As with everything in life, you must have passion and drive. Big dreams take big investment. If you’re reading this then you’ve already taken that step. Now, it’s time to start making your dreams become reality.
Hair, Make-up, Wardrobe, Photography by Chantaille Marie Photography & Cinematography
The first and most important step is to let go of every insecurity you’ve ever carried with you and replace it with the truth, which is that you are a bad@$$ bodacious babe in every respect. You are all together excellent and lovely. The reason this is the most important step towards becoming a model is because how you feel about yourself reflects on camera. Have you ever looked at someone and thought “they look sad/bored/happy/grateful?” This is exactly what goes through the minds of others who view your images. Therefore, whatever you’re feeling on the inside will be picked up by the observer.
Once you’ve adopted a healthy self loving mindset immediately you will notice a difference in your photographs. Instantly, as if by magic you will morph from a wannabe model into a role model. You will notice and so will everyone else around you.
The next step is to decide if you want to be a free lance model or represented by an agent. I am represented by an agent, Mode Elle in Belleville Ontario, so I can’t offer much advice on being a free lancer. However, when it comes to choosing which agencies to apply to you will want to ensure the agency reflects your core values, what is important to you.
My agency is diversity friendly and promotes a toxic-free environment. All models and talent are expected to give it their all, be kind, courteous and supportive at all times. I have found this to be the industry standard. I’ve heard “horror stories,” however I haven’t experienced anything remotely close to this, thankfully. Thus far, the message from agents and casting directors is clear: you are expected to be collaborative, professional and above all kind. These are arenas I excel in. I have a reputation for being exceedingly kind and supportive, so I have found my true niche within the industry. If you’re a hard worker, love putting your best foot in the best shoe forward then it’s likely you’ve stumbled into the career of your dreams.
Another extremely important aspect of modeling and acting is managing your expectations. It is rare to be scouted for top positions. You should expect to start small, aim big and through years of dedication and hard work slowly expand and blossom into the model you’ve always envisioned becoming. Often, where you think you’ll go isn’t necessarily where you’ll end up, and sometimes it is. However, with commitment, a success-based mindset and the willingness to learn from every experience you’ll make gains along the way. Remember to be kind to the barista down the block from your audition – because that’s who you really are as a person – because you never know who’s listening and who knows who. If you treat every person you meet with equal dignity you’ll shine! You will get noticed for the right reasons.
Set reasonable expectations, be willing to learn from others every step of the way, practice working harder and smarter along the way, stay up to date on your portfolio, comp cards, and resume, and above all be kind always. That sounds like a recipe for success to me.
Dream it.
Do it.
Duchess Chantaille
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Duchess Chantaille 