Male Model Advice

Advice for New Male Models

2011-01-25T10:18:00.002-06:00

I have been helping new male models get started for almost 5 years. I have talked with literally hundreds of guys as they have started their career. This is the advice I have given every guy I have talked with. Many of them have commented that they are smart guys; which they are. However, when you are entering a new industry and don’t know about it there are many ways you can be taken advantage of. I will discuss the industry warnings, photographers you should work with, explain a model release and how to avoid scams. Read the entire article here. You are the only one in control of your career and your image.

Any male model is welcome to contact me or On Display Men for advice on how to get the best start to their career. We have existed to help models have a positive career. I am most proud of the hundreds of potential male models that I and the team have helped. Good luck!
Alan Rust is the founder and owner of On Display Men. He has been working with male models for 5 years to help them have a positive start for the best modeling career possible. Find out more at About.Me/AlanRust

When a guy finally decides to start modeling he is excited and wants to do everything he can to make his dream a reality. However, what they don’t realize is that there are more bad situations in the industry than good ones. Many new models get taken advantage of because they believe what they hear. I can strongly tell you… don’t believe anything you are told. You should always do complete research on the situation or photographer. You should ask questions to find out what you are really signing up for. You should ask to read anything you will have to sign in advance.

A common misconception among new male models is that they should do every photo shoot they can get. That is not true. You need to manage your image from the very beginning which means you should only work with photographers that are better than average. There are a lot of guys who buy a camera at Target, get on Model Mayhem and call themselves a photographer. You want to work with someone who has skill, creativity and understands lighting. There are photographers who are still building their portfolio that have the skills to make you look professional. Also, for those of you in smaller states and cities; avoid building your portfolio with a ‘portrait’ photographer. You don’t need to spend time or money to get pictures that look like you had your senior pictures taken again. When you are starting out you can certainly do free (tfp or tfcd) shoots but as you get better and learn you want to start working with better photographers with network connections.

There are a lot of photographers, seems like most of them on Model Mayhem, that tell you that you have to shoot nude or implied nude to get ahead or to shoot for free. That is not true. You should never shoot in anything less than your underwear unless you are getting paid. Otherwise, you are going to be all over the internet in pictures that you don’t want seen. You should make sure you are clearly understood before a shoot; you will not do anything in less than your underwear for any reason. There are photographers that will agree to that just to get you to book the shoot; then they force you to do it when you are there. Be polite and leave the shoot if that happens. There are photographers that tell you to just change in front of them; that is just creepy and you don’t know what cameras are shooting. There are photographers that tell you that no one will really see everything; you don’t know what they are shooting. This is a point that I remind you to not believe everything you are told.

I tell all models that they should have a Model Release for every photo shoot they book. Some photographers tell you that you don’t need one. That is not true. This is the paper that tells you what the photographer is going to do with the pictures. It should also tell you how many pictures you get and when you will get them. I strongly suggest that you have the release emailed to you before you agree to book the shoot. That way you can review it in advance and ask for advice from someone else if you have questions. Almost all photographers will wait until after the shoot to have you sign the Release. At that point, they have all your pictures and if you don’t sign it you won’t get your pictures. If a photographer is doing a tfp or you are paying them… they should never be able to sell the images. Remember, if you sign away all rights to the photographer so they can do anything with the images… you have NO control over what website or advertising you will be on.

I suggest to our new models that they don’t get on a site called Model Mayhem. It has been the experience of most of the models that it is about 95% creepy guys and scam offers. The best advice I can tell you about scam is: if an offer sounds too good to be true; it probably is. Do a lot of research about any offer. NEVER give out your personal phone number, address or financial information. There are identity theft scams that are part of the bad modeling situations. The other advice I give is: you have not earned the right to earn money. I mean that if you have not even built a portfolio yet or are not with an agency; then why do you think someone is offering you money. Most of the time it is because they want to see you naked (no matter what they say) or if it is a lot of money from a foreign country it is a scam.

I wish you all the best and again I will tell you that we are always here to help. Remember, don’t believe anything you are told; do your research!

Photographer thoughts on the Advice

2011-01-25T10:17:00.000-06:00

Byron Atkinson, photographer, sent these comments about the male model advice. Thank you for your input Byron.

Interesting post: I agree with much of what Alan says, particularly where signing a release is concerned. Whether the assignment is fee based or TFCD, I always make it clear that a signed release is required and provide the model with a copy of the release in advance of the session. A release is for both party's protection.

Whether I am working with an agency or independent (unsigned) model, the nature of the shoot is always disclosed and if we are shooting underwear or swimwear that is always put on the table right up front. I think model competition reality-TV shows like “Janice Dickerson,” “Make Me a Super Model,” and even “America’s Next Top Model” have convinced aspiring models that if the client or photographer calls for something during the course of the shoot which goes beyond the assignment as described and/or booked, the model is expected to comply or he/she may not work again; the reality is that there are models who have a list of "I will not dos" about which their agencies are aware and it shapes and may ultimately limit the assignments the agency sends them on. By way of example, an agency is not going to send a model who is a member of PETA to a shoot that involves fur. An agency’s obligation, first and foremost, is to look after and protect its models’ interests. When models are unsigned, they must assume this responsibility themselves.

If a model believes that something is morally not right for him or damaging to his reputation, he can indeed say no. This is one of the reasons that I am insistent with respect to disclosing the nature of and what the assignment involves upfront. I find that I get the best out of models when they are comfortable. Putting a model on the spot and/or asking him or her to do something that is beyond the scope of the assignment or potentially puts the model in the path of physical harm, can significantly alter the dynamics of the shoot. Once things get off track, it is very difficult to recover.

If I am working with an independent model for the first time, I will almost always have an assistant present, because it is often difficult to do everything myself and also because it often diffuses any initial discomfort associated with meeting and working with a stranger for the first time. I also try to make sure that the model has a comfortable space to change in and store their personal belongings. We keep the conversation light and stay away from discussing personal information. The studio or set may not be an office, but it is a work environment, and the situation demands professionalism.

For an independent model, I agree that research is fundamental. Looking at the photographer’s site is a first step, but the model needs to make sure (especially if they are looking for images to enhance their portfolio) that the photographer's style and work is consistent with the type and quality of image the model is seeking. Look at the detail in photographer’s work: Is the clothing hanging properly? Is the collar evenly spread? And, most importantly, does the photographer seem to be able to capture the essence of the person and fashion or product in a compelling way? Clothing and styling should also be discussed and addressed beforehand. A model should never be photographed looking like a guy who just rolled out of bed and indiscriminately threw on whatever he could grab. The model should spend some time talking to the photographer about his goals and objectives and make sure that they are both on the same page.

The independent model must also consider the purpose of his portfolio. When I am wearing my casting director hat, the model’s portfolio is a tool to help me decide whether or not I am going to hire a model for a job. As a photographer, I shudder every time I say this, but I don't need a 40 page portfolio with images shot like a Nike ad to cast a model. Casting directors know the difference between an image shot for a portfolio and a tear sheet. Far too much of what I have seen recently (and a growing trend over the past few years) in models’ portfolios, showcases the photographer's Photoshop skill rather than showcasing the models features. More often than not, it is the very simplest images or the Polaroids, which reveal facial structure, hair color, and ears as they really are, as opposed to being enhanced by corrective lighting and processing techniques that carry the most weight in the casting decision-making process.

One of the things an agency does for models is to “edit” their portfolios to showcase them and their body of work. By edit, I mean they sift through the images and select the ones that are representative and which are most appropriate for marketing. The independent models must learn to do this on their own. Objectivity when looking at one’s own images or work can be difficult. I often suggest that models visit different model agency Websites and check out the online portfolios of the “New Faces” to get a feel for how models new to the industry are being presented to clients and casting directors. I’ve been involved in castings where the model is new to the industry/agency and has walked in with just four images and booked a job— but they were four great images!

A piece of advice I often give aspiring male models is to make sure that they have more images in their portfolio with clothing on as opposed to body shots in underwear/swimwear or at least strike a balance. There are only so many images in your portfolio that you need in your skivvies--unless you are an underwear or parts model. And certainly for most commercial work—nudes, no matter how artistic, are not appropriate in the portfolio. Like Alan, I also advise male models who are interested in mainstream commercial work to “control” their exposure. There are models that take pictures with every photographer that approaches them or say yes to their approach and their image ends up everywhere. Again, his advice here is spot on.

As far as Model Mayhem (MM) is concerned, I have a somewhat different view of it and the online model site community than Alan does. I have used it on occasion when the client budget is tight and I need to save on agency fees, or to just expand the casting process. I have found some great models there that I've worked with multiple times. I do agree with Alan that there is an element of GWC (guy or gal with camera) there with questionable intentions, but that element predates on-line modeling sites and has been around as long as cameras have been in the hands of the general public. But you will also find many very well-known and respected photographers, and stylists among MM members. I think of Model Mayhem as a networking resource which can be of value to models, if used “smartly.” I periodically search MM, for models that might fit the bill for a prospective project and reach out to them when appropriate to see if they are amenable to working on my project and at my project rate. (Not everyone responds, but most do.) With the growth in the need for video content, on-line communities like Model Mayhem may actually offer some interesting out-of –the-box casting opportunities.

Regards, Byron Atkinson bk atkinson creative

Male Model Skincare

2011-01-06T06:03:00.004-06:00

It is very important for a male model to take care of his skin. It will help you have a longer career and help you look better now. Looking good is your job and you will get paid for it... take care of your total body and not just at the gym.

This article from Skincare News will help you learn what to do. With so many options, finding effective skincare for men has never been easier. But many guys are clueless about where to start and what to buy. Here’s how to keep it simple with your skincare and get real results.
More after the jump.

Your skincare game plan
Follow these tips for an effective approach to a clear complexion.

Ditch the bar soap. Many men mistakenly think that using ordinary bar soap in the shower is sufficient for facial cleansing. However, soap can actually do more harm than good by stripping your face of its natural oils. Instead, use a facial cleanser to dissolve daily dirt and grime for clear, healthy skin.
Scrub it off. You should exfoliate your face two to three times a week to get rid of dead skin cells. Exfoliating encourages new cell growth, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles and makes shaving easier.
Remove residue. After washing your face, grease, film, dirt or soap might still remain. This is where your toner comes in: it removes any leftover residue. Pour some on a cotton ball or cotton round, and then apply it to skin with gentle strokes.
Moisturize. Although men’s skin is often thicker and coarser than women’s, moisturizing is still an important part of a guy’s basic routine. Top on the list of reasons: environmental damage, free radicals and pollution don’t discriminate — they affect women and men of all skin types, causing dryness and damage.
Take cover from the sun. Add sunblock to your year-round routine. You’ll ward off environmental damage, prevent fine lines and wrinkles and keep yourself safe from skin cancer.
Know thyself. Before purchasing any products, it’s important you know your skin type. Then, look for skincare that’s specifically designed for your type.

Dry skin often feels tight and can flake.
Oily skin is typically shiny, greasy and acne-prone.
Combination skin generally has a greasy T-zone — forehead, nose and chin — but other areas are normal or dry.

The shopping list
So what skincare items do guys need? Check the list:

Cleanser. Need a daily cleanser without the frilly fragrances? Lab Series Multi-Action Face Wash is specifically designed for men to clean off dirt and grime.
Exfoliator. Use Lab Series Invigorating Face Scrub up to three times to remove dead skin cells and leave skin smoother.
Toner. Looking for a deep clean without dryness or burning? Anthony Logistics Alcohol-Free Toner soothes and moisturizes skin while removing traces of dirt and grime.

Menscience Advanced Face Tonic

Moisturizer. For oily skin, use Anthony Logistics Oil-Free Facial Lotion , which leaves skin hydrated but less oily. For an added bonus of sun protection, use Anthony Logistics Oil-Free Facial Lotion SPF 15 to hydrate the skin and shield against sun damage. Using a multi-action product is a great way to save time in the morning.
To minimize signs of aging, try Lab Series Night Recovery Lotion , which reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, firms the skin and moisturizes.
Sunscreen. Choose a formula that blocks both UVA and UVB rays, such as Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Moisture Defense SPF 30 . It’s even ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.

You can also read: Confused about Men's Skincare Products?

Model Tips from On Display Men

2011-01-05T06:45:00.003-06:00

Don't allow the fact that you are a new model to be an excuse or crutch for not knowing the industry. Anything worth having, takes work. Modeling is a job and unless you're ready to give it attention, you're not ready to be a model.

You are a brand and only you control your brand image. You should find an agent or manager that has the same career plan for you as you have. You have to clearly discuss your goals with any person working on your career.
In everything you do, be professional, courteous and on time.
Be aware of scams. Beware of anybody that asks you for upfront money to put you on their list or to train you in model techniques.
Beware of model searches. You can always attend; never sign any agreement and beware of the outcome. Realize that any pictures taken at the event are most likely the property of the search company. The most important thing to know is: a male model does not need classes! That is the number one scam in the industry; they get you “signed up” and then tell you they will work on your career if you pay thousands for their classes.
You should consider not signing exclusive arrangements or contracts with agencies, photographers or managers. Those agreements will only limit the people you can work with. Contracts and agreements with out exclusivity are important.
You should NOT start your career with nudity or artistic nudity. If that is what you show in your portfolio; that is the kind of future offers you will get. If you show fashion and fitness that is a positive direction for your career. Think about it, would a respectable client hire a model that has nude pictures that may be uncovered and possibly ruin their campaign?
You or your agent should research every photographer and/or client prior to working with them.
You must know what a photographer is looking for before you agree to a photo shoot. What looks, styles and expectations. Our agency can help you.
Work with photographers that will benefit and grow your portfolio. You need to work with many different photographers to get a diverse portfolio of different looks. You will get more offers from different clients with a diverse portfolio. Include some headshots, fashion, fitness and edgy looks.
You should always sign an agreement for every photo shoot; even if it is a TFP or TFCD. You need to have control over the future use of your images. Our agency can help you.

For modeling assignments under $1000.00 ask for cash payments.
Do not take checks (even if the amounts are over $1000.00) from individuals or from small companies that you or others have not heard about before. In these cases ask for cash or a certified check.
If you need to travel for an assignment, make sure your airfare is paid for in advance and by the client.
Never agree to pay for airfare and then have your client reimburse you.
Always ask to stay in a hotel. Make sure the client pays for the hotel expenses including room, taxes, and meals. Always confirm this by calling the hotel before you leave for your destination. If the hotel differs with you let the client know this immediately and do not leave/travel for your modeling assignment until the hotel confirms that all room and room expenses are looked after by the client.
Agree in advance on the nature of the modeling assignment, the duration and the fees. If the fees are under $1000.00 you may agree to an email outlining the assignment and the fees. If the fees are higher, you definitely want to obtain a contract and legal counsel.
Keep receipts for all your expenses that are not included in the hotel charges, like taxis, limos, lunches, etc. for reimbursement by your client.

On Display Men is on the look out for fresh faces. If you are interested in becoming a model, submit your information now. On Display Men will review your information and photo and give you a complete list of things to you know, terms and other resources.

Begin your career with On Display Men.

Model Coach

2011-01-05T06:44:00.000-06:00

You can watch our videos to get expert advice for your modeling career. We have fitness modeling videos from top worldwide fitness model Max Wettstein. We also have advice from models Shane Duffy and Keith Kirkwood (left).
Watch the videos now!

NCB NorCalBodz

2010-11-03T12:28:00.001-05:00

A fitness model (who wants to remain anonymous) just told us that he went to California to work with NCB. Here is his statement:

NCB is a f***in joke. he took me to his airport after I wouldn't do boner shots and take Viagra.

Another model recently told us that Gary said if he signed with NCB they would submit him to all the gay porn sites to get them work.

This is information we have been told and we want to alert new models. Anyone can see the photo shoots are very sexual with underwear pulled almost all the way down. Contact OnDisplayMen.com anytime you have questions about the best decisions for your career.

Agency Warning

2010-06-03T17:41:00.000-05:00

I was recently attempting to sign with a larger agency and things went a little sour. I had sent this agency a few of my portfolio shots and I was asked to meet with them. Things went well at the first meeting and I was asked to change a few things about my appearance, and contact them the following month (get leaner, tone down, etc.) When I returned to the Agency, for an open call which I thought was strange, I met again with same people I had the first time. Things were going well, they had acknowledged that I had leaned down and fit the look they wanted me to; this is where they began getting a little pushy about making this $500 investment. I didn't think too much about this because I was an inexperienced model and was ready to make this "investment." I then sat in the lobby of this agency for about an hour while I thought they were thinking long and hard about signing me.

After what seemed like a long time they decided to sign me. Admittedly I was excited, I was getting signed by, what I thought was a great agency and about to have a great opportunity. Once again on the way to get the contract the owner of the agency met with me and became very pushy about making sure that I would be able to make the minimum $500 investment. I said, naively, that this wouldn't be a problem. They gave me the contract and then the "new faces" representative went through a little bit of the contract with me. I was then asked to look over it myself and to sign it after I was through. They didn't really give me the option of getting a copy, or taking it home with me. They were pushy about the "investment" while the "new faces" rep was talking to me. And by pushy, I mean they would mention the investment in photography fees, portfolio fees, etc. and made me feel like if I weren't comfortable with making this $500 and more investment then I was not going to get signed. I signed the contract and everything along with it. The next step after signing was getting my test shots done. Test shots have to be done anyway so that agencies can make sure you look good for what they want to book you out for. I understood that and was alright. The day after I signed I was told to contact the photographer for my test shoot. This is important; the agency basically forced me into using this one photographer. They did not give me a list of photographers, other options etc. On the phone with the test photographer I was to use, I was asked to pay $420 cash. I asked if I could pay this test photographer with check and the photographer make it very clear that I would have to pay in cash. Along with this initial fee, I was going to have to pay for prints, and digital copies which would have been at least another $80.

So, after my conversation with the test photographer red flags started going up in my head.

First of all, I should not have to pay cash. Further research only led to this situation getting worse. I found that this agency was attempting to scam me, basically by doing a "Photography Mill" on me. As devastating as this was to me, I took action immediately. I contacted the photographer and canceled the photo shoot. I then contacted the agency after wards, and the bullying began. I explained how I felt that $500.00 was a little steep for a photo shoot; I mean this is over twice the price of a normal photo shoot in Dallas! The agency said, "$400.00 is a big investment?" I asked if I could use other photographers and suggested a few and their reply was that they were attempting to get me the best photographer they could and get me the best shots that would get me booked the fastest. I ended the conversation and let the agency know that I needed to re-evaluate. At this point I was ready to terminate the contract, it was obvious the agency was going to force me into using this photographer and that I was going to have to work with this photographer in order to get shots that would get me booked. If I even thought about using another photographer I probably wasn't going to get booked with those shots.

They also didn't give me a copy of the contract that I signed. They had told me it was only geographically exclusive in Dallas. However, I later found out there was a strange 'Mother Agency" clause which actually gave them total control over everything in my career. I should have receive a copy of that contract.
All in all, this was just a bad situation. The agency didn't want to work with me when I told my financial situation was going to be hard for what they were asking. They kept on pushing and pushing about using the best photographer in order to make myself get booked quicker. I feel that bullied me into things and that they were a little forceful with the situation. I kept things simple and civil, and never accused them of scamming me. I asked to end the contract and made sure that I got a letter of cancellation signed by them when I went back to the agency.

In this process I learned invaluable information that I hope is useful for other models. I don't want anyone else to end up in this situation, so always question the agency you are attempting sign with. They should work with you, and they should make an investment in you. You are making money for them, and should not have to pay that much up front expense unless the photographer is extremely well known and will undoubtedly get you booked. Even so, the agency should still work with you and give you options.

Advice from Jesse Blum

2010-02-09T06:55:00.001-06:00

Jesse Blum is the 2010 Hunkdujour.com Model Search winner with OnDisplayMen.com. He talks about his photo shoot weekend. He also has some advice for male models. Watch it after the jump.

Helpful tips

2009-10-05T01:00:00.002-05:00

Seth Travis, the cover model for the 2010 Ripped Genes Calendar, gives you some simple tips to make sure you will look your best for any photo shoot. You need to always be prepared.

Click on Seth's picture to watch his video on the ODM YouTube Channel.

Model Coach

2009-08-15T07:45:00.002-05:00

On Display Men provides male models with a lot of information to learn how to make the best decisions for their career. One of our most popular programs is the Model Coach videos. Everyone can get advice and tips from successful models in the industry. Our models who have participated in this program so far are Max Wettstein (right), Shane Duffy and Keith Kirkwood (on our YouTube channel).

Miscommunication

2009-08-01T07:37:00.004-05:00

One of our model's had a shoot once in the northeast with a photographer that he thought was somewhat decent. Before the shoot had started he had him sign a model release form and they were talking about the shoot. He told him the kind of shots he was comfortable with and what how he felt about others. He had just come to find out that the photographer had straight up turned around and manipulated every single word that he had told him. And what was said, that he said, is not true, the photographer completely flipped everything that was said and basically just said the complete opposite. He wanted to do shots the model was not comfortable with even though we talked about that before he got there.
Our model said, "Make sure that in your model release form that you sign for the shoot protects you from scumbag photographers like this. This is not right in anyway shape or form, and definitely not tolerable."

ODM note: You should always clearly discuss the style of the shoot before you book it so you don’t waste anyone’s time. We also recommend that you get a copy of the model release emailed to you prior to the shoot. You should be able to review the legal agreement you will be signing before you agree to the shoot. It is not worth your time to go to the shoot and not completely understand what you are getting involved in.

Never too old to learn...

2009-04-27T21:49:00.005-05:00

Can an old dog learn new tricks...

One thing that you should always remember is to be open to ideas and willing to learn from each shoot. I have never been at a shoot or event that I have not learned from a photographer or other models. Everyone has their own perception of a successful shoot or event. Whether it is walking the runway or posing in the next big name pair of jeans, the most important thing to take from the situation is knowledge from the professionals within the industry.

Take the time to understand who is at the event and why. Observe and ask questions. The more you learn the more experienced you will become and the more comfortable you will be in front of the camera. Asking questions and willingness to learn is the most attractive attributes a model can have to a photographer.

Knowledge comes with experience so be willing to take all types of jobs to be more diverse within the business.
posted by Dan Flood

Do your Research

2009-04-25T07:28:00.000-05:00

This is a story from one of our models:
I had received a message on Model Mayhem about a music video that these artists in NYC wanted me to be feature in. I thought it was awesome, and it would be a great opportunity for me. I got so excited that I completely over looked everything and was just too excited that I was going to be in a music video. It came just about 4 days before I was going to leave for the video shoot that I told Alan Rust at On Display Men about it. Now, I did some research on the project, but not a lot, and so therefore I didn’t really know much about it at all. The producers told me that it would be getting played nationwide and everything would be amazing. So, Alan did research on it and brought it to my attention that it was not going to happen that way and the subject of the video was a little uncomfortable. They were not popular in any way, shape or form. They only had 200 friends on a social site… I have more than that. He recommended me that I didn’t go because it would be a waste of my time and money and it turns out that he was right. So just make sure that when you get an offer, or an opportunity, that you do as much research on it as humanly possible and talk to other industry professionals.

Designer Promises

2009-04-25T07:19:00.005-05:00

This was reported to On Display Men by one of our models who wishes to be anonymous:

I met with Albert, the designer from Cotton Boy clothing, in NYC and he told me how everything was going to be and he wanted me to be their lead model. I did the underwear photo shoot for him. Now just to tell you guys, I did not get paid for this shoot what so ever. So with that said, he told me that he wanted me to come to Cali for another shoot or he will send me the underwear to have someone shoot me in them and then send him the pictures once the shoot was done (once again, not getting paid).

Later, I had brought up that he said I would be getting compensated for everything, getting copies of the pictures, the exposure as their lead model. He had told me, that as of right now, he’s not getting paid for anything that he is doing, so why should he pay me, but he had promised me that in the future I would end up getting paid. Later on down the road after I had talked to Alan Rust from On Display Men about everything. Alan contacted him for me and now Albert has stopped talking to me and I haven’t heard from him since. I never received copies of the pictures but he is using them to promote his line. He basically told me a lot of things to get me to do the shoot for free and never intended on following through with any of them.

Fitness Modeling

2009-04-11T08:56:00.003-05:00

Gregory Mantell discusses fitness modeling with our Max Wettstein, photographer Jason Ellis and other fitness models.

The How To Guide

2009-03-06T23:40:00.004-06:00

First of all hello and thank you for stopping by to hear, or rather read my thoughts. This one might be a bit shaky because I'm writing this from my iPhone so bare with me. The first thing I would like to say is that like anything else, unless you are in the right place at the right time, this is a tricky business. It takes determination and desire. Anyone can model, but you have to be a special type of person to BE a model. It takes hard work and sacrifice and with these two things you have the beginning of what it takes. You have the fundamentals and you can begin to pursue your carear in modeling.
Now that we have the fundamentals, let's talk a bit about procedure. One of the most important things you can do is get exposure. Get it through almost any means possible. I say almost because there are a few bad ways to represent yourself. You will find about those later. For now understand that good exposure includes doing fashion shows, ( remember that it's okay to go free ones when it comes to getting yourself exposure ). Exposure, exposure and more exposure. Fashion shows, TFP's, community events. Whatever it is, just remember that whatever you do will forever be a part of your image.
Ok, let me know if you have any questions so far and again sorry if some of this blog is not entirely understandable. I want to remind you again that this is being sent from my iphone. = ) Don't hold it against me just yet, I promise the next one will be more complet so until then keep in mind that if you have a dream, no matter what it is, chase it.

What to do at your first Photoshoot

2009-01-08T16:47:00.004-06:00

To the new male models trying to make it in the industry; At a photoshoot be sure to be relxed and always be yourself, its very important to netwrok with all the participants in the photoshoot. look at it this way you are now a MODEL its your job to work the camera bring your best, stay relaxed and it makes for a better photo (believe it or not a tense figure will show). its a must to remain professional at all times if you feel uncomfortable in any way come out in a professional mannor a nd say it, theres nothing wrong with stating how you feel regarding an idea. All though i am fairly new to this idustry i have done enough work to give new emerging male models advice and tips on how to go about situaitions.

How do you know which photographer is going to be worth portfolio shots?

2009-01-02T10:48:00.004-06:00

Hey everybody, OK here's the deal. so how frustrating is it to try to find the right photographer that's going to help you with portfolio shots instead of just pictures. First of when you look at a photographers work, see if its worth your book and if its the style your going for and the path you want to take in the industry; if its fashion, fitness, etc. Also speak to the photographer and ask what they are looking for because most of the time your going to be test shooting so you have to balance 50/50 on what you want to do with the photographer. If most of their work is beach shots than obviously that's what they are good at or prefer. so go with it, think of beach shot ideas that you can do with the photographer that way you can get the best out of the shoot. Also before shooting try to find out what peoples thoughts were when they worked with this photographer; remember you have Alan here to help you! Also keep in touch with the photographer with ideas that you might have so he/she can come prepared with the right equipment. If you guys want to know more or have any questions dont hesitate to contact me and also if you have any ideas that you would like me to talk about, toss it my way and i will do the best i can to give advice and help!!!

Malek,

This is for YOU!

2009-01-01T12:18:00.003-06:00

The team wants to welcome you to our new project to help Male Models get a positive start in the industry. The purpose of this project is to give new male models a place to learn from guys like them.
Let's face it... the modeling industry has a lot of bad situations that we want to help you avoid: scams, fakes and creepy photographers. This blog will help you get learn what other models have already learned.
Read what the models have to say. Use the Model Resources program from ODM. Check out the free video advice from experts in the Model Coach program. Do your research on poses and facial expressions by looking at all the ODM New Faces. Get fitness advice from Champion Fitness Model Max Wettstein.
Contact us anytime with any question! We will post your answer.