Interview with Top Elite Model Shani Scherenzel

Q. I really want to model. Please tell me honestly if my height really matters - Kate Moss is apparently 5'6"?

Height matters, yes and no. It matters for high fashion shows and because models need to be similar to each other and height showcases clothes better. In other areas of modelling it matters in that the clothes need to fit well and being short or extra tall means that hemlines and cuffs will not reach the length the designer chose. For advertising and TV commercials it matters far less than other features such as a great smile or acting ability. You can lie about your height but agencies will often measure you and one can always tell if you are shorter just from looking at you even if you are wearing heels.

Sometimes height is a deciding factor, if an agency isn’t sure about taking you on, and you are short, that can be the deal breaker. I have seen a few models who did very well and were short, but they also had excellent portfolios, were beautiful, had an excellent attitude and did body work. I wouldn’t let height completely discourage you, but definitely it is an issue to look at.

If you are short you can still easily work in film, TV or commercials, as a character model, swimsuit/lingerie model, or parts model, etc. These would be easier avenues than trying to become a high fashion runway model.

Q. I was told that I don’t have what "it takes" to be a model physically. Can you help me find a career that can be similar without the physical demands?

TV commercials and advertising often calls for models to not be very "modelly" looking. Find an agency that represents these types of looks. These types of agencies often browse New Faces looking for new talent to represent. If you enjoy fashion; there are many other fields within the industry. You can work in public relations, as a fashion designer, agent, coordinator, art-director, makeup or stylist. These are just a few, they necessarily don’t require formal training but strong connections, sense of hustle and good communication are important.

Q. You have mentioned that one needs the right "attitude" to be a model, what exactly do you mean? Why is it so important, if we hear of supermodels who are difficult to work with?

Attitude can be everything! Part of what makes one attractive is the feeling you give others. People want to be around polite and positive people. This is true in any field.

A model needs to be quick to pick up direction and smart to anticipate how the mood and feel of the shoot or show needs to be. They need to be educated (reading and following magazine and fashion trends) to be aware of what looks and ideas are current. They need to be intuitive to understand the direction and what the client is looking for. They should be confident to ask questions when they don’t know what the client needs. Showing up on time, ready to go is important. Friendliness to everyone on set, including the other models is also a good thing.

These points make for a good attitude which will help get repeat bookings, even if sometimes your look is not perfect for what they are looking for. Sometimes certain people get away with a bad attitude because they are just are irreplaceable. Even then, I believe they likely work less than they could!

It’s a common misconception that naturally beautiful models take naturally beautiful photographs. The truth is—without modelling poses and modelling tips, perfect photographs are harder than you think.

If you are a professional model, a photographer will most likely guide you through a variety of model poses throughout the photo shoot. But if you are an inspiring model and are still working your way up to the top—you may have to control your poses to ensure great headshots and sample modelling photographs.

Live show models, promo models, photographic models, and runway models all rely on professional model poses to succeed. Whether you aspire to appear in print magazines or fashion shows and Hollywood movies; if you want to be a model, pay special attention to this insider guide to modelling poses.

Breathe
Although sometimes concentration enhances a good photograph, obvious concentration can distract and often ruin a good photograph as well. Do not hold your breath for a modelling pose; always remember to breathe and appear at ease.

Posture
Bad posture is an unrecognized flaw in many people. However, for models, posture is a harmful flaw. Always remember to keep your back straight and your shoulders up. Slouching affects the mood of the photograph and enlarges the appearances of your stomach. In addition to your back and shoulders, always remember to flex your stomach muscles. Despite your weight or state of shape, your abdomen will appear more toned if you flex.

Limbs
Symmetry is officially out in the modelling world. When posing, make sure to differentiate your arms and legs with asymmetrical poses. If you have one arm long and straight by your side, make sure the other arm is bent. Whether a big or small angle, the bend will make the modelling pose look more real, less artificial. Continue the asymmetry to your legs. If one leg is locked straight, give the other leg a casual bend.

Camera
Although the camera is the ultimate focal point of a modelling photo shoot, great models do not look directly into the camera. To enhance the quality of your photo shoot, look away from the camera with a mix of head and eye poses. Looking off to the right or left side, or tiling your neck to either side can help you avoid direct eye contact with the camera. In many cases, your head and neck can remain stationary in your modelling pose—and your eyes can do all the work. Head and eye positions, coupled with personable facial expressions make for great model poses.

Sitting Poses
If you are sitting down during your photo shoot—don’t think it’s ok to slack off. In fact, sitting photo shoots require a lot of extra work. If you are sitting down or reclining, it’s important to put your eight on the back of one thigh, rather than distributing your weight equally on both thighs. If you roll one hip up from the ground or surface, shifting your weight will be simple. This pose results in a slimming effect that you don’t want to miss out on.

Cleavage
To make sure your best assets shine, there are a few basic guidelines to follow. Based on two distinct poses, a forward lean and a backward lean, any model with any breast size can maximize cleavage. When leaning forward, either bring your arms together at your waist, keep your arms straight at the elbows and clasp your hands together below your waist, or simply cross your arms. When leaning backward, raise your arms about your shoulders and head, keep your arms apart, and always slouch for the best cleavage results.

Modelling Tips, How To Become A Model

Do I want to be a model?

Despite the glamour and hype you have seen about the modelling profession, it's hard work. It's boring (sometimes) and it can be tedious. Prepared to be constantly rejected, get ready for some major ups and downs. Modelling is a lifestyle, not an 9-5 job. Not all jobs pay well. Unless you are seriously committed about modelling, willing to work at it on your own time, live a healthy life style, etc., you will not succeed as a model.
You have to understand that there are lots of other people who want to be models, it's a very competitive business. Are you willing to put the time and energy into competing with pretty much everyone you meet, 24 hrs a day?


Where do I start?
You'll need a modelling portfolio, I'm sure you'll all know what one of those is but for those that don't it's basically a selection of pictures showing yourself in different outfits and poses. The standard size for the photos is 9 by 12 inches and you'll need around 10 - 12 photos. Make sure you focus on quality rather than quantity, remember, you're only as good as your worst photo. Make sure your portfolio has a selection of both head shots and full body shots. Make sure you get a variety of different looks such as swimwear, catalogue and lingerie, you get the idea, also get a couple of black and white shots in there. Avoid using pictures of the same shot.

It can be very advantageous to have photographs from different photographers in a portfolio. This will show the versatility in terms of styles and it will prove that a model can work with a variety of different people. Obviously, the cost of hiring different photographers for a portfolio is prohibitive, but there are many excellent photographers out there who will do prints for time - and of course many more bad ones. If you research what's on offer well, it can be an excellent alternative.
Before going ahead with a photo session ask to look at the photographers portfolio to see if you like his style of photography. No doubt if you go to the photographers studio to book the appointment he will have examples of his work on display anyway. If you've never done modelling before this will also be an excellent practice run for you. Avoid photographers wanting to take nude shots, if possible take a friend with you to the shoot.

The Comp Card
You'll definitely need one of these. A comp card is what your modelling agency will use to market you.
What is a comp card? A composite card (sometimes called a ZED) is a model's business card. In most cases, your comp card is your one and only opportunity to make a good first impression. With that in mind it is important that the images on your card are your absolute best and nothing less. Additionally, the printing and reproduction quality is extremely important. Poor reproduction makes your images look bad and as a result - makes you look bad. Besides a great head-shot, the comp card will have other photos that show your experience, your versatility, range, and what type of work you are seeking. For best results all of the photos should be the highest quality you can obtain at your stage in your modelling career. Make sure the you have them printed on rigid card that will withstand a bit of wear and tear.

Be careful! Do NOT have a modelling agency print your comp card. If you do - they will put their logo on it. You are going to want to sign with as many agencies as possible if you are serious about getting work. Comp card printing can get expensive - print them yourself and give each agency copies - they have stickers that they can put on them with their contact information and you will save money.


The Agency
An agency or co-ordinator should represent models. The model must have a portfolio, and comp cards. The agency/coordinator provides you with work (That is their main purpose. It is safe to say that they work for you!) They make a commission on your fee.

GOLDEN RULE - Don't go with an agency who asks for money up front! You'll probably never hear from them again and I certainly doubt you'll ever get any work from them.