Ask Joey: Be Yourself in Your Photos

What's happening!

I've been asked to critique a lot of people's photos and portfolios, all of them asking what I think and feel.

For the people who are starting out:

Try to be as natural as possible. Don't pose; it always looks like you are trying. What you need to try to do is show off what kind of personality you have. Your photos will always look more inviting.

Katherine

I am looking to see if you have any advice on my photos and if you feel they represent me well.

You photograph well, but if you are questioning if your photos represent you, then it is clear that something is missing. You say that you were a track star and basketball player. If so, then you would feel very comfortable wearing athletic clothes. Take photos of you running, jumping, and playing basketball.

Let's see more of a connection between what you do best and your photographs.

If you were a track star, then use that to make connections with sportswear companies. There is a lot of money in endorsements. In business, you have got to use what has served you best over the years. Why waste all the training and fun you had? Channel that into a different direction.

Khalil Lewis

Can u please look at my work, and tell me you think. What do I need to do?

You have a very good look, and your book is well-rounded. I don't have much advice for you because you already are headed in the right direction.

What you need to do is get out there and find an agent. Though the market in Philadelphia is a bit small, it is still a strong market. Find a local agent there. Check out the fashion directory on our parent site, ModelWire.

Get proactive and start making some phone calls!

Beryl

I have a little experience in the modeling industry and just moved from Kenya to America two years ago. I would greatly appreciate it if you reviewed my portfolio and gave me your feedback. I am trying to figure out what part of the modeling industry my look would fit into.

I like your book. I think your photos look really good, but you better recheck your hip size.

In your photos, you do not look like a plus-size model, but if your hips are really 38.5", then you need to reinvent yourself. Start taking more commercial print shots.

As of now, your photos look high fashion and your book has a very editorial feel about it. However, the standard hip size for fashion and editorial models is 34". Therefore, you are not going to fit any of the designer clothes. It is time for you to change directions.

Have a happy holiday! See you all in the New Year!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: Measurements are VERY, VERY, VERY Important

What's happening!

I know I say this every week, but if you want to succeed in this industry, then you need to start with the basics. You can't be a model in this business without filling out the most important thing about you: your sizes and stats. If you are reading this and you haven't filled out your sizes and stats in your ModelWire Network profile, then do it NOW! (Well of course, finish reading my blog and then fill out your stats.)

Erin Bevins

I'd love to have your opinion on my portfolio. I really want to get some work! I'm unsigned, but am testing with pinnacle10 agency in Louisville, KY.

It's good that you are testing with pinnacle10. They are a great agency to get started with. I would urge you to continue presenting yourself to them; they should pick you up soon.

When it comes to your portfolio, as far as I am concerned, I only like your first photo in your ModelWire Network portfolio.

It is a beautiful photo of you and it is a shame that the others do not look this good. It is worth keeping, but I can't say the same for the other photos. They don't do you justice, so I would say 'start over'. Get some good body shots of yourself in there and some great fashion shots.

Wish I could give you more advice, but I do not know your measurements, seeing as you did not fill out your sizes and stats. In the modeling business, measurements are VERY, VERY, VERY important!

Luciano Acuna Jr.

What do you think I need to work on from the work you see of mine? Also are there any tips in general you can give me?

You have a very interesting look and it works! It's hard to give you much advice because it seems like you are doing everything right. You have a variety of looks in your portfolio, which shows your range. If I had to come up with anything, your portfolio could use more formal fashion shots.

I don't know why someone wouldn't sign you. Get on the train and start hitting up the agents in NYC.

Stephie Cape

I recently moved from Ohio to New York City and I have had a few conversations with 'industry people' and a few smaller agencies who are interested. But I am looking at doing something more serious. I would love for you to critique my portfolio and tell me what you think.

At this point in your career, you should build a relationship with any agency that will take you, as long as they are legitimate. Going small in the beginning is good because they can take you to the next level. Sometimes starting out at a big agency, you can you get overlooked by the more experienced models.

I like your photos. I think your portfolio is good enough for you to get out and find an agent.

Lawrence Rush

I am an actor, but I am fit at 50 and would love some modeling gigs. Any advice?

If you are an actor, then you know the business. Find a commercial agency to represent you. Most commercial agencies all have print departments. Keep putting yourself out there and network with people for those modeling gigs.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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All Models’ Portfolios Should Include Digitals aka Polaroids

What's happening!

I hope you all have had a great Thanksgiving weekend. I ended up preparing the dinner and had 14 people gather around my table. We ate, we drank, but I am glad it is over. Now I can get back to my normal routine in answering questions.

DouglasP: "I have noticed that all the agencies state on their websites that they only need a few digitals from which they apparently base their decision to either accept or reject a prospective model.  Do you think this is fair and more importantly, a reliable method for an agency to use?  Also, does this imply that the polaroids should be taken by a professional photographer or is your best friend good enough?"

Ever since I have been in the business, Polaroids have played a big part in the selection process. Polaroids tell no lies. They show you as you are, that is exactly what agents want to see.
We live in a society where time is of the essence and everything is digital. In fact, the term "Polaroids" is now being called "Digitals" in the industry. Taking a Digital is simple to take. Even a friend can take the photo and then you can email the Digitals/Polaroids to an agency or industry professional.
An agent can tell a lot in a Digital Polaroid and yes, it does decide whether or not they want to see you or not. And I know you are thinking, "Why do they not look at my portfolio with twenty-five beautiful photos of me?"
They don't have the time. Most agents only look at the first two photos in a portfolio and push it aside.
If you want to be in the business, then you need to be persistent and try to get into meet with an agent.
For all models seeking representation, your portfolio should include three photos that follow these Professional Digital Polaroid Guidelines: 

1. Headshot - close-up of the face (no smile and no makeup is best)
2. Profile - side view of the face with hair pulled back
3. Bodyshot - full length photo showing the form of the body against a plain wall (tight clothing or bathing suit attire, NO LINGERIE)

Velvet White: "What is the best way to move forward with acting and modeling? What type of people should I be looking for to work with and where do I look for accurate work?"

You look like an actress. If that is something you want, then you need sign up for acting classes and commercial reading classes.
If you want to pursue modeling, then you need to focus on commercial print modeling. There are agencies in San Francisco that focus on both acting and commercial print modeling. Do your research.
Your headshot shows that you have good skin and hair, which is great for commercial print and tv commercials. What you need to do is take more photos. One photo in a portfolio is not going to cut it. You need some casual looks, from the look of your headshot, it appears you are wearing something formal. 

As for finding people to work with, you are on the right website. Here at ModelWire Network we are a safe site that caters to working professionals in the business. Post a project on our Project page. Specify what profession you are seeking, what you want to do and the location of the shoot. By posting a project, all ModelWire Network members can read the project and submit their portfolio if they are interested. If you want to get in contact with them all you have to do is message them. This makes it safe for everyone.

Justin Magoulas: "I'm not represented by any agency at the moment, but I'm looking to see if I can get represented by Ford. I have heard that Ford is a hard one to get into due to the strict limitations on height and look...Do you have any suggestions?"

I have looked over your photos and you show a large range of looks, which is good. You could use more formal shoots in your portfolio. As it is, it feels too casual, but overall, very good. You do not look like a model, who just started a couple of months ago. 

You are a bit too short for most fashion agencies, but you could definitely get picked up at an agency in San Francisco that does both fashion and commercial print. Since that is where you live in. Don't start at the top, start at an agency that can take you to the next level.

Michelle Vidal: "I was wondering how I go about getting signed with an agency when I am right below their height requirement. Is there any way to get around it?"

I don't know what you are trying to do with your photos. You are trying to be high fashion and it doesn't work especially if you are not 5'9" or over. The only photo I like is your headshot. Take it as a compliment; you look like the "Girl Next Door." 

There is no getting around it, you have a commercial look. You didn't fill out your sizes or stats- shame on you You asked if you can get around the height requirement and in normal cases, if you're not 5'9 and over, you can't for high fashion modeling. 

Take some photos of you playing tennis, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and going to work, and get rid of the gowns!

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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Ask Joey: All Models’ Portfolios Should Include Digitals aka Polaroids

What's happening!

I hope you all have had a great Thanksgiving weekend. I ended up preparing the dinner and had 14 people gather around my table. We ate, we drank, but I am glad it is over. Now I can get back to my normal routine in answering questions.

DouglasP

I have noticed that all the agencies state on their websites that they only need a few digitals from which they apparently base their decision to either accept or reject a prospective model. Do you think this is fair and more importantly, a reliable method for an agency to use? Also, does this imply that the polaroids should be taken by a professional photographer or is your best friend good enough?

Ever since I have been in the business, Polaroids have played a big part in the selection process. Polaroids tell no lies. They show you as you are, that is exactly what agents want to see.

We live in a society where time is of the essence and everything is digital. In fact, the term "Polaroids" is now being called "Digitals" in the industry. Taking a Digital is simple to take. Even a friend can take the photo and then you can email the Digitals/Polaroids to an agency or industry professional.

An agent can tell a lot in a Digital Polaroid and yes, it does decide whether or not they want to see you or not. And I know you are thinking, "Why do they not look at my portfolio with twenty-five beautiful photos of me?"

They don't have the time. Most agents only look at the first two photos in a portfolio and push it aside.

If you want to be in the business, then you need to be persistent and try to get into meet with an agent.

For all models seeking representation, your portfolio should include three photos that follow these Professional Digital Polaroid Guidelines:

1. Headshot - close-up of the face (no smile and no makeup is best)

2. Profile - side view of the face with hair pulled back

3. Bodyshot - full length photo showing the form of the body against a plain wall (tight clothing or bathing suit attire, NO LINGERIE)

Velvet White

What is the best way to move forward with acting and modeling? What type of people should I be looking for to work with and where do I look for accurate work?

You look like an actress. If that is something you want, then you need sign up for acting classes and commercial reading classes.

If you want to pursue modeling, then you need to focus on commercial print modeling. There are agencies in San Francisco that focus on both acting and commercial print modeling. Do your research.

Your headshot shows that you have good skin and hair, which is great for commercial print and tv commercials. What you need to do is take more photos. One photo in a portfolio is not going to cut it. You need some casual looks, from the look of your headshot, it appears you are wearing something formal.

As for finding people to work with, you are on the right website. Here at ModelWire Network we are a safe site that caters to working professionals in the business. Post a project on our Project page. Specify what profession you are seeking, what you want to do and the location of the shoot. By posting a project, all ModelWire Network members can read the project and submit their portfolio if they are interested. If you want to get in contact with them all you have to do is message them. This makes it safe for everyone.

Justin Magoulas

I'm not represented by any agency at the moment, but I'm looking to see if I can get represented by Ford. I have heard that Ford is a hard one to get into due to the strict limitations on height and look...Do you have any suggestions?

I have looked over your photos and you show a large range of looks, which is good. You could use more formal shoots in your portfolio. As it is, it feels too casual, but overall, very good. You do not look like a model, who just started a couple of months ago.

You are a bit too short for most fashion agencies, but you could definitely get picked up at an agency in San Francisco that does both fashion and commercial print. Since that is where you live in. Don't start at the top, start at an agency that can take you to the next level.

Michelle Vidal

I was wondering how I go about getting signed with an agency when I am right below their height requirement. Is there any way to get around it?

I don't know what you are trying to do with your photos. You are trying to be high fashion and it doesn't work especially if you are not 5'9" or over. The only photo I like is your headshot. Take it as a compliment; you look like the "Girl Next Door."

There is no getting around it, you have a commercial look. You didn't fill out your sizes or stats- shame on you You asked if you can get around the height requirement and in normal cases, if you're not 5'9 and over, you can't for high fashion modeling.

Take some photos of you playing tennis, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and going to work, and get rid of the gowns!

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: Modeling Is About Being Versatile

What's happening!

Eric Sanchez

I am new to modeling. I have worked on some print projects including Umbro and Dickies. I love High Fashion. I am looking for representation. Any feedback would be grateful.

You have a nice look, but you have the same type of expression in all your photos. The clothes change, but the look is always the same. Modeling is about being versatile.

Images Couture

We look forward to your assistance and point of view. Please look at our images; we look forward to your evaluation of our work.

In your ModelWire Network "About Me", you say that you are fashion and editorial photographers and it very clear in your portfolio that you are. Kudos that you know what direction you need to focus on.

The only thing I can say is you don't use much movement in your photos. It is all very staged. There is no life in your photos. Either it's your direction or it is the caliber of models you are using. I would try to work with different models and get more movement in your photos.

Zzurek Jerron

I've been Modeling for almost two years now and I'm ready to get signed, it's my passion. I've been mainly doing Fashion shows and I love them. Really all I ask is for your feedback and what I need to do to make it to that Next Step in Modeling, getting signed.

Although, you show a lot of skin in your portfolio, it seems right for the market you live in. Miami is a perfect place for you to be and there are a lot of agencies there. You seem like the perfect guy for Miami and you should have no problems getting agencies to have a meeting with you.

The strongest part of your portfolio is your range of expression.

Aña Monique Photography

I wanted to know how I can go about shooting for agencies in NY? Is my book strong enough? www.anamoniquephotography.com

You are in the right location for the type of photography you are pursuing. I like what I am seeing from your portfolio. My only advice would be to hook up with agencies for test shoots. It is all about networking, so start the process.

Overall your portfolio has a nice feeling. I don't like the bathing suit photos as much as I like your other photos. You get a lot of feeling out of your models, which is great.

Chanel Rene

I would love for you to review my portfolio(s) www.chanelrene.com and of course MWN.

Your work is decent and you seem to be heading in the right direction. In a previous message to me, you said you are testing with Elite, Hollywood Model Management, LA Models, Models International, Next, BMG, Envy. That is great and the way to go!

My only advice would to be to continue shooting and work with a higher caliber of models.

I hope you all have a lovely Thanksgiving weekend! Relax and be thankful!

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: They Don’t Like Your Look

What's happening!

Here's my stab at answering six questions:

Ksenia

I actually need advice about how to get into the whole modeling industry. I live in NYC and have tried several agencies, but they all want someone experienced and I'm not. Where to start?

If these are the photos you are presenting to the agencies, I understand why they are telling you need more experience. It is a nice way of telling you they don't like your look.

Your photos do not look natural. You are trying too hard to be a high fashion model. And it is not working. Do a shoot more like the girl next door.

Cedric Armand

I can definitely use the support. I'm originally from Mississippi. Currently, I reside in Atlanta and am non-exclusive with The Talent Group in Miami.

I think you are a great looking guy and I like your photos.

Assuming that you are six foot or taller, you should find no problem finding an agency to represent you in Atlanta. There are plenty of agencies and from what I hear it is viable working market.

FantasiaC

Thank you so much to take a look my profile....does something need to be improved on my profile....??? I need your advice...

What kind of modeling do you want to do? That is the first question you need to ask yourself.

Right now, all I see is sexy photos of you. Get more of a variety in your portfolio.

Bethany Christina

I would love to get into commercial print modeling. However, it seems that most reputable agencies still have a height requirement in their commercial divisions. I read online that agencies who sign short/petite models are frequently a scam. Is it realistic to pursue commercial print modeling at my height? Is it easier to get work abroad?

I also read in your response that you recommended models going into commercial print to have a background in acting with a film and television focus. Is it possible to be a commercial print model and not do TV commercials or films?

Do you know of any good agencies in the Philadelphia area?

There are no height requirements in commercial, print modeling, or TV commercials for that matter. If they continue with that excuse, then they do not like your look and they are gently letting you down.

When it comes to scam agencies, there will always be those out there. That is why it is very important to research every agency you come across. A tell-tale sign is when they want to charge you for all pics, cards, and everything else publicity-wise all up front.

As far as acting goes for commercial print modeling, every actor and actress is a print model or a potential commercial print model - do you think they would turn down a job? That is why I say every print model needs to have acting as a background. Commercial modeling is very competitive, the more skills you have, better.

There are a lot of agencies in Philadelphia. Go to ModelWire Fashion Directory to find a local agency for you. Going abroad is out of the question. They have their own commercial models that already speak the language. The exception would be fashion models.

Hopeton

I would love some feedback as to whether modeling is a good direction for my look, and also what market you think would work with my look. I currently live in Canada, and get mixed reactions from agencies over here. Some say I am very commercial, and then the commercial agencies advised that I am too high fashion. I am not sure which direction to market myself.

Personally, I don't think you are the commercial type at all. You are more high fashion editorial. Stay focused on the fashion end of modeling.

As far as working in the Unites States, at this time it is very hard to secure a working visa. I would stay in Canada and build up your portfolio.

There are plenty of agencies in Toronto or Montreal; they will have all the contacts that you would need in order to work in the United States.

As for improving your portfolio, I have noticed you have only one expression in your photos. How about smiling every once in a while?

Keyona Mason

I want modeling jobs in Michigan. How do I get them?

I don't believe there is a very big market for models in Michigan, maybe Detroit.

If you are serious about modeling, why don't you try Chicago?

Once again: People, you need to fill out your sizes and stats. My answers can be more specific if I see them and agencies won't take you serious if you don't do this.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: You Need to Focus

What's happening!

My Inbox keeps growing and I love it. Here are the questions that I responded to this week:

Jason Schulz

Would love your feedback on my profile.

To be honest, you are all over the place. There is no theme to your book. As it is right, now I don't know what you want or want to say or what area of photography you want work in.

We can see that you are having fun, but if I was to book you for a job, I wouldn't know what to book you for. Clients book photographers because they are specialized in different styles of photography.

For instance, if I was booking a fashion shoot, I would go for someone who mainly shoots fashion. If I was booking a landscape shoot, I would book a landscape photographer. If I was booking a commercial shoot, I would go with a commercial photographer. And so forth.

You have to focus, choose an area that you enjoy shooting and work on it.

Photography Jun

I am a photographer based in the DC metro area. I am trying to work with fashion industry, but it is very hard to find where to start. www.photographyjun.com I would be really happy for any comment.

When I look at your ModelWire Network portfolio, it does not compare to what you have on your website. Your website is fabulous and it really shows off how talented you really are.

My favorite book of yours is Book III. It really shows that you can shoot beauty, which if I was a client, I would absolutely book you for. Your fashion photos; although they are beautiful, the clothes are getting lost in the beauty of the picture. When you take a photo, you need to answer these three questions:

• Are you selling the dress?
• Are you selling the model?
• Are you selling the mood?

When shooting fashion, you need the clothing to be front and center. Your current portfolio shows that you shoot beautiful pictures, but you have to find a way to make a stronger fashion statement in your photos.

I think you are very talented and you should find a rep in your area that has connections in Miami and in New York.

CASSIDY

Do you think I can even be an agency model?

From the photos that you have up on your ModelWire Network profile, it is hard to say. Your look is more editorial, but unfortunately, according to your sizes and stats, you don't have the height requirement that most fashion agencies want.

UNIQUE DEFINITION

Could you look at our website and tell me what you think of it? It's not finished yet, but if I could get some feedback, that would be great: www.uniquedefinition.com

To be honest, I am not the really qualified to comment on a clothing line or a website. You should really be talking to a web designer and someone from the garment business.

I really do like your website, design-wise; it is impressive and I personally like the clothes you are offering, but you are not offering much. If this is your line, it feels very limited.

Jamia Eaton

I would be interested in feedback from you. You can take a look at more images at www.jamiaeaton.com

I can't give you a lot of feedback because it is hard to tell from your shoe size what your other sizes are. I need to know your sizes in order give you advice. According to your website, you seem to be well represented. In fact, both of your agents are on ModelWire.

At this point, I can only tell you to upload more photos of you onto your ModelWire Network account. And get on your agents to send you out more.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: Put Some Clothes On

What's happening!

This week I was on a roll and answered five questions.

ORIANA

I would love to get as much input as possible on my portfolio, etc. I do have a question. Which photo would you recommend I use for my main photo here & on my comp card?

Don't touch your main photo, I really like it. It really shows off your eyes, lips, hair, and skin.

As for your portfolio, it is a strong fashion portfolio, but according to your sizes and stats your height is 5'7". Traditionally, fashion models need to be 5'9" or taller. Models at 5'7" should be focused on commercial print, and there are not many commercial prints in your portfolio.

You need to figure out what you want out of your career. I believe you need to focus more on the commercial side.

By the way, this photo is great and needs to be in your top five photos:

sheila j

It would be awesome if you could tell me what I can do better.

I think your portfolio is wonderful. You have everything you would need to show diversity. Unless you don't look that way or come off completely different in person, I don't see why you don't have an agent.

Personally I would use this photo as your main photo.

It is a bit stylized, but I think it really shows you.

I would at least place these kinds of photos in your top five photos / comp card.

Feel positive. From what I am looking at, you are ready for an agent, plus you live in NYC. So get out there and start interviewing. And if you have done a ton of interviews with no bite, then look more closely at your personality.

BlueIce

Could make only experience within Germany, Italy and Spain, however, would attain with pleasure further out and also on this whiteness good photographers and references. My aspiration is it good maybe also top model to become if I correspond claims!

To be honest I had a hard time understanding your question, but I am going to give it a try.

It says in your profile that you live in Germany, so I would start there before becoming a global model. There are tons of agencies in Germany; take advantage of that. Focus on the following cities as they have the biggest markets: Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt, and Dusseldorf.

If I were you, I would find the agencies in those cities. Send them your photos, make an appointment, and let them evaluate you to see if you have what it takes to be a model.

Rochelle

I would love for you to review my portfolio and let me know what improvements I need to do to get more bookings for print and runway.

Let me be honest, your photos are too sexy.

There is a market for swimsuit and lingerie ads, but the biggest market is for fashion and that involves formal wear, business attire, and sportswear. If I were casting for a fashion photo shoot, according to your portfolio I wouldn't cast you. For a swimsuit shoot, you would be at the top of my list.

Make yourself more diversified and in return you make yourself more marketable.

Idris

Should I quit? Or keep taking pics and hope for the best?

I think you should keep trying, but just like my advice for Rochelle, "You need to put some clothes on." You have a great body and it shows throughout your portfolio, but I can't tell what you would look like with clothes on.

If you are serious, you will take more fashion photos. Fashion is where the money is -- that is why it is called fashion modeling -- so put some clothes on and take more photos.

Hope this was helpful for you all. Best of luck!

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: Portfolio and International Talent Showcase?

What's happening!

I decided that this week I wanted to tackle two questions that were sent to me.

The first question comes from Matt Allison, who asked, "I have been invited to the International Talent Showcase in July 2011. Is this worth my time and money or should I just send Head/Body shots to different agencies. I am so ready to work!!"

Well, Matt, do you only want to do modeling, or are you also interested in pursuing a career in acting, singing, and/or dancing?

If you want to also pursue acting, singing, and dancing, then I would definitely say, "Go." If you are solely looking into modeling and you live in or close to any of the major US modeling markets (New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Seattle, Boston, Miami, and Chicago), then you really should focus building up your book, sending it out to agencies, and requesting interviews.

If you don't live close to any of those cities, then, yes, you should go the International Talent Showcase. But before you sign up, you need to find out what major agencies will be attending and what markets or cities they are from.

The second question comes from Olivier Chapusette who stated, "I would love to have feedback on my portfolio, if you have time!"

I do have time Olivier. But first things first: if you are a model, then you need to fill out your sizes and stats. This goes for all models on ModelWire Network - FILL OUT YOUR SIZES AND STATS! These are the first things that an agent will want to look at.

Not knowing your sizes and stats, I can't point you in the right direction, whether you need to focus more on commercial modeling or on fashion modeling.

Based on just seeing your photos, my only comment is that you need a lot more fashion shoots in your portfolio. The photos I am looking at don't show the fashion side of you.

What I want to see from your photos is you modeling in suits and sportswear. You also need to have a good head shot photo.

Best of luck, Matt and Olivier, with your modeling careers. Keep me posted.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: How does a makeup artist get an agent?

What's happening!

D. FONTA messaged me this week asking, "Can you tell me how to go about getting signed with an agent?"

First of all, D. Fonta, you have talent as a makeup artist. I went to your MWN profile to check out your work, and you have potential. You need to show more of your work, but what I saw, I liked.

The first step is putting together your portfolio. According to your profile, you say you live in Philadelphia. Therefore, you should find a local agency in your area that represents makeup artists.

Once you have found some local representation in Philadelphia, the next step is to find representation in the New York area, which is the biggest market in the United States. Make sure your portfolio is looking good before you do this. Digitally send your book, and then follow up with a phone call and try to get yourself an interview. I always found that makeup artists that I've dealt with in the past have great personalities. I hope you have a good one.

While you are prepping yourself, you need to be constantly working with new talent and new photographers. This means you need to be volunteering your services and even approaching modeling agencies about working on their test shoots.

When you are ready to start looking for representation, put together a list of the agencies you are going to approach, feel free to send the list to me. I will personally look it over to see if I can give you further input.

For the time being, make sure you are constantly updating your ModelWire Network profile because the agencies that are on ModelWire have the ability to scout for talent within the site. So update your "About Me" and your photos because you don't know when an agent will be screening your page. This goes for all MWN members seeking representation!

Best of luck, D. Fonta, and any other artists seeking representation.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

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Ask Joey: How old is too old?

What's happening!

I want to say thank you to Minsun, who post a question on my profile this week.

Her question was, "What is the age range for models these days. How old is too old?"

As we already know, models do come in all shapes and sizes, which includes a variety of age ranges. The key to modeling is to grit your teeth and accept your age range. This does not mean you have to look exactly like your biological clock says you are, but you need to accept and be realistic about how old you really look.

If you want to be model and you get the chance to meet with an agent, you need ask, "Is there a market for my age group?" Then ask, "Is there enough advertising for my age group where I can make decent living?"

We all know that the models who make the most money are the fashion models between 16 and 30 years of age. That is where most of the advertising money is spent, on the young generation.

The older models that are working have been modeling since their teens; they grew up in the business. They have clients that have booked them since they were 20, 30, 40, and they will continue for whatever age they are now. It's like any other business: you build up connections and clientele.

But I've got to tell you that the money is not the same. In most businesses, the norm is the longer you have been working the more money you make. But in the modeling business, the longer you work the less money you make, except for a chosen few.

Most models who are in their 60's didn't just decide to become a model. Most likely they have been working in the business for 30 to 50 years. It's harder to model when you are older. As I said before, most models in the older age group have been doing this for years. Plus, you are competing with actors and actresses who have been trying to make it for years. And the client will say, "Why book someone new when there are others that have been working for 10 to 20 years."

I am not saying you can't model. There are always exceptions to the rule, and you will may even make some money.

A classic car has value, but a classic model can practically make a living.

I hope you find this advice helpful and not too harsh, Minsun. Best of luck.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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Ask Joey: Making Models Feel Comfortable On Location

What's happening!

I want to say thank you to Christopher Gregson, who was the second person to post a question on my profile.

His question was, "What is your advice for making models feel comfortable on location and in the studio? Do you have any tips to help them to loosen up a bit and capture them when they're most confident and relaxed?"

The key to making anyone relaxed it to talk to them. It's just a matter of taking the time to chat.

I know that seems like a no-brainer, but not enough people take the time to do this.

I would advise you to get to your set early so that, when your talent arrives, you are the first to greet them. Walk them through the set and introduce them to the crew. That way, everyone knows one another.

Keep in mind that your set is only going to be as friendly as you make it.

While your model is getting ready, talk to them. If you are doing a location shoot, then you should take them out to dinner or grab a drink with them the night before. Talk to them about the job: what the purpose of the shoot is, what the props are, and what the story is. Get to know what they are interested in, their background, their quirks, and their personality. This helps so that, when you are shooting, you already know what motivates your model and you can talk to them more openly.

As the photographer, you are the director; your job is to run the shoot and tell a story in your photos. To do this right, you need the model to trust you so they will convey the desired emotions.

By getting to know your model, you bring life to the shoot.

I hope you find this advice helpful, Christopher, and best of luck with your career as a photographer.

In the meantime…

Have a successful day!

JOEY

* Have a question for me? Click here to go to my ModelWire Network profile.

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