Talent and Tenacity Wins the Contract with Commercial Print Modeling Agencies

Why You Should take a Look at Commercial Print Modeling Agencies

Commercial Print Modeling

Tip! Always be on time or early for appointments. The photographer's time is just as important as yours. And, you may want a second photo shoot with them.

The following article presents the very latest information on commercial print modeling. If you have a particular interest in becoming a commercial model, then this informative article is required reading.

Advertisement in a trade magazine:

"Prestigious company seeking professional commercial models.Pay depends on experience. Call 555-0000."

If you spotted an ad similar to this one would you know what it meant? Maybe or maybe not. Commercial modeling is often overlooked because female models often think that there are only one or two types of model opportunities: Runway or Fashion.

Nothing could be further from the truth!

In reality there are numerous types of modeling besides the two mentioned above. One type that comes to mind is commercial modeling; an overlooked gold mine for many girls.

Tip! Also include shots which may be considered for commercial print, fashion, casual, and editorial content. Ask the photographer to help you with choosing looks that best fit your personality and the type modeling you wish to pursue.

What is Commercial Print Modeling?

Think of commercial print modeling as a TV ad in print. The magazine industry uses models as part of their total package. These commercial models are seen in store catalogs, magazines, editorial stories, newspapers, brochures, on posters for sale, billboards, on the tops of taxis, in store displays, and many other areas not mentioned here.

Tip! Always keep a pleasant attitude. Nothing spoils a photo shoot like a model who got up on the "wrong side of the bed".

Now, before you shrug off this type of modeling to become that super model in the fashion world take a look at the physical requirements. If you are looking for a chance at becoming a fashion model you must have certain physical attributes. For instance, female fashion models are generally 5'9" tall and up. Her dress size has to be between a size two and six. Do you fit these measurements?

Commercial Models and Lifestyle Photos

In contrast, Commercial models are put in lifestyle situations and need to be able to present themselves as "natural". In other words your body language, facial expressions and interaction with the environment are important.

Commercial models are a melting pot of different heights, weights, dress sizes, ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds. For instance, a magazine may want photos of an Italian family making pasta in a rustic kitchen. A high fashion model would probably have little chance of landing this job. So, there are some definite advantages of working in the commercial field.

Tip! Look through fashion and glamour magazines to see how the models pose, the lighting, the outfits, etc. and then practice.

The Commercial Print Model Advantage

The quick answer is that your physical measurements and height are not as important in commercial modeling.

Also, you can model commercially as a part-time supplement to your income. You will have flexible hours, and the rates paid to commercial models are from good to terrific!

One other benefit is that you get to see your photo, or that of your daughter, in a magazine. Not a bad perk!

How much can you expect to earn as a commercial model?

This of course depends heavily on the location and type modeling jobs you apply for. If you are an adult model you can expect to make between $50 to $250 an hour in some markets. A child model will normally be paid less than an adult. Not to say that it's not feasible to enter your child into commercial modeling. Your child can sometimes earn up to $60-$75 an hour.

 The information about commercial print modeling presented here will do one of two things: either it will reinforce what you know about becoming a commercial model or it will teach you something new. Both are good outcomes.

Some models earn more and some less but it is still a refreshing alternative to other part-time jobs. It is not impossible for a commercial model to earn $20,000 from one job, and I know other models who just want to have some fun with modeling and make some extra mad money.

Tip! Remember, you will become what you think and the way that you act. You're not lying when you say, 'I am in the process of writing down my goals for modeling and on my way to becoming successful.

Be Prepared to Work

Regardless of how enticing this all sounds you must realize that commercial modeling is like any other kind of career. It can be fun to dream of becoming a commercial model but it will require some research and study time. Consider first that you will need to learn about the kinds of pictures that will get you the most job offers.

In addition, you need to know how agencies operate, and know which questions to ask when talking to a commercial print modeling agency. There are some answers the agent will give that put up red flags during your first contact. These agents are the ones you walk away from. The 7-part mini course for models will cover this in more detail. You will want to learn how to look and act like a professional commercial model. And then, when you feel you are ready to take that step, practice, practice, practice! I cannot stress this enough.

Tip! Practice posing as often as possible before hiring portfolio photographers. Look in the mirror and give different expressions. You may be called upon to do exactly that by a photo coordinator or photographer.

The professional models who are already successful in the business are practicing every day and so should you. Just like fashion, commercial modeling is competitive and those who are willing to do what it takes and searched for all the information they could find are naturally going to be "luckier" than those who do not Skip this part and you are headed for guaranteed disappointment.

Where do You Fit In as a Commercial Print Model?

Everyone has a certain look. Looks of some female models are more defined than others. You may have a "girl next door" look, an outdoor or athletic look, etc. but you can be sure that you have one. And, there could be an agency searching for it right now, just waiting to give you an interview.

Take an inventory of yourself and develop a profile. Look in the mirror and honestly judge your face, body, posing using facial expressions and body language, your perfect features, and imperfections to see where you can start in the commercial modeling field. Personality also plays an important role when you apply to this type modeling agecy so add that to your personal inventory list.

Another great way to find how you fit in is to talk to stock and commercial model portfolio photographers, talent agents and others in the entertainment industry. They can help you pinpoint your look and help to give you a starting point. Gather all this professional advice and then decide how you want to proceed.

See What Other Commercial Print Models are Doing

I usually have my models look through high fashion or lifestyle type magazines and brochures to see the types of photos being marketed and this helps them to find a look they are comfortable with and to find images they can visualize themselves as doing when posing for photographers. You will be cast for all types of commercial modeling jobs but it's wonderful to pose for photos with which you feel you have a personal connection.

Teenage Female Models

A big marketplace is open for teenagers in modeling, girls and boys. The types vary but commercial work will normally include teens in a variety of situations doing everyday things that the young generation does. For instance, you might find yourself riding a name-brand bicycle or eating a plate of vegetables, etc. There are oppertunities for super young models who are willing to make agency contacts to set up for interviews or open calls.

Baby Boomers in Modeling

This is becoming a huge part of the commercial modeling industry. Middle age and senior adults are finding themselves in demand for the growing market for advertising products and services directed toward the older generation. Just look at the number of niche magazines for mature Americans popping up over the past 10 years. If you're a good looking granny, go for it!

The Model Portfolio and Composite Cards

What goes into a modeling portfolio? I have been asked this question many times before and there is no set rule but here are some guidelines and requirements.

The Portfolio Book

Your photographer can help with this but basically you'll need somewhere between eight and twenty four photos, some in color and some in black and white for your modeling portfolio book. The pictures can be 8x10, 9x12 or even larger if you have the budget but the industry standard in many states is 9x12.

Make sure you include headshots without makeup or wearing very little. One should be straight on and the other profile taken outdoors in natural light with no flash strobe. You don't have to do elaborate posing for this picture. It is mainly just to let agency personel know how your complexion compares.

Also, include one shot in your portfolio posing in a swim suit or bikini. If you are not comfortable with this, try one wearing tight jeans and top. Just enough to show your figure and build.

Next, place a variety of photos in different outfits with poses showing the style modeling you are applying for. Only include your very best pictures in your portfolio. No need for the model agency to have to sort through medeocre images to get to your good ones.

Composite Cards

AKA comp cards or zed, these are normally 6x9 "postcards" with a nice closeup picture on the front with several other poses in different looks and clothing on the back. The opposite side of the card will include contact info, your bio and stats such as how tall you are, weight, age, shoe size, etc. These are great for leaving with model agencies so they can keep them on file. Comp cards are very inexpensive and worth the money.

How to Get Started as a Commercial Model?

You don't have to be a rocket scientist to learn these steps but this is not all there is to becoming a commercial model. However, if you study this article and learn from as many other models as possible, you will remove some of the obstacles that have made so many others stumble and fail. At least give yourself a chance to succeed.

Set your goal for taking the first step today and then write down another you will take every day. Practice your posing techniques in the mirror, make modeling agency contacts to get an interview, check for open calls in your area. Before you know it you will be ready to step in front of the photographers camera!

Now you can be a confident expert on commercial print modeling. OK, maybe not an expert. But you should now have a starting point before entering the exciting world of commercial print modeling. Go for it!

Let's get started ...

Bob Pardue Photography