Different by Design......Down to Business

Over the past few months my inbox has been filled with inquiries from admirers. (I'm so feeling the love) I've been afforded the opportunity to not only meet great people and visit some exciting places; I've learned some priceless lessons!!!! This month’s blog is dedicated to the model. Your gifts breathe life and motion into mine. Therefore, I'm packing this blog full of helpful tips that will hopefully get you one step closer to your dream.

1. First Impressions- We can't all be 5’10″ but put your best foot forward. When visiting an agency, have a professional portfolio and a comp card. Have these prepared before contacting any of the agencies. Say no to the cold calling, mail your comp cards instead. Make sure that your photos best represent the market that you are trying to work in.

2. Timing (My personal pet peeve) If you're on time, yep...you’re late! – Be early – 15 minutes early. If you are attending an open call – do not show up 15 minutes before the end of the open call. Arrive NO LATER than 45 minutes to an hour before the end of the open call. Open calls can be exhausting for the casting director. Always be respectful of others time.

3. Presentation Simple is the key! Dress simple in solid colored clothing. You want the casting director to see you, not your personal style. A simple solid colored blouse or sweater is best. Wear dress pants or attractive jeans.(Plain, no labels or graphics). No mini skirts, torn or faded jeans, DON'T GO FOR THE FASHION STATEMENTS!

a. Do not show off a lot of cleavage.
b. Keep makeup minimal, do not over do it. You want them to see a clean fresh canvas. This personally helps me to visualize what can be done opposed to wondering what the real you looks like under all the paint. You don't want to be remembered for too much makeup and mini-skirts that look like they belong on a street corner. (Just saying)
c. Your hair should look its best – clean and full bodied.
d. Heels are also a must. Medium height is great- no need for
stilettos – you don't want to appear as though you're padding your height.
e. Carry yourself with confidence!!
d. Never wear jewelry. As a model – you are not being hired for your fashion sense. You want them to remember you and not what you are wearing.

Most important!!!! Don't trust everyone that talks a good game! Invest in knowing your craft and the inner workings of the business. Surround yourself with positive, reliable, and trustworthy people. This industry is filled with leeches that are just waiting to better themselves by taking advantage of your eagerness to succeed. So that's my skinny on the modeling business. Never stop chasing your dreams...go catch 'em!!!

Fashionably Yours,
Linda