Modeling 101: What It’s Like to be a Model

Story, modeling by Cassie Hepler

The glitz, the glam. America’s Next Top Model makes it seem like a sham. But here’s what you don’t know about the industry…

For all those Photoshopped faces and figures plastered on magazine covers, there is so much work that has to be done behind the scenes. Think of a successful model (i.e. one who gets paid for her craft) as a pretty duck, paddling furiously away underneath.

For every one magazine publication, there are probably about 10-100 shoots that are just for portfolio building in the meantime. Now if you are an established model, you can get photographers to shoot you for free for trade (you get photos, they get photos) almost anytime – and usually with a decent team (make-up artists, wardrobe stylists, etc.) But if you are not, you must pay for an expansive and expensive portfolio or keep working with crappy photographers who do pay and hope some of those images get noticed. Most models don’t have the money to throw down $1,000 or more on professional portfolio shots especially in the beginning phases.

But most models – even your beloved Playboy bunnies – are working for as low as $50 an hour shooting nudes for Joe Schmoe to make ends meet after the 15 minutes of fame has worn off. As a “plus” model at a women’s size 8, I have had to work harder than most of the models I know to prove myself. Sure, I may have a symmetrical face and curvy body but as soon as someone may read my height/weight stats (160 pounds and 5″7), I surely must be obese – or mostly German and muscular. Age is also a huge juggernaut in the industry. At 30, certainly you must be over the hill. But here’s what they don’t tell you – over 30 models and actresses get the most work because at that point you are at the peak of your beauty and start looking like a real person. Advertisers like that – a lot because people identify with human beings, not model-alien bobble heads.

And here’s another thing – reputations talk. If you’re a diva and a notorious flake (the most hated aspect of the industry is just not showing up), your modeling career will be cut short. News flash: Photographers and models share lists. You can either be on the good list aka “great personality, on time, great shots” or be the creeper aka “this guy is a pervert, didn’t pay full amount, disappeared during the shoot (yes, it happens), etc.” And the always entertaining GWC – guy with camera who is just out there with his crappy point-and-shoot trying to get pictures of pretty ladies with no clothes on as much as possible.

Some photographers try workshops which is basically a couple of semi-pro or pro photographers “teaching” a bunch of newbies (and GWCs, they’re sneaky like that) how to use their cameras properly. One or more models are hired (and usually unfortunately paid a low wage compared to what the photographers are making off the workshop) and the shoot commences. If it’s done properly, models will have time with each photographer during the workshop. If it’s not, it’s called a “gang bang” where everyone is shooting at once, flashes are going crazy and everyone is annoyed with people shooting over their shoulder. Sometimes, there are one-on-one shoots afterward that photographers can sign up for and select a model for a modest fee for a half hour or so.

The key to being a successful model is knowing your limits. If you are not comfortable shooting nudes, don’t do it no matter what someone offers to pay you. The photos will suck because you are not into it anyway. If someone offers you a $5K per month, 6 month contract but you have to smile next to a dildo and sex lube, just say no no matter how many other perks you may get. With the online age, those photos are forever. You will get photographers whose sole mission is to turn a nude model into a porn model (and even in fashion, you’re gonna be nude sometimes). Don’t let them push you around. Politely and firmly say no and remain professional at all times. If something doesn’t feel right at a shoot, leave. Your dignity is priceless.

Follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. My modeling portfolio can be found here www.modelmayhem.com/cassiehepler.