Just for fun, take our Modeling I.Q. Test!
Q Freelancing question: I worked as a product and fashion stylist for video for seven years. I have also worked as a wardrobe stylist for a production company that specializes in producing infomercials. I love being creative! The only thing is most jobs like these are freelance. I would prefer to work for a company that specializes in stylist placement. Would you know if there is a company like this in my area? Dana, Tampa, FL
A Hi Dana, thanks for writing! I understand your predicament regarding freelancing. And I have a feeling that, during the more challenging economic times we are moving into, freelance styling is going to be harder as budgets are tightened. Not good news but we need to be prepared.
I think this is a good time to develop your styling skills in various specialties, such as food styling, makeup, off-figure, etc. so that you have more opportunities. That's the focus of what we're doing at Photo Styling Workshops.
Styling jobs are few and far between but a few department stores sometimes hire stylists. Regarding placement agencies, I really haven't found any in the Tampa area. Maybe look into Atlanta and other east coast cities that have styling agencies which may be willing to represent you. And build yourself a good website and portfolio.
I know I haven't told you much encouraging news but I hope it helps. Susan
Q Do you know of any photo styling internships that are offered for this summer? I am highly interested in this field, even though I am currently an elementary art teacher.
Thank you for your time, Jill, Gainesville, FL
A There are not many internships offered by photo stylists. As far as I know, I am the only one who has done it. But you might call local stylists and see if anyone is interested in having you tag along and serve as an assistant while you learn.
Another possibility is a commercial photographer who might have you work in the studio. Just don't find a portrait or wedding photographer as that's a different kind of business that rarely works with stylists - find someone who shoots products or people for catalogs, advertising and magazines. Keep me posted! Susan
Q I am looking into doing some modeling but don't know where to start. I don't know if you could even help me but I am looking for places to get my pictures done. And requirements and things like that. If you have any advice I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks, Courtney, Model
A Hi Courtney, thanks for writing to me about modeling. You should get my book "Photo Styling" because there's a chapter directed toward modlels with lots of advice about how to model. You can order it here at my site www.photostylingworkshops.com or find it at better bookstores.
But to answer your questions, you don't really need to have photos done until you are accepted by an agency, believe it or not. Most agencies have a particular style they'd recommend for your photos and will even suggest specific photographers for you to work with. If you do the photos first you may be wasting money. However, any time you spend in front of the camera will help you. You can do "test" shoots like described in my book to gain camera experience. These are creative projects organized by photographers, stylists, and models for their own portfolios.
Also spend time in front of a full-length mirror doing moves like you see in catalogs. Look at catalogs and magazines to see what to do. See how your positions affect the clothes you're wearing. Even if your goal is not to be a catalog model, there's a lot of work out there for catalogs.
To find an agency check out the local ones and find out how they view prospective talent. There may be certain times of the week or they may prefer you to send snapshots. You don't say where you live but do start locally. Requirements are more likely to be the LOOK they can market rather than a certain height and weight.
We will be offering a Modeling 101 course here before long!
Let me know how it goes and feel free to ask more questions, Susan
Q I recently emailed the editor of a magazine based in Baja, Mexico about an internship. He replied with, "Thank you very much for your interest. It would be great if you can send us some pictures of your work so we can understand your style and use it. And will be really good working with you." I'm a little concerned when he said "use it" because I dont want them to steal my ideas for photoshoots and not be credited for it. But then again it can be a language barrier. Anyway, the point being, I was wondering if there was a way to copyright my pictures and my portfolio I'm building? Or is there something else I can do to prevent use of my material without my consent? Mark Paul
A Hi Mark Paul, you have brought up a good issue with your question.
First, I think his statement was a result of translation rather than an intent to copy your style. I imagine he meant you "using it" while you intern there. But you are wise to react and question your rights at the beginning of your career.
The copyright to a photograph always belong to the photographer, whether or not the copyright is officially registered with the US Copyright Office. This means that someone cannot reporduce the image without permission OR copy the contents directly.
Whether you can protect your styling concepts is another issue and will require more research. I'd love to hear some other opinions on this issue! And will try to keep you posted, Susan
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