Modeling questions answered by Jason Christenson
- Agent Wilhelmina Miami
1.
What are the Physical chacteristics necessary to be a full figured
model?
Well I'm glad you asked this question, because if you break it down
full, means to capacity without overcrowding and figure means shape.
And when you apply this to "modeling" the rules are the
same the sizes are just made larger to accommodate a bust waist
and hips. This is based on a designer's interpretation of what a
large size looks like in their particular style or line. I realize
that this make the pear shape girls or top heavy cry out with the
"what about me" mantra! However the agencies need to accommodate
the designers or "client". So remember just because you
can buy off the rack doesn't mean you are ready for your test photos.
2. What do you look for in personality?
Personality rates high on a models booking probability. Sometime
girls are given the latest fashion to wear and other times your
stuck wearing the flannel ducky pajamas but you must wear it like
a Dior! The same comparison can be made about make-up or hairstyles.
So the motto here is go with the flow and keep in mind fashion and
styles change. If you don't believe it, check out your high school
yearbook when you thought you looked pretty good after primping
all day! So sense of self and humor will keep you in the industry
for a while.
3.What influences your decision to sign a girl?
Initially her size, is she proportioned? Her personality and just
good sense of self. A model to an agency is a reflection of the agency
itself. I mean once we get past the pretty part, you must realize
you will be working with this person for up to 2 years or more.
4. How, do you think, is the best way for a girl to get an agent?
I think the best way for a girl to get an agent is to let an agent
get the girl. What I mean is that your family and friends telling
you-" you should model" is a far cry from what we may be
looking for and let's face it they can be a little biased! But if
you feel you really need to be seen in an advertisement for your favorite
designer, mailing in snapshots or sending e-mail will do just fine.
5.How Important is height?
Very! This is true for any size model. This is an important point,
If a skirt is being advertised on a girl 5'2 and their calling it
full length skirt when a girl 5'10 goes to buy it; it now has become
a mini skirt!!! And vice versa. This is why a designer makes a sample
size to cater to their interpretation of what average is. The average
model should be approximately 5'8.
6. What is the age range for a successful plus model?
At what age should you get started?
There really is no specific age to get started I mean the younger
you get started the longer you have to market yourself. I'm sure it's
no secret that young looking people fuel this industry, so to me it's
for as long as you look like you should. That can be 16-25 or 20-30
and even 25-40. But don't push it. I mean when was the last time you
saw Mick Jagger on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine.
7. What is the size that works most?
The size that clients request most is the girl who is anywhere from
a 12 to a 16. (That the shortest answer I have given.)
8. Should you spend money on pictures before you
meet with an agent?
If you have the financial resources buy all means go for it, This
can also help by getting some of the 1st job jitters out of the way
at your own expense rather than have client complain you did not know
how to move in front of the camera or know your way around a set.
But if your family and friends encourage you, then the answer is no!
Snapshots will do the same job. If you're pretty you're pretty, whether
it is a studio shot or a snapshot, if you've got it, you've got it!
9. Are showcases and scouting events worth the time
or are they all hype?
Oh my favorite question! If you live in a major modeling city i.e.
Miami, New York, LA etc. You can contact agencies and ask their policy
on submitting photos for consideration. If you live in a one traffic
light town and the highlight of your weekend is at the dollar movie!
Than a showcase is up you alley. This gives you an opportunity to
see all these prospective representatives from agencies all over the
U.S and in some cases abroad. Think of what you are saving on airfare
alone! Attend only if you feel you meet all the industries criteria.
If not stay home and save for a mini vacation.
10. Can modeling be a part time job rather than full
time?
Yes, this is a great part time opportunity! This makes you a good
conversation piece at the water cooler or on campus. As well as affords
you the luxury of turning down the flannel ducky nightgown job! If
you have a degree or trade USE IT! And if you're just too gorgeous
not to share with the rest of us then part time modeling is for you!
11. Can you be a mother and model?
HELLO!! Does Cindy Crawford breast-feed! YES YES. But would you want
to? Hopefully if you're at the stage in your life to plan to be a
parent then modeling has apparently done well for you. But ask yourself
if you had to be away from your small child for more than 3-4 days
on a trip would you do a great job? Until the child becomes as socially
acceptable as a small dog on set you would have to be willing to turn
down some work.
12. Is there such a thing as petite plus models?
No No No no and no…. I mean there should be! But again I leave
that to Petite Plus girls to rally up their favorite designers and
ask "why?" Does rapper Little Kim count? Designers seem
to love her?
13. What is the best way to get started?
Slowly and with very realistic expectations form yourself and the
industry. Super models are not born overnight!
14. Do you have any advice for a wanna be model?
Yes, go to school. Modeling can be a great segway into many other
areas of fashion, acting and television. But if your sites are set
on being a beautiful veterinarian, then the answer should be pretty
obvious. Refer to the part time modeling question # 10.
