Category: Modeling

How to Build a Network of Collaborators

Posted in Modeling, photographyTagged , , , , , , Leave a comment

Ever wondered how to reach out to people effectively? Let’s break it down.

Hands down the most useful skill I have developed over my photography career is the ability to network in a way that leads to meaningful and long lasting connections.

I started building my network at 14 years old. By 16, I was executing elaborate concepts with the help of already established adult professionals. In fact, the whole reason I didn’t end up going to school to study photography was because I felt I was already establishing myself as a professional and didn’t want to take away from my momentum, and I have never regretted that decision for a second. My collaborators became my teachers and mentors, the studio was my classroom. At 21 years old I got to live and work in a photography studio rent free thanks to a recommendation from my makeup artist friend at the time. During this time I joined a community of photographers and we started having regular meet ups! I had several job and press opportunities come from recommendations from other photographers, they are not just your competition. The list of opportunities I got just from networking and word of mouth is honestly and truly endless. Here’s how I did it…

Don’t Rush Into It

Before reaching out to anyone, just familiarize yourself with the local landscape. Research and identify individuals who do work that you enjoy. Social media is an incredible tool for allowing us to do this. Then, instead of reaching out to them right away- sit back and genuinely support them from afar. You know the power of suggestion? If they see your name coming up in their comments and likes often, they are more likely to remember it and to subconsciously place more value on it. This doesn’t mean harass them and constantly blow up their feed because you have ulterior motives in place. I mean just GENUINELY enjoy their work before making it about you- I swear it makes a difference. We’re talking about building long term stable connections here.

First impressions are really important, and if you reach out and rub someone the wrong way immediately, it’s not always easy to come back from that.

Time to Reach Out

The best way to reach out to someone for the first time is when you have a specific project you think they would be a good fit for. Reaching out for personal reasons to hang out or meet for coffee can raise some flags for people and make them question your intentions. When you reach out with a specific project in mind for you both this shows that the message is personal, that you are familiar with their work, and that you have already put some time and effort into this collaboration. It’s also a faster more effective way to get things done. A generic message that just says something vaguely about how you should work together sometime at best is too open ended and there might never be any follow up or follow through, and at worst it can be flagged as spam or completely ignored.

Presenting your Idea

When composing your outreach message, aim to be clear, concise, and direct. People often receive numerous emails and requests daily, so you want to capture their attention quickly. State your intentions, explain your project and why you think they would be a good fit. By providing a clear and concise proposal, you make it easier for potential collaborators to understand your vision and consider your request. The best idea to propose to someone is something that is in line with their current work, but not like anything they have done before. You will find a lot of creatives are always wanting to expand and try new things and really love and appreciate an opportunity to do so. If they don’t like the idea, at least they might suggest that you work together on something else. But if they don’t like your message, that’s a conversation stopper. So remember that how you present your idea is more important than the idea itself.

Setting the Tone

While it is important to emphasize the mutual benefits, I think people often take this too far. A surefire way for someone to piss me off, is to act like they are just “offering ” me something, as if I am not also going to be a lot for them. Often in these instances it is actually myself that has more to offer them, and I think they might know this and be overcompensating. I’m not sure if everyone can smell that, but I certainly can, so I think it’s safe to assume they might. Don’t try to manipulate them! If you feel like they have more to offer you and you are reaching above your station- be honest about that! I am way more inclined to want to work with someone who’s work doesn’t necessarily reach my usual quality if they are really kind and humble and honest about their approach. We all start somewhere, and most of us working professionals can easily think of those people who gave us a break and helped us to get to where we are. Maybe you have other ways to provide benefits for them, or maybe you can even ask them what they would find helpful! My number one rule for reaching out to people is just being honest- no bullshit.

Follow Through

Once you’ve actually breached contact and are having a conversation with them, consider that your collaboration is already starting in this conversation. Keep bringing good energy and good ideas and an open mind and ear to the table. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to compromise. Showing them you respect them and their work is everything.

Keep this energy up on set! I always try to make people feel comfortable and valued on set. Take care of them like they are guests in your home, I always liked to feed everyone, even if it was just a little fruit tray or something on set when my budget was very small, the gesture means a lot to people. Finally, when the job is done follow up with a message of gratitude!

Now, how do you make these connections last for the long run? From here, working relationships and even friendships should begin to flow naturally! If you’ve done a good job and been a pleasure to work with, they will probably be happy to work together again. Try to work with the same people often, the more you work with people the better your work together will be. If you have paid opportunities, consider hiring these people first, or recommending them to clients.

Remember, collaboration isn’t just about what you gain; it’s also about what you can contribute. Be willing to share your knowledge, skills, and resources to create a mutually beneficial partnership.

Sound easy enough? So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step, go start supporting fellow creatives, and unlock the power of collaboration!

Do you have any experiences or tips about reaching out to collaborators that you’d like to share? Let me know in the comments below.

Gallery

Creative Ideas for Your Next Fashion Photoshoot (With Pictures!)

Posted in Modeling, photographyTagged , , , , , Leave a comment
  1. Fashion or beauty photography using natural elements such as unique plants and flowers.

2. Fashion photography with a monochromatic theme. The background and the model all in the same colour, experimenting with different textures.

3. Fashion photography featuring different patterns that are bold and colourful or graphic.

4. Fashion photography inspired by different weather conditions

5. Fashion photography using unique things as accessories, or incorporating fun and playful props.

6. Fashion photography featuring bold and unique makeup or interesting hair styles.

7. Fashion photography exploring different camera and lighting tricks like putting plastic wrap over the lens, shooting through glass or crystal bowls, using gel lighting, motion blur etc.

8. Fashion photography inspired by paintings, or a specific period in history.

9. Focusing on portraits with bold facial expressions.

10. Shooting in a unique or unconventional location.

11. Using a projector. Fun creative way to also tike self portraits – like this one!

Models Off Duty: A Raw look at Model Life During Milan Fashion Week

Posted in ModelingTagged , , , , , , 1 Comment
Models arriving with all of their luggage at the models apartment. This particular model apartment was a 3 star hotel suit altered to fit 4 single beds instead of having a living room area. We each payed 23,00 EUR/day organized by the agency. Google reviews said the hotel had bed bugs in every room, but I didn’t see any when I arrived.
I did however find mold on the mattresses when I went in search of bed bugs. The bathroom was moldy too.
The beds are very close together, so you have to get comfortable with your roommates. 4 of us also had to share a bathroom, which is not easy to do when you are all models and all need to be ready early in the morning! During fashion week we all had to be up and ready by 8:30 am even if we didn’t have anything on our schedule, just in case.
Models aren’t all rich. Some are expert budget travellers, they will travel all the way across the city for the best prices on things like groceries.
I was told not to drink the water in Milan so we would make regular water trips for the best deals on water and end up carrying these heavy cases pretty long distances. One thing about models is they don’t mind long walks or heavy lifting, they always need to squeeze in a workout.
My whole trip in Milan was pretty much spent on public transit to and from castings, the agency and my models apartment.
Weekly measurements at the agency.
Despite living with 4 girls, it can be quite lonely. Actually after this I was relocated to a new apartment with 7 girls and it was even lonelier. A lot of them don’t speak english so I couldn’t even really communicate with them.
A typical long line at a casting, everyone wearing black.
Model resting backstage at a showroom. Apparently the “bread and butter” for a lot of models and agencies in Milan, I would never do it again. Intense and long days running around in heels and trying on a hundred outfits to show to buyers, one short 15 minute break, after the first week I nearly fainted and was limping because my ankle was hurting so much.

Models removing their makeup immediately after wrapping up a fashion show.

What I wish I Knew When I Started Modelling.

Posted in ModelingTagged , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Modeling Tips: Business, Agency, and Self-Care Guide

About The Author

Chelsey, a seasoned model with over 8 years of experience, is internationally signed in locations including Toronto, Montreal, Cape Town, Copenhagen, and Milan. Her journey in the modeling industry has provided her with valuable insights she wishes to share with aspiring models.

Portfolio
Photo by Ingrid Irsigler

Essential Modeling Insights for Success

Are you considering stepping into the exciting world of modeling? Here are some things I wish I knew when I was starting out.

1. Treating Modeling as a Business.

Aspiring Models, You Are Business Owners.

Models are independent contractors and not employed by their agencies. The faster you start seeing yourself as a business owner and yourself as a brand, the more successful you will be.

While some models get discovered and propelled to instant fame, that is not the story for most of us. Do your homework, learn about the ins and outs of the industry, build a network of other models, stay informed and stay involved so that you can stay in control of your career.

Do not just expect that you will sign to an agency and they will do all the work for you. You must do your homework, you must interview agencies to see which is the best fit for you and your goals, and you must have a vision for yourself and put the work in to get there.

Too often I hear of models complaining that they aren’t getting any work, but they rarely keep in contact with their agents, they let their modelling portfolio get out of date, they don’t take updated digitals, will often be unavailable for castings, or will be going and changing their appearance on a whim without updating or consulting the agency.

If you want to be getting work, you need to show your agents that you are professional and reliable and prioritizing your modelling career.

2. Agency Matters.

The Impact of Choosing the Right Agency.

Sometimes we put in tons of effort and try really hard to do everything we can and we still aren’t getting work. Don’t fret, this doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have what it takes, your agency or the market might not be the right fit. Often different agencies are known for different things: some are known for high fashion modeling, some for commercial modeling, some are known to have a more diverse roster of models etc. You might want to set up a meeting with your agents to discuss your partnership. Either they will have some suggestions for what you can do differently, or maybe it’s time to part ways.

3. Lessons from Personal Mistakes.

My Biggest Modeling Mistake.

My biggest mistake when I started modelling was wasting my best years on an agency that did nothing for me. My issue was that I believed that I wasn’t working enough because of a personal failing, so I never considered leaving or switching agencies. I felt like I was lucky to even be signed by any agency, and I stayed there for years just metaphorically collecting dust on their board.

It wasn’t until I quit modelling for unrelated reasons and came back with a different agency and started working very well, that I realized the problem wasn’t me. In fact, I later moved to a different city and started working even more and my whole perspective shifted. Sometimes you just need to find the right agency and the right market at the right timing, and sometimes these things take years and stubborn belief in yourself to get there.

The best thing you can do for yourself is take time when you are meeting with agencies to interview them as well. If they act like they are completely in control and you are lucky to have their attention at all without any room for you to ask questions, it’s a red flag in my opinion. You should be able to ask them about their brand and values, what kind of clients they have and what their vision for you is. Personally, I am always looking for agencies that will respect me as an equal and collaborate with me as a team to achieve the best outcomes for everyone. It’s kind of crazy that this is not the standard in this industry because it seems so common sense when I type it out, but there are a lot of agencies that are just out here to exploit- yes, even the reputable ones. Just because they have big models and big clients does not mean they are good team players.

And don’t skip out on carefully reviewing that contract! These are not things to be taken lightly. Understanding model contracts takes some time and practise so try to have a professional review it if you can, or a the very least look up some legal tips for models before signing any model agreement.

3. Importance of Self-Care

Nurturing Mind and Body

Modeling is demanding, both physically and mentally. It is absolutely essential that you prioritize self-care. A balanced diet, regular exercise and mindfulness practices are all incredibly helpful tools for longevity in this industry.

Model measurements aside, exercising helps you with building bodily awareness and flexibility which are extremely helpful for posing as well as stamina which you will often need on these long work days and fast paced environments. You need a strong sense of self to not lose yourself in this industry. It’s not easy to constantly be surrounded by all of these other models and not get caught up in comparing yourself to them. The best way you can ensure to book jobs is to show up with confidence, a strong sense of self and a positive attitude, all things which are not easy to maintain in this line of work where you face constant rejection and criticism.

Don’t get caught up in model fitness tips and intense dieting and workout routines and neglect your mental health. I booked way more jobs at my biggest measurements when I was at my happiest, than I ever did when I drove myself mad trying to maintain a 34 inch hip.

5. This life is not for everyone

Realities of Freelancing

You might technically be your own boss with a certain amount of freedom, but any freelancer will tell you that this isn’t exactly how it goes in practise. As freelancers we don’t have job security, you never really know when or where your next pay cheque will come from so you usually like to be available as much as possible and say yes to everything.

As a model especially, you often don’t even get your schedule until last minute. You will be constantly having to cancel or reschedule plans last minute and it’s important to have people in your life who understand that. I think this is why models usually have friends who are also models, because they understand and will never take it personally.

And while it is nice to have a job that enables you to travel, it’s not all fun and games and glamour either. You will either be paying out of pocket for your flights and accommodations, or the agency will advance it for you and you will have to pay them back as you work- both of these things are risky scenarios where you are investing time and money into a trip where you might not work at all. I won’t go too much into it here but The Guardian did an excellent job covering the issue of indentured servitude in the fashion modelling industry and here is a good article on Fashionista about Model Housing.

6. You can make great money

Empowering Yourself in the Industry

I wanted to end on a positive note, in case that last point is in danger of scaring you off. Every new business venture comes with it’s risks, and I just think it’s important to be realistic and to empower yourself with knowledge of what those are. Knowing all of these things about modelling, and having seen the dark side of it, I would still do it all over again.

I am now 26 years old with more financial freedom and stability than most people my age, and I got to travel the world and have so many incredible experiences. It wasn’t without it’s hardships and challenges, but this industry really did transform my life. I am not one of those models that comes from a rich or famous family. I had to do everything on my own and it took me a really long time to get there but I would say it was definitely worth it and I had a lot of fun on the journey.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my journey in the modeling industry, I hope these insights have served as a guiding light for those stepping into this thrilling world. Modeling, beyond its glamorous facade, demands resilience, strategic choices, and a commitment to self-care.

Remember, you are not just a model; you are a business owner and a brand. Choosing the right agency is paramount, and my personal mistake taught me the importance of making thoughtful decisions about partnerships. The industry is vast, and finding the right fit might take time, but belief in yourself can move mountains.

Self-care, both physically and mentally, is non-negotiable. It forms the foundation for longevity in this industry. Embrace your uniqueness, show up with confidence, and maintain a positive attitude despite facing rejection and criticism.

Freelancing, while offering freedom, comes with uncertainties. Be prepared for last-minute schedules and cancellations. Surround yourself with understanding friends, preferably those who share your journey.

Despite the challenges, the modeling industry has the potential to transform lives. As you embark on this adventure, empower yourself with knowledge. I, too, started as an independent freelancer and, at 26, now enjoy financial stability and the joy of having traversed the globe.

So, to every aspiring model, embrace the highs and lows, prioritize your well-being, and stay informed. Your journey is unique, and with determination, it can be a fulfilling and transformative experience.

Check out my blog post on Model Life during Milan Fashion Week for a little behind the scenes look into the experience of high fashion and international modelling.

Let me know if you have any questions, or interesting stories in the comments below!

Posing 101: Proven Techniques for Every Occasion

Posted in ModelingTagged , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment


Knowing how to strike the perfect pose can make all the difference in capturing attention and creating memorable images. Whether you’re gearing up for a professional photoshoot or just want to up your selfie game, mastering the art of posing is a valuable skill in the age of social media and constant photo-sharing. In this simple and comprehensive guide for posing beginners, we’ll explore tips and techniques that will help you shine in every shot.

Model Chelsey Boll strikes a simple but effective pose in studio for a self portrait. She has her weight on one leg with the other bent, and one hand is in the pocket of her baggy jeans while the other suggestively but subtly reaches into her shirt. Her face is angled to the side, and her eyes are looking down.

1. Understanding Your Body: The Foundation of a Great Pose

Get in front of a full length mirror! Before you even think about striking a pose, take a moment to understand your body and its natural lines.

Stand tall and straight with your shoulders back and your weight evenly distributed for a confident and poised foundation. If you have ever done yoga or ballet you might have heard to “imagine a string is pulling you up from the top of your head.” That’s exactly how you are going to begin. (In fact, taking yoga classes will help you a lot with increasing your connection to your body and your body awareness)

Next, you are going to experiment with subtle shifts in weight to find the most flattering angles for your body type. Simply shift your weight from your left foot to your right foot. Do this slightly differently each time, exploring different positioning for your shoulders, hips and knees. The first goal is to see how your body looks in different positions. Then, you can start to move faster and try to explore and get comfortable with fluid movements – almost like a dance.

Finally, you can incorporate your hands and feet. Experiment with placing your hands on your hips or in pockets, crossing your arms, or gently running your fingers through your hair. What happens if your feet are closer together? Further apart? One in front of the other? Take your time and have fun exploring all of the different thing that you can do and find what works for you, there are a hundred different ways to pose with your hands in your pockets so take your time and get to know as many as you can.

Model Chelsey Boll pulls a funny facial expression for a fashionable self portrait. Her lips are squished together and she is cross eyed.

2. Natural Facial Expressions: Less Is Often More

Also in front of the mirror, try moving your face around to different angles: left, right, up, down and everywhere in between. Congratulations! Each movement of your head is a whole different pose that you just unlocked and each one tells a unique story. Looking directly into the camera can convey confidence and connection, whereas gazing off into the distance or looking at an object just beyond the lens has a more candid feel. Looking up while smiling is a whimsical feeling, but if you look up even further and close your eyes it is almost spiritual. Looking down and smiling is shy and bashful, but looking down without a smile is somber. Do you see how each small change actually makes a whole different pose? What this means is that you actually don’t have to work as hard to pose as you think you do. A simple relaxed face with engaged eyes looking into the lens is going to be your most important expression, everything else is gravy.

In most cases the goal is to capture something real, so just express yourself naturally.

Chelsey Boll strikes a pose with her arms above her head. This pose is not as flattering as the photo on the right, though the differences are subtle.
Chelsey Boll strikes a pose with her arms above her head. This pose is much more flattering than the photo on the right, though the differences are subtle.

3. The Secret Ingredient: Unlocking your confidence

If all this time in front of the mirror has not helped you build confidence then you might just need to change your perspective. Literally.

The photos above are taken less than a minute apart and the only difference is the pose! One makes me feel great about how I look, the other… not so much. That doesn’t mean I look horrible, or even that the first photo is a bad pose, that just means that is not the best angle to capture that pose!

See, to take good flattering photos a lot of different elements need to come together at once. Lighting, hair and makeup, clothing, background, camera angle, and the right pose. You don’t fully understand how important these things are until you’ve done 100 photoshoots and seen yourself in all of these different contexts.

Every photo session has tons of outtakes where these things do not come together, otherwise shoots would go by very fast and you’d get it on the first click! As the photo subject, as long as you can show up and stay relaxed and be patient and trust the process enough to try different things and have fun, then you are doing great and should have great results.

And remember, if you don’t like photos of you so far, this does not mean you are ugly or not photogenic or not meant to be in front of a camera, you just haven’t seen yourself in the right context yet. Don’t give up!

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of posing takes practice and self-awareness. By understanding your body, experimenting with angles, and expressing yourself naturally, you can now confidently step in front of the camera and take stunning images. Whether it’s a professional photoshoot or a casual selfie, I hope these tips will help you put your best foot forward and make every photo a masterpiece. Most importantly, have fun posing!