Model Lifestyle

The following is an interview between Model Worker's M.D. Michelle Sutherland and experienced professional model Jennifer Duru.

Michelle

Jennifer

M: "How did you get into modeling in the first place?"

J: "It was mainly through working in the hair industry that I got involved with modeling. I also thoroughly enjoy meeting new people and believed that modeling was the perfect place to do this.

M: "What type of modeling did you do?"

J: I have done promotional modeling, catwalk and hair modeling. I have also done adverts and television work.

M: "Is it easier to get another job once you’ve got the foot in the door?"

J: Yeah, you have to build up a portfolio of work that you have participated in. It is this portfolio that clients review and fundamentally how you get work. It is important in your modeling career that you get as much coverage as possible, even if this means doing voluntary work.

M: "Who took your pictures?"

J: There are always photographers at shoots. Sometimes they are professional and sometimes amateur. Normally many photos are taken and the best ones are selected by the client. You should put the photograph that is selected in your portfolio along with others that are suitable. This way you can build up a collection of different looks, showing how versatile you are.

M: "How much did they cost?"

J: The modeling agency charges a sign up fee. This varies from agency to agency. I was asked to pay £60 for my first set of photographs. This was to get you started. Agencies tend to have resident photographers that they use to take photos of the models.

M: "Did you model part-time?"

J: Due to the nature of the industry I had to subsidize my earnings with other types of work. When you go for castings you are not guaranteed the job. This means that an alternative regular income is required.

M: "Advantages and disadvantages with being a model?"

J: There are many advantages of being a model namely; variety of workload; meeting new people; challenging and rewarding career. Disadvantages include; insecurity of work and the amount of traveling involved.

M: "Do you travel when doing modeling?"

J: It is important that you are willing to travel for your career. You need to be flexible otherwise you are restricting your earning potential. The more castings you go to the more jobs that you will ultimately get. Agencies are not interested in models that are unwilling to go the extra mile.

M: "How much did you earn?"

J: The amount that you earn depends on the job and the client. You might agree to do a job because of the coverage you get, as opposed to the monetary value.

M: "What would you recommend to other people trying to get a job as a model?"

J: I would recommend that you get as many photographs as you can to build up your portfolio. Always remain professional and keep a good appearance. Join a model agency that best suits your needs. Build relationships with photographers, make up artists, stylists and clients this way they will remember you and may think of you for future work.

M: "Did you encounter any dangers in the modeling industry or do you know of any things to avoid?"

J: You always need to be conscious of your actions. You can’t behave irresponsibly as this will have a negative effect on your image and reputation, which are two key qualities models have to possess.

M: "Have you ever turned work down?"

J: I would be reluctant to turn down work. However if you feel uncomfortable in any way whatsoever, you should not carry on with the job. You should never participate in anything that you are wary about. Inform your agent of the situation as soon as possible.

M: "What do you think your future will be like in modeling?"

J: There are many different avenues you can take in a modeling career. You could start your own agency or go on into promotional work and television. The possibilities are endless.

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