Elevating Your Modeling Career: The Transformative Power of Professional Headshots

In an era where image is everything, the modeling industry remains at the forefront of visual innovation and personal branding. A model's portfolio serves as a critical gateway to career opportunities, embodying their versatility, appeal, and professionalism. Within this visual resume, one element stands out for its ability to convey a profound, immediate impact: the professional headshot.

Far more than a mere portrait, a professional headshot can be a career catalyst for models, imbuing their portfolio with a sense of gravity and polish that sets them apart in a saturated market. This article hosted by M&I Models explores the multifaceted benefits of professional headshots for models and illuminates how leveraging Adobe Express with these images can unlock new dimensions of career growth.

The Undeniable Impact of Professional Headshots

Crafting a First Impression: In the fast-paced world of modeling, first impressions are not just crucial; they are often definitive. A professional headshot offers a polished, sophisticated first look, instantly establishing a model’s commitment to their craft. It speaks volumes about their seriousness, differentiating them from the myriad of aspiring talents.

Embodiment of Personal Branding: Models are, in essence, their own brand, and professional headshots are pivotal in communicating this brand effectively. These images capture the unique essence, style, and personality of a model, serving as a visual elevator pitch to agencies and clients. A headshot that articulates a model's distinctive attributes can make them memorable, enhancing their marketability.

Versatility and Range Demonstration: Professional headshots provide a controlled environment to showcase a model's adaptability and range. Through varied expressions, styles, and backdrops, these photos highlight the diverse roles and genres a model can embody, from high fashion to commercial appeal, thus broadening their appeal to a wider array of clients.

Gateway to Opportunities: More than a portfolio piece, a professional headshot is a key that unlocks opportunities. It often precedes face-to-face interactions, serving as a criterion for selection in castings, auditions, and collaborations. A compelling headshot can be the difference between getting noticed and getting overlooked, making it an indispensable tool in a model’s arsenal.

Maximizing Headshots with Adobe Express: A Toolkit for Success

Having underscored the value of professional headshots, it’s imperative to leverage these assets effectively. Adobe Express emerges as an invaluable resource, offering models creative control and versatility in utilizing their headshots across various platforms. Here’s a breakdown of how models can transform their professional headshots into dynamic tools for career advancement with Adobe Express:

Crafting an Impressive Online Portfolio: In the digital age, an online portfolio is a model's virtual storefront. Adobe Express facilitates the creation of stunning, user-friendly portfolios that highlight professional headshots alongside a curated selection of work. This digital showcase serves as a 24/7 audition, accessible to agencies, clients, and collaborators worldwide.

Refreshing Personal Websites: A personal website acts as a comprehensive platform for a model's career. Integrating the latest headshots into the website’s design refreshes its appeal, making it a current and engaging hub for showcasing talent. Adobe Express aids in revitalizing websites with easy-to-use design tools that emphasize visual allure and professional finesse.

Elevating Social Media Presence: Social media is a powerful tool for models to cultivate their brand and engage with both fans and potential clients. Adobe Express enables the creation of captivating social media content that features professional headshots, ensuring that every post contributes to a cohesive, appealing online persona.

The role of professional headshots in a model's career cannot be overstated. These images are more than just photographs; they are a strategic asset that encapsulates a model’s essence, professionalism, and potential. Leveraging these headshots through Adobe Express not only enhances their impact but also opens a spectrum of possibilities for creative and professional growth. By embracing the transformative power of professional headshots, models can navigate the competitive landscape of the industry with confidence, poised for success.

Discover your potential with M&I Models, your gateway to the high-fashion world. Click 'Be Discovered' to start your journey today!

What is a mother agency?

Almost all professional models have more than one modeling agency representing them. Things can get a little confusing if you don’t have one agency that is overseeing everything for you. This is where your mother agent / mother agency comes in.

Usually your “mother agency” is the first agency you begin working with. But that is not always the case. It can depend on the agency and the contract you sign.

A mother agencies job is to help you learn about the industry. They will provide advice and guidance on the best directions of your career. They will help you begin your modeling portfolio/book. A good mother agent will have many connections worldwide to different agencies. This will allow them to be able to present you to those agencies with the hopes of securing you representation.

If your mother agency secures representation for you in another market, they will receive a commission from the placement agency based on the amount you earn.

Typically, agencies earn 20% of a models gross earnings. If you have placement agencies in addition to your mother agency. The placement agency pays your mother agency 10% FROM THAT 20%. Meaning it doesn’t cost the model more to have a mother agent. It is actually the absolute same.

Therefore, models do not lose anything from having a mother agency. They actually gain A LOT by having someone who can help guide and support them throughout their career.

Keep in mind though, that you can only have ONE mother agency.

MODEL MYTHS

The modeling industry is filled with lies, fake news, and myths that make it so difficult for new models entering the industry to truly understand what this industry is like, how to get into it, what the expectations are, what facts to trust, which people to trust, etc. Our goal for this project is to educate and help crush these myths so that we can start spreading the truth about how this industry really works. CLICK HERE to watch all of our Model Myth Youtube Videos. Please also help us share these model myths so that we can help spread the truth about these topics!

MODEL HEALTH

A common misconception in the modeling world is that one can only be a model if he or she is ultra thin.  The truth is, models need to work on their natural build.  Whatever your size may be, it is best to be true to that size.  The key is to be the best version of yourself as you can possibly be. 

Models need to be healthy and fit.  Good muscle tone and strength are absolutes.  Here are some ideas of things you can do to get started RIGHT NOW with a health routine.

1. Exercise! Work outs that focus to lean out the muscle. Ideas for this type of work out are yoga, pilates, barre exercises, and SLT (strength, leaning, toning) training. Almost any kind of martial arts/boxing is also a good bet. Experts say that the more your mind has to work along with your body when exercising, the more your body gets from the movement.

1. EAT CLEAN! Focus on incorporating healthy foods into your diet!

1. Eat Breakfast, yes it IS the most important meal of your day!

1. Water, Water, and more Water! Make sure you are staying rehydrated throughout the day. Drinking a big glass of water in the morning will help wake you up and get you on the right track after 6-8 hours of being deprived.

“You are worth it.  Your health is worth it.  Value your health and understand that it is about progress not perfection.  What one thing can you do today to move forward to become the best version of yourself?” – Ali Emly, health coach.  

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR MODELS

There is no denying that Instagram is the hub of model media.  A social media that highlights photos and images makes perfect sense for a model to showcase him or herself.  However, the sophistication of social media can be taken way beyond utilizing Instagram.  

Taking on a career like modeling means more than having selfies posted every day.  A serious career in modeling involves an intentional method of branding.  Understanding how to brand yourself as a person of interest is an absolute must in today’s modeling universe.    

BRANDING ESSENTIALS

1. Be Real– Social media has made it possible for everyone to have a voice.  While that can be a good thing, it also means there are a lot more voices out there begging for attention.  Models must have a genuine show of self to be taken seriously.  Do not try to copy anyone and the skills that person may have.  Do your own thing.

2. Show all of your interests– Models aren’t just pretty faces anymore.  Companies are wanting models who represent a connection with their brand.  Are you an athlete?  Do you love to cook?  Are you artistic?  Show the world those interests and what you can do!  

3. Understand your platforms-Once you determine your style and brand, you need to select which social platforms will be more useful for you.  Remember, Instagram is vital for models but there are other platforms to consider such as Facebook, Snap, LinkedIn, among many others.  Each platform has its own pros and cons.  

4. Separate accounts?– One of the most common questions we receive about social media is whether to have a personal account and a professional account.  Most national scouts and clients prefer to know the real you and recommend that models have one account that is a great overall representation of you!

FILL YOUR MIND

One of the sure fire ways to educate yourself on modeling and fashion is to read about the history and the major players in these industries.  This was a difficult list to nail down as there are plenty of great books revolving around fashion and modeling icons and topics.  However, we did our best!  We have compiled a list of the best books on modeling/fashion for you to run out and buy asap!  We recommend these books for our readers 18+. Here a list of our top 8 choices for information packed reads:

8. THE BATTLE OF VERSAILLES by Robin Givhan

7. CHAMPAGNE SUPERNOVA by Maureen Callahan

6. THE BEAUTIFUL FALL by Alicia Drake

5. MODELS OF INFLUENCE: 59 WOMEN WHO REPRESENT THE COURSE OF FASHION by. Nigel Barker

4. BECOMING by Cindy Crawfod

3. A NEW MODEL by Ashley Graham

2. THE END OF FASHION by Teri Agins

1. MODEL WOMAN by Robert Lacey

We hope you enjoy these resources!  If you have other ideas of great modeling/fashion books please let us know.  We would love to hear from you.

COMMERCIAL VS. EDITORIAL MODELING

There are two main market types for models. One is commercial and one is editorial. What does it mean to have two different types of markets? It means that there is a place for many different people to enter this industry! Finding the right market for you is the first step to being successful.

M&I National Model- Shelby Blake (Editorial)

EDITORIAL: High fashion markets revolve around showcasing designer clothing. Because of this specific demand, models must meet certain physical criteria such as height and measurements.

M&I National Model- Anyah Polk-Darby (Commercial)

COMMERCIAL: Commercial markets are product markets. This means that the need for models is very diverse. Clients in these markets need models who fit a specific bill and it can be different every time. Ethnicity, height, size, and age of commercial models vary all across the board.

Every city is defined by editorial or commercial needs. Some rare cities can encompass both. Where does Wichita fit into this? Wichita is a commercial market through and through. The needs of our clients vary greatly by project. Physical characteristics don’t come into play as strongly in Wichita as do professional qualities. Models need to follow a strict code of professionalism to maintain a career in any market.

When we are asked, “what is my potential” by people after we have first met them, we can’t answer them. We don’t know if they will be on time, be respectful, take it seriously and strive harder every day to be the best they can be until we get to know them and see them in action. These are truly some of the top characteristics of a successful model.

Are you a commercial or an editorial model? This is one of the first questions you need to discover in order to head in the right direction. Without knowing this, you can easily go down the wrong road and get the wrong idea of your potential in this industry.

SKILLS THAT PAY THE BILLS, REALLY.

You want to be a model. What does that mean? We speak to a lot of people who don’t really understand what it truly means to be a model. Here are some top tips from our models to help explain what skills are vital to start a career in modeling and maintain that career. 

PATIENCE: As a M&I model myself, being respectful of clients goes a long way! Whether being on time, listening to direction, acting and speaking professionally, or taking care of clients garments better than your own; always show respect. With owning my own clothing store, it’s important to me that models return all clothes the exact same way they were provided. Respect; it may be just the thing that gets you rehired by the same client and/or referred for the next opportunity by another client! —Parker Mitchell – Gentry Ltd Menswear, Owner 

BEING ABLE TO TAKE DIRECTION: “Being able to take instruction is key when trying to create your image in this industry. Most clients look for models that will do absolutely anything they ask when they ask no questions about it because they want he process to go as quickly and smoothly as possible. Ten times out of ten the client will want to rebook you if you were easy to work with and had a good attitude!” —Konstance Harris, National Model 

CONTINUE TO LEARN: “It’s important to remember as a model that you always have room to grow and learn more about the industry and your role in it. Modeling is a learned practice and not one that can be accomplished overnight – the more you practice, the better you’ll become. Also, never be afraid to try something new or out of your comfort zone just because it isn’t your ideal job, you never know how much you could enjoy it! You should never view yourself as being “above” or “too experienced” for a certain job or booking because you will always learn something new and the experience will always benefit you.” — Jenna Hainke, Local Model 

BE ON TIME: Everything I learned about being on time I learned from my dad. He told me that “being late is one of the worst things you can do, because once you’re late no one knows just how late you will end up being, Disrupting everyone involved while at the same time showing that you’re unreliable.” So I’ve always tried to make being on time a priority. I think being on time is one of the best ways to show that you value a project. A lot of effort goes into shows/photo shoots, and I never want anyone’s job made more difficult or have the show suffer on account of me being late. — Preston Campbell, Local Model 

HAVE A BUSINESS MIND: Brief notes on having a business mind when modeling: Modeling is more than the stereotype to “be fabulous and make the clothes look like a million bucks”. You are your own brand, and you need a business savvy mind to rival the greatest on Wall Street, while combining the ability to market yourself like a Fortune 500’s latest campaign launch. If you only see yourself as a model, and not as a commodity, a business, a marketing platform… you will not reach the success it takes to become a national or international model. Always put yourself in the best light, whether it be through your professionalism, promptness to all auditions/fittings/bookings/etc., and courteous behavior to everyone you meet (you never know who could be the client, or your next opportunity!). Also don’t be afraid to use whatever you have at your disposal to have an advantage. Do you have a large social media following? Do you have particularly high engagement, even with a smaller micro following? Use it! Your sphere of influence extends across others who engage with you, and through a 2nd/3rd/4th/etc. degree of connection you could have amazing opportunities to grab. Be sure that your profile represents your brand… YOU! Do not portray anything publicly which could make a client choose another model over you. Always take the chance to promote yourself, your brand, and your potential. You are a model, but being a model is a business. Never think otherwise! — Meeghan Hansen, Local Model, Blogger & Marketer 

Modeling can be an exciting and rewarding career! There are many careers, such as photographer, make-up artistry, styling, marketing and branding and digital content strategy, that coincide with modeling as well. Please reach out to us with any and all of your questions. We are happy to help and hope to hear from you soon!!

HOW TO GET STARTED!

“How do I get started?” This is the most common question we are asked.

Depending on where you live- there is more than likely an agency or agencies in your area. The first thing to do is RESEARCH THE AGENCIES. Look for reviews on social media, google, check out the websites. Talk to their models, see what experiences they have had. 

The most common request from agencies will be for you to send a headshot and possibly a full body shot. They may also ask your height, age, size, etc. It is important that you have images and know your stats.

Agency visits- Open calls are usually as far as you can get in the door unless you have a mother agent scheduling appointments for you. Having a mother agent is vital to move forward in this industry.

Fill yourself with knowledge about the industry. Doctors go to medical school and lawyers go to law school. Anything that is worth doing is worth doing well. Research current trends, read books written by and about people in the industry. Learn everything you can about the industry you want to enter.

Learn from people who have done this. Take advantage of their experience. Make sure if you are paying for training that it is with an agency/school that you have done your research on and also the people teaching are ones who have ACTUAL experience in this industry. These are subjects that can’t be taught out of books. 

If you, or someone you know, is interested in being a model we would love to hear from you!

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