get to see, and you want to make sure they do your body justice.  You also want to work with someone who will respect your decisions and not judge you.  It’s really similar to finding the right lady doctor, if you know what I mean.
4. Make sure the images you create are tasteful. There’s a strong possibility men and women will objectify you after seeing the photos. As long as you have a clear conscience and you know what your intentions were when you took the pictures, you’re good.

How nude modeling will affect your career really depends on the model.  Once you strip down, clients may expect you to do it all the time.  Remember,  you set the standard.   If you’ve thought it over and weighed out all your options, then do it.  If you’re halfway through a shoot and decide you’re not into it, you have every right to stop.  In the end, it’s all about honor and dignity.

Time to sound off.  If given the chance, would you do nude modeling?   Do you think getting naked can help or hurt a model’s career?

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Tagged as: fairy model mother, grace jones, modeling nude