I have been modeling for more than a year now in addition to my photography business. One of the main reasons, I decided to become one, is that people encouraged me to and some were convinced, when they first met me (strangers, fashion designers, make-up artists…), that I was a model. So, I said to myself why not give it a try and here I am !

The pros

Little to no investment when starting. You can easily find collaborations (called TPF = Time For Print) with photographers, make-up artists or even directly with brands.

• Similar to being a photographer, it allows you to express yourself through posing, facial expressions, and body language with your personality and authenticity.

• You can be exposed to various industries such as fashion, beauty, advertising, editorial, and entertainment. It’s great because it leads to beautiful collaborations and opportunities to work with renowned designers, brands, and photographers.

• Traveling and exploring new places. Modeling frequently involves traveling to different locations for photoshoots, fashion shows, and events.

• Networking and connections: like being a photographer, the modeling industry offers the chance to meet and connect with professionals from different fields and countries, including photographers, stylists, makeup artists, and designers. Building a strong network can open doors to future collaborations and career opportunities.

• It’s a fantastic way to develop confidence and self-esteem. Modeling requires performing in front of the camera with body language and appearance.

• Successful models can earn a substantial income through modeling assignments, image usage rights, and brand partnerships.

• After leaving the photoshoot, you simply go and don’t have much work afterward like a photographer does. The job is done, you can go home and chill !

The cons:

• This is a competitive industry with a large number of aspiring models. This can make it challenging to stand out and secure consistent work.

• You will have to deal with rejection and criticism… Models often face rejection and criticism during casting calls and when also applying to agencies. It requires resilience, a strong sense of self-esteem and confidence. If you are rejected over and over again, that doesn’t mean that modeling is not for you. You simply may not be the right fit for the casting and the agencies and not forgetting that the crateria of agencies are based on the requirements of their clients.

• Maintaining a specific physical appearance is often requested. This can involve strict dieting, intense exercise routines and pressure to conform to specific beauty standards, which can lead to physical and mental health challenges.

•  Exploitation and unethical practices. Let’s be honest here… Unfortunately, the modeling industry has been associated with instances of unfair treatments such as very low to non-payments and lack of agency representation. I personally am not against doing free shoots with brands when starting out if you want to build your portfolio and show agencies that you have a place in the industry. I did a few. Some brands that want to work with models for free can give a gift in exchange for example. Some only want to give images (like a TPF photoshoot).

  
  

Please note that the pros and cons may vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances !