Personality is Important For Photographers

When meeting with an agency, it's important for a photographer to showcase not only their best work but their personality.  Personality is key in building relationships with an agency - you are going to be dealing with their models so they need to trust that you can produce you great work.  It's not enough to be great at what you do, but you also need to be able to get along with models, makeup artists, hair stylists, etc.  If personalities clash, or there's a lack thereof, it will show in the photos.  Make sure to bring something to the table - not just your work but your willingness to get the job done and the fact that you'll be able to do with a smile on your face!  No one wants to work with someone who doesn't put everything on the table.  Be open, showcase your personality and most importantly have fun!

CARLOS DAVID
I'm a pro-amateur photographer in a life changing moment.  I love to create beauty and fashion images, so I"m approaching agencies to test with their new faces.  But unfortunately, I believe I'm doing something wrong in my approach.  Do you have any advice on how to start testing for an agency?  How to start a relationship?  What steps would be important to follow?  

 

I really like your photos.  You make women look beautiful.  You show more of the beauty in your photos than the fashion.  I must say, you have the right idea - you have to start working with agencies and testing their new models.  It takes time to get them to be able to trust you and depend on you to produce great test shots.  I would suggest taking the person who runs the new faces division to lunch.  Be persistent and show them your personality and hard work ethic.  You're in New York City so there are tons of agencies to test.  Here's where your sales skills will come in handy!  Sell yourself!

EVE HARLOWE
I am a retoucher.  I would like to first ask if you plan on adding this profession as an option for MWN?  And on a more personal note, what would you suggest I do to get noticed by major publications?  I do not have representation at this point.  I have a growing reputation in the plus size industry, however I really want to do more high fashion work for major magazines.  Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

I like what you do and your feelings about it.  Yes, ModelWire Network will have it as an option in the near future.  I'm not on top of what you do but I know how to sell myself and you should too.  Make meetings with all of the publications and create projects that you feel will appeal to each one of them and ultimately sell your work.  You are in a unique line of work, people should be knocking on your door for work.

JAMES LEE PHOTOGRAPHY
Hi Joey, can you please review my portfolio?  I currently live in LA but am originally from NYC.  I have been assisting fashion photographers like Dove Shore, Luke Wooden, Sylvie Blum and Nathaniel Golberg but am looking to move back to New York.  Do you know of any photographers in NYC looking for an assistant?  Thank you for your time!

 

I like what you do but I don't have any leads for you.  Try posting projects on ModelWire Network and see what comes up.  It's important to be proactive and actively seek connections on your own - in this business, you can't always rely on other people.  It's all about networking, so go out and network.

TRINETTE DENISE
I recently had a meeting with a local talent (commercial) agency here and they are going to allow me to test with their new faces.  Could you take a look at my portfolio here on ModelWire Network and give me your honest opinion in regards to representation and overall opinion of my work?  In a perfect world I would love to work with an agency or get work with a magazine but having a strong team behind me is very important which brings me back to my first topic - for someone like myself, seeking to build a team, what are your recommendations?  My mind/heart is telling me to get out while I can! 

 

The problem with most photographers is they try to do too much.  I love the head shots and your lighting looks great.  The rest just don't have it.  You need to work on your fashion shots.  You have talent but you need to realize that the fashion and beauty industry go hand in hand - so use MWN to find a team.  It's good to have a set team to work with because you trust them more and are able to accomplish the same goals.

ALFRED R PHOTOGRAPHY
I requested to do test shoots for agency models and unexpectedly I have been invited to meet with an agency in LA.  They asked me to bring my "books."  What do you recommend I bring and what does the meeting entail?  I appreciate your advice.

 

That's great!  You have your foot in the door.  Bring only your very best photos - specifically beauty and fashion shots.  Keep it one book to make things look clean and easy.  They will also want to get to know you and how you work.  They're going to trust that you know how to work with their models so bring your best personality and best work.  Good luck!  

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

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

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Beware of Spammers - use your common sense!

It has come my attention the amount of Spammers that have recently been reaching out to you guys on the site.  It is really important for you to be cautious when responding back to any member.  You should never have to give out any personal information - use the site.  If they want to get in contact with you about work, have a couple of conversations over the SITE.  Also, be aware that if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.  If someone really wants to work with you, they either have a professional meeting with you in person or on the phone.  No one will openly offer you a paid gig without talking to you.  Use your common sense people!  I know it's easy to get caught up with the emotion of landing that big gig, but it's important to also be careful.  We are working hard with getting rid of these spammers and we can't do it without you.  Please report any suspicious action on the site immediately.  You can reach us at support@modelwirenetwork.com.  Our apologies go out to anyone who has/is falling for these scams.  Sometimes they are hard to figure out, but again, listen to your gut feeling.  It's okay to be suspicious!

CAMII GAYDEN
Would you be willing to take a look at my portfolio and give me advice on my true potential.  There is an agency here in Kansas City where I live that is only willing to seriously work with me if I attend a $4k modeling convention, which is impossible for me to do right now.  I'll be graduating in 2 months and I'm ready to model full time.  Any advice you can give will be great!

 

I checked out your profile and it looks like you have all of the right sizes and you have a nice look.  You can definitely use more pictures though.  I would suggest taking more fashion shots.  As far as agents go, there has to be more than one agency in Kansas City.  Go out and seem them.  I know you're in school, but summer is coming which is a great time to focus on your career.  You need to make some contacts in your area and build your career.  Work with people on MWN for test shoots.

ASHLEY DELVA
Do you think I can make it in New York's modeling industry?  I tried many different New York agencies and no one was interested so I somewhat lost hope in modeling, but I don't want to give up because this is my dream!

 

Your problem is your height.  At 5'7" the fashion agencies in New York will turn you down.  I like your look though.  You should go commercial.  Take an acting class and use MWN to find some test shoots.  There are lots of TV and commercial print agents in the Big Apple.  You just need to find your niche and stick with it.  

DESEAN
I need a lot of help.  I'm an aspiring model/actor but as a model I'm ready to break into magazines and ads but I'm only 5'7".  Do you know where I can go or who I can submit to, to start making my dreams a reality?  Or is there anyone I can work with that can put me on the right path?
 

 

All of your pictures look alike.  You have too many body shots.  Modeling is all types of clothing which means you need to have different looks.  Your height means you can just do commercial modeling.  Find a commercial agent, but forget high fashion.  Focus on taking more/better photos.

ESOSA EDOSOMWAN
I currently do not have an agency.  I would love it if you would take a look at my photos and offer any suggestions for agencies that may be interested.  I have booked a lot of great work these past couple of years, but many agents have had an issue with my hair type.  The funny thing is I am sought after by major photographers and clients alike, because of my hair.  Any feedback or recommendations you can offer are greatly appreciated.

 

You should definitely have an agent!  You have a great look.  Your hair isn't bad, it will just limit you for a lot of mainstream work like catalogs.  But there is a lot of editorial potential.  Maybe you can work with a wig?  Just a suggestion.  If someone is interested they are willing to work with you and your hair.  I wouldn't worry too much about it.  Good luck!

In the meantime,

Have a successful day! 

JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

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

 

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What it takes to be a Fashion Model

I get asked this all the time.  I thought I'd break it down into different parts.  1) There are certain physical requirements that you must be born with.  I always say - God makes Fashion models.  2) There is a right time for the look that you're selling.  You may be right physically but your look is wrong for the current trend.  For example, the "heroin chic" look or the beautiful face and body look.  They say fashion model looks are in the eye of the agent and the fashion editor - they always know what they're looking for.  3) There are exceptions to the requirements (i.e. Kate Moss), but that only happens once in a blue moon.  Don't place your bets on becoming a Kate Moss.  You can thank Calvin Klein for that. 

Commercial Print modeling is where most models tend to fall in.  If you don't fit into the above requirements, then you chance yourself on going into a casting and being what they are looking for.  You must find the RIGHT agent.  There are lots of casting calls on the internet but beware that some will be scams.  Also, remember that most actors are also Commercial Print models.  Therefore, the competition is great.  From my personal experience, to make it in the business, you must have the desire and the drive to make it but most importantly, it's your personality.  You are working with people who just like you, want respect.  If you have "the whole package" but you can't get along with everyone, you won't get any work.  So do things that make yourself stand out and show your personality. 

JEN KJOS
Hi Joey!  I've been looking to get into the industry for awhile now.  I was wondering if you think I have potential.  I have little experience and I love it!  This is what I want to do with my life.  It's my dream and I will do just about anything to achieve it.  Any advice on where to start or recommendations?

 

I think you have a great look for TV and Commercial Print.  Your pictures look good but you need a head shot and some business attire shots.  Get into an acting class and find the right agent for your type.  Overall, I think you have potential.  But remember - the competition is intense so be ready to work really hard.

CUINGTON
I have been modeling for almost two years now and I have hundreds of photos.  But I need tips on how to build a resume and portfolio.  Can you give me some tips on helping me?  It would be very appreciated and helpful if you could. 

 

You have a very nice look.  Your book is very commercial though.  I think you need more "suit" photos and some that we call boy-girl shots.  Go out and find an agent - I think you have a good chance.  Make sure you connect with people on MWN - you can find photographers to collaborate with.    

RYAN KNOWLES
How would someone like myself get into modeling as a career and get paid to do it? I'm very interested in getting my foot in the door.  I need a mentor like yourself.  I did a photo shoot for Model Search NYC and they ended up making me pay.  I didn't get anywhere! 

 

You only have 2 pictures.  Is that what you paid for?  You were ripped off.  Also, you don't list any attributes on your Portfolio.  Are you two feet tall or 10 feet tall?  Get serious if you want to get into the business.  You have a good look - but it takes more than that to make it.

STEVE FANTINI
I was hoping for a little feedback about the best way to get jobs for print modeling based on where I am in my acting/modeling career.  I am brand new and have a limited portfolio.  I am also 39 but still in good shape, very fit and am guessing there is a niche for me somewhere.  My first step was going to be to set up a new project here seeking photographers for a TFP kind of deal.  I am looking for the best ways to get modeling jobs in terms of who or where to target.  I am also wondering if seeking an agent is the best way to go - I am currently with Plaza 7 Talent and Modeling agency but I think I'd like a fresh start.  Thanks again for your help!  Please offer any feedback you can on anything I just mentioned.  

 

You have a very interesting look.  You're an actor which is a plus for TV and Commercial modeling.  Yes, an agent is a must.  You live in Philadelphia so there are lots of agents to see you.  You should work on your portfolio.  You have too many of the same photos.  Less is best - remember that.  Contact people on the site to work with.

GORDY RIVER
What do you look for in a potential male model?  Do I have a look or should I stick to acting? 

 

I think you have an interesting look.  But 6'3" is too tall for fashion modeling.  Start testing with agencies - if you want to model you may get lucky and find somebody who likes your look.  

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

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

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Meet our Featured Members Members for April 2012

Here are our Featured Members for April!  Spring has quickly approached us and we are pleased to share with you our latest featured members.  We also have a very special announcement in the upcoming weeks, so make sure you stay tuned.  And we can't stress enough to constantly check your MWN profile and projects page - there are tons of opportunities.  If you would like to be featured or have a project, don't hesitate to reach out to us at suppor@modelwirenetwork.com.  Have a great April!

Model of the Month:  Eric Isaiah Weldon

What is your personal style?

I'm pretty relaxed and laid back - jeans and t-shirts are dressy for me.  Working as a model has definitely changed some of my taste and taught me to appreciate designer apparel.  In the past I was really, really casual. 

What do you look for when selecting a photographer to work with?

Lighting of shots is really important to me, whether artificial or natural.  It can really show the photographer's ability to observe and what they allow the camera to expose.  I also like photographers who use a variety of angles and interesting compositions.

What genre does your work focus on?

Personally, I love working out and keeping an eye of my physical condition.  But most of the work I'm chosen for is with my clothes on, so I guess I'm okay if I just take care of my smile!

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

I've been lucky enough to book some pretty cool jobs, but working on Germany's Next Top Model with Heidi Klum and all the girls on that show was a great experience which produced some outstanding photos.  Although, working the Academy Awards as a trophy presenter was an unmatched experience that I will never forget.

Who is your favorite model of all time?

Elle Macpherson.  She was the first person I can recall that I identified with the word "model" and I've been a fan ever since.  She seems to be rolling pretty strong!

Photographer of the Month:  Allen Henson

 

Who is your favorite photographer of all time?

Helmut Newton.  I prefer black and white photos and I love anything with a noiresque feel.  And the sexuality - it's perfect.

What kind of camera/equipment do you use?

Right now I'm shooting with a Nikon D3s and a D300.  I consistently rotate between an 85 and 50 prime lens and a 70-200.  If I light, I use Profoto heads.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

I'm currently in South America.  It's wild.  There's not really any rules here, so it's perfect for creativity.  I don't like rules.

What genre does your work focus on?

Editorial.  I don't really like "pretty" pictures.  I get bored easily.  We have to take pretty picture a lot in this line of work.  With the pretty ones I always feel like I'm boring myself.  The editorial is exciting and it's interesting to me.

What is your most embarrassing moment professionally?

I leave the lens cap on a lot.  I notice immediately but it gets a chuckle out of the models.  I'm absent minded like that.

Wardrobe Stylist of the Month:  Lauren Nakagawa

 

Why wardrobe stylist?

Growing up, I loved history, film, fashion and art in general.  If you combine those 4 things, you get my dream job which is Costume Design.  I hold a BFA in Costume Design from CalArts and having that ability to design for all forms:  dance, theater, film, fashion - I realized the business behind the art of Styling.  You can have great designs, but if you can't create new trends and can't pair them with new and old pieces, you won't stand out.  And that is what Styling is to me - it's taking existing pieces and creating new looks from head to toe.

Who is your favorite wardrobe stylist of all time?

I personally love June Ambrose and Rachel Zoe.  They really are the reigning queens of the Styling world.  They dress the stars but also from do so they become stars in their own right.  I also admire Jeannie Mai who is currently changing the face of Asian American women today.  Her funky style and personality is what makes a Stylist a fashion icon - and an attainable one at that.

What do you look for when selecting a model to work with?

If they have an interesting look (everything but commercial), I'd be interested in dressing him or her.  They need to really want to play and have fun and be open to different looks.  I want a chameleon because I want them to use the clothes and accessories as props.  My styling is only as good as the model that wears them at the end of the day.

What is your favorite store to shop at?

My favorite stores become warehouses.  They are also called Sample Sales at the different showrooms in LA.  I love CC Skye for their jewelry, Michell Kim for 213 Industry and MK2K for feminine pieces, Linea Pelle for her handbags.  And if I'm shopping online, Shopbop.com is my go-to site.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

Right out of school, I was given the opportunity to custom make Rebecca Hall's brown and turquoise diner uniform for her feature film A Bag of Hammers starring Jason Ritter and Amanda Seyfried.  It was so fun to see something you made on a star and she was so gracious. 

Makeup Artist of the Month:  Lisa G Artistry

 

Why makeup artist?

I LOVE everything about it!  It is like color therapy!  I am always meeting new people, making them more beautiful, plus I get to travel!

Who is your favorite makeup artist of all time?

Oh this is a hard one - I have many.  I think you can always pick up a new trick from working with or watching another makeup artist.  Billy B and Kristofer Buckle make my top three.  But my number one all time favorite is Kevyn Aucoin.  I remember when his first book came out.  At the time, I had no idea that I wanted to be a makeup artist - yet I begged my mom to buy the book for me.  I just thought his makeup work was gorgeous!

What inspires you?

Almost anything can prompt a creative a foray.  I love anything from the 60's and early 70's.  I love big, bold colors.  Nature can inspire me.  I think my latest obsession for inspiration has been Pinterest.  Can we say obsessed with Pinterest!  I love the visuals.  There are so many creative people in the world shooting amazing images and posting the most exquisite photos on this site. 

What do you look for when selecting a model to work with?

I work with all sorts of models.  Some experienced, some not.  I think the best models are the ones that can really "turn it on" for the camera.  I love it when a model can show confidence while having a friendly personality and a good attitude.

What product can you not live without?

I can not live without Giorgio Armani Foundations, Costco baby wipes (best makeup remover ever!) and Shu Uemura brushes. 

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