ASK JOEY: Don't Overlook Your Commercial Opportunities

Happy Friday the 13th! After a bit of a hiatus, I'm back to answer some more Ask Joey questions! Of course, the questions that come up most often involve finding an agent. For anyone looking to be signed for the first time, or to move up to a bigger agency or market, your best bet is usually to go the commercial route. Unfortunately, not everyone can have a career in fashion modeling simply because they want to. This generally boils down to your stats. If you don't have the right measurements, 99% of the odds are immediately stacked against you. Start with commercial agents in your market and build from there!


KIMJ
I recently moved from a semi-small town to pursue my dream of modeling. I have modeled in my hometown for about 4 years now. I would love if you could look at some of my pictures and provide some feedback. I've been trying to get signed to an agency in LA for a few months now. Am I considered more commercial than fashion?

At 5'8" they will consider you more commercial. You do have a fashion look, but in LA, they (agents who rep fashion) will not work with you unless you have the height. Your portfolio is all fashion shots, so I would suggest adding some new commercial head shots and getting out and meeting with commercial agents. I think, in LA, you will find more success in that area.

BETHANY COLE
I have been submitting photos to just about anybody who will take them, especially in New York. I even practice facial expressions in the mirror and try to "strut" down the bathroom hallway for goodness sake! I just can't stop pushing myself because I feel so close. Do you have any advice you could give me to help get my foot in the door into the modeling industry? I would be beyond thankful.

You have the height for fashion but your look in your photos on your MWN profile are very commercial. Get with a local agent first. Go in person, and if they like you, they will develop your look. Based on the pictures you've got, you're not ready for NYC. Get started locally, and then work toward a larger market.

DOMINIQUE JIRRI
I was wondering if you could give me some advice on how to gain more exposure in the modeling industry. I do work with talent agencies but I am not getting much work. Do you think I have what it takes to grow as a model internationally? What area of modeling do you think is best for me based off of my look and height?

You have a fashion look, but you are too short for fashion work. Change your book - it reeks of fashion. Go commercial and then you will book more work. A talent agent is definitely the way to go. Commercial types tend to not work internationally, but stay stateside for commercial work and you will find more opportunities.

RAYKI TAI
I would really like to find a good commercial agent. I have a bit of an acting background, have recently been in a local commercial in Philadelphia, and have done acting classes in NYC with some reputable casting directors. I am currently in Southern New Jersey and am contemplating whether I should submit to Philadelphia agents or NY agents. Could you review my portfolio and advise me on which path to take? Do you think I would find success in the NYC market or is it a little premature for my experience level?

I would try both NYC and Philly. You have nothing to lose! I would say you could add a few more commercial shots to your book, it's a bit on the fashion side, but what you have is a start. Submit to commercial agencies in both cities, and see what happens!

HEATHER COWLES
I am currently looking for work in commercial print. Do you have any advice on the best way to do this or what types of agencies might be interested in my look?

You need a commercial agent but will probably have difficulty finding one with your current pictures. You only have one look with a different hat in each photo on your MWN profile. If you're serious about pursuing a career commercially, I would suggest getting a few new head shots and getting on the phone! Submit to commercial agents you've heard good things about or may be interested in working with - you're in the right market for it!

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: Niche Photo Overkill

When it comes to your portfolio and you have a niche skill or interest - fitness, dance, boudoir, etcetera - it's important to make sure that your book is not made up entirely of these types of photos. You want to make sure that you are presenting yourself in the most marketable way possible and are not limiting your opportunities in the commercial world. It's okay to pepper these shots in, but too much can ruin your entire book. If you need/want new photos, I always recommend reaching out to other MWN members and get a collaboration going! Contact photographers, hair & makeup, wardrobe, whatever you need! You're all on the site for the same reason, so get those creative juices flowing.

HANNY
I am a freelance model. How do I get out there more?

To be honest, I'm not crazy about your pictures. You are a commercial type model and live in Chicago, which is a big commercial market. I would suggest getting some new pictures, definitely including some commercial head shots, and then get out there and get an agent. There are a lot in your city, both large and boutique, that you can try to meet with/submit to. Reach out to photographers on MWN and see if there is anyone in your area who has shots on their profile you like and see if they would be willing to work with you. You're in a market with opportunities for someone with your look, you just want to make sure you're marketing yourself the right way to get the jobs!

PHYLLIS FONTENOT
Would you mind taking a look at my profile and pictures? This is all new to me, and I'm loving it. I have done commercial extra work, however, I have little experience. I would love to do commercial print modeling. I am very energetic and have the time to travel or move if needed. Please give me your professional opinion.

You are in a small market for TV and commercial print. There's not much going on there, but definitely more opportunities in New Orleans or Shreveport, if those are commutable distances for you. You will also be competing in an age group that is packed with actors who have been doing it forever, however you photograph well. I would suggest taking some acting classes so you will be able to compete with those that have been in the business for a while. It will help you commercially.

AUDREYWRIGHT
Would you mind reviewing my portfolio? I am just getting started in the business and am actively pursuing fitness modeling, as well as seeing what other doors open up.

You have a nice look - very commercial/newscast type. Austin is a growing market, don't limit yourself to fitness. You have to do it all. I would also suggest taking a communication course or two while you're in school. Get some new pictures in different outfits - look at commercial print ads to see what people are wearing in magazines and on TV. Use MWN to find a team to work with and do a collaborative photo session then get out there and get an agent! You've got a look that will lend itself well to the commercial market, so don't limit yourself!

PYSA NOËL
I recently joined MWN and it's very helpful. I am new to this and don't really know what I'm doing. I need help and suggestions on my pictures. I'm interested in commercial print work. Would you take a look at my portfolio and give me some feedback on my photos? I'd appreciate any suggestions you may have after checking out my profile. In your opinion, is my look marketable for commercial print?

I like your look - it's very commercial. You have enough pictures, and a variety, to find an agent. Luckily, you live in the heart of the industry! Get out there and make appointments with agents. They will tell you what they need to market you, and if they want you to get new/additional photos. I don't think you need to change the portfolio you currently have in order to find an agent.

JULIA ZHAROVA
I'm new to the modeling industry. I'm a professional ballet dancer and model for fun. How do I find a good photographer and find a good/unique theme for a shoot? Also, what is the best way to introduce myself to the fashion world?

Forget fashion, you don't have the height. However, you DO have a very marketable commercial look. Your pictures are too stylized like a dance. I would suggest getting some new pictures that are less dance focused. Try to set up some meetings with commercial agents in San Francisco. They can advise you on what types of pictures they need to add to your portfolio. The photos you have now will get you in the door, but you'll need to get some new ones once you're there.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: Commercially Kickstart Your Career

After a couple weeks hiatus, it's time to answer some more questions! I can't stress the importance of finding a commercial agent - no matter what type of modeling or acting you want to pursue. Most professionals get their start in commercials, and even if you've got the height and proportions for fashion modeling, you will find a lot of opportunities in the commercial world. Once you've got a few good shots, get to your nearest major market and meet with agents. What are you waiting for?!


MELISHA
I'm writing for advice because I'm sad to say that my current agency is not getting me any gigs. I go on audition after audition without booking. What should I do?

You have a really good commercial look. Are you near Los Angeles or San Francisco? Where is your agent located? If he/she is in not in one of those bigger markets and is located somewhere smaller, I would suggest trying to get a new (or another) agent in a larger market. If you're working out of a smaller market, I'm assuming there aren't a lot of choices as far as agencies go. However, I will say, that the fact you're getting a lot of auditions means you/your agent are doing something right. If you're not booking, try asking a photographer or casting director you've seen a lot (and feel comfortable with) if they have any advice on what you could do to get that extra edge and transform your auditions into callbacks, avails, and bookings.

SASHA BIRD
I was wondering if you could give me some modeling advice? I would greatly appreciate your feedback on my portfolio. I would love to sign with an agency and was wondering if you think that might be possible for me.

Luckily, your look is "in" right now. You photograph well and are in a decent sized market with a substantial amount of agencies. You're ready to get out there and meet with them. Also, in your market, you can do fashion at 5'8" and that's not always the case. I would suggest making appointments to get in front of agents. You have enough shots in your portfolio to get meetings and an agent can help you build your book from there.

GRACE AGUDA
I'm 18 years old and have been in the industry for about a year. I'm concerned that, being 18, I am in an awkward stage where people don't know whether they should categorize me as a teen or adult. I have a versatile look where I can play 15-25. In the theatre world, I'm cast more mature. I'm worried my teen-looking headshot is the problem. Would you recommend I change my headshot to a more mature look or should I continue to take advantage of the teen look for print?

I would make sure all of your headshots look your age and that you look like your picture in person. Let casting place you in an age group based on the projects and what they're looking for. From your pictures, I would probably consider your age range 18-25. It's a good range to be in. Play young as long as you can. There are a lot of college/young professional roles out there. You'd fall into that same age range for commercial print too, in my opinion.

SALOME.TETVADZE
I have been touring with Cirque du Soleil since I was 6 years old and just moved to LA a few months ago to pursue modeling and acting. My main focus is modeling. Is there any advice you could give me? I want to build my portfolio and become a successful model. I'm very serious about my career but don't know where to start, who to contact, etc...

I love your look - it's very commercial. You look like an actress and you have the skills after all that time performing in front of people. I would get out there and get a commercial/talent agent (if you don't already have one) and let them help you build your portfolio. You've got enough photos already to at least get in the door and get meetings. You're a bit too short for fashion modeling, but could definitely work commercially. I would definitely suggest pursuing acting and taking some acting classes. Combining that with your years of experience will be hugely beneficial for you. 

PRISILLA WECKESSER
I am currently looking for part time or full time work in commercial print. Do you have any advice on where I could be successful with my look?

You have a commercial look (and don't have the height for fashion) so you need to find a market that has commercial agents that can represent your type. Are you closer to Los Angeles or San Francisco? If you don't already have a commercial agent, I would suggest submitting and trying to get meetings with agents in whichever of those markets is closest to you. You have good commercial headshots in your portfolio already - definitely enough to get meetings. I would also suggest commercial acting classes if you aren't already taking them. They will only help you with commercial/commercial print auditions.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: Your Book Doesn't Have To Be Perfect To Find An Agent

Agency questions come my way more often than any other type of advice request. I know I've said it before, but you don't have to have a perfect (or what you think is perfect) book before you start meeting with agents. Every agent is different, but the majority just want a few good, simple shots when you're starting out. Don't waste your time and money on pictures when agents will set up test shoots if they want to work with you. Your agent will know what types of shots to add to your portfolio based on how they want to sell you. And let's face it, a lot of models struggle because they think they're one thing (fashion) when they're another (commercial).

MASON
I live in LA and have been trying to break into the modeling industry but with very little success. I'm wondering if I'm in the right market for my look. I've been to agencies both small and large, and am finding little interest. People tell me I should be modeling all the time, but I'm thinking I have to leave LA to do it...thoughts?

I hardly ever have to say this, but you're actually too tall for fashion, so you'll have to focus on commercial print and TV. I would not suggest that you leave LA, as it has a huge commercial market. Were you only approaching modeling agents? Stay put and try to find a commercial agent. Work on your acting skills, even if just in commercial acting classes. 

GEORGES HILAIRE
If you know how I could better push myself in the industry, please let me know. I accept any advice and criticism. A few agencies wanted me to work for Zara, J. Crew, etcetera and had me shooting with big models in the industry. Sometimes, when jealousy and envy are involved, it turns out that it becomes a serious competition instead of collaboration for certain people.

Competition is what it's all about! The better model gets the job. Unfortunately, you're at a shoot to work, not make friends, and while you can't control the actions of other models, you can control your behavior. If you act professionally, that's what the people who can hire you again will remember. Your collaboration is with your agent, not with other models. You live in NYC and say you work with local agents. I think you can use more fashion in your portfolio, so see if any of the agents you work with can set you up with some test shoots to round out your book.

ANTONIO_ANTONI
I had a question about getting into the modeling world and the best way to go about contacting agencies. I am currently working on my head shots and photos to get my portfolio finished. Once I have my portfolio together, what would you suggest my next best move be?

Your next best move is to find an agent! You live in New York, and there are lots of them. Big and small. Don't spend too much money on pictures, just get a few. Let the agent that wants to represent you work on a portfolio with you. They will know just what they need in order to sell you, and can point you in the right direction in terms of photographers and looks. Get on the phone and start calling to set up appointments with agents!

ADRIAN SKY
I'm in the process of submitting to a few agencies, including Ford. What is the best way for me to submit my portfolio and what type of shots are needed? If you could look at my profile and let me know what you think, I would love to hear your feedback and advice on what my next step should be.

Your portfolio is good enough to find an agent. Let the agent that wants to rep you help work on additional pictures. They know if you're the type of model that can book from looking at one or two pictures. Then they will create your book around a look that will sell. Check the agency websites (or call the ones you want to submit to) to find out how they accept and prefer submissions. Some will do open calls, some will set meetings, and some will allow you to submit online. Each agency is different. 

DONDI SISON
How do I make it in the fashion world when I'm only 5'10"? All the other male models are 6' and above. I know it's rare for models my height to get to walk runways, especially big ones like NY Fashion Week. How do I approach agencies knowing that most will be highly critical of my height.

The male models below 6' only get agents to overlook a few inches by having a look that completely knocks them out. My advice to you would be to go commercial. There are a lot more agencies to work with and a lot more opportunities as far as booking job. You can always start there and continue looking for a modeling agent. If you find one who wants to work with you, you can always have two agents - one for commercials and one for print.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: Having The RIGHT Photos In Your Book

Whether you are modeling for fashion or in the commercial market, you need to make sure your portfolio has the right types of pictures to represent you and your niche. If you know you have a commercial look or don't have the height for fashion, it's important to have a few commercial head shots in your book. If you do tend to book a lot of high fashion work, it also never hurts to have a few close up beauty shots in your portfolio as well. You want to make sure you have a realistic outlook on the types of jobs you can book and that those looks are reflected. If you don't have an agent, and are setting up meetings, being self-aware and realistic will only make you that much more appealing as a potential client.

LYRIC JONES
I'm brand new to the business but am very interested in getting into runway. Do you have any advice on how to tackle that?

You're too short for runway, but you definitely have a good look. You could be a little too edgy for commercial print, but with the right brand, you could be a perfect fit. Definitely consider acting, if you aren't pursuing that already. It could open a lot of doors for you, and you're definitely in the right place for it. Start with a commercial acting class and go from there.

HOLLY GLASSER
I'm a 5'2' petite model in NYC trying to break into fashion. I have seen it can be done in a few cases. What would your recommendations be for a petite model. I'm currently freelancing with MSA Models.

I know there are exceptions to the rule, but maybe at 5'6", definitely not at 5'2". You have  a really good book already - lots of great photos - and a commercial look. Your profile says you act and sing, so maybe you need a new agent? There are lots in NYC, and many of them would love to work with someone who is multi-talented. Set up some meetings and see what happens! 

KELLY22
If you have some time to go over my portfolio and let me know what you think, I would really appreciate it.

You have a great commercial look - I really like it, but you need to add some more pictures with different outfits. Try reaching out to some photographers on MWN to see if they would be interested in shooting a few commercial head shots with you, or set up an appointment with a local headshot photographer. You live in NYC, so when you have a few new shots, set up meetings with some commercial agents and go from there. 

MONIQSECRETS
I'm an aspiring model currently residing in Atlanta, GA. It has always ben my dream to be a fashion model. I was hoping you could give me some advice on my portfolio. These are the best pictures I have so far. Please let me know if I need to try a different approach.

You have the height for fashion, and I like your look. Have you seen agents in Atlanta? A lot of film and TV work is happening down there that you could get involved in. You could use more pictures in your book, but get an agent before you spend any money on photos. They can give you direction on what types of shots will best help them find work for you, whether it be print, commercial, or film/TV, and even recommend photographers in the area.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: Get Out Of Your Own Way

No matter who you are, where you are, or what career you're pursuing, the biggest challenges you'll often face are of your own making. When you're starting out as a model, you may think you need to have the perfect pictures, be repped by a top tier agency, or immediately move to a large market like NY or LA. You start planning so far into the future, that you can't see the short term steps you need to take to get you there. To start out, make sure you are realistic about your type (not everyone can be a fashion model) and go from there. Get a few diverse shots in your book (commercial types ABSOLUTELY need a good headshot), and start out locally. Meet with agents, get feedback, and don't be afraid to dive in. Sitting back and dreaming about being the next Tyra or Gisele isn't going to get you where you want to be. You have to do what you can to make it happen.


SHANICE ASHLEY
What should I do if I do not have enough money to get photoshoots to build my portfolio when walking through agency doors. I always hold myself back when I really want to push myself forward.

First off, you have enough pictures to start, what you need is to find an agent before you spend any money on additional photos. If you've had meetings but haven't had luck yet, there could be something wrong in the way you're presenting yourself. You have a different look and just need to find an agent who feels they can make money with you. If you haven't been submitting because you're worried that you don't have enough photos, stop thinking that way. You have polaroids and a variety of shoots in your book. Start submitting and taking meetings! If an agent wants to work with you, they will suggest photographers for you to test with and let you know what additional images they need to move forward.

SYDNEY L. ROBINSON
Would you mind looking over my portfolio and giving me some feedback?

You are a pretty woman, but you live in a small market without a lot of work in this industry. Are you looking to move? That's a big life change with two children. You're a TV/Commercial type, one of the most competitive areas of the business. You seem to have a good job, so if you're happy with what your doing and not looking to relocate, I would say "don't quit your day job." You could try to find a commercial agent in Detroit, if it's not too far from you, and see if you could pick up some local commercial work on the side.

OHWAWA
I've been modeling for a year now and my main goal, as for any other model, is to land with a big agency. I know I have what it takes. What do you advise me to do?

You're too short for fashion but have a good look. You live in a small market, so I would suggest finding a local agent to build up your resume before you attempt to break into a large market. If it's not too inconvenient for you, try setting up meetings with agents in Washington, DC or Baltimore. Don't spend any more money on pictures until you get an agent.

CHA'QUOYA
Would you mind taking a look at my portfolio? I would greatly appreciate it.

Your pictures all look pretty much the same. I would suggest checking out agents in Dallas and trying to set up some meetings. They can help advise you on the best types of shots to add to your portfolio, if they're interested in working with you. You definitely need a big more variety. You can also reach out to other MWN members in your area, especially photographers, to see if anyone would be interested in collaborating on a shoot so you can get a few different types of shots in your book.

MEGAN SAMMUT
I'm a 24 year old aspiring model who has done numerous photoshoots with freelance photographers. Do you have any feedback/advice on my pictures?

You have too many pictures in your portfolio, so I'd start by editing some out. You should make some appointments with commercial TV & print agents since you live in NYC. See what they say. Continue studying acting for sure, because that is going to be your main area you're competing in.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: Ask Your Agent For Referrals

If you have an agent and are looking to break into a new market, you've got an excellent resource available to you. Most bigger agencies have branch offices in major markets they can introduce you to. Smaller agencies may not have more than one location, but they might be able to refer you to another agency they've worked with. It's always a good idea to ask your reps first, before trying to make your own contacts in a new location. You never want to ruffle any feathers! Just starting out and don't have an agent? Try to meet with people in your local market (or the nearest major market) to get you going. Once they feel you're ready for a larger market, they can refer you just the same.

JACOB HUNTER
If you have time to look over my portfolio, I'd appreciate it. Any advice would be great.

I like your look. You're definitely a TV/Commercial type model. Your profile says you are with Wilhelmina in Philadelphia. Let them make an introduction with their NYC office for you. They will tell you if they think you're right for that market. If so, go for it! You're close enough to make it work.

CHOCOLATE HOLLYWOOD
I know I have a different look, I'm feminine, but I don't want to come off "drag queeny." Can you take a look at some of my photos and give me some feedback?

If you don't, as you say, want to come across like a drag queen, you need to get new pictures. I would suggest getting groomed - check out other male models with long hair if you don't want to cut it - so you'll look more masculine. Look at men's fashion ads that interest you for inspiration in looks you can incorporate into a new shoot. You can reach out to photographers on MWN who may be interested in working with you to get some new images in your portfolio.

BRIAN DUVAL
I'm an up-and-coming model that is just starting out. I was curious if you have any ideas how to get started and getting exposure.

You need to have more than one picture! Add some more to your portfolio and then make the rounds to see some local agents. Starting locally is the best way for you to get going, considering where you live. Most agencies are not going to want to meet with you if you only submit one photo, so definitely add a bit to your book before reaching out.

A. RAZAZI
I have been acting and modeling for some time, however I am ready to pursue my career full time. I am obtaining my degree in theatre and I have always had a passion for the modeling business as well as the acting business. I am currently in Seattle, WA and I have a theatrical and TV/commercial agent. I would love to venture to LA or NY. If you could please look over my portfolio, I would really appreciate any advice you have to better my craft.

You have a TV/Commercial look and you're an actor. That's a great place to start. You are a model, you're just not a fashion model. Let your agency in Seattle set you up in LA with agents that they work with. This will help you expand your market. If they don't have branches in LA, they should have referrals. I would start with LA first (since it's closer) before branching out to NY. There's a lot of commercial work there, and you already have a great look and training to get you started.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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ASK JOEY: International Relations

No matter where you are in the world, most models and actors dream of working internationally. To do so, you need to know what types of documentation is required to work abroad, and whether or not there is potential for success when you are just starting out. My best piece of advice is to find an agent locally who has contacts or works with a branch office overseas that believes in you. Depending on union regulations, it's not as simple as hopping on a plane and booking work. Speak with your agent, who can offer you advice and paint a realistic portrait of the opportunities that may be available to you and how they can help. Trust me, if they can get you work anywhere, they will!

TETIANA
I'm a Ukrainian model and just moved to NY so I would like to proceed with modeling here as well. I don't know where to start. What would you advise me to do?

Do you have a work permit or green card for the US? You'll need one to be able to work anywhere in the country. You have enough pictures in your book to start setting up meetings with agents. You live in NYC and there are plenty there to contact! You're not tall enough for fashion, so I would suggest setting up meetings with commercial agencies and go from there. The work permit and/or greed card definitely need to be your first step though. No agent will be able to get you work if you aren't legally able to do so here in the US.

BOUCHERA

Most people tell me that I should do some modeling. I did it when I was in my 20s but stopped to finish school. I'm now turning 31 and don't know where to start again and get a stronger portfolio. I'm working with a modeling agency in London, but they send me out and I don't have the same success because I'm like the same experience as girls who've been doing this longer. Do you think I have a chance for success in London? Any tips on how to learn to pose better?

You are very pretty - I'm sorry you didn't keep up on the modeling but definitely try to jump back in! At your age, especially in a smaller market where they use the same girls for years, it's almost like a steady job for them and not much work to go around for others. Keep trying, you never know what could happen. If you want to update your portfolio, see if your agency has any photographers they'd set you up to test with, or if you can find someone in your area who will shoot with you for trade. It's a lower cost way to get some new photos!

TATIANA HILTON

I was wondering what you thought about modeling overseas for a girl like me who hasn't had HUGE jobs but I get good jobs and work consistently. My dream would be to travel and model but I'm not sure how to get signed with an agency out of the country or how that works. Do you have any tips or suggestions for me in particular? I am quite commercial and have dabbled in acting as well. How do I go about pursuing these things more seriously and getting bigger jobs that will allow me to travel professionally?

If you are a commercial type model here in the States, the market overseas is not open for Americans, especially in Europe. They only use actors and models from their country. The unions control the business there as SAG-AFTRA does here. The only models that work there from the US are fashion models. I don't know what's going on in Asia for you, but they DO work with foreign fashion models. The way most models work overseas is through their agents here who have contacts in foreign countries. If you have an agent here, ask them if they have a branch or contacts they work with overseas that they could set you up with.

DUYGU PANOVIC

What do you think the possibilities are of me getting signed with Ford? Wilhelmina Los Angeles wanted to sign me, but I have no working US Visa yet. I'm a German citizen and have an EU passport, a lot of strong references, and worked really hard in NY a few years ago. How can I get an agency in the US to rep me without a Visa, when I need an agency in order to get a Visa?

I'm sorry to say, but you do have a problem with the Visa. It's a terrible catch-22. If you find an agent who really believes in you and that you can book, they will sign you and help you get the Visa. You have to find the one who believes in you and will take you on without it.

YVONNE DOROTHY TUCKER

I really want to be a model, but in my home country (New Zealand) I am too short to get any modeling work. I am an actress and promo girl for my university, but my dreams are bigger than that. Do you think I have the right look for the US?

Unfortunately, you are too short for fashion modeling in the US as well. Work as an actress if you have the training! Actors from New Zealand and Australia are hot right now. Pick up on it! You could work in the US as a commercial model and actress, but like I said, without the height, fashion is going to be out for you in any market.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

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ASK JOEY: Being Commercial Isn't Bad

I know sometimes I can sound like a broken record, but if you want to model and don't have the height, you need to embrace the fact that you will have to go the commercial print and TV route. As I mention in a response below, most of us are born commercial types and very few have the sizes for fashion. The good news is, there will always be more opportunities in the commercial world. The sooner you realize the niche you belong in, the better off you'll be. Find a commercial agent who will help nurture your career and ride the bus in the direction it's going. If you have the talent and the drive, there's no telling where it will take you.

TANERELLE
I've been struggling with having "the perfect face" but being "too big" for agencies like Elite and Ford and "too small" for plus size agencies. At this point, I'm lost. Would you mind giving me some advice on where to turn next?

You are definitely a commercial model/actress, so you'll have to face the fact that you'll do well in TV and commercial print. I would suggest trying to start by finding a commercial agent you can work well with who will get you out on auditions. I would suggest getting some more variety of photos in your portfolio - not just swimwear. You need to be versatile as a commercial model or talent. Redo some of the shots in your book and get out there to meet with commercial agents.

COURTNEYDANIELLE
I am a plus size model, and I want to get into print. I realize plus fitting models and print models, even in the plus industry, have different requirements. What do you think is the best way to transfer? Do I have to start from scratch?

You have to market yourself as a commercial model and actress. The pictures you have currently can work to help you get an agent, you just have to see the right agents. If you're not the right height for fashion, whether your plus or not, you can pretty much forget it. Most people are born commercial types and not fashion models. You're still a bit on the short side for fashion, so I would suggest finding yourself a commercial agent you like and going from there. You're close to the San Francisco market, so there will be a good amount of work to be had there.

HEIDI HOWE
I am 50 years old and very fit. I am only 5'4" and have not been able to find representation due to my height and age (and possible other factors I'm not aware of). I believe there is a niche market for me and have been submitting to job postings with no success. My primary desire would be print work. Do you have any suggestions on how to get started?

You have to do print and TV. Go commercial and you'll find more success. You say you did fitness modeling - is that not print? You need a variety of pictures and you need to find a commercial agent to start. Most models/commercial types have been doing this since they were in their twenties or younger - they grew up in the business. It's not easy to break into when you get older, but I like your look and think you can find success. You should take a few commercial acting classes and submit yourself to agencies. Chances are they won't have a lot of your type on their books, so you should be able to find someone you want to work with who can submit you for jobs.

TAYLOR PASQUA
I'm curious on what is the best way into the fashion industry. I work had and bring a lot to the table with everything I do. I am a dancer, so I know what it is to perform and emote. What do you think would be the best way for me to book that first job? 

You're going to have to forget fashion modeling because you don't have the height for it. If you are serious, work on your book. Your pictures are all the same. You need to get out of your dance mode and get into commercial print mode. Get a few commercial headshots to add into the mix, since you are a TV and commercial print type. Take a few acting classes and find a commercial agent if you don't already have one. You're close to LA so there will be plenty of opportunities for class and a variety of agencies to submit to. If you don't have an agent yet, don't be afraid to start with a smaller boutique agency that will help develop your career.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

*Have a question for me? Ask away at my ModelWire Network Profile.

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Don't Be Afraid of the Dark: The Use of Shadows in Lighting - Allen Henson

Even novice photographers get it; gear is important but second to the right implementation of that gear. And a camera more often than not isn't as important as the right lighting environment, whether it's available or man-made.

A fairly common mistake we have all made at some point in our developmental process is the over use of lighting. Through the course of our experience we evolve and devolve - just look at several of your pieces you've shot over time. You'll see it - something you tried that changed everything, maybe something you stopped doing. For me, the discovery of shadow changed the entire game.

When we first discover lighting, it's pandemonium. Ring flashes, speed lights, kino, mole, LED, acute's, mono heads, and modifiers galore; barn-doors to soft boxes, gels, CTB, CTO... your head could explode over the sheer number of lighting combinations. One single sitting can turn out a hundred plus different images just with different lighting techniques.

So many of us crank in as many lights as possible, trying everything. Not a wrong answer on the path to finding your lighting voice, but maybe not your answer.

I eventually became way more infatuated with the shadows light created than with the light that light created. You must have both. Without shadow there either isn't light or there's just too much of it. Lighting in photography & video, after all, is just the allocation of light and shadow. It's your image! You tell the light where to go the same as you'd tell a model.

I've found the bulk of what I'm interested in aesthetics-wise is primarily single source, whether constant or strobe. And, usually unmodified or a beauty dish at least. We like to throw the word "noir" around just as much as "edgy." For some end-all examples of this lighting, pull up some 40's black and white flicks - great film noirs like The Maltese Falcon, Casablanca, Citizen Kane... What do you see? A whole lot of shadow. It's moody as all hell and easy to recreate on a shoestring budget. Shadow is your friend. Embrace the dark side.

"I just want to tell you all how happy I am to be back in the studio making a picture again! ... You see, this is my life. It always will be! There's nothing else - just us - and the cameras - and those wonderful people out there in the dark." - Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson) in Sunset Boulevard, 1950

Noir vidi example

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