Hello loves ♥️,
If you’re thinking about getting into modelling, this post is for you. These are 5 things I wish someone had told me when I first started. I’ve learnt a lot, so I’m sharing it here to help you prepare and avoid some of the surprises.
Let’s get into it…
1. Test shoots Are Everything
Whether you’re freelance or signed, updating your portfolio is a non-negotiable. My agents used to tell me all the time about how important it is to update your book. For instance, if your hair, skin tone, body shape, etc., changes, it’s always good to show clients fresh pictures of you. It makes it easier for your agents to market you too.
You should see test shoots as a way of being creative. If you truly love modelling, then this is your free time! Also, time to practise. It doesn’t matter how many years you’ve been doing it; you can always learn something new. For new faces, this is a great way to understand what side is your best, practise your strongest poses and variety of expressions and also gain confidence in front of the camera. You’ll notice the more you practise, the better your pictures will turn out.
I personally try and update my book every three months. Of course, the more you work, the more your portfolio starts to build up work imagery, but believe it or not, I’ve booked some of my biggest jobs with test shoot images.
So make sure you test and really understand the importance of it in the modelling world.
Credits: Gilad Sasporta, George Naylor, Andy Broadbent, Beni Masiala.
2. Expenses Are Real
Nobody talks about this enough. Modelling comes with a lot of costs. You’re basically your own business. That means it’s important to stay on top of your physical appearance: nails, hair, physique, etc. You must also keep funds aside for travel costs, especially if you don’t live in the city you’re working in. You’re not paid for a casting. Any travel expense is on you to cover. It’s like an interview; you aren’t paid to attend interviews. Some clients don’t cover travel for a job, so you must always have money aside to cover this. Yes, advancements are a thing (with agencies), where they will pay upfront costs, but then it is taken out of the money they owe you. So, at the end of the day, it is still your money. Things like visas, comp cards and portfolio books are all at your cost.
This industry is last minute, so always be prepared for random expenses!
3. Payments Take Time
One thing I learnt early on: you aren’t paid straight away, not even the month after. Clients usually have a 60-day credit limit. It can even be a 90-day credit limit for some agencies. Meaning, they don’t have to pay until the 90th day. Once the agency has been paid, most will pay you on their next payment run. You could go three months until you see the money. Us models know how frustrating the payment terms can be! Especially when you have bills to pay.
This is why it’s important to have other streams of income whilst you’re still working your way up in the industry, to support you.
Some agencies offer advances where they pay you a month after the job, which is amazing but this isn’t always available.
Of course, the money in modelling is great if you’re working regularly, but you must be smart with your money and expect a delay. It won’t work like a ’normal’ job.
For freelancers, it’s on your terms, you can agree with the client payment on your terms that works for both of you.
4. Castings Are So Important
Castings are essential. Always turn up to a casting, punctual and looking great. Think of a casting like a job interview. You must attend an interview to get the job. You can’t miss it and expect to just book it. Perfecting your casting technique is a must.
Also, if it’s an ‘open call’, expect there to be a lot of models! Sometimes you can queue for hours to not even be seen. Or sometimes you will go to a casting and have a really good chat with the team. It varies depending on the client and how many models they have to see. Don’t take castings personally; a lot of the time, directors are under pressure, which is why they can seem a little off or transactional.
I’ve had castings where I walked out thinking I’d completely botched it but then had a call saying I booked the job. Just walk in and try your hardest.
I have a blog on casting tips and tricks so give that a read by clicking here.
Also, if you’re unsure about what to bring with you to a casting, check out my casting bag guide.
5. Taxes Are Your Responsibility
Remember that as a model, signed or freelance, you are self-employed. That means, you must file for your own taxes!
Always keep your receipts. All of your expenses, anything that has to do with you completing your job that you can claim as a business expense.
Make a habit of filing them away or saving them to a folder. (I keep a digital one and a physical one). It’s quite a bit of admin, but your future self with thank you coming tax season.
So, modelling isn’t all glam and looking cute. The modelling industry is full of highs and lows, and starting out is definitely a hustle. To be honest, I don’t think the hustle ever stops. Just trust the process and work hard. If you have a passion for it, stay consistent and treat it like a business, it can be so rewarding.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into this world, my Model Mindset Ebook is packed with everything I’ve learnt and tonnes of mindset exercises that have helped me stay on my A game throughout – plus with every purchase you can book into a free 1:1 Zoom call with me where you can ask me anything! I’d love to help you on your journey. ♥️
Good luck, go and smash it!
Love,
Discover more from Asha Rakha
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