7 Reasons You Weren’t Hired for the Model Casting.

Why wasn’t I picked for the casting? We all know how disappointing it is to not get picked for a job you were hoping to book! Rest assured, “it’s not you.” Or it probably wasn’t you.

7 reasons you weren’t hired for the model casting.

  1.  You just don’t have the right look. It’s simply that. The client has a veryy specific look they are hiring for, and you didn’t fit. Even if you’re blonde and they’re looking for blondes… Are you really the closest model to the vision they had in mind? Maybe. Probably not. This is the case more often than not.
  2. Your hair is just an inch too short. If you’re at a hair casting: first of all, they are very hard to book unless you are open to complete transformations. I’m a professional hair model, among other things. I almost booked a really great hair job once, but my hair was slightly too short. I had the right look, but they needed very specific hair.
  3. They found their model before you even came to the casting. I know this is especially common with hair castings. They found the perfect model already, but the client is still pretty much obligated to execute the rest of the casting. This is why it’s usually a great idea to come at the start of a casting, rather than the middle or at the end, if you can help it.
  4. They SOUNDED like they wanted to hire you, why didn’t you get the callback? I know this is disappointing, and it could be any number of reasons. Most commonly, they just found another model that for better. Maybe it was budget, maybe it was personality. Regardless, you can’t stress yourself over it. Nothing is ever a “YES” until you are actually ON SET.
  5. Your agency. Yes, sometimes your agency really doesn’t have your best interests in mind. They have models to take care of other than you! I’ve had screw-ups with jobs in fashion week before, where I’ve booked one job and was put on hold for another and ended up not doing either one because of something that happened on the back end of things.
  6. Personality. Sometimes you might not have booked a job, because it was you. Maybe you were tired and didn’t have energy and they were looking for bubbly personalities. Either way, just be you and this probably won’t be a problem. Unless “you” means being unprofessional and rubbing off on people wrong.
  7. Not wearing the right clothes, or looking too “fresh” to the industry. If are, or you look, inexperienced, it may be a turn off to the client. The only way to not look new is to get out there, build your portfolio, build your wardrobe, and gain experience.

There are a million reasons why you weren’t picked for a job. The only thing that matters is: you weren’t picked. That’s it. No need to overthink it. It rarely has anything to do with something you did or didn’t do.

As a rule, I personally say: expect the worst, but always hope for the best. It takes a lot of tries to get hired for a modeling job. Just keep at it, and the right one(s) will come along!

Be Fierce!!

Briauna Mariah (:

10 Model Tips to Prepare for Your First Shoot

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of your first photoshoot. However, let’s avoid the “deer-in-the-headlights” look (I’ve seen it a million times) to get something really great for your portfolio!

Many new models don’t realize what it takes to get a good image until after their first shoot. It isn’t too hard once you get the hang of it, but until you do, here are some tips to remember to get you started on the right track!

  1. So long as we’re talking about preparedness…. Always make sure to bring essentials! The bare minimum? Nude undergarments… and whatever they ask you to bring. Or, if you know the clothing you’ll be shooting, wear nice undergarments that will blend well. Black, white, nude are the basics. Pasties are good to have on hand, as well as a pair of heels. If you really want to impress, paint your nails a clean, neutral color, and bring some supplemental wardrobe.
  2. Look at magazines. Find inspiration here. What do you connect to? Look for poses, and then do them. See what works and what doesn’t. Later, you can reference what you see during your shoot and try the poses out. If it’s not working, the photographer will tell you so. Also, watch fashion shoots on youtube.
  3. Pose/practice in front of the mirror. Find what angles you think look best. And then take lots of selfies. This is silly-sounding, yes, but it can help. What you see in the mirror doesn’t look exactly like a photo would. Find attractive angles, poses, and faces. Make a silly face in the mirror and see what you like and don’t like. I like to make silly faces. Sometimes the shot turns out great. I’ve had photographers refuse to take a picture of my silly face. They know what’s best for that shot. They are essentially your eyes.
  4. Practice your pretty model hands! Hands can make a shot or break a shot. If your hand looks like the claw of no return…. it’s going to look a little awkward. If it feels awkward, it may just look awkward, too.
  5. Know your assets. Maybe you won’t know what your assets are until after your first shoot. That’s ok. Figure out what your most unique and wonderful features are and how to utilize them. Example: lips. Don’t do the same expression with your face/lips for every shot. Try to change it up and see what looks best. Some assets are hard to work with, because they are so unique. But when you harness their power…. POW.
  6. Understand who will be on the shoot. Escort or no, it’s good to require a collaborator on board (such as hair, MUA, stylist, etc.), especially when working with someone you’ve never met before. Always be cautious with who you meet and where and never be completely alone with a stranger in an uncomfortable situation. Trust your gut.
  7. Relax. There is a good chance you will be nervous. It happens to all of us at one point or another. It may help to meet the photographer for coffee before the day of the shoot and discuss the type of images you’re each looking for. Hopefully you will have discussed them before! Good communication helps the shoot roll along smoothly and makes everyone happy.
  8. Be organic. Don’t hold a pose/awkward pose for long. You want to be constantly moving, so the images look more natural and fluid. Thinking of a pose and then executing it may look more stiff than you imagined.
  9. Don’t think too much. This goes back to organic movement. If you think too much, it will show in your face and your body.
  10. How to not look like a newbie? It’s hard to say, since the experience is different for everyone. A good photographer will know how to give you proper direction. Though, with time, they shouldn’t need to. Don’t be afraid to ask to see the photos during a quick break between frames, so you know how your movement and facial expressions are translating on camera.

When in doubt… simpler is definitely better! Look at agency websites and the models there. Many of their portfolios are made up of raw, organic black and white photos. Give some attitude, show the world what you’ve got. Don’t hold back. And be you!

Be Fierce!!

Briauna Mariah (:

Do Modeling Agencies like Natural Photos?

Do Modeling Agencies like Natural Photos?

Someone asked this question, and, though the question yields similar answers that are contained in my model polaroid post, it can be approached in a slightly different manner.

This question can be answered in two parts. Polaroids, and portfolio. If you’re looking to be signed, these are some good things to keep in mind whether you have a portfolio or not.


Polaroids. 

Polaroids are solely for showing off what you look like without all the smoke and mirrors (aka photoshop and makeup). Clients and agents want to know what you look like and how you photograph. My Polaroid post goes into more specific depth. However, one thing that can be added to the conversation is the definition of “natural” in the fashion world these days.

When taking and submitting Polaroids to an agency, keep in mind that there is a such thing as too natural. You want good polaroids. If you’ve ever heard that your submissions don’t need to be professional, that would be wrong. There’s a clause to that statement. They don’t need to be taken by a professional, but they should look clean and somewhat professional. Because bad lighting, blemishes, and bad photos in general will not look good. I definitely went through this phase myself, early on in my modeling career. To the left is an example of a poor Polaroid on my part. It should be obvious but to someone new to the industry, as I was at the time, I thought that all the agencies wanted was to see a picture of me. This is incorrect, they wanted to see me looking fresh, in a quality photo that enhanced my assets. Poor (especially indoor, like my example) lighting and low quality images are definitely a no! Compare the lighting of the two photos in this post (see above). See the difference in quality?

For examples of a good Polaroid, visit the Polaroid post.


Portfolio.
In regards to your portfolio, natural, raw photos in should usually be the main component, unless you have very high quality images that are more styled/editorial/avante garde/etc. Things you would see in a magazine with the photography quality of a tear sheet. If it doesn’t attain that impeccable high quality, you could probably do without.

The photos in your portfolio should showcase your modeling and your look, if they’re not showcasing an advertisement or clothing. Consider them Polaroids 2.0. A little more makeup, a specific clothing style style, and high quality photography are great to have. Your photos should show emotion, mood, and your raw beauty. Naturally.

Now, consider a different definition of natural. Natural movement, and a sense of ease. Agencies look at this as well. Though, if you don’t have this, but you have the right look, agencies could still take you in for polishing.

Having high quality “natural” photos in your repertoire of images will help brand you and attract clients who are interested in your look. I think it’s safe to say that the more natural your professional images look, the cleaner the slate you become, and the easier it is for a client to see you  in their project.


What about conceptual photos?

Lastly, if you need to decide what to do with your edgy, cool pictures, that don’t really have the word “natural” attached to them, don’t fret! Supplement your portfolio with only the best of the best and aim to get really good tear sheets. While natural photos showcase you, tear sheets showcase your experience and look insanely good in your portfolio.

When in doubt, read up on Polaroids or on how to put a portfolio together.

Be Fierce!!

Briauna Mariah (:

Polaroids for Models

What are Polaroids?

As far as modeling and the fashion industry goes, Polaroids are natural snapshots intended to show an agency or client what a model currently looks like.

These can be used by agencies to submit to over-seas agents and clients and they can also be used by the model (especially if you are a freelancer) to submit to different clients and potential gigs. They may also be used on a website so people not only can view your current work, but they can also see what you currently look like. This is important because you don’t want to be wasting the client’s time if you don’t look how they want. It saves time on both ends.

Do Polaroids need to be professional?
As a model, your Polaroids do not need to be professional. They need to look nice, yes, but they don’t have to be professional, which is why the next point explains why you do not need to pay to have Polaroids done. Most agencies take Polaroids of their models themselves.

Just because I’ve said you don’t need professional photos, doesn’t mean you can take these on your camera phone. Sometimes a client will ask for a “day-of” snapshot, which should be the only time you send camera phone shots.

These should be done with a high resolution camera in natural lighting. If you don’t have a camera, find someone who does.

My agency (or a photographer) wants me to pay for Polaroids, what should I do?
Very few agencies will (or should) ask you to pay to have Polaroids done. Models, don’t pay for Polaroids when your agency could easily take some well-lit snapshots of you or, if you don’t have an agency, you could have a photographer friend take some quick shots before or after a test shoot.

If your agency absolutely insists on paying someone, and you feel you need to do as they say, always make sure to keep track of your expenses (receipt) so that you can deduct them from your taxes. Keep a folder of all your receipts and expenses.

If possible, offer an alternative route. Offer to have your Polaroids done some other way. Find someone willing to take your pictures for free, even if its just a high resolution camera in some natural lighting. Even if that person is just a friend, parent, or roommate.

What should I wear for my Polaroids?
Polaroids should be natural and show off your body. You should have some Polaroids with both form-fitting clothes as well as a bikini. This can just look like a nice black tank top with some skinny jeans and heels, or any simple outfit that is going to show what your body looks like. The key here is simple. You will also want Polaroids in a flattering bikini. Try to wear one with neutral colors, like black, white, and brown. As long as its a mostly solid color, it should be fine. You just don’t want the clothes to be too distracting.

For makeup, wear minimal to zero makeup. You can wear a light foundation, lighten up any blemishes, and put on some mascara and lip gloss. People want to see you without makeup on. That’s what your portfolio is for.

How should I pose for my Polaroids?
Your posing should also be natural and organic. Don’t over-do it. In fact, don’t really pose. Play with your hair, keep your arms looking natural, move around as if you’re checking yourself out in the mirror. Get some shots smiling as well as a few other, moodier facial expressions. Bring your hair in front of your shoulders, and push it back. Put your hair in a bun (if applicable, of course), to show your facial features.

Make sure whoever is taking photos for you gets all the basics, which include full body, head shots, profile, 3/4 shots, and shots from the waist up.

You really don’t need anything fancy.

How often do I need to take new Polaroids?
I suggest updating your polaroids every 3 or 4 months. Your body is constantly in a state of change. You want to make sure you are giving clients an accurate representation of what you look like.

If it has been a while and you think your Polaroids may not be accurate, update them. If you get a new hairstyle, or cut your hair 3 inches, if you loose weight, if you gain weight, if you get taller, or any measurements change, these are all times that you would have new Polaroids done.

If your agency takes your Polaroids for you, they should remind you to come in for new shots. Or, better yet, feel free to remind them! Your agency deals with a lot of other girls, too. You want to be fresh on their minds, which is also another way to use Polaroids to your advantage. The more often you are in your agency, the more often they’ll think of you.

I don’t have an agency, do I still need Polaroids?
Even if you don’t have an agency, you most definitely do still need Polaroids! As I mentioned before, as a freelance model, you’ll always need Polaroids available to send to clients who wish to see what you currently look like. They want to see an accurate representation, not photoshopped, made-up, overly dramatic portfolio photos.

If you at any point wish to seek out an agency, they require that you send them Polaroids so they can see how you photograph as your natural self. Even if you go in for an agency open call, you will want to bring in Polaroids for them to see, especially if you don’t have a physical portfolio on you.

Ok, I have my Polaroids now. How do I choose which pictures I really need?
If your agency takes your Polaroids, you don’t have to worry about this question, because they will choose and upload your Polaroids themselves.

If you have an agency, but you’ve had your Polaroids done on your own, pick through all your decent images and send them all to your agency. They can pick what they need on their end.

For choosing your Polaroids for your personal use, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, you don’t need to necessarily use your Polaroids right away. Keep them in a folder on your computer that is easily accessible. Make a sub-folder of your favorite choices that include at least one good full body shot, one good head shot with and without a smile, one good 3/4 shot, and one good shot from the waist up. These are shots you can access at any time to submit to agencies or email to clients.

By “good,” I mean that the Polaroids should be clear and flattering to your image. Your eyes should not be half-asleep. Your hands should be pretty and you want angles that suit your body. This should be a no-brainer.

Where can I upload my Polaroids?
If you really want to, you can upload your Polaroids anywhere you want. Facebook, Model Mayhem, your website, etc. However, you only really need to have maybe one or two shots up online, so people (potential clients, photographers, etc), know what you look like. For example, I have a tab on my website titled “Current” that I keep updated with a head shot and a full body shot.

Other than that, you only need to use your Polaroids via email and for agency and casting submissions.

The photo to the right is an excellent bad example. Yes, it’s a great Polaroid, so it is technically a good example. However, those who keep track of my current “looks” know that my hair isn’t like that any more! Yes, I need new Polaroids. Having an inaccurate Polaroid is a no-no. If you are getting new Polaroids soon, but need to use your most current, but outdated, Polaroids, make sure to mention what you actually currently look like (if your hair has changed, lost weight, etc).

Be Fierce!!

Briauna Mariah (:

P.S. I swear, I’m getting new Polaroids sooon!

First Fashion Shoot Raw Film

When you’re a new model and you’ve been shown–for some reason or another–the whole film of a first shoot for the first time, don’t freak out!

Yeah, you’ll have some decent shots in your first shoot, but chances are, you’re not exactly going to look like Coco Rocha in every frame. Photographers don’t generally show the model the whole film. In fact this happens very rarely; the photographers will usually choose and edit which photos to send. There are always bad photos to filter through. Maybe you’ve blinked in one photo, or you have your hands at an awkward angle that looks unattractive. A photographer will shoot until s/he has “the shot” (one amazing shot, or a selection of shots) for each main look. Continue reading “First Fashion Shoot Raw Film”

Model Mayhem 101: Getting Started

I know I keep directing my fellow model friends to www.ModelMayhem.com (MM). Especially if you don’t have an agency. However, Model Mayhem, while widely used, has many in’s and out’s you should all be aware of.

What exactly is Model Mayhem?
Model Mayhem is an online social media networking outlet for models, photographers, and many more industry related individuals. As Model Mayhem expands, so does its users. There are accounts for not only makeup artists, hairstylists, and designers, but also stylists, photoshop wizards, artist/painters, body painters, digital artists, and agents.

Getting Started
I keep saying how important it is to network in this, and every other industry. Model Mayhem launched my networking abilities in the fashion industry and I’ve been climbing the rungs ever since. Model Mayhem is for dipping your toes and then diving in to the industry. I always suggest Model Mayhem for beginning models (unless your agency is adamant against you having an account or if they are already keeping your schedule full).

I’m not saying MM has been the driving force of my success. I’m saying it has been an ideal tool in showcasing my talent and connecting with other like-minded individuals. Continue reading “Model Mayhem 101: Getting Started”

What Models Need to Know About Lighting

Newer models tend not to realize how important light is. Light is your friend. No, you don’t have to be a lighting expert or know which ISO the camera is shooting at. You don’t have to know exactly how the camera exposure and technicalities work, though knowing and learning is a plus. What you do need to take away from this, if you take anything away, is that light is extremely important in a photograph and it is your job as a model to find the light.

It’s your first or second shoot and you are nervous and excited all at once. You want to blow your photoshoot out of this world. Modeling, like anything else, takes practice. And before you get too ahead of yourself, here are some basics about the three main types of lighting situations you will encounter. Continue reading “What Models Need to Know About Lighting”

How to Become a Fashion Model

How to start your career as a fashion model…(REVISITED!)

There are several things to consider when you begin modeling. Every young girl grows up thinking she wants to be a model (well, not ALL). The fashion industry is put upon a pedestal by many and it is one TOUGH industry to break. Modeling is extremely rewarding if you are passionate, but you won’t get anywhere unless you ARE passionate and give your all (*see disclaimer below).

Girls start in the fashion industry very young, which is a very popular topic for discussion these days. Many models I know and know of, however, are very smart and not only make sure to finish high school, but they go above and beyond and attend college. I myself have completed my Associates degree. I recommend a lot of thought to be put into the decision of pursuing a start in modeling.

So. How passionate are you? Continue reading “How to Become a Fashion Model”

Staying Composed on the Fashion Runway: Seattle Fashion Week 2010

Staying Composed on the Runway; & Seattle Fashion Week 2010!

I was at Seattle Fashion Week at the WAMU Theater in Seattle yesterday, May 15th, 2010. Some of the designers included House of Versatile, Vera Wang, and Richard Blayne.

Many modeling events and fashion shows are all day productions. I arrived promptly at 8:45am and left the Seattle Fashion Week event at 10:30pm. It was an amazing opportunity for fashion models, fashion designers, MUA’s (makeup artists), hair stylists, and much more. There was press from all over, including Seattle Pi. There was amazing hair, makeup, dresses and crazy outfits. There were people, lots and lots of people.

Fashion modeling is all about the people, the networking. This fashion event was definitely worth the 14 hours of practice, changing, waiting, hair and makeup, and walking (the whole day was just one big, fun adventure!). I met so many great people there and reconnected with others. It was also pretty cool that I got to see Florin, from Go Periscope there. Also Apolo Ohno, the Olympic skater was there for the show, which was a pretty big deal for everyone. It was simply amazing day with amazing people with a whole lot going on. I had a blast and I was completely in my element. Continue reading “Staying Composed on the Fashion Runway: Seattle Fashion Week 2010”