The old saying goes, "You only get one chance to make a first impression". This is true in almost every situation and modeling is no exception. When you finally get that model interview that you've been hoping and working for, bring the very best of everything you have to the meeting. Don't hold back you may not have a second interview!
I'm going to mention a few tips to help stack the deck in your favor. When I say this, don't believe for a minute that this will guarantee you a signing with the model agency. It won't. There is generally going to be fierce competition out there and it may come down to you and several other models. If this is the case, you'll want your presence to shine through giving you that oh so minor edge over the others.
First, let's talk about preparation for the interview.
Should I wear makeup or not?
Agents don't want to see your face made up like a Barbie doll. They (or their clients) can make you look the way they require after you are signed. The agent at the first interview wants to see the real you so that he or she knows the material available to work with.
So, you have two choices Either wear no makeup at all to the model interview or just a little. The latter being my suggestion.
By a "little" I'm talking very little such as ...
Some concealer to hide major blemishes
Mascara and just a touch of natural-looking eye shadow
A hint of blush to bring out the cheeks
And remember, be sure not to overdo any of this. The agent should barely be able to tell you're wearing any makeup at all so just enough to look natural "on purpose".
What to wear to the agency interview
I would suggest wearing clothing that accents your body without being overbearing. You don't want to look like a prude or "easy prey".
Don't wear excessively tight clothing or a blouse with a plunging neckline. You want the agent to first look at your face. Just a good, sensible casual outfit should work fine especially since you'll be wearing very light makeup to the interview.
From a photographer's point of view I would also suggest a button-up shirt with long sleeves. This always looks nice and gives a down-to-earth appearance. Use good judgment when dressing.
Photos or Portfolio
As I stated in the portfolio section of this book, you don't absolutely need a portfolio to take with you to the model agency interview. However, you do want to take the very best photos you have to make a good impression.
How many photos? Again, you're better off carrying only three or four of your very best shots than a portfolio book of 50 mediocre images. So, as a rule of thumb, I'd say to take from three to five good snaps including one headshot and one full body shot to the agency interview. If the agent needs to see more she'll ask for them.
Let your personality shine through
If there's one thing I've learned about professional models, they are definitely not shy!! So, one step in becoming a professional model is to look and act the part. I'm not saying to have a cocky or arrogant way about you. Just show a pleasant confidence. Here are a couple of pointers.
Let the agent put his hand out first and then give a good, firm handshake
Look the agent in the eye
Smile, Smile, Smile (Let your natural smile show, not a head bowed, nervous smile). Practice in the mirror 'til you have the right effect
Lean a bit forward when the agent is speaking (this shows you're interested and listening)
Copy the agent's body language (Be subtle about this but if the agent has his legs crossed or hand to the chin, easily follow and do the same)
When asked, describe yourself in concise terms, don't ramble
You have two ears and one mouth use them in that order.
Never argue (even if you disagree with what the agent is saying just smile and go on with the interview. You don't have to work with him if the disagreement is unsolvable)
Get the agent to talk about the model agency You'll learn more and develop rapport with her because people love to talk about themselves or their business
I know this is a lot to remember so a good way to make this information your own is to get a family member or a friend to conduct a rehearsal interview with you so that you can practice these skills. After a while you will be performing them naturally. If you know a working model, even better to let her help you.
No matter what, don't get defensive
OK, so you've made it through those awkward first moments and the interview is going great. All of a sudden the agent mentions that he would like to talk with you on another date after you've lost 10 pounds!!
What do you do now?
I know, I know, weight is a sensitive issue with women, especially models, but you should take this in context. First I would thank the agent for his advice because he knows what his clients (and your future employers) want. If you decided never to talk to that agent again, I would suggest following that advice and lose the ten pounds before setting up an interview with a different model agency.
Losing weight, getting a haircut, or staying out of the tanning bed is not an unusual request in the modeling business so listen to the advice. They are not always right but they are the ones who hire you (or not!).
Secondly, if you really listened, the agent said she wanted another interview with you which means she has enough interest in you to pursue your relationship further. Isn't that terrific? You may have scored with this agent!!
So, let the other model (the one who wasn't listening) storm out of the room in indignant embarrassment but you keep your head and maybe get the job!
So, remember these tips during your model interview and present yourself in the very best light. I feel that you will have a definite head start on those models who just walk in with no idea of what to do. Most success is learned. If you don't have it, fake it! Pretty soon you'll find it!
» left by Tawni from independence,kentucky (1 year 166 days ago.)
yes very helpfull i am 15 i have an interview tomorrow and i am so nervous this is what i have been waiting for my whole life this article was very helpful.
thanks...:) Respond to this comment
» left by Samantha from Ralegih (1 year 164 days ago.)
this article was very helpful to me. i am 18, i have an interview this afternoon, and i was just looking for some tips to help accentuate my personality and looks. i dont want to be fake, but i figured that a couple tips wouldnt hurt. Thanks for the information, you definately know what you are talking about!!!! Respond to this comment
» left by Algurl (1 year 134 days ago.)
i am 13. this is great advice i think it'll help me alot in my interview nxt week! i learned not to cake on makeup and dress too OTT ,, and to SMILE during the interview. thanks for the info. Respond to this comment
» left by Joe from ATL. GA (1 year 108 days ago.)
i am 17 and mite possibly have an interview this afternoon, i thought this article was very useful!. thanks Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (1 year 70 days ago.)
Question:
Hey sorry I am 16
and I have been approached by a friend in the fashion industry to become a model, but my nose is slightly off skew due to breaking it in two parts when I was younger. It is not very noticeable except one nostril is bigger then the other --I am getting this fixed no matter what, but they also gave me the option to make my nose straightened. I am afraid.
I can only get any "work" on my nose once. I don't particularly want to get my nose straightened but I would hate that being a determining factor why I couldn't get into modeling. Please help. Keep my off skew nose or not? I find getting the surgery justified because I'm just fixing what I accidentally did earlier.
If you could answer me that would be great and maybe write an article about the determining factors that get people into modeling. Sorry if I've placed this in the wrong section.
» left by Bob Pardue (1 year 70 days ago.)
The "nose skew" question is a little too medical in nature for me to answer. I have written a book which you can read online that tells many of the attributes and pitfalls of getting into modeling. You can get to the modeling tips section at my website
» left by Kelly from Stockbridge, Ga (347 days 11 hours ago.)
Yes it was! I am 15 and I have an interview with an agency and I would love to be fully prepared. Thanks Respond to this comment
» left by Natasha Leffler from Abotsford B.C Canada (318 days 4 hours ago.)
Hello I am a 15 year old girl and there is this modelling happening tomorrow at 2:00pm in Abotsford and I am very exiteded please wish me luck. Modelling has been my ultimate and only dream that I have a passion in for pursuing into this Industry even if and when it is tuff , i am up for the challenge and I wouldent enjoy or love anything more then this. Please Wish Me Luck! I really need it!!! THANK-YOU!!!! Respond to this comment
» left by Bob Pardue (317 days 21 hours ago.)
One commen about Aborsford... If this is a model search be very aware. If, somewhere along the way, they ask for any type fees, walk away.
» left by Ashley from New York (273 days 18 hours ago.)
i have a modeling interview tonight and i have been trying to decide what to wear-- i think i'm going with high waisted jeans and a Lucky Brand short, double breasted velvet purple blazer... i'm not sure what to wear under it-- if anyone has suggestions let me know! Respond to this comment
» left by Bob Pardue (273 days 18 hours ago.)
I would think a simple, white button up blouse would be fine. Just watch the neckline making sure you don't expose much skin. Down to earth is usually best.
» left by MICHAEL from COLUMBUS,OH (260 days 14 hours ago.)
This article is very important and helpful. Im 17 and i have an open interview in 2 days and i am so nervous and idont know what to do... this gave me some pointers and it helped me out a lot. thanks MYSPACECOM/THEBREAKFASTCLUB09 VISIT MY PAGE MODELING AGENTS..... YOUR STAR IS HERE Respond to this comment
» left by Patricia from Atlanta (248 days 5 hours ago.)
This article was VERY helpful. I'm 21 and have an interview with ceo models on tuesday and I have been looking all day to get some information on what to wear. Thank you soooo much!! :-) Respond to this comment
» left by michelle from waterloo (238 days 12 hours ago.)
Is it alright to wear jeans and heals? Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (238 days 11 hours ago.)
I would think that jeans and heels would be fine. As long as you are not over dressed you should be ok.
» left by Anonymous (203 days 12 hours ago.)
this article an the comments has really helped me. i have an interview for Pose next week and couldnt deside what to wear at all.
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