Magnolia Agency fyi

Modeling 101

by Johnny Panzo

Modeling is a very competitive, market driven and fast paced industry. Only those who are dedicated and prepared to give it their utmost priority have a chance to make it as a successful model.

There are different types of modeling with different requirements. The most visible are the High Fashion Models. They are usually between 5’ 10” and 6’ tall and must wear a maximum size eight. With long legs and classic face, these models promote high end fashion and make-up and grace the covers and layouts of Fashion magazines.

The second type of models are the commercial and lifestyle models. There are no strict height requirements for these type of modeling. The looks of the model depends on the model requirement of a specific project. These models are for catalogues, advertisements, editorial content, calendars, posters, artworks or any other projects for mass circulation media.

The commercial and lifestyle model must be able to qualify for as much projects that are available. They must keep their body toned and fit. Work out and exercise to maintain body flexibility and muscle tone.

A specialized group are the swimsuit, lingerie, implied and fitness models. These models show lots of skin with minimum attire or none at all. The trend for these type of models now require them to be all natural. The advent of High Definition TV Monitors and Cameras that capture exquisite details of skin and contours has made it nearly impossible or risky to hire models that need to hide imperfections, scars or tattoos with body make-up. The proliferation of magazines devoted to boudoir, fitness, health and swimwear fashions has created modeling opportunities for these types of models. Although their primary market are print magazines, there is a cross-over requirement for public and TV appearance where body make-up and/or photoshop no longer works.

Modeling 102

by: Johnny Panzo

So you want to be a model. Be prepared to spend time and money.

Your Portfolio is a selection of your best professional photos in different styles and looks. It's your business card, sales brochure, product profile all in one. Let's emphasize "professional photos". Clients look for something in your photos and if it's not there they will dump it and check the portfolio of the next model. It takes a professional photographer with years of experience in model's portfolios to know these requirements. Family, grad or holiday snapshots are not modeling photos. Amateur, student or part time photographers are really not your best option. You need the best, a cut above the rest to make it noticed.

There is no such thing as "amateur" model. You are either a model or not at all. Same is true with a model's portfolio. It is professionally designed marketing and promotions showcase of the model with impressive cutting edge photos and graphix. If not, then it's just a collection of mediocre photos no agency or client will bother to look at, it's just a waste of their time.

Comp Cards (or Zed Cards), is the teaser designed to stand out and make them look at your portfolio.

Whatever you spent on your portfolio: whether you paid, tested or trade, It should look professional, classy and elegant. It must give the impression that you gave the time and effort to make and complete your portfolio.

Modeling 103

by: Johnny Panzo

Do you need an Agent or Manager?

As in any type of endeavor, it pays to hire a professional. Your Mom, Dad or boyfriend can give you valuable support but except for a few, they do not have the expertise, experience and contacts to promote and make you a successful professional model.

How about Photographers cum Agent/Manager? I think this is the worst mistake you can make. You need a professional marketer and promoter who works full time in the business. A model is a time-sensitive person. You have to make it in the business in the shortest time, ASAP, yesterday. A day that pass makes you less desirable to clients. I have seen gorgeous girls with excellent supermodel potential sign with a Photographer as her Agent/Manager and confine her modeling career to obscurity.

The only way to be a Professional Model is to sign with a Land-based Modeling Agency. These are the agencies with an office and full-time staff. With Clients and contacts in the Advertising and Production Houses.

Modeling 104

by: Johnny Panzo

Do I need to sign a Model release?

Yes. As a Model, you are selling your likeness/image for money or trade for cd (TFCD).

TFP/CD with professional Model Photographers, can be in your portfolio and submit to agencies and production houses and maybe get signed with an agency or make a lucrative modeling contract.

Amateur/student/GWC/Beginner Photographers don't usually ask for a Model Release.

My Model release:

I, ______________________ (Model), for good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is acknowledged, give to Johnny Panzo (Photographer), his legal representatives, successors, and all persons or corporations acting with his permission, unrestricted permission to copyright and/or use, and/or publish photographic portraits or pictures of me.

I hereby waive any right that I may have to inspect and approve the finished product or copy that may be used in connection with an image that the Photographer has taken of me.

I further release the Photographer, or others for whom he is acting, from any claims for remuneration associated with any form of damage, foreseen or unforseen, associated with the proper commercial or artistic use of these images.

Signed:

_______________________________________           Dated:______________________

Government issued Photo ID on file.