Tuesday 15 October 2013

Guide to Becoming a Model – with Neon Models

Lots of people want to become a model, but some are more successful than others. Neon Models explains the right steps to take to give yourself the best chance of finding success as a model.

Step One – Decide if you really want to be a model


Think about the reasons for wanting to become a model, and though it might be hard, try to assess yourself realistically for model potential. Are you taller than average, do you have exceptionally clear skin and are you photogenic?

Step Two – Make sure you have support


If you’re under eighteen, then you can’t be a model without your parent’s consent, so you need to discuss it with them, and make sure they’re on side. The chances are they’ll probably get as excited about the idea as you, and will help you on your way.

Step Three – do some research


Read up on the industry, what’s expected from you and what you can expect. Find out about the major modelling agencies, how they work, where they’re based and what their guidelines are like. You can also contact a modelling support company such as Neon Models, who can give you an independent assessment for modelling potential and help you put together an action plan.

Step Four - Submit your photos to an agency


Read their guidelines carefully and make sure you follow them to the letter and don’t forget anything. Then you’ll have to wait to see what they say. It’s fine to submit to a few agencies at once, but only do as many as you’ll be able to take rejections. Rejection is part of life for a model, and no reason to give up too soon.

Step Five – Be professional


If you’re lucky enough to get invited in for an interview, then try to stay calm and just be yourself. If you’re under eighteen your guardian will need to go with you. Answer all the interviewers questions honestly, and try not to babble. If they offer you a contract then check it our carefully and read the small print.

Visit the Neon Models Website and register for free!

From the mouths of babes – Modelling quotes collected by Neon Models

I hate flowers - I paint them because they're cheaper than models and they don't move.
Georgia O'Keeffe


The leading cause of death among fashion models is falling through street grates.
Dave Barry


So everyone has that problem, models have that problem, too.
Heidi Klum


Models now need to promote themselves, think like businesswomen and diversify their careers by doing other things. Chances are very slim that a mere model will become a household name today.
Tyra Banks


Most of the models have this thing I call slouchy sexy, not only in the way they dress, but in the way carry themselves. I don't think they would look hot in one of my dresses. They are more into A. Wang. Most of my clothes are nerdy sexy.
Chloe Sevigny

Today it is not the classroom nor the classics which are the repositories of models of eloquence, but the ad agencies.
Marshall McLuhan


I'm not photographing the model in the classic sense; the model is playing a part in my photographs. It's more like theater. I always work with models I know, and I let them participate in deciding how to act their part.
Kim Weston


The secret to modeling is not being perfect. What one needs is a face that people can identify in a second. You have to be given what’s needed by nature, and what’s needed is to bring something new.
Karl Lagerfeld

Find out more about child modelling

Monday 14 October 2013

Neon Models – New Year’s Resolution – Become a Model!


Perhaps you’ve been thinking for a while that you might want to be a model. But you haven’t really pursued the idea because you haven’t known where to start and how the industry works. But your new year’s resolution is to take your first steps as a model.

So where to start? Neon Models’ intro to the industry…


Well, the first thing to do is think about what sort of modelling you want to do. Most people think of catwalk models when they think of modelling, but fashion shows are only suitable for a very small minority of models, and there is a lot wider variety of modelling work out there than that.
If you’re not as tall, you may be more suited to catalogue or commercial modelling. This work can be much more plentiful and flexible and it pays well.
Or, if you have an unusual look – perhaps lots of tattoos and you like dying your hair in bold colours, then the alternative model market is growing as more clothing lines spring up to target smaller minority interest groups.
Another often overlooked sector of modelling is body part modelling. There is quite a lot of demand for models with specifically amazing body parts, such as hands, feet, eyes and ears, and some people make a good living by modelling just a single part of their body!
If you’re aged 12 – 16 you’ll be considering teen modelling, which is a whole industry in itself. Remember, teen models have to be professional – modelling is a job and requires a mature person. Clients are not going to have time for pouting and temper tantrums.
You’ll also want to consider whether you might like to try freelance modelling. This is where you deal with the business side of modelling yourself and don’t worry about joining an agency. Or you may pursue freelance if you don’t have any luck with agencies.

Visit the Neon Models Website!

Which are the best cities to be a model? Neon Models does a virtual tour of the fashion capitals of the world…

As with many things, location is a key factor in the success or failure of a model. Proximity to jobs means you can get there faster and cheaper, and in the fast moving fashion industry, quick turnaround is often a deal breaker. As a general rule, big cities offer many more opportunities than smaller places, as the clients and agencies are concentrated there.
There are four major fashion capitals in the world: Milan, New York, Paris, London. Neon Models explains what each of them is about.

Opportunities for modelling in Milan


In 2009 Milan was declared the top economic and media capital of fashion. There are a great many world famous Italian fashion brands which have their main headquarters located in the city, including: Valentino, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Armani and Dolce & Gabbana. Milan Fashion Week is held twice a year and is one of the Holy Grails for catwalk models.

Modelling in New York


The only recognised fashion capital outside of Europe, New York is a metropolitan city that never sleeps and is home to the cutting edge of innovation is style and culture. New York Fashion Week, branded Mercedes-Benz FashionWeek in 2009 is held in February and September every year – and was originally the first ever fashion ‘week’.

Becoming a Model in Paris


Paris has a long standing history as a centre of art and fashion and is home to several prestigious fashion houses. It is known for the classic timeless elegance of the designs that are born there. It has an up market high fashion shopping district where all the most exclusive labels can be found.

A major centre for fashion and modelling - London

London has a long history as a trendsetter and leader in world fashions, and in recent years has been named as the number 1 fashion capital of the world thanks to the ascendency of Kate Middleton and the London Olympics. The vast majority of the international modelling agencies have their main UK offices in London and it is the base for hundreds of fashion photography studios and the supporting teams, including the best photographers for glossy magazines.

The major modelling agencies are mostly based in Central London, around South Kensington and Leicester Square, including: Elite, Storm, Premier Model Management, Models 1, BMA Models and Next Models.

Modelling jobs are waiting for you!

Sunday 13 October 2013

Top modelling mistakes explained by Neon Models

Neon Models has been in the industry long enough to see pretty much all of the mistakes new models make, many of them hundreds of times over. Read on to find out what the top new model mistakes are and how you can avoid them!

Being over confident


We’ve seen plenty of people with high expectations, who are sure that the photographers will be banging at their door in no time. These people may be quite attractive and have friends and family who have fed their egos, saying that they are much prettier than loads of the models on the front of the glossy magazines.
But however perfect you are to be a model, it’s important to be humble and have realistic expectations, Even if you’re stunning in normal life, once you enter the industry, you’ll be surrounded by stunning people at all times. Having a good attitude, being grateful for any help and opportunities you get will get you a long way in modelling – as well as life.

Being under confident


One the other hand, it’s no good have thin skin and getting upset every time there’s a little rejection, or feeling that you haven’t got what it takes – that’s the quickest way to make that prediction come true!
Models need to be confident and outgoing, as they are always in new situations, working with different people. Networking is also a useful part of building a successful modelling career, so it’s not really a great job for wall flowers.

Being unprofessional


Some aspiring models have the impression that modelling is a quick way to make a bit of easy money and you just have to stand around and pout. But there’s a lot more to the profession than that, and that includes knowing how to deal with client and understanding contracts and your rights.

Find out more about top modelling mistakes

Neon Models – Modelling Agency Facts

If you want to be a model, you’ve probably considered trying to join a modelling agency. But what do you really know about modelling agencies? There are a lot of misconceptions about what an agency is and what it is not. Read on to find out some facts…

A model agency is not an employer


Some people think that when you sign with a modelling agency, it’s like having a job, and they pay you for the modelling work you do. This is wrong. They simply act as your agent (the clue is in the name). They are a middle man who introduces clients to models. What actually happens is that the client pays the model and the agency takes their cut. Now it may be that this transaction is handled by the agency, so the money does appear to come from the agency, but it’s only passing through.

A modelling agency cannot and will not guarantee you work


No modelling agency will guarantee finding you work, and that will be written into your contract. It would be foolish of an agency to make promises like that because so much is out of their hands. It depends on what sort of looks are in fashion, how the clients feel and how the model comes across. The most stunning model in the world might be such a sourpuss at castings that he or she never gets a call-back.

Modelling Agencies do not require a fee to join


If a modelling agency says that you need to pay any kind of admin or any other kind of fee in order to be represented by them, then politely end the conversation. Because this con has been used so much, a law came in to protect consumers from this kind of scam. However, that doesn’t stop these fake agencies, who pretend not to know better.

Find out more about freelance modelling

Saturday 12 October 2013

Neon Models advice for modelling interviews

So, you submitted your photos to a modelling agency and they’ve invited you in for an interview. Congratulations! You’re already further than the majority of aspiring models. This article gives tips and advice on how to give yourself the best chance of shining in the interview and impressing the agent into wanting to sign you up.
Note – if a modelling agency has signed you up without meeting you in person, they are almost certainly not a genuine modelling agency.

What to wear


The objective is to show how versatile you can be as a model, and that means being a blank canvas, so the keyword here is subtlety. Wear something simple, smart and comfortable. Simple means that your personality won’t be too in their face; smart will demonstrate that you’re mature and are taking the process seriously in a professional manner; and comfortable means that you won’t be fidgeting or struggling because of your dandy but impractical outfit.

Avoid brand names and don’t overdo it on make-up. They will want to see what you look like naturally, and if you pile on the cosmetics they will probably ask you to wash it all off. Better to go with a light foundation, clear lip gloss and maybe a touch of eyeliner or mascara.

How to act


Try to stay calm, be yourself and be professional. It’s natural to be nervous and the agents will be used to that. Make sure you listen carefully to what they ask and answer truthfully – don’t try to just tell them what you think they want to hear. They’ve done this hundreds of times and will be able to spot it a mile off. And even if you could fool them, it would only come back to bite you in the bum later. Nervousness often makes people babble. If you find yourself doing this then pause, take a few deep breaths and try to bring whatever you’re saying to a neat conclusion.

Other tips



Prepare yourself early, give yourself extra travel time and make sure you arrive at least ten minutes early. There’s nothing more stressful than arriving late and rushing in all hot and bothered and flustered. Bring something to read in case they keep you waiting, a bottle of water and whatever basic make-up you need to freshen up. And don’t forget to smile!

Modelling jobs are waiting for you!

Mother Modelling Agencies explained by Neon models

What is a mother modelling agency?


You may be surprised to hear that there are many different kinds of modelling agencies, and Neon Models is familiar with all of them.
A mother modelling agency is not an agency for mothers! Though their models may well be mothers…
No, a mother modelling agency is basically a middle-man, that acts like an agent for a model to get a contract with a modelling agency. So, if you want to join a modelling agency, you may first try to join a mother modelling agency.
The mother modelling agency will assess you for suitability and then approach their contacts in a range of agencies to see if they might be interested in signing you. They will work hard to promote you, including creating marketing materials and schmoozing their long standing contacts.
If you go through a mother modelling agency you will have a much better chance of getting your foot in the door than if you try to go directly.
A mother modelling agency may help you get non-exclusive contracts with a number of agencies, that may cover different countries, regions or even types (such as body part, fashion show or catalogue).
They might even help train new models, teaching them what to expect from the industry and from modelling agencies and familiarising them with contracts, their rights and how to stay safe.
Although it’s not their main role, mother modelling agencies may help a model find work while they are seeking a contract with a regular agency. This will help build up the model’s portfolio, experience and skills, which will make them more attractive to the agents.

Find out more how to become a supermodel

Friday 11 October 2013

Neon Models – Advice on Avoiding Fake Modelling Agencies

There is so much competition in the fashion industry, there is always a much higher supply of aspiring models than there is available work. This guide will help you avoid the fake model agencies and focus on the real ones.

Fake model agencies


This is probably the most common modelling scam. A company poses as a modelling agency, and gets the ‘client’ excited and convinced that they’ve got what it takes to be the next Kate Moss. The client believes that they’re only a few steps away from launching their modelling career, and gaining lucrative modelling work.
All they have to do is pay a small admin fee (which may not be that small after all) and then the modelling work will come flowing. But what actually happens is that as soon as the person has paid their fee, the agency goes strangely quiet.
People who have fallen for this trap find that months pass and not a job is in sight.

How to know if a modelling agency is real


There are a few signs, but the key one is if they ask you for money to be listed on their books. That’s a sure sign – as genuine agencies know that doing so is breaking the law.
Another thing to look out for is if they are willing to sign you up without seeing you in person first. People have been known to send in all kind of nonsense to modelling agencies, including pictures from years ago, photoshopped photos and even pictures that aren’t them. They also lie about height, weight etc. So an agency isn’t going to take you seriously until you’ve been to their offices in person.

Launch your modelling career with Neon Models!

How to walk the catwalk - a guide by Neon Models

If you want to be a fashion model, you need to know how to strut your stuff on the catwalk – without falling over!


Neon Models has written this guide which explains how professional models walk the catwalk.
The first thing to do is get your posture right. That means standing up straight with your head held high and looking straight ahead. Your face should be pointing forward and not to either side. Your expression should be neutral, no big grins or moody scowls!
Your shoulders should be relaxed and slightly back, but don’t stick your chest out too much. There should be no slouching or hunching of the shoulders.
When you begin to walk, your arms should swing naturally as you move, but you don’t need to swing them back and forth too much. If the outfit has pockets you may want to put your hands in them, but don’t tense your arms when you do so.
As you move, try to keep your body as still as possible and not move from side to side or bob up and down. Lead slightly with your hips rather than your chest, but don’t sashay dramatically.
Your feet is where you will want to focus most of your attention, as this is the most different from normal walking. When you walk the catwalk, imagine there is a line down the middle and you have to place your feet exactly on the line, not to either side of it. If you want a slightly more dramatic look, you may place your feet on the other side of the line, so they cross over each other. Be careful not to trip over your own ankles though!
Once you reach the end of the catwalk, it’s customary to strike a pose – now you can be as dramatic as you like. Jut your hips out to one side and then the other, placing your hands on your hips. If you’re wearing a jacket, you may want to slip it off and swing it over one shoulder for full effect.
Great, now you’re ready for the Milan or Pairs fashion shows!

Check out our main website!

Thursday 10 October 2013

Neon Models works with Plus Size Models

In recent times there has been a backlash against the unhealthy, ‘heroin’ look that’s been popular in the fashion industry for the past few decades. Sometime in the eighties, fashion designers decided that skeletons with gaunt faces and stick like bodies would be the best thing to display their wares on. And over time, Western culture has grown to believe that skinny is attractive and sexy.
This has not always been the case. Throughout history voluptuousness and curves have been considered attractive. This can be seen in historical art, where the great beauties have soft round faces and chunky, well fed bodies.

This is most likely because it’s only a recent development that humans (in the Western world at least) generally have more available to eat than they need. In history, scrawniness would have represented poverty and sickliness, whereas plumpness showed wealth and health – and was therefore attractive.
But this new obsession with skinniness has had some sad and dangerous effects, including a host of eating disorders, depression and numerous deaths.
So perhaps it’s not surprising that society is beginning to think harder about what they realty find attractive and the unrealistic pressures impressionable young girls and boys are put under.
Some industries and even countries are taking a stand by making guidelines, rules and even passing new legislation to discourage and ban the use of unhealthily thin models.

Visit the Neon Models Website to read more about Plus Size Modelling

Do models need their own website?

Neon Models has many years’ experience working with models and know all about the modelling industry and how it works. So, we’re in a good position to give advice on whether a model needs a website or not.


As with many things, the answer is… It depends.
If you are a freelance model, then having your own website is critical. It’s a showcase of your talents and a great place for potential clients to find you, or to go to find out a little bit more about you, your experience and skills.

Remember, any old website will not do. The quality of your website will reflect directly onto you. So if you have a shoddy, obviously home-made website with poor quality pictures that are stretched out of proportion then you will come across as amateur and will be unlikely to get any work offers.
On the other hand, if your website looks like the real deal, with a nice gallery of good quality photos as your portfolio, clear, well written description of your and your experience working as a model, and all kind of other useful information – such as whether you can travel, whether you’re willing to do nude etc., then it will demonstrate to the visitor that you know your stuff and what it means to be a professional model
If you are signed to an agency, then it can still be a good idea to have your own website to go along with the listing you’ll have on their site, but it isn’t quite so central to your career, and you’ll have to check with your agency whether you’re allowed to have a website to promote yourself. Some modelling agencies, particularly if you have an exclusive contract with them, may prefer it if you didn’t and the last thing you want to do is put that relationship in jeopardy.

Click here to get modelling work!

Wednesday 9 October 2013

Ways to break into modelling with Neon Models

Break into modelling with Neon Models


The quickest and easiest way to get started is to use Neon Models to help advise you about what sort of modelling would suit you best, get a modelling portfolio together at a test shoot, train you in how to behave and what to expect and put you in contact with the most appropriate modelling agencies.

Break into modelling through competitions


Competitions can be a good way to break into the modelling industry. There are new faces competitions for particular companies and also modelling agencies sometimes run competitions in association with teen magazines or clothing brands. If you’re lucky you might get shortlisted on a TV shop like Britain’s Next Top Model, but that’s got pretty stiff competition!
You can also consider Beauty Pageants if you like the idea of some of the other rounds, as modelling is a natural progression for beauty queens.

Modelling agencies


You can approach modelling agencies directly, but be prepared to face rejection, Modelling agencies get hundreds of applications every week and most of them end up in the bin. You need to have something special if you’re going to make it through the first round. A lot of people shoot themselves in the foot by sending poor quality photographs or not reading the agency’s guidelines.
Choose your modelling agency carefully and read their guidelines if you want to have any chance of success.

Click here to launch your modelling career!

Avoiding Modelling Scams

If you want to be a model then you need to be on the lookout for scam artists who are just waiting to prey on your hopes and dreams to rip you off – or worse.

There are a few signs to look out for to make sure you avoid the dangers.

Adverts in classifieds

No reputable modelling agency would advertise in the classifieds of a magazine. Modelling agencies get hundreds of applications every day, they do not need to advertise for new faces at all. So when you see page after page of adverts saying models are needed urgently on things like gumtree, craigslist and loot, you can be sure that they are not genuine.

Jobs that don’t have a casting or require a portfolio

If you get offered a modelling job before they’ve seen you in the flesh, it’s very unlikely to be a real job. All professionals that work with models know that it’s very easy for the camera to lie, so they would never hire a model based on a single photo. The model could be lying about their height or the photos could be very old and not representative.

Jobs, castings or new faces events that take place in hotels

Professional, reputable modelling agencies have permanent offices, and they will use them if they want to meet with new potential models. If an agent wants to meet you at a hotel or similar than the chances are they are hoping to take advantage of you and you have to be very careful. The safest thing to do is not go, but if you really think it might be real, then take someone with you and make sure they don’t let you out of their site!

There are plenty of horror stories of dodgy people luring young girls to hotel rooms under the pretence of being and agent or offering them modelling work – don’t let it become your nightmare!

Find out more about top modelling mistakes

Tuesday 8 October 2013

Neon Models Tips on contacting modelling agencies

If you want to become a model in 2013, you’re probably wondering how to start approaching modelling agencies. Neon Models has links with many major modelling agencies and many years’ experience in helping new models get their foot in the door.

Select your modelling agency carefully


There are many different types of models and many different types of agencies. Some large agencies deal with many different types of models, but others are very specialist and niche. You need to check carefully that the agency deals with the kind of modelling you want to do, otherwise you’ll be wasting your time and you risk getting a black mark against your name for wasting their time.

Read the guidelines


Obviously, this seems obvious, but if people did regularly and reliably read the guidelines, we wouldn’t have to put this as an important point. Some people seem to think they can do things their way and the agency will take the time to deal with whatever they send in whatever format, and if it’s not right, contact them to give them feedback and guidance.
Wrong. The agency does not waste time on people who can’t even be bothered to read their guidelines. If your application deviates from their guidelines in any way, your pictures will go straight in the bin. No consideration, no phone call. You will not hear from them.

Persevere


If you want to make it as a model, you have to be prepared to face rejection and bounce back. Just because one agency doesn’t like you, doesn’t mean you don’t have a chance. You just need to find the right scout, who is into your kind of look. The likelihood that you will be snapped up by the first agency you approach is very slim.

Find out more how to become a supermodel

A Guide to Body Part Modelling by Neon Models

There are many different types of modelling, not simply strutting your stuff on the catwalks at the major fashion shows of Milan, Paris, London or New York.
If you don’t meet the strict height requirements or aren’t suitable in some other way for traditional forms of modelling, you may be considering body part modelling.
Body part modelling is where you model only a single part of your body.

The most popular body parts for modelling are eyes, ears, mouth, hands, legs and feet.
This is because items such as jewellery, make-up, gloves, stockings, socks and shoes need a tighter focus in images in order to show them off, so showing a full length image of a model will not be suitable.
A lot of body part models are regular models as well, but there are some people who make a living simply by modelling a single part.
Keep in mind that there will be a very close focus on the hand, eye or whatever so it really must be outstandingly beautiful and blemish free, with clear, even skin.
If you’re thinking about hands or feet, then nails must be neatly trimmed and in a neutral shape. When doing test shots they should be clean and free from any nail polish.
If you want to be a body part model, then as with any modelling, the first thing to do is take some test shots to see how the relevant part comes across in 2D images. You should take these shots in good (preferably natural) light and use a decent camera. It’s even better if you can get some time in a studio with a professional photographer, because their skills will help show the full potential.

Visit the Neon Models Website!

Monday 7 October 2013

Case Study of A Supermodel – Kate Moss, by Neon Models



Kate Moss is arguably the most famous supermodel in the world. She rose to fame during the Heroin Chic model movement in the 1990s and despite waves of controversy over the years, remains one of the most highly demanded models to this day.

Picture from http://www.standard.co.uk/news/londoners-diary/kate-moss-truly-is-the-golden-girl-8335409.html
Kate grew up in an unassuming family in Surrey, but was spotted at an airport when she was only 14 years old by the founder of Storm Model Management. Following a black and whiter ‘grunge’ photoshoot when she was sixteen, Kate went on to become famous for her contrast to the supermodels of the time, who tended to healthy, tall and curvaceous.

She has won many awards over the years, including ranking highly in several ‘Sexiest Women’ lists, modern muses and rich lists.

Kate Moss has worked with many of the leading international fashion  brands, including Calvin Klein, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Rimmel and Bulgari. She has been on the cover of countless magazines, including Vogue, Vanity Fair and the Face.

Kate has branched out from modelling and has been a fashion icon for the boho-chich movement and has even designed her own collection. She has also launched fragrances and body lotions bearing her name.

Kate’s personal life has been a focus for controversy and media interest, with partners ranging from Johnny Depp to the infamous Pete Doherty. She’s now married to Jamie Hince, the guitarist for The Kills. Her drug use has often been in the headlines, and while a cocaine scandal temporarily caused negative publicity, it doesn’t appear to have affected her earning power, which is higher than ever.

Click here to get modelling work!

How Much Do Models Earn - Neon Models Guide

This is a difficult question to answer and it’s tempting to say – how long is a piece of string? But of course, from Neon Models' experience there are some guidelines and rules of thumb that we can apply to give a rough idea of how much models might earn.
At the lower end, you have your models who are just starting out. They are trying to make a name for themselves, so they’ll probably earn just over minimum wage, and they won’t get work more than a couple of times a month, while they’re building their portfolio.
Once the new model has become a bit more established, then they will start getting more regular work and can start commanding a higher fee. At this point, it makes a big difference what type of modelling the model wants to do, and how often they are willing and able to work.
For example, if the model is suitable for high fashion shows (i.e. they meet the strict height requirements), then they could earn £500 - £1000 for a single weekend. If they are willing and able to work at shows every weekend, then they could earn between £2000 - £4000 per month. Of course, fashion shows aren’t thick and fast all year round, so this wouldn’t be sustainable all the time.
However, catalogue and commercial modelling is much more reliable and jobs are more numerous from Neon Models' experience. This kind of work is also open to models with more gentle or classic looks. Commercial photo shoots could pay anything from £200 - £500 per day and may last from one to five days, or even more. This work can get tiring, but it’s a good way for a model to earn a regular income.
And of course at the very top end are the supermodels. These are the few and far between who have been lucky enough to become recognised household names. If you reach this status, then the sky’s the limit and you can commend extremely high fees and work as little or as often as you want!

Modelling jobs are waiting for you!

Sunday 6 October 2013

Modelling Jobs with Neon Models

So, you’d like to become a model, but you don’t really know what’s involved in modelling jobs?
Well, almost all modelling jobs start with a casting (unless you’re a household name like Kate Moss or Claudia Schiffer). This is where several models are invited to be viewed and possibly interviewed by the client, and there may be some test shots. Based on the casting, the client will select his preferred models for the final shoot.
On the day of the shoot, the model will have instructions about whether to come ‘clean’ faced or made up, and whether he or she should bring any particular types of clothing or accessories. On arrival, if it’s a big shoot, there could be a whole team available to dress and style the model, including hairdresser, make-up artist and stylist.
Modelling jobs can be in studios or on location. Everything is much easier to control in dedicated studios, whereas if shoots are on location, there can be a lot of unexpected factors to contend with, such as the weather.
Once the shoot starts, the model is expected to respond quickly to instructions and also use his or her own initiative to find the perfect shot for the product. They should try out many different poses and expressions, and use the props in imaginative ways.
Even if the shoot goes on for some time, the model has to stay fresh looking. There may be many changes of outfit, or lots of waiting around, but whatever happens the model is expected to act professionally and be able to turn on the smile or smouldering sultry look on demand.
Each modelling job is different and may be at a different location, go on for a varying length of time (from a few hours to a whole week) and each modelling job will pay differently.

Launch your modelling career with Neon Models!

Saturday 5 October 2013

Neon Models advice on Glamour Modelling

If you’re considering becoming a glamour model, then you need to make sure you’re streetwise enough not to be taken advantage of and get into trouble. All industries have their share of scammers, and modelling has more than most – and within modelling, glamour modelling is where you have to be the most wary.
However, as long as you keep your smarts about you and stay safe, there’s no reason why glamour modelling can’t be a satisfying and lucrative job.

If you want to be a glamour model, then presumably you feel comfortable having your picture taken nude or semi-nude. If you haven’t actually tried it, then you should get a friend to help you take some test shots. If you find you’re too shy to do that, then chances are it’s going to be even worse when it’s a room full of strangers.
Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to glamour modelling is that you will not have control over the pictures that are taken, and they may stay in the public domain forever. So, if you’d be uncomfortable if your mum, dad or brother saw them, or think you might want to leave the business behind one day in the future, then it needs some serious thought.
Particularly with glamour modelling, it’s really important to join a reputable agency that will make sure you stay safe, and protect you from people who might want to take advantage of you.
Never go to castings that are taking place in hotels or homes – only at proper studios. Also, nobody should object if you’d like to take someone with you for security, a friend or responsible adult.

Find out more about types of modelling

Friday 4 October 2013

Child Modelling advice from Neon Models

Many parents consider child modelling as a way to spend time with their child, expose them to some new experiences, and maybe save up a little money for a college fund or perhaps to go towards a house deposit one day.
So how can you tell if your child has got what it takes to be a model?
Well, as we know well at Neon Models, the most important thing to know is that personality is far more important than actual features. We don’t judge children by the same kinds of beauty standards that we do adults, but we are drawn to happy, bubbly children.
So if your child is outgoing and full of sunny smiles, then child modelling might be a possibility. If so, you should get a few test shots to get an initial idea of how they come across in pictures.
A photographic studio is not the most natural place for a child and it can be quite a stressful environment for some children. However, others thrive on the attention and love meeting new people, posing and playing with the props.
The only way you’re going to find out if your child enjoys the experience of modelling is to try it, and either get a test shoot or have a session in a professional photographic studio. It may be better to do it this way than go through the process of signing up to an agency and not discovering that your child gets camera shy until you’ve got a paid job and there’s too much riding on it.
If you think your child could be a model with Neon Models , then remember, the photos have to be very up to date that you send to modelling agencies for review – assuming g you’re not going freelance. Children change very quickly, so portfolio pictures have to be updated much more rapidly than with adult models – sometimes every few months.

Find out more about child modelling

Thursday 3 October 2013

Become a freelance model - advice from Neon Models

If you want to break into modelling, one of the first questions to ask yourself is whether you’d prefer to join a modelling agency or go freelance.
Of course, you might decide to chase both routes and see which one works out the best, and that’s a good idea too, if you have the time and resources to do so.
An important fact to be aware of is that even if you are signed to a modelling agency, you’re not actually ‘employed’ by the modelling agency and there is no guarantee that they are actually going to get you any paid work. They are an ‘agent’ that means they deal in making introductions and getting a commission of the fee that the model is paid by the client, and sometimes an additional introduction fee.
For this reason, freelance models may find it more lucrative to go directly to the clients, and cut out the agencies fees.
Of course, getting in front of clients is easier said than done, and freelance models – especially those just starting out – have to do a lot more legwork, networking, meeting the right people, making the right connections.
A freelance model also has to take care of the business side of being a model, and that means invoicing clients, chasing payment and making sure all the correct contracts and other paperwork is in place. There is plenty of advice out there and you can find free templates for most contracts, but you need to make sure you do your research.
If you do have the right kind of drive and skills to become a freelance model, then of course the main benefit is that you get to keep all of your hard earned cash. With agency fees averaging about 20%, that can add up quite quickly. On top of that, you have a lot more control over where and when you work and you’re not limited by an agency contract which restricts who you can work for.

Find out more about freelance modelling

Wednesday 2 October 2013

How to join a modelling agency by Neon Models

Modelling agencies get hundreds of applications from aspiring models, so how can you make sure you give yourself the best chance of being noticed and signed?

Use decent quality photos to apply


All genuine modelling agencies will ask you to send a snapshot that they can assess to see if they want to meet you for an interview to see if they’d like to sign you to their books. While you don’t have to spend a fortune on these pictures, if you send in something in bad light taken on your mobile phone, they’re likely to throw them out without looking properly. So, try to get access to a decent camera (and someone who knows how to use it), and make sure the pictures are taken in good light (preferably natural light) and show you clearly and looking relaxed.

Read the guidelines

You might be surprised how many people don’t read the modelling agencies’ guidelines. This is just a silly mistake that can be easily avoided, and if you’re careful to make sure you follow their guidelines you can save yourself a lot of wasted effort and rejection. Most modelling agencies will specify if they work with males and females and what ages. Also, if they have minimum requirements such as height. Ignore their guidelines at your peril!

Choose your agency carefully

These days there are many different types of modelling and many different types of modelling agencies to meet all those requirements. The largest agencies will cater for everything from fashion shows to catalogues to TV commercials on an international basis, but smaller agencies will specialise and may be a better bet, especially if you don’t have classic model looks, aren’t so tall or are looking for alternative or body part modelling.

Find out how to get in to modelling

Tuesday 1 October 2013

Modelling Agency Submission Photos – Biggest Mistakes Seen by Neon Models



Modelling agencies get hundreds of submissions of photos by wannabe models, so they have to sift through them very quickly, rejecting the ones that are no good. They don’t have time to examine each one with a fine tooth comb, searching for a spark. They need to know if the person is suitable for modelling instantly, and they are looking for any excuse to bin the picture. Here are some of the mistakes you can make that will get your photo rejected out of hand.

Poor quality photo

If your photo is pixelated and your features can barely be made out, if it’s in bad light or if you have red eye or are simply too small, then the scout will chuck the picture. They can’t tell if you’re good enough, so they’ll assume you’re not. Most pictures taken on mobile phones are not good enough quality.

Something obscuring your face or figure

It’s not necessary to send in pictures that show off your body excessively (for example in underwear, swimming trunks or a bikini), however if you’re wearing a hat, sunglasses, scarf, duffel coat, mask (!), then the person checking your photo will not be able to see what they need, and will assume there’s a reason you’re hiding something. The same goes for too much make-up. Clean, fresh faced is better.

Being too big a personality

You may look at fashion models, or the models in the adverts for high street stores and think they look pretty cool or funky. You may think that therefore, you should be cool and funky when you apply to be a model. Wrong. The models you see look exactly how the client brand wants them to look. In another picture the same model may be unrecognisable and may look geeky or sporty or gothic.  The key to being a successful model is being a blank canvas, not a big personality.

Visit the Neon Models Website and register for free!