dear fairy model mother | how can i be a better model in 2012?

Hello lovelies. Even though we’re a week and a half into it, I still cannot believe that we are in a new year. I don’t know about you, but I try to make reasonable New Year’s resolutions- things that I realistically can accomplish. This is the perfect time for you to set some goals for your modeling career. I get tons of questions from women looking to start or continue in their modeling career and what better time than now to start looking forward to making this new year one of the best. My most common recent question was:

“How can I be a better model in 2012?”

Every model needs to think of herself or himself not just as an artist, but also as a brand.  I understand that you want to do what you love to do, but you’ve also got to strategize.  Get a piece of paper and write down your good qualities.  What makes you a great model and an individual?  Then think about your shortcomings.  What are a few things you need to work on?

Nobody’s perfect and there’s always room for improvement.  Be honest with yourself.  Next,  I’d like you to write down your goals for this year along with a date you’d like to accomplish them by.  Now you’ve got the beginnings of a plan.

Whether you’re signed to an agency, work independently, or are still looking for representation, there are always things you can do to get better at your craft. Some of these might sound a little funny, but you’ve just got to try.

• Perfect Your Look- You can’t decide on if you want to cut your hair or dye it.  You aren’t sure if you want to be feminine and whimsical or tough and androgynous.  Find a look that fits you and stick with it.  Whatever you do, don’t fake the funk.  Clients are going to dress you up however they want, but you want to give them something to work with. In the end, you’ve got to own your look and really feel it.
• Practice Poses and Runway Walk- Yes, I’m asking you to practice in the mirror.  You’ve got to know your best angles and body positions for photo shoots.  Besides, you don’t want to get in front of a photographer and look all awkward.  Practicing your walk never gets old.  Try a standard walk with no frills, then a high-energy fierce walk, and finally a fun, bubbly walk.  These will come in handy for upcoming runway castings and meeting agents.
• Go to Open Calls- I know they can be torturous, but they’re also helpful.  Although quick and painful, these open calls can give you the feedback you need to be better.  The agents may say you’re too short, too commercial, or too whatever, but at least you know what you need to work on and what agency isn’t a good fit for you.
• Do Test Shoots – What a great way to get back in the swing of things if you’re a little rusty.  You can work out those poses you’ve been practicing and maybe get new pics for your portfolio. Try to do free shoots and maybe work with up-and-coming photographers.
• Find a Mentor- The world of modeling is cut throat and can get lonely.  Look for someone to guide you on your journey like a current or former model, casting director, stylist, or even a photographer.  A mentor will encourage you to keep fighting when times get rough.  They’ll also be able to give you great advice and maybe even hook you up with jobs.
• Stay Healthy – It’s easier said than done.  There may be pressure to be a certain weight and build.  Sometimes stress will prevent you from taking care of your body. Next thing you know, your hair is thinning and your face is breaking out.  This is all realistic.  You’ve got to make a conscious effort to take care of your health by eating right, exercising, and feeding your soul.

Are you ready to conquer the world?  I sure hope so.  Becoming a better model is all about believing that you can do it.  Take care of yourself on the inside and that beauty will radiate on the outside.  

Good luck.

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Tagged as: goals, modeling, resolutions