Sasha from IMAGE Models!

Plus-Size Modelling! Guest Post from Sasha of IMAGE Models

Whether you are what many would call a shoe collector or not, it's all too easy to end up with racks and racks of them! Often when I'm out and see a pair I just can't not buy I come back home and find an almost identical pair somewhere in a wardrobe that I'd totally forgotten about. I hardly ever bother returning the new pair though! So bad of me! As much as I try to cycle what I wear, comfort and habit always take over before I leave the house and the same two or three pairs take most of the punishment that the London streets and underground station stairs have to deal out. Now, I'd definitely consider myself to be a plus sized model, at size 18. Let me give you a bit of a background about this part of modelling.

Try Plus-sized modelling with IMAGE Models!

Plus sized modelling is simply aimed at the curvier men and women. The jobs are the same, the clothes are the same, just a bit bigger. This segment of modelling has burgeoned over the last 10 years and many larger male and female models have benefited greatly from its rise in popularity. In the 90's it would've been unheard of to find anyone over a size 9 on the front of a magazine - now it doesn't even raise an eyebrow!

Middle-aged mothers like me, who might not want to dress in the 20-30 age groups clothing, usually find a home in plus-size modelling. The designers make different clothes to fit middle-aged women, and ensure that they have a variety of trendy designs. I've only had two jobs through IMAGE Models since I registered 8 months ago but I didn't really go mad with my applications. I put in for about 20 plus-size jobs so I think two is pretty good going! A lot of you will know that being a mum and a housewife is a full time job anyway, so it's all I really have the energy for! Thanks to IMAGE Models for letting me write a little something for you all!

Find IMAGE Models on Google for contact information and opening times. Drop us a note with any enquiries you may have or feel free to phone!

Child Modelling with IMAGE Models

IMAGE Models

Many proud parents know that their child is brimming with modelling potential, and so do many agencies! Child modelling is actually the second biggest market in the modelling business as so many products are now directed at our children (so that they pester us to buy them!). The flipside is of course that a lot of kids can make money at a young age with relatively little effort. Here are some tips on choosing a modelling agency that you can trust to take care of your child.

Child Modelling with IMAGE Models

If you have any friends who are involved in modelling or whose children are with an agency, obviously they are your starting point. Word of mouth is generally more trustworthy than the internet! If you don't know anyone you can ask then there are a few things to consider when you're looking at potential agencies online. 

Make sure that you understand the application process. Some agencies will accept normal photos but some will persuade you to use their own photographers for a portfolio at your own expense. IMAGE Models accept any photos as long as they are clear and of a good resolution. Find out what the agency takes as their commission, this is normally about 20% but depends on the budget and client. 

If your child is accepted for a modelling assignment that means they will miss a day of school then you will need to get in touch with the school and possibly the local council beforehand to obtain permission. We have heard of some parents forgetting about this!

Visit our website if you're interested in seeing the list of current assignments available through IMAGE Models and take a look through the other IMAGE Models blogs to find reviews and advice from other models! Good luck!

How to find a modelling agency:

Why should you choose a non-exclusive contract?

The word exclusive has a very positive feeling to it. In modelling terms, exclusivity can have quite the opposite effect on your modelling career. In simple terms, an exclusive modelling contact means that you cannot work for anyone else during the contract duration. Any modelling assignments you do MUST be through the agency, which would be very limiting especially if you're more of a get up and go kind of person who loves making new connections and making things work for themselves. 

Sophie @ IMAGE Models

One great thing about IMAGE Models is that we don't do contracts. We realised that it was unnecessary for the types of one-off assignments we get most of the time and also very time consuming. We do ask that people register with us however to know enough about the model to be able to put their information forward to the clients who always have the last say on who they want for their shoot or commercial.

In a business where there can be 300 applicants for one assignment, and in a world where there can be 1000 applicants for one job, competition is really higher than ever. This inevitably leads to disappointment for some but those who make it tend to have very rewarding careers. If you have the look, the drive and the talent to be a model but aren't sure where to start, visit the IMAGE Models website and see what assignments are up there today. If you register to apply we'll get right back in touch with you as soon as we can.

Become a model with IMAGE Models

Become a model with IMAGE Models

When you’re unsure of the next steps to take in life, never limit your possibilities. Sometimes things can turn around for you very quickly – and modelling is an industry that is full of extreme stories. Working your way through the salesman mentality of some agencies can be difficult. Sometimes it might seem that rather than you being employed by them it is the other way around!

One of the main ploys that many so-called agencies use is a model casting shoot. After this they may say that you need to buy the photos or you won’t have a chance of being a model. Nothing is further from the truth! A solid modelling portfolio can have as few as 6 photos. The main ones to make sure to include are a frontal headshot, a profile headshot and the same for full body. Alongside your photos you should also include a list of your vitals, measurements, weight and so forth. From a photo alone it can be impossible to determine your size especially if there is nothing to give scale to the photo. For specific types of modelling, eg. hand or foot modelling then obviously you will need detailed pictures and it helps to have something that gives a sense of scale – perhaps wear a watch or hold a pen in a stylish way. IMAGE Models can give you direction and pointers if you get in touch. We receive dozens of enquiries each week – there’s no such thing as a bad question!

If you want to find out more about modelling with IMAGE Models, check out our Facebook page and follow our other blogs. IMAGE Models know how hard it can be when starting out and our team are here to help!

Model Catwalk Fails

Amazing Shots of Catwalk Model Falls

Here at Image Models we represent a diverse range of models, from male models to child models, lingerie to catalogue and everything in between. Image Models is based in London, so if you are from the capital consider applying to Image Models today. You can register with them on the Image Models website.

Our website is unique in that we not only allow potential models to register, but we also include modelling jobs on a feed. This way you can see the modelling jobs that you can be put forward to before you sign up with our agency. You can also see images of our models and read important information about our modelling agency in London.

Modelling is our life, and life is not just work! We also like to have fun, which is why we put together this list of funny catwalk fails.

                     If this ever happens to you remember to shrug it off and just keep going! 

IMAGE Models on going Freelance

Freelance Modeling Jobs

Every day hundreds, maybe even thousands, of men and women, young and old scour the internet for modeling agencies with the premise of finding work. Many will be looking in the wrong places. This may be a bad thing, but if you know the right places to look and the right way to go about it, then you’re already in the lead. The way you go about getting freelance modeling work will differ depending on your age.

IMAGE Models

If you are in your teens, be very careful. No matter how adult you feel, there is always someone cleverer and more powerful who will sell you a dream, and you’ll end up disappointed. Some modelling agencies and photography studios will say that you need a portfolio of 30 photos and charge you the earth. Always take an adult whenever you sort an appointment out. On the plus side, especially if you are in a small town where people know each other, local businesses will be more likely to take you on for small modeling jobs. Maybe an opticians wants new banners for their window, maybe they’d like your face on them! You’ll never know if you don’t ask, but when you’re young stick to trusted people. The jobs that model agency London posts are vetted for security and safety.

The older you get, the better equipped you will be to approach and assess situations that arise when looking for modeling jobs. You are on one side, an agency is in the middle, and the advertiser is on the other side. If you want to go freelance while you’re with an agency, make sure you have a non-exclusive agreement with them. Draw up a list of advertisers, call them. Find out who their casting agent is and introduce your self. Ask if it would be okay to send them your portfolio and CV. Don’t make the mistake of writing dozens of “To whom it may concern…” letters. These are not very effective compared to a personalised letter following up a phone call or introductory email. If possible, go to their offices and show your face. At the end of the day, it is work you are after and you never know what other roles might be available. For more modeling advice and reviews visit this IMAGE Models blog.

Being a freelancer is a tough road to walk. It’s normally a good idea to hold a steady job until you establish your self. Even the most talented freelancers can find it hard to compete with the incomes of civil servants and community workers, because we forget how many perks come with a steady job. When you’re making the decision, make sure you have considered every aspect of what it really means to be freelance. Visit the IMAGE Models website for up to date

Image Models

Image Models London

Knowing where to turn to when it comes to modeling agencies is not easy at times. Being a model in London can be even more challenging. The size of the city and the busy tube journeys make it very difficult to gain a foothold. Image Models strive for excellence for our models. By joining us, you'll be taking a step in the right direction.

Image Models

We cover London and the rest of the UK and can supply clients with a wide range of models and looks. If you think you have what it takes to make it in modeling, register with Image Models and you won't regret it! Check out the Image Models website for regularly updated modeling jobs and even apply online. We only need a few, unretouched photos to get started. Follow the Image Models twitter for updates and modeling job info!