New Exclusive Photo Shoot: Blacklisted!

Recently, Spry Lee Scott teamed up with celebrity photographer, Jeffrey Gamble to create this fashion spread, exclusively for OhMySpry.com.  Also on set were hairstylist, Giselle Modeste, makeup artist, Leora Edut and model, Anna T./Direct Model Management.

Ask Spry… So, You Want To Be A Model?

Hey Spry,

My daughter has always talked about being a model.  She will be 17 years old very soon, and I honestly think she has what it takes.  I read your post on Fashion Week, and learned that you started as a model.  What advice can you give her (or me) to seriously pursue a career in modeling?

-Model Mama

Dear Model Mama,

From the first day I stepped onto a runway, I’ve been asked this question over and over again.  Although there is no sure way to break into the industry, there are a few simple rules that I feel everyone should follow.  Here are some of my own suggestions to jump-starting a career as a professional model.

Keep Your Money In Your Pockets: If an agency really believes that they can make money from signing you, they will do what they can to make sure you have everything you need. I have a friend who is signed to one of the top agencies in the world.  They set him up with all of the photo shoots necessary to begin.  His first check from the agency was for $30.00, for a job he did.  Although the assignment paid about $2000.00, the agency took back what they initially put out to get him started in the right direction (along with their usual 20 percent).  Needless to say, he was very satisfied with the payments that followed.

Sometimes Less Is More: Don’t just go for an agency because you’re familiar with the name.  Although the more popular agencies seem like the safest approach, newer faces often get lost in the shuffle.  There are smaller agencies that can (and will) get you the work, yet give you the attention you may crave.

Do Your Research: In New York City alone, there are numerous modeling agencies, and they usually specialize in different areas (print, runway, catalog, etc.).  Make sure you find an agency that caters to your specific needs.  Also, be proactive in deciding which direction you’d like your career to go. If you want to be in a magazine(s), pick one up and see what agencies the models they use are from.

Your “Look” Is Your Job: I’ve seen so many models get dropped for not keeping up their physical appearance.  This includes everything from taking good care of your skin, to sustaining your weight.  For instance, if you’re signed on as a plus-size model, losing weight could jeopardize your contract. Even something as simple as changing your hairstyle/color must be approved by the agency.

Build Up Your Self-Esteem: It is important to understand that you will not be chosen for every gig.  Along with the yeses, be prepared for many nos, as well.  Realize that castings are not based on how good or bad a person looks, but on “the look” that the client is going for.  Constant self-reassurance, as well as a strong support system, can help you maintain a positive outlook.

For more information on a career in modeling, check out www.models-mart.com.