8 Things Clients Wish Plus Models Knew - The Inside Scoop Part 2
Are you an aspiring plus size model? In the second part of this two-part blog series, I'm giving you the scoop on eight things that plus models can do to make their clients REALLY love them. Next up? Our last four tips Looking for the first four? You can find a link to the first part at the bottom of this page!
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Rule 5 - Never say no.
“Unless the P.I.C is asking you to do something that will put you in harm’s way or compromise your religious or core beliefs, do you best to do everything they ask you to do. This comes back to supporting the goals and vision of The Brand. Do NOT be the reason they didn’t get the shot we were banking on.”
This means….
The shoot is not about you. Did I mention that before? In case you didn’t catch it I will say it again. The shoot is not about you. It is about The Brand. If you are scared of animals but the P.I.C asks you to pose with a horse? Suck it up. If you are deathly allergic of said horse, that is a different story. If you have a religious or cultural objection to working with a horse, fine. But don’t not do it because it makes you feel
weird
.Every photoshoot is an opportunity for you to stretch and grow as a professional. If you are afraid of heights are asked you to stand on a chair? Try it anyway. Put your fears aside for the bigger picture. Do it gracefully. Never let the P.I.C see you sweating. If you are having a real issue with something you are asked to do, calmly talk to the P.I.C about it and ask for help. They would rather troubleshoot WITH you than not. Bottom line is, learn how to seize the opportunity, step up to the plate and take a risk.Big Disclaimer: You should never, ever, be forced to compromise your sexuality or body in any way. If you feel- genuinely- that you are being abused or taken advantage of then, obviously, speak up for yourself.
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Model, Alex LaRosa
Rule 6 – Don’t take it personal.
“You are a hired professional. If the P.I.C gives you feedback, they are giving it so that The Brand can get a better end result. This is not about you, it is about The Brand, which you are there to serve. So always keep a positive attitude and know that everyone is there to support a bigger goal.”
This means…
Put your Big Girl Panties. You are doing a job and constructive criticism is sometimes given so that the job can be done as better Also know that your body is a product. Be confident in your product and yourself. Your body is your job. You can’t clock out of work like some people do, so work on being the most confident version of you that you can be. Your strong sense of self will be contagious and rub off on everyone around you in a really great way!
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Rule 7 – Ask questions.
“It is better you ask questions than waste time (aka waste money) trying to figure something out yourself. P.I.C ‘s are going a mile a minute and may not remember to tell you something. They may take for granted you know something. If you don’t--- just ask.”
This means…
If you are given direction you don’t understand, ask for clarification. Ask the P.I.C what the mood or feel they are going for is! They would rather take the extra few moments to inspire you than spend time floundering. Another example? When you’re given an outfit, ask what kind of undergarments they want worn and allow the P.I.C to pick. Taking one minute to get clarification is better than the fifteen it will take to correct a mistake. Remember, time is money!
Rule 8 - Move well.
“You must move well. If you don’t, the P.I.C can’t use you. Be limber and light on your feet. Be able to walk in high heels. There is nothing worse than a model that has two poses and nothing else to her. The more a model gives the more chances the P.I.C has to make the he best possible shoot for The Brand.”
This means…
You are an athlete. It is your job to have stamina. You must be able to bend or walk or jump, squat, kneel or stand on one foot. Clumsy is bad. Graceful is good. Your body is your job. It is a machine. My best advice for a model is to regular take yoga or a dance class. Anything you can do to be more coordinated and limber, do.
My eight rules are not designed to be seen in black and white. Use them as starting points and mix them with your own common sense. The overriding themes are basic—keep the focus on the job (not yourself), bring a positive attitude and a willingness to work. Modeling is a job and a commitment. The great models know this and put energy and work into growing!Good luck in your professional journey.
Have questions for me or feedback? Share your comments below. I’ll do my best to answer and help as I can!