The Real Model Talk

Bella is a Texas teen model that has been modeling for about 6 years. She started out as a signed model, then moved into freelance modeling, and is now signed with a non-exclusive talent agency. In this episode we will be talking with Bella and her "momager" Tonya to get a parents perspective of starting a child out in the modeling industry. 

TRMT Bella Show Hot Spots

[02:26] (Tonya) "I had a friend whose daughter was modeling and that's kind of  how I started with all the connections, and she introduced us to some photographers and we got her signed with a modeling agency and it kind of took off from there."

[04:30] Topic: Texas Teen Models Official

[09:30] Topic: Bellas perspective of agency vs freelance modeling

[10:35] (Tonya) "Her messages come through my phone and I always check and make sure the person is legitamite and if a photographer asks to shoot with her I always go with her, she is never allowed to go by herself."

[10:58] (Tonya) "If somebody reaches out then we look at their social media and then we always, if we dont know them personally, we'll see if they've shot with somebody we do know and then i contact that person and say 'hey did you like so and so' and kind of get their feel for the person and then we go from there."

[11:30] Topic: What kind of gigs Bella has booked as a freelance model 

[17:40] Topic: Coco Rocha Model Camp experience as a teen model

[26:41] Topic: What the beginning of Bellas modeling career looked like for her mom 

[31:55] (Tonya) "Most reputable photographers do not even hesitate to pay for an experienced model." 

[35:00] (Bella) "I've always been a lot more mature and so I think that's why this industry has benefited me as much as it has."

[35:12] (Bella) "Even when I was super young I would get jobs and I would be working with all 20 year olds and I was 14 so it has really shaped me in really positive ways."

[35:23] (Bella) "One of the things I really have been thankful for starting out in modeling is I've met sooo many amazing people."

[39:35] Topic: Tips for parents that are taking care of their child models social media

[39:43] (Tonya)  "Network and do test shoots with as many photographers, of quality, that you can."

[40:00] (Bella) "99.9 percent of the jobs that I get are through Instagram."

[40:10] (Bella) "As a freelance model, social media is HUGE in growing your career."

[42:45] Topic: Steps taken to protect Bella as a young model on social media 

[44:08] (Tonya) "The block list is long"

[45:20] (Tonya) "Always go with a chaperone, I don't care if you are 17 or 25. Do NOT go alone. Period. Ever."

[47:25] (Bella) "Always put your best foot forward and be kind to everybody because you never know what one job is going to turn into or who you are around or who you are meeting."

[47:51] (Tonya)  "Be cautious and really make sure that you are working with reputable people that are out for your best interest."

Where you can find Bella online:

Instagram & TikTok: @bellafenolgio 

Instagram: @bellasmodelingcloset

In this episode CC and I talk about how she has transitioned from acting to modeling, what the modeling industry is like for her in Canada, and the tools she has used to build her modeling career.  For the tools, CC gives us an inside look on what she uses as a freelance model to book modeling jobs, build her website portfolio and create her own model comp cards. Tune in now to take a peak into what it is like to be a freelance model in Canada.  

SHOW HOTSPOTS:  

[08:37] Topic: Most memorable acting gig 

[11:45] Topic: What is a principle agency 

[14:36] "I want to try more modeling and because I'm not a standard sized model I knew right away that the agencies wouldn't initially be clamoring to sign me so I had to make them want to sign me." 

[15:40] Topic: Sources CC uses to find freelance modeling & film work 

[17:20] Topic: Negotiating rates as a freelance model 

[18:15] "When I submit a casting and I have to submit my rate I will tell them its based on:"            

Whether or not you want me to do basic hair and makeup              

Do I have to have my own wardrobe             

 Travel  

[19:55] "I have turned down some projects because I've felt like it wasn't worth my talent and experience but then there is also TFP projects that I've done because I knew I wanted to work with one of the artists there.  

[20:35] Topic: How having a background in acting has helped her with modeling 

[29:45] "You gotta find your niche, you gotta find where the industry can use you and which agencies are going to accept you for how you are." [30:35] Topic: Tools she uses to run her freelance modeling career  

[46:39] "Asking questions should not be something that prevents you from getting the job its something that helps you to do a better job."  

[50:22] "Don't be afraid to say no." 

Where to find CC online:  

Facebook: CC Print Model  

Instagram: @ccprintmodel 

 Website: https://www.ccprintmodel.com/ 

Tools mentioned: 

For booking modeling jobs:  

https://www.actorsaccess.com/ 

https://corp.castingnetworks.com/ 

https://www.backstage.com/ 

https://home.castingworkbook.com/ 

For building a website: 

https://www.wix.com/ 

https://wordpress.com/ 

For making compcards: 

https://www.vistaprint.com/

Are you a freelance model running the business side of your modeling career? If so, this episode is for you! Make sure to grab a pen and paper before listening to this episode because you will definitely want to take some notes. Arris Tolbert talks to us about model releases, tools she uses to run her modeling business and how she manages her taxes as a freelance model. 

SHOW HOTSPOTS: 

[07:00] Topic: What is a model release. 

[15:45] Topic: How to start the conversation about a model release as a freelance model

[16:08] "I have particulars or standards that I have set for my brand."

[17:40] Topic: How to make a model release

[19:50] Topic: Different tools you can use to run the business side of your modeling career

[20:00] "I run a lot of sponsored ads to get feedback and also interest in production companies."

[22:07] "Put yourself out there in a way that you know the people who want to work with you will."

[25:14]"You have to put yourself in the room with people in the industry."

[31:51] Topic: What you should know about doing your taxes as a freelance model

[39:12] "Dont forget that everyday is a new day and you can start over again."

[39:18] "If yesterday was not a good day tomorrow can be different because now you've learned something new."

[39:38] "No one has your look."

[40:07] "Trust yourself."

[40:13] "You are here because of you."

[40:21] "Trust that you can do it and you can."

Links & People Mentioned : 

For model releases: https://www.legalzoom.com/

For taxes: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/

Web Designer: @aminaobuekwe

Where you can find Arris on Instagram: 

@heiressthecurvymodel

@loveandpeace13

In this episode Krystal Warren chats with me about tattoos, the runway, and creating success in the industry. After her runway modeling career started in Dallas,Texas she has continued on to walk in New York and Paris Fashion Week. You will hear about her experience navigating her world the past 5 years as well as some insight on her new model workshops called Models 'n Motion. 

SHOW HOTSPOTS: 

[05:10] "What an honor it is to be here in this moment, to receive this opportunity, to get to do what I love"

[05:25] "Once you start to appreciate things...and you start acting more with love the universe will open up abundantly and you will receive all types of opportunities. 

[10:00] "Be someone who walks in a room, who doesn't demand attention from ego but you get attention because of the love you give."

[17:45] Topic: Being a model with tattoos

[18:02] "Tattoos will not limit you. The only limits we have are the limits we set on ourselves." 

[29:50] Topic: What is a tattoo release?

[35:36] Topic: Tips for models with tattoos

[39:35] "Why should I change who I am to make you feel comfortable in your definition of me?"

[40:07] Topics: Tips about runway modeling

[40:40] "Everyones walk is going to be different, its going to be true to who they are."

[41:40] "Every opportunity is an opportunity to grow."

[41:58] Topics: Tips for someone who is interested in New York Fashion Week. 

[46:12] "It's important to build that community."

[47:00] Topic: Models 'n Motion workshops

[49:20] "Be someone who people want to work with."

[50:36] "One thing I believe makes a great model is a great person."

WHERE TO FIND KRYSTAL ONLINE:

@modelsnmotion

@livewithkrystal

In this episode, you will hear Briana's story about how she got started working for modeling agencies then decided to step outside of the box and start her own agency, Long Island Models. We talk about influencers in the modeling industry, how to avoid agency scams, and her new online workshops called Virtual Model Coach. I learned a lot from this episode and I am sure you will too!

SHOW HOTSPOTS:

[04:45] Topic: About Long Island Models agency

[06:50] Topic: Things an agency shouldn't charge for

[11:25] Topic: Influencers vs models

[14:10] "You have to be authentic. Don't buy your followers. "

[15:00] Topic: Qualifications to sign as an influencer with Long Island Models 

[17:56] Topic: How to avoid agency scams

[22:57] "Its more of the trend these days to sign with multiple agencies"

[25:12] Topic: Virtual Model Coach

[30:15] "Its an intimidating industry to get into and its very hard to break into in general if you don't have some knowledge so its worth it to educate yourself "

[30:58] "Get out of your comfort zone"

[34:30] "Do whatever is scary to you cause that's how you grow"

Model and owner of Face Advertising, Sierra Favreau, chats with us all about wholesale apparel markets. Listen as Sierra explains what they are, the benefits for models who work them, and what exactly is expected of the models on the job. You’ll gain a full understanding of how they work, how freelance and non-exclusive models can get booked for them, and even how to get opportunities to be paid to travel as an apparel market model!

SHOW HOTSPOTS:

[03:00] Topic: What are the apparel markets 

[07:40] Topic: How working the apparel markets can strengthen your communication skills

[07:58] "Market teaches you to hold that professionalism, how to build conversation, approach someone and find out what they are looking for."

[08:40] "We rely on networking for work."

[10:00] Topic: Typical pay rate for working the apparel markets as a model

[14:15] Topic: The difference between shoe market and apparel market

[17:14] Topic: What it takes to travel with the markets

[22:55] Topic: Perks of working at the market centers

[23:18] "Some of the girls get free clothes, and I know models love free clothes."

[26:43] "There's so many different angles with this type of work."

[30:43] "You may not see the opportunity or potential at first but if you go into with an open mind, and you're professional, a door of opportunity  will always open."

[31:40] "See the potential in the jobs that you do out there...Dont go into it with a narrow mind or mindset."

[37:35] "Have FUN! Talk to people, don't be shy."

[37:55] "Spread your light and your smile."

[38:20] "Go into it just smiling, having fun, and being approachable."

How you can connect with Sierra:

Instagram: @face_advertising_media / @sierrafav

Email: sierra@faceadvertisingmedia.com

The Real Model Talk creator and host Kayla Adams shares some insight on who she is and what her goals are with this podcast. In this episode you will learn a few personal things about her background, about her modeling career, and what you can expect from TRMT in the future.  

SHOW HOTSPOTS: 

[1:30] Three personal things about me 

[6:25] Three things about me and my modeling career

[13:25] The Real Model Talk vision

[13:30] "I want to create awareness about all of the different opportunities available in the modeling industry that are available to all different types of people."

[13:40] "We all come from different walks of life and have different looks and shapes and personalities and that's what people want to see now."

[14:15] "There's so many different categories of modeling and I feel like people get held back from joining the industry because they aren't aware of these different categories."

[14:40] "I want to help people navigate the industry by giving them real and relatable conversations to listen in on."

[15:15] "I am not here to be the expert I am here to simply ask the questions that I wish I could have been sitting down with people and asking when I first started out." 

[16:08] "I believe that many people hold themselves back from pursuing the modeling industry because they just don't know where to get started or who to talk to or think they aren't able to because of what they look like in some way."

Where you can find Kayla: 

Instagram: @Kaylanadams & @Therealmodeltalk

Teen model Brooke Ashly only started modeling a year ago but through dedicating a tremendous amount of time to develop and focus on her modeling career, she’s already making waves! Brooke is involved in modeling, cheer, dance, and is still in high school. In this episode, she dives into how she is able to balance all her activities and continue to strongly pursue modeling. She also chats about her recent experience signing to a New York agency and the onboarding process.

SHOW HOTSPOTS: 

[04:00] Topic: Balancing school, cheer, social life and modeling 

[04:55] "I might not be able to go hang out with friends because I have to go to a photoshoot but in the same way I know that modeling is what I love to do so its worth it in the end. "

[08:23] "When I am at the shoot I do have a lot of fun and I actually meet a lot of new people so I do make new friends so its not like I just am modeling and that's it."

[11:50] "I am under 18 so I definitely need someone to read over and make sure I'm not missing any red flags."

[16:40] "I have definitely grown to love myself more and find who I want to be in life."

[24:35] Topic: Pinterest boards for modeling inspiration

[34:23] "If you aren't yourself then you are just what everyone else wants you to be."

Instagram: @brooke.ashly

Facebook: Brooke Ashly

Texas model Adam Davis shares tips for being on set, networking with people in the industry, and how to find modeling gigs without an agency. He has a vast amount of experience in Commercials and Print Modeling. Adam has booked jobs with big names such as TXU Energy, Facebook, and Netflix, and is currently signed to Grogan Management. However, he began his career as a successful freelancer.

SHOW HOTSPOTS:

[03:10] Topic: Pluses of working with an agency

[06:08] Topic: On set etiquette 

[06:48] "Introduce yourself to the director...you never know he might reach out to you again for another project."

[10:45] Topic: Image maintenance tips for males 

[15:45] Topic: How to find freelance modeling work

[32:35] " You gotta come out of your comfort zone if you want to be a model or an actor."

[15:55] Tool : Backstage Castings ( http://fbuy.me/v/kayla_1948 ) (for finding gigs)

 comfort zone if you want to be a model or an actor."

[32:40] "When you box yourself in, that's when you don't grow. In order to grow you have to get outside of the box, think outside of the box and do things that normal people wouldn't do."

Instagram: 

@1butta

Matthew has been working with models for about three years now. He is a multi-published urban portrait photographer that has definitely made a name for himself in the DFW, Texas area. In this episode we talk about how to cultivate ideas for photo shoots, expectations of models,  how to handle rejection, and using Facebook groups to connect with like minded creatives in your area. 

SHOW HOTSPOTS:

[06:30] "There's a professionalism that needs to occur every time you meet up to take photos whether it's a collaboration or not." 

[07:35] Topic: How to cultivate ideas for photo shoots 

[10:28] "How do you want your outfit to convey the emotion of the session?"

[13:30] "What if the person you are meeting up with or you're hiring has a connection that could further your career?"

[14:25] "Have a good demeanor, show up on time, and do what you can to be prepared."

[14:45] Topic: Where Matthew sees that models can improve

[15:25] "Learn where you look best because the photographer is only going to capture what they see."

[21:48] "If you know who you are then you know who you aren't."

[26:15] "Beauty is different to everyone."

[26:38] "There is always a chance of extreme popularity and success."

[36:00] Topic: Rejection

[37:10] "Don't read too much into the way someone says no."

[38:40] "Our parents told us no all the time, it doesn't mean they didn't love us or value us."

[39:15] "There is always an alternative, and I think discouragement clouds us or limits our view to not look for those alternatives."

[42:20] Topic: Facebook groups

[46:12] "It's okay to fail and it's okay to not like images."

Instagram & Twitter:

@matthewnortonphotos

Facebook:

Matthew Norton Photos

Jenny Williams is a freelance petite curves model in the Dallas, Texas area. In this episode we dive into being a model and a mom, how Jenny is using her modeling to send a message to her audience, setting boundaries at a photoshoot, and keeping it classy with boudoir. In addition to finding confidence in herself through modeling, she has also inspired others to love themselves for who they are. 

SHOW HOTSPOTS: 

[02:20] "I found my confidence through modeling."

[03:50] Topic: Being a model and a mom

[05:55] "Its a matter of coming to terms and loving yourself."

[06:00] "No matter what, flaws and all, we can love ourselves."

[07:50] "Different is beautiful." 

[16:38] Topic: Group photo shoots compared to solo photo shoots  

[34:00] "You can show beauty in many different ways."

[27:20] Topic: Boudoir modeling

[34:30] Topic: Setting boundaries at a photoshoot

[34:45] "If they find that I have to have someone with me as a deal breaker then I don't need to go to that shoot."

[35:00] "There is no need for a photographer to ever touch you."

[36:25] "At least have the confidence to speak up for yourself because no one is going to tell you what to do with your body. You move forward with what you are comfortable with."

[36:40] "Always have that mission in the back of your head. What am I trying to say with my work? What am I trying to say with my modeling? Is that on brand for me? Is that going to give my targeted audience the right message?

[39:15] "We have to choose to be smarter about things."

[43:50] "Don't get too excited because someone wants to work with you. Do your research."

[45:50] Topic: Keeping it classy with boudoir

Where to find Jenny on Instagram: 

@j_nicole_williams

Sierra Favreau, a 10 year agency signed model,  shares how to discover your own niche and why it is important to have a purpose in the modeling industry. She is currently signed to the Campbell Agency in Dallas, Texas.  Sierra has modeled for top brand names such as, Michael Kors, Mary Kay, and many more including a feature in Seventeen Magazine.

[7:30] "Focus on confidence not comparison."

[7:43] "You always need to carry yourself with good composure and in a professional manner."

[11:20] "Nothing in modeling is going to ever come handed to you. A lot of it is who you network with, hand your business cards to, searching for castings, and just staying on top of it."

[13:00] Topic: Finding your niche 

[14:45] "In modeling you don't want to single yourself to one market or category. You want to be versatile."

[16:30] Topic: How to step out of your niche and be more versatile

[17:04] "There is always a door of opportunity that will open. Especially if you believe it." 

[20:15] "You have to stay focused on your purpose and goal or you will fall for anything."