Your very first step in your quest to become a professional model is to have a great photographic portfolio done.  This might sometimes cost a lot but remember you get what you pay for.  Your portfolio should not only show that you are a good-looking model, but also that you are expressive and that have great body language.

You then have to get prints done from a reliable photo lab, and stick labels onto the back with your name, address, contact numbers & height.  PS – be sure to use acid free glue which can harm your photographs.

Decide what kind of modelling you want to get into and make sure to deliver your portfolio in person as to make an impact.  Take your photographic modelling portfolio to Model agencies, Fashion show choreographers, advertising agencies etc.  If for instance the agency your sending your portfolio is in another city you can have 5 of your best photos printed as postcard size, courier them to the agency and follow up on telephone 4-5 days later.

 It’s ok to follow up on your deliveries but NEVER harass an agency.  If they haven’t contacted you it means you are not what they’re looking for right now.  This is why it’s so important to get your portfolio to as many agencies as possible.

Remember “The amount of trouble you get into, is directly proportionate to your level of desperation”  Agencies always try to exploit people who seem desperate for work, so take 5 minutes before any appointment and mentally prepare yourself.  Set a goal on what you want to achieve may it be America’s next Top Model or a model in the TV advertising industry.

Unless you are familiar with your agency, only attend meetings/auditions which are held at offices, never at homes and/or hotels.  (or late at night either)

When working with an agency remember and discuss what percentage of commission they will be taking.  You will make les money when using an agency but this guarantees work and exposure.  It is really hard to break into the market, so a respectable modelling agency is the best way to go.

I had the privilege of Photographing one of Louise’s friends whom she met on a course by Dr Demartini.  (Louise is in training to become a Demartini facilitator, how exciting and life enriching).  Assis Pontes’s heritage is Portuguese but he was born and raised in South-Africa.  He lives in Ellisras with his parents (as this is the culture in Portugal)  Ladies, Assis is still up for grabs if you were wondering…

I had such a great time doing a professional male photoshoot with Assis.  He is a real estate agent for Pam Golding and he believes that to sell a house it needs to look giid in the photos and he applies this same principle to himself.  He was very adventorous in our shoot and had a few ideas of his own which I welcomed as this always helps to bring out the character of your subject. 

He is such a fun-loving guy and I would do a photoshoot with him any day of the week!!

Riani