Alpha Model Group DevelopmentSome models are more suited for particular jobs than others. It is mostly a case of knowing your strengths and weaknesses, so that you can be versatile. Modeling is not just fashion shows, or being on the cover of glamour magazines. We have listed some of the different types of work available through Alpha Model Group and the general guidelines of qualification for the different types of work. Unfortunately, the lax, often overlooked guidelines are typical of the subjectivity in modeling. In other words rules in modeling were made to be broken.
Fashion and Editorial print refers to the use of a model's likeness or photograph to sell apparel or accessories. The images are created or sold to the ad agencies, stores, etc. to promote their specific product. One can see examples of fashion print almost anywhere: newspapers, magazines, brochures, hang tags, point-of-purchase displays, billboards, etc. Pick up an issue of Vogue or GQ- this is fashion print. A fashion print model must satisfy the specific height and size requirements of the industry, and be able to convey a sense of style through his or her pictures.
A very small percentage of models ever work in high fashion alongside the super models, but it's still the best-known part of modeling. The small population of the Editorial model is due to the narrow range of demands on age, height, and style. The look here is a cutting-edge combination of international beauty and untouchable attitude. Women must be 5'9 or taller; Men must be 5'11 or taller. Other characteristics of Fashion Print include a sculptured look, strongly defined cheekbones and a well-defined body with a low body fat. Full even lips, clear and unblemished skin, and good posture are important factors for the Fashion or Editorial model. In an industry as trend setting and rule breaking as Fashion-Editorial Print, there are plenty of well-documented and well-paid exceptions.
A typical rate for fashion print models range from $100 - $150/hr. This varies depending on the client and the length of time the model's likeness is used, and the model's experience level. A model's agent normally negotiates the best rate, and the agency makes a percentage of the total booking.
Modeling is hard work, and this types falls into the "very hard" category. Commercial print is product advertising. You may pose with a toothbrush, car or perfume. This is the most profitable division for models. Every model wants to work Commercial Print for three major reasons: exposure, tear sheets (printed examples of paid or unpaid work in magazines, flyers, or newspaper) and repeat business. The good news: There is a lot more commercial print work than fashion or editorial print and the look for Commercial-Catalog Print is broad. It can include all ethnic types, any size depending on partner in a photo shoot, positive and happy attitude, and any age. The key factor in a commercial look is versatility, believability, and like-ability. Get ready for your jobs by understanding the industry is demanding, and understanding your own ambitions, capabilities, and limitations is equally important. Commercial print pays a minimum of $50 per hour up to $300 per hour. This is not a 40-hour workweek, but rather 4-8 hours on average
Runway models are associated with flawless looks. They appear before the public with no lens, or graphics company to airbrush a little beauty in. It's a runway model's job to put the clothing (no matter how crazy) in the best possible light. That job means getting those potential buyers off their seats, and to the store as soon as the show is over. It doesn't matter that hardly any one will be near the same size as the elegant model, because the allure is so strong. That's modeling. Rates for Runway vary depending on the client, ($200 - $500 per day), and day of week. The agency will give you the rate at the time you are given the booking.
The requirements are few. For female models, the perfect height range is 5'9"-6'0". Hips preferably 33 ½ - 35". For men it's even tighter: 6'0 - 6'2" and able to wear a 40R suit coat. The model selection must match origination and intent of market, yet bottom line is designer's subjective opinion.
You are required to be at Runway bookings 45 minutes prior the show time. This time is for the
Client to decide what shoes go with which outfits, etc. It is also used for you to read your line up so you will know in which order you go on stage and if you are doing single, double, triple, or a group run. Take a good assortment of shoes and accessories for runway. Two pairs each of black-sheer, off-white or cream, and nude colored hose are a must for every show. It is always better to take too many than to take too few.
Promotional modeling is new to most models beginning their career. Many times the booking department will hear models say "this is not real modeling". Nothing could be further from the truth. Experience - any experience is invaluable. There are 40 promotional assignments for every casting call. Working promotional assignments is fun, and it can more than pay for any investments you make as far as portfolios, comp cards, etc. A models appearance even in this category is vital. If this were not the case, a client could simply contact a temp agency. The pay for this work is $15 - $30/hr. There are no expenses covered for promotional modeling. The main thing to remember is HAVE FUN! You're getting experience. We can now verify that you are a working model with references. Some print clients will not use models without work references. You never know who will see you, and many promotional models have gone on to work on travel teams, and print ads for these clients.
Looking into the acting scene, one will find growing opportunity coupled with an equally increasing level of competition. Therefore, anyone interested in becoming a working actor must have all the advantages and information available to achieve optimum success. There are no stringent requirements concerning age, height, weight, etc., to work in film and television, as all shapes and sizes are needed. However, there are requisites for talent, skill, and professionalism. Anyone interested in becoming an actor must first and foremost be able to perform in front of a camera. Thus, training is absolutely essential, regardless of prior performing experience. Stage and live performances are completely different from film and television work. Different, subtler skills become the focus when one performs in front of the camera as opposed to performing live. Classes are offered in the training of commercial and film acting. It is extremely difficult to get a chance to audition without experience, yet one cannot gain experience without the chance to audition. So what to do? Audition for whatever is offered, whether it is in theatre or work as an extra. All of this helps you to gain experience and hopefully, casting. It also provides a wonderful opportunity to familiarize oneself with the process of the film and television industry. Extra work is available on most productions and is relatively easy to find through your local Film Commission, the Internet, and through listings in local publications. Also listed in these local publications are auditions for theatre productions. Even though theatre and film require different approaches, auditioning for any roles available will be beneficial to refine an actor's skill and build his or her confidence. Attending workshops, classes, and showcases offered by various acting teachers, casting directors and schools will increase your knowledge and experience level.
Beginning actors need to produce a good quality headshot, a professional resume, and a monologue to showcase your budding talent. Both a headshot and a resume are absolutely vital to an acting career because they are the means by which the clients, production companies, and casting directors decide who will and will not audition. It is also imperative that an actor present him/herself in the most attractive manner possible, and that he or she takes the best care of their physical appearance.
As we have already discussed the requirements for an actor (training, headshots, etc.), the next step is patience and perseverance. This is a profession in which self-discipline and strength of will are essential. Auditions sometimes come weeks apart, and, without a burning desire and clear focus, one can get frustrated. Maintenance of one's craft is an ongoing, self-motivated activity. If an actor stays on top of his or her craft, auditions will be the chances to make it! Be ready, and be sharp!
Acting requires dedication and perseverance, not to mention the talent and imagination to create and become a character. Basic industry knowledge is absolutely imperative. Be informed, be prepared, and then be ready to do your thing in front of the camera. Break a leg!
Conventions: A model working in a convention normally serves as a hostess or spokes model. Day rates vary, but generally convention rates are $25 - $100/hr depending upon the level of experience and the amount of performance duties required. Jobs normally last the length of the convention (up to three or four days). An upbeat personality is a must, as interaction with the attendees is a necessary part of the position. Clients expect professional and outgoing models. Keep that in mind.
Trade Shows: Closely related to conventions are trade shows. The main difference in these is that trade shows are specifically designed to match buyers and sellers of products and services. There are opportunities for models at trade shows to demonstrate products, model clothing, and greet customers. Normally, a model works for one of the companies attending the trade show and is booked for the length of the show (up to three to six days). Rates range form $75 - $275/day, depending on the show and the model's experience. Both the trade show and convention business are excellent for models to gain experience and meet a broad group of contacts.
A final point on this segment of the business needs to be stressed - personality is VERY important in trade show and convention work. There are many successful models that excel in this type work.
Body Part Modeling: There is a significant market for body part modeling. Body part models earn as much per hour as any other type of modeling. Hands, feet, and legs are the primary focus of body part modeling used in various aspects of advertising. An agent will know what to look for in these applications, and will determine your potential for body part modeling by examining your particular qualities. Emphasize these in your photographs or in your conversation with an agent. Body part modeling is a large segment of the business, but something many people do not consider.
Plus Size Models: This is a growing segment of the modeling trade. Plus size models are usually sizes 12-14 and up. They work in both the fashion and commercial industries.
Petite Models: Petite models are also a growing segment of specialty modeling. In fashion, they are normally between 5'4"- 5'7", but this can vary from client to client. There are also good opportunities for petite models in commercial work.
A special and important part of the model/talent industry involves child models/actors. The ages range from infant to teen. A parent hoping to get his or her child into this profession should be supportive and have a flexible schedule, as they have to be available to take their child to castings and bookings as needed. The agent/agency has no control over the length of notice regarding castings or bookings. The casting director decides the schedule; this is why flexibility is critical.
Success for a child model/actor does not necessarily stem from beauty alone. Personality and distinguishing characteristics that make the child stand out (extra curly hair, freckles, etc.) are key. Children can work in both fashion and commercial print, as well as in film and commercials.
When discussing a child's potential in this profession, it is important for the parent to remember that it should be fun for the child, and if he or she does not enjoy it, the parent should consider taking the child out of the industry.
Your child's modeling experience will take some time and effort to develop. The first year they learn to shoot while gaining a comfort level with fashion photography. Hopefully they will experience some interviews with clients and hopefully secure their first run of modeling work. Rejection is a fact of life in modeling, so parents; please do not get discouraged initially!! It's like any other business; the first year is the toughest. Just remember nothing is guaranteed, and if you're doing this to make money pass it up. Just a few children make money at first; this investment is no more than a year of dance lessons and a recital. This too can be lots of fun and a good experience, if you think of it that way jobs that come your way will be a plus! If you stick with it, it gets better and better. It is also a special time for you and your child to do something together.
A male model runs the same gamut as his female counterparts. Many men photograph well, but male modeling depends more on being a type that is currently in demand. Generally, it is a handsome, naturally rugged type: not too pretty. Hair and eye color don't much matter as long as he fits into a category.
Male models work for much longer time than women. Men are no longer cardboard figures standing stiffly and unnaturally in their wrinkle free suit. The age categories are generally young student through first employment, young married, junior executive, successful spouse and father, and contented retiree. Also, a man can break into modeling at any age There are thousands of situations and many more thousands of goods that need a male image for sales. A booking for a man will take half the time of a similar assignment for a woman because a quick change is all that is required. Men do not as a rule go through a metamorphosis of a make up session.
Male modeling is currently going through an explosion. It used to be that women made substantially more money than men. Although women still generally make more, men are catching up quickly.
There are plenty of men who want to be male models every bit as much as you do, or more, which make the competition hot and heavy. There's always some guy being discovered on the beach and the next thing he's on the cover of GQ, but don't count on it: That happens extremely rarely. You will have to work as hard as the ladies.