Be Professional. Be Prepared.

When a Marine or soldier receives the coveted Medal of Honor, it is because he went “above and beyond the call of duty.” When someone goes to war, or to his or her job, certain things are expected, and more importantly required, of them to fulfill their job description. Only those who rise above the rest get noticed and move on to bigger and better things.

Modeling is no different; you must go above and beyond the call of duty to stand out in a sea of people waiting to capitalize on your laziness or lack of preparation. It stands to reason that you are expected to show up on time and in shape! Those are the tools of your trade and if you show up any other way, don’t expect to be asked to ever show up again.

What then can you do to earn respect beyond that of your peers? How can you leave an indelible print on the mind of the people who have the power to call you back for repeat work?

First of all, have your bag packed full of clothing changes that make you look awesome. Bright colors, excellent fitting clothing changes free of wrinkles and stains. You may laugh at this, but I guarantee every photographer has had models show up with attire that would befit a trip to the local thrift shop. Never arrive looking slovenly or as if you didn’t get enough sleep the night before, this will show up on the film like a big zit in the middle of your forehead.

An even tan is a must as well. I have been complemented on my tan and given many great tips along the way. If you choose to avoid tanning beds, be sure to use a self-tanner that works well with your complexion. This will require that you try several until you find the one that gives you a glow that enhances all of the time you invest in the gym. Problem areas seem to be under the arm pits and on the upper inner thighs, for some reason those areas seem to not accept the tanning lotions as well as the other parts of your body do. Be sure to get an even, non-streaking, overall application.

Another piece of advice is to carry sun block at all times and apply it to your neck and arms if you plan on being outside for a lunch or work so you avoid a “farmers tan.”
You may receive a phone call tonight for a shoot within a week or so and tanned arms and neck cannot be covered up very easily.

You must always be thinking of ways to be as professional as possible in this business so when it comes time for you to stand out…you stand out for the right reasons.