The fact that people are searching this phenomenon so frequently shows that we needed to go in-depth with this one to ensure that more people don’t get involved.

Is There Any Truth To Models Eating Cotton?

In general, it seems that most models would know that this is a terrible idea. However, you must remember that some models are really desperate, especially when some clients or agencies are putting them under intense pressure. At this point, it becomes difficult for them to speak out – after all, their dream hinges on the weight loss as much as their agent is counting on it.

It’s impossible to say if models eating cotton is prevalent in every area of the industry, but it’s being discussed enough to know that it’s not entirely a myth. Sadly, it’s not the only thing they’re eating, as many other items not meant for digestion are being swallowed, such as hair.

Why Models Eating Cotton Is A Terrible Idea

According to the Daily Mail, as you might imagine, the cotton wool contains scary levels of chemicals which can easily do long-term damage. Models eating cotton also won’t lose lots of weight, because there’s no actual evidence that it even works as a weight loss method!

In fact, models eating cotton must not be seen as a diet, according to the National Eating Disorder Association – rather, it’s disordered eating which needs urgent intervention. It’s a sign not just of weight management, but potentially of mental illness.

If you’re thinking about going to drastic measures to lose weight, you must immediately seek help. Your health is the most important thing, and you cannot possibly risk the long-term issues that eating dangerous substances will cause. Some blockages in some cases could even be life threatening.

Remember – it doesn’t matter how skinny you are if you’re dead.

Have you ever seen models eating cotton? Would you speak out?

The post Models Eating Cotton – Is This Real Life? appeared first on UK Models.

Model Scouts Explained

Model scouts are extremely busy professionals who do not spend all of their time hunting out the latest talent in teenage hangout spots. The pressure to deliver new potential is high by the fashion industry and therefore, the individuals rely on other methods to conduct their search. Scouts usually work for a large organisation and are expected to follow legit procedures to ensure that talent is found on a regular basis. It is important that you follow these guidelines to avoid danger and to be signed to be a model. Take a look at the ways to approach a modelling agency that will be more successful than waiting to be scouted.

The Application

All trustworthy modelling agencies will have an application process that hopefuls can fill out. Once you have found the agencies that are suitable, you can begin filling out the form to the best of your ability. Ensure that all sections are completed and answer correctly with no spelling errors. Attach photographs of a high, professional standard and wait to be contacted. Do not pin all your hopes onto one agency yet apply to as many legit establishments as possible.

Walk In Appointments

Most agencies conduct walk in sessions for those who prefer a face to face meeting. Check the times on the website to avoid a pointless journey. Agents are very busy people and will not just see you at a moments notice. It is important to make a great first impression. You will not be given a long time to sell yourself. Unfortunately, the modelling industry is a ruthless world and judgements are made immediately on looks alone. Most do not give a second chance so use your opportunity wisely.

Work Hard

There you have it two ways to work towards your modelling goal. How to get scouted for modelling is a very popular question with many looking to Karlie Kloss’ and Jourdan Dunn’s personal story. This of course, could happen to you. Yet be smart and savvy and do not leave your career to chance as it could leave you disappointed. Networking is also a great way to secure opportunities and meet industry experts. Yet most of these events will arise once you have entered the fashion scene.

What tips do you have in response to the – how to get scouted for modelling question? We would love to hear your thoughts. 

The post How to Get Scouted for Modelling appeared first on UK Models.

Why Have A Portfolio?

A portfolio is a bit like a CV, in that it displays what you can do and your previous experiences. However, rather than it just being a load of text, the images you put in it will speak for themselves. These pictures from previous shoots will demonstrate to an agency or casting person why you should be chosen for a modelling job, showing your potential and versatility.

Many models want to highlight their range and versatility with a portfolio, and show off their very best shots. It’s a chance to control the way that a future brand or agency you may collaborate with will see you. It can give a great first impression!

When you’re starting out, you might not have any professional images to put in your portfolio. Professionalism is key – anyone has a smartphone these days, so these kind of snaps (or heaven forbid, Instagram selfies…) are not welcome here. If you want, you can include the links to your social media as an extra, but the portfolio itself needs to be properly produced.

You have a few options. You can work with a photographer in your local area, and either pay for a photoshoot or work ‘Time For Print’, which is a mutually beneficial agreement which will get both of your work seen. Alternatively, you can treat yourself to a professional studio day (UK Models is great for this, and you will leave with some great images to really highlight your talent).

What Are Your Options For A Model Portfolio Online?

Depending on where you are in your career, you can host your model portfolio online in a number of ways. Some people make a page on Facebook for their friends and fans to follow, and grow from there.

Others use websites specifically designed to host a model portfolio online, for example PurplePort or Model Mayhem. Sites like this are truly fantastic because they allow you to collaborate with other users, gets tips, and find new projects to work on. You can even just look for creative inspiration!

If you want to go all out, you could even have your own website designed and upload images there. This can look very sophisticated if you know what you’re doing.

In all of these cases, you can really achieve results by hosting your talent across the web.

Do you have a model portfolio online? How do you spread the word about it? Let us know!

The post Get Your Model Portfolio Online! appeared first on UK Models.

See It as an Investment

Look at the modelling portfolio cost as an investment into your career. £500 might seem like an absurd amount of money to cough up for a new model with little cash to spare yet the outcome will be worthwhile. As long as the deal includes high quality, professional photos you will see a return on your investment.

Employers such as Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi look to a modelling portfolio to determine whether or not you are suitable for the opportunity and therefore, has a significant part to play in your career. An amateur, unprofessional portfolio will not suffice in a competitive modelling world. Therefore, spending a small, manageable sum is advised.

The Cost of Facilities

When receiving quotes back from companies who specialise in supporting with modelling portfolios consider the amount each element would cost if done separately to determine if the figure is justifiable. A professional photographer, studio, lighting equipment, make up artists and hair stylists will need to be booked for a number of hours. Look into how much each of them costs separately to weigh up if you are being overcharged or, in fact, the amount is reasonable. Being knowledgeable in these areas is important to ensure that you are not fooled.

Is the Company Legit?

Research thoroughly into the company to truly understand if the establishment is legit. Make sure that the company is not taking your money without returning on their promise. Unfortunately, scam artists lurk in the modelling industry in hope of preying on young individuals and their naivety. It is easy for them to do so with the easy access and screen of the Internet. However, the resource can also highlight their misgivings. A crossed, angry model who has paid money with no result in return will go out of their way to express their experience. So ensure that you research fully before accepting.

Only Use Professional Photos

There are ways to spend less on professional portfolio content. The use of students and those fresh into the industry are willing to shoot images for free. Photographers, make up artists and hair stylists all need to build up their evidence of work. However, it’s essential that each creative works to a high standard to ensure the outcome is worthwhile to your modelling portfolio. Professionalism is key. Although saving money in the beginning can pay off, do not scrimp on the standard of the photographs.

The Photoshoot

When organising a photoshoot there are many things to consider to get the most out of the day. These images can be used in many different places such as social media accounts, composite cards and your website. Therefore, aspiring models need to consider the below points before organising the photoshoot.

• Would you prefer a studio shoot or a location shoot?
• A studio will need to be booked for the day. It takes surprisingly longer to set up than you think. Therefore, a good amount of studio time allows for you to take the images.
• Think about outdoor locations that you would like to try but also consider the logistics. Weather, crowds and outfit changes could be tricky.
• Consider the look that you wish to go for knowing the poses that you would like to try and the outfits that you want to shoot. Being organised will save you a lot of time on the day.
• Make sure everyone knows the exact date and time to arrive to avoid any delays.

How Can UK Models Help?

As you know, we invite successful candidates to a photoshoot at our London studios where a hair stylist, make up artist and professional photographer are available to help you build a modelling portfolio without the hassle. Our portfolio packages allow for you to buy high quality photos to show model agencies and future clients in the hope of finding a job. Our photoshoot packages of high resolution images is the perfect way to create a professional portfolio. You do not have to organise the logistics yourself. Simply turn up at our studio with outfit changes and enjoy the ultimate modelling experience.

To register with us simply fill in your details and attach a few photographs. A member of our team will be in touch to let you know that you have been accepted. It’s really that simple.

What are your thoughts on the modelling portfolio costs? Did spending a manageable amount pay off for you?

The post Modelling Portfolio Cost: The Truth appeared first on UK Models.

What Is Body Shaming?

Body shaming is the term that has been coined to deal with the fact that other people often like to make fun of or make critical comments about another person’s body or appearance. It often involves taunts about weight, but can include literally anything someone can think of to judge another for the way that they look.

Sometimes, people don’t realise they’re doing it – it’s become so common to feel like you have a right to an opinion on the way other people look. Other times, it stems from jealousy. In other cases, it’s pure maliciousness.

In all cases, it’s unacceptable.

Who Experiences Body Shaming?

All kinds of people experience body shaming on a regular basis. Sadly, models in the public eye are no exception.

In modelling, a lot of people feel that it’s their business to comment on the body of another because they put their body out in the public eye and make it their career. This simply isn’t true – just because someone’s famous, it doesn’t mean you can dictate how they live their lives, and they still are human. They deserve humanity when you speak about them – hurtful comments aren’t somehow okay because they won’t see what you’ve said!

When models who don’t fit the typical norms try to challenge convention, they often get ridiculed or mocked. For example, Tess Halliday, the famous plus-sized model often gets criticism masked as concern because she is very overweight, but people also laugh at her outright, which isn’t fair. These attitudes towards models trickle down into society as a whole, leaving ‘normal people’ feeling they’re being attacked as well.

People body shame people for their height, weight, facial features – essentially anything they can think of. It’s cruel, unfair and definitely a form of bullying!

What To Do If You Experience Body Shaming

Body shaming shouldn’t be allowed to go without being called out in 2016. If you hear something, you are well within your rights to stand up for yourself.

Sadly, in the modelling industry, the shaming often comes from within. You may be made to feel you shouldn’t eat something, or even be explicitly told cruel things about your body and the way it looks. You can speak out.

If you’re under 18, always tell a parent or guardian. If you’re online, report offenders to the website in question. If the shaming happens at work or on a shoot, make the conscious decision to either rise above, or politely question it. Often, it can feel like it never ends. There comes a time where you may just have to remind yourself that as long as you love yourself, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks!

If you find success in the modelling world, you can use your platform to drive change. You don’t have a responsibility to do so, however it can really help others who are going through such abuse.

Have you experienced body shaming? Do you think it’s on the rise?

The post Body Shaming In Modelling appeared first on UK Models.

What Do Models Weigh To Be On The Catwalk?

Catwalk modelling is where the notoriously slim models that we’ve all seen and perhaps even envied appear most often. Whilst conscious efforts have been made in recent years to ensure that they are still at a healthy weight, it’s important to note that when it comes to women on the catwalk in particular, they’re still at the lower end of the BMI spectrum, which isn’t ideal for a lot of body shapes.

Most estimates say that catwalk models are between 90lbs and 120lbs. Now, when you consider that most girls who model on the catwalk are taller, and between 5’8 and 5’11, this puts them at a weight which may sometimes be a bit risky.

Some girls are naturally slimmer, but others face pressures from their agency to lose more weight to be catwalk ready. Whilst weight loss in itself is fine, you should never put your body under unnecessary strains or pressures, particularly when you’re under 18 and still developing!

What Do Models Weigh To Be Considered Plus Size?

Plus size modelling – as the name implies – allows women to be a larger size whilst modelling than conventional modelling has previously allowed. It recognises that the shapes of women who are involved with fashion either directly or indirectly are varied, and so there should be better representation out there.

Most plus size models start at a size 12, but there are some who are even as small as a size 10. There is often some controversy in the plus size world that women who are a normal size are being labelled as ‘plus’, which has backlash from both bigger and smaller girls.

There are plenty of great plus sized models out there, however, so whether you’re curvy or simply bigger boned, there may well be opportunities out there for you.

What Do Models Weigh In Between?

Some models may not be small enough for the catwalk, but not big enough for plus size. The fact is that not everyone can be a successful model, and it’s not always about weight. It’s an industry with pre-existing set conventions. Girls who are in between unfortunately do have to consider making changes at times – it’s an industry that rarely changes for people, people have to change for the industry! However, with that said, it’s becoming more inclusive. You shouldn’t give up on your dream, if you’ve got the right attributes in other respects. Weight is only one part of the aesthetic puzzle!

Another scenario is that models may do a kind of modelling which isn’t really dependent on size, for example glamour modelling or modelling of a particular body part. What do models weigh in those

cases? The answer is that weight isn’t really a focus there, but there are other considerations and boxes you’d have to tick for those kinds, too.

What do models weigh in your experiences? Do you think the industry should change or do you think it’s great the way it is? Let us know in the comments!

The post What Do Models Weigh? Does It Matter? appeared first on UK Models.

Find some useful tips how to create a portfolio in the video below.

Photographs

Include images that showcase your capabilities in the best light possible. A range of professional photographs are bound to impress an agent or employer as they are able to witness your talent via a series of well thought out images. Hire a photographer and arrange a shoot if you are an emerging model who has not built a wealth of work just yet. The modelling portfolio will be an ongoing process that you can edit and add to as you so wish. Never include shots that are not captured with a high quality finish as amateur images will hinder your chances considerably.

Layout

Carefully think about the layout of your portfolio to provide a sophisticated and professional look. Do not overload a page with too many images to avoid it looking too cluttered and messy. A slick presentation is much more favoured over a busy one, which looks careless and not considered. Choose a selection of shots that represents your potential in the best light and stick with these choices. An employer does not need to view a portfolio full of unnecessary images crammed in on the same page.

Statistics

It is important to include your statistics in an obvious place that the industry professional can spot immediately. Place on the first page of a portfolio as the agent or client will require this information on first glance and may give up if difficult to find. Always state the truth and do not over exaggerate as upon meeting your lies will be instantly revealed. Write in a clear, concise font to avoid a possible error in reading, which could hinder your chances if a digit is understood incorrectly.

Relevance

A portfolio should be relevant and kept update as you navigate through the industry. Do not leave this vital resource to become out of date as you may miss an opportunity due to lack of organisation. If you deem the photoshoot worthy and to a high standard update your portfolio at your earliest convenience. There may become a time where earlier images look amateur in comparison to your latest work and need to be removed as time evolves. Be selective in your choice to present a high quality, professional evidence of work that you are proud of.

Do you have any top tips about how to create a winning portfolio? Let us know by commenting below.

The post How To Create A Modelling Portfolio appeared first on UK Models.

Thinking about all of the possibilities can be mind blowing and intimidating as you rush to try and pursue all avenues simultaneously. However, take every day as it appears finishing the tasks you have set for yourself with confidence and professionalism. Modelling is certainly not a career that you can conquer overnight it takes hard work, dedication and commitment to make your dream a reality.

5 Top Tips on How to Start Your Modelling Career

Check out these amazing top tips from runway and commercial print model Dey.

Where to Begin?

Start by researching the exact niche that you wish to work in. Is it high fashion, fitness, plus size, catalogue or commercial modelling that you are aiming for? Unfortunately, it is important to be realistic as you may want to work for the likes of Chanel, Alexander McQueen, Vogue and Dior but do you have the suitable statistics, body type and look for this niche. By all means if you believe you have the right look go ahead and work towards your goal yet do your research fully as it will be extremely disheartening if you keep getting rejection due to your talent being more suited to commercial modelling rather than high fashion.

Take your time as having direction and an understanding of the industry is the first step to reaching your desired dream. The fashion industry is becoming a much more diverse place with plus size models finding their place in the high fashion modelling world. Therefore, do not be put off, always keep trying. Take commercial modelling work also to gain experience and carve a modelling career that you are proud of.

What’s Next?

Once you have the knowledge of the niche you wish to enter, you can then begin to locate an agency that is specialised in that sector. As a new, aspiring model it is wise to get signed to a model agency. They will help you to navigate the modelling industry with confidence. Their plethora of links and connections will definitely help you secure casting calls, auditions and great opportunities. This would be difficult to find without their network of strong contacts.

Focus on reputable agencies that look appealing to you and work out how to apply. You may favour the online application or a walk-in session/open calls may be more your style. Decide and then work on the application or attend a walk-in appointment that fits into the designated time slots. Contact a lot of modelling agencies to keep your options open and avoid pinning all of your hopes onto one establishment.

Filling Out the Application Form

When filling out the application it is important to be truthful and to not over exaggerate. You will be found out upon meeting in person. State the facts, double check your answers and submit the application. Modelling agencies will want for you to upload a set of photographs to evaluate your suitability and potential. Some may require portfolio shots whereas others will need simple head/body shots. Ensure that you follow their stipulations and that the images are professional and to a high standard. Remember this is their first impression of you so amateur shots will not suffice. No selfie or socialising with friends please.

Casting Calls Explained

It doesn’t stop there! If you are lucky enough to get signed to a reputable agency it is time to start attending casting calls. A lot of them. It’s just how the fashion industry works. To carve out a modelling career you will have to be successful at model auditions. Over time you will start to be recognised yet to begin with your looks and overall presence will be judged. If you impress the agents, designers and professional photographers you will be in with a shot of securing a modelling job such as a photoshoot or fashion show appearance. During the time of Paris, New York or London Fashion Week there will be lots of great opportunities available for catwalk models.

This Is How It Works

• You will be contacted by your modelling agency if an opportunity arises – if they think that you are suitable for a casting call.
• You will arrive at the destination on time wearing jeans/leggings and a T-shirt (unless told otherwise), a pair of heels and natural hair and make-up. Most models keep their hair colour neutral to avoid losing modelling jobs.
• A lot of waiting around usually takes place until your name is called. Take a book and magazine to occupy your time.
• Once in the room you may be asked to show your walk if the job is for a fashion show. They will also ask for a snapshot of your face for them to remember you by.
• It will all be over very quickly. You will then wait for a call from your model agency to see if you got the job.
• Then repeat, time and time again. The same applies to both female and male models. Although there typically is more opportunities for women due to the nature of the fashion industry and the modelling world.
• A successful model will then be given more details about the job. Here you can build connections within the industry

How to start modelling is a common question asked by emerging models. I hope I have given you the confidence to begin your modelling journey. However, do not hesitate to comment if you have any other queries on the subject.

The post How to Start Modelling appeared first on UK Models.