Editorial: Viva L’Italia
Booking Out
To book out or not book out, that is the question....
WHAT IS A BOOK OUT?
Booking out is to inform your agent when you are not available for modeling jobs or castings. For example, you might have an upcoming doctor’s appointment or vacation or starting a new school semester.
Your agent automatically assumes that you are available during business hours unless you book out. It saves them from having to call you whenever a client inquires about your schedule. Otherwise, your agent will spend more time chasing up on your availability, rather than procuring you more bookings.
WHEN TO BOOK OUT:
To minimize any frustrations or conflicts for you, your agent, and the clients; get into the habit of notifying your agent the moment you add a commitment to your schedule. If it is something that you can't change, or you are not prepared to change- you must book it out.
Helpful hint: Make sure you relay the exact times and dates you will be unavailable, and also mention if you will be local, out of town, or out of the country. This way your agent will know if they can work around your book outs for last minute projects.
CANCEL ONLY FOR EMERGENCIES:
Keep in mind that once you have agreed to and confirmed a casting, option, or booking, never cancel for any reason other than a family or medical emergency. Your commitment to your word is the heartbeat of your integrity, and you will earn a reputation for being reliable and trustworthy.
Cellphone Etiquette
Nobody leaves home without one, so we thought we might highlight some cell phone etiquette for you to consider the next time you reach for your iPhone or Android during appointments and bookings.
WHEN IT'S OK TO USE YOUR PHONE:
WHILE ON A JOB - Limit cell phone use to lunch or coffee breaks, and switch your phone to silent mode for the duration of the booking. Although plugging yourself into your device is generally accepted during any downtime - which may be a lot, it is important to remain attentive to your surroundings and make conversation with your colleagues. This way, you will not come across as an introvert or disconnected, and you will also be aware of when the client needs you on set.
AT CASTINGS AND APPOINTMENTS - Phone calls should be made before and after castings, fittings, go-sees and other business related appointments, and silence all notifications and ringtones. If you are not distracted by your phone, you won't miss any important instructions or cues.
EXCEPTIONS:
SAFETY - If a serious issue arises during a modeling appointment or job, such as; you feel that you are in danger, or being exploited, call your agency immediately to notify your agent. You should also report any criminal incident to law enforcement.
WORK OR EMERGENCY RELATED CALLS - Although we suggest not using your phone during bookings and appointments, you may find yourself waiting for hours at a casting or on the sidelines of a photo shoot, in which case it is acceptable to make and receive business or personal emergency phone calls.
Cara Delevingne by Ellen von Unwerth for the Sunday Times Style Spring 2016 Cover
PHONE FAUX PAS:
SELFIES IN THE ARTIST'S CHAIR - Most stylists and artists don't mind the selfies or Snapchat filtered videos while you're sitting in the hair and makeup chair or trying on an outfit. Occasionally, they like to join in the fun and record their creative masterpieces. However, don't let it get in the way of what they are trying to do - their job. They too are hired by the client and on a strict schedule. Even scrolling through your phone can be just as frustrating for an artist, because they need you to follow their instructions while they apply makeup, style, and groom you. Resist the urge to bring out the camera phone until the artist says it's OK, and there's spare time to Snapchat away.
NOISY NOTIFICATIONS AND PHONE CALLS- Loud phone conversations and constant pinging of texts and messages are very off putting for everyone around you. Go to a discreet place to make your calls, when it's appropriate, and keep your phone on silent.
INDISCREET CHATTER - Be careful with your conversations. Avoid speaking negatively when you are around a client or their team, even when you think they are out of earshot. A casual phone conversation with a friend about an uncomfortable outfit or a long day could potentially offend the client. Additionally, profane or aggressive conversations are inappropriate in any professional environment.
EDITORIAL: The New Faces Of L.A.
The Importance Of Reading Your Business Emails
In today’s world, we communicate more via text and email than talk on the phone. It makes life easy, especially when receiving large amounts of information. We don’t need to write it all down, nor does it interrupt with whatever we are doing. However, many of us have a bad habit of scanning over our emails and texts, instead of actually reading them.
When it comes to business, or in any aspect of life, glancing over important emails can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings. When your agent emails casting or booking details, they often include specific instructions. It takes time to put this information together and relay it to you. By reading the whole email and following directions, it will save a lot of stress and hassle for you, your agent, and the client.
To avoid any complications, awkward situations, or miscommunication; always read business-related emails very carefully. Also, try to get to them as soon as you can. If you feel that some of the information could be missing, like grooming prep, contact person, or brings, you will have time to check with your agent. Keep in mind that he or she may be having a super busy day, or waiting to hear from the client for further instructions.
How To Get Representation In Multiple Markets
If you are looking to travel, and your mother agent feels that you are ready, there are a few ways your mother agent can get you representation in another city or country. Yes, leave it to your mother agent. The reason being is that not only does he or she have connections with agents around the globe, but also knows which markets are appropriate for you and your success. Not all markets have the same clientele, therefore, the requirements for models will differ too. Furthermore, there can be laws, regulations and age restrictions that might effect your ability to work in certain cities. Below are the ways your mother agent can help you get opportunities to travel. However, keep in mind that they do not guarantee you representation in these other markets, as it remains dependent on the decisions of the agents in those cities:
Submit your materials to agents via email.
Your portfolio and digitals will be sent to the appropriate agents for their feedback
Arrange appointments for you to visit agencies in another market.
Whether you are traveling to a city for vacation or specifically for your career; your mother agent can arrange for you to visit the local model agencies. Your mother agent will usually email your portfolio to the agents in advance before they agree to meet with you in person.
Hold a casting for a visiting agent or scout.
Agents and scouts travel around to many cities, including yours, in search of new faces to represent in their markets. If your mother agent feels that they would consider you for representation, you will be called into your agency to meet with them. On the other hand, the visiting agent or scout may see your portfolio and request to meet you for a go-see.
An agent notices your portfolio online and contacts your mother agent.
Agents regularly browse through each other’s websites. It is not uncommon for an agent to see a new face and call up the model’s mother agent in hopes to represent him or her in their market.
In any of the above circumstances, the agency will ask your mother agent to provide them with:
- Your current digitals in a bathing suit or underwear.
- Your current measurements.
- A video of you introducing yourself and doing a runway walk.
If they feel that you have the right model requirements, confidence, and experience for their market; the agency will offer you representation.
Chargebacks: What Are They And Why Do Models Have Them?
When your agency issues your checks, based on the compensation received from your clients, you will notice that there are deductions. These deductions are known as “chargebacks.”
Chargebacks are advances the agency makes on your behalf, which could include:
- Portfolios
- Prints.
- Comp cards.
- Agency promotional packages.
- Test shoots.
- Website maintenance fee.
- Airline tickets.
- Hotels.
- Model Apartments
- Car Service.
- Courier fees.
When your client requires you to travel for a job, or another agency invites you to work in their market, the agency may advance the cost of the flight and accommodation. You should make sure to keep track of all the advanced expenses so that you have a record to compare to the deductions made from your check. The accounting department in any agency, upon request, will give you a list of your chargebacks.
In the event that your contract is not renewed or is terminated by your agency, any remaining chargebacks will be due and payable at that time.
As in any career, your investment, whether it is in promotional materials or travel to different markets, enhances your ability to become a successful model.
Don’t forget to consult your accountant to find out which chargebacks, if any, are tax deductible.
What You Should Have In Your Model Bag
Whether you are a model running between castings and jobs every day, or you're just doing it on an occasional basis; have a designated model bag with the following essentials. You will be prepared for any modeling situation, and don't think the clients won't notice! Remember to also bring it with you when you go to your agency. This is in case you need to do some digis or meet a client last minute.
WHAT MODELS SHOULD HAVE IN THEIR BAG.
PORTFOLIO - Yes, this may be obvious, but you would be surprised by how many models forget their books!
UNDERWEAR- Women should have a matching set of seamless underwear. Including a strapless bra and thong. You can throw in a more 'pretty' or 'sexy' set for any lingerie style castings. Men should have fitted boxer-briefs, briefs, and a tank top as an undershirt. All items should be a solid color, in nude, white, black and grey.
PEN & PAPER - Apart from general note taking, you may need to write down last minute important information, if you, the client, or the agent does not have access to text or email.
COSMETICS- These include makeup remover, face and body moisturizer, and SPF. This is so you can remove makeup whenever needed, and keep your skin looking hydrated and healthy throughout the day.
CHICKEN CUTLETS - Female models should have underwear accessories such as bra fillers 'chicken cutlets', pasties and bra straps. This is so the clothes can fall properly and avoid any bra peekaboo!
HOSIERY & DRESS SOCKS - Women should have nude and black hose. Men should carry brown and black dress socks. Clients do not always provide these items but need them to complete a look.
SWIMWEAR - Female models, in particular, should always have a bathing suit with them. Some clients might prefer that you wear this while measuring you or shooting digitals, rather than being in your underwear. And, it should always be a two-piece. Guys do not use bathing shorts as much, but it's good to keep in the bag just in case. Similarly to underwear, your bathing suit should be well fitted, a dark solid color, and in good condition.
ELECTRIC SHAVER - Especially for guys who are prone to the 5 o'clock shadow. If a client wants you looking the same way at 4 pm as you did at 9 am, you will need to give your face a once over. This will maintain consistency during the shoot, and you can do this right on the spot without cutting yourself. Also, there could be occasions when you are asked to arrive with a few days growth of facial hair, but then the client decides they want you clean shaven.
HAIRBRUSH & HAIR ACCESSORIES - Always carry a hairbrush and hairspray, gel, or whatever product you prefer, to keep your hair looking groomed throughout the day. If you have long hair, you should also have hair ties and kirby grips to pull it back.
FACE & BODY WIPES - Aside from cleaning your hands while on a lunch break during a location shoot, they are also great for wiping off makeup both on your face and body. Additionally, they work wonders for your underarms, when you can't apply deodorant due to wearing your client's clothes.
LINT ROLLER - You'd be amazed by how many models walk around with lint all over their black clothes.
MAKEUP & MAKEUP BRUSHES - This is for any touchups needed while on a booking without a makeup artist on set. However, if there is a makeup artist, this will come in handy should you be allergic to the products. Lastly, you will be able to apply or readjust makeup in between castings and bookings.
MANICURE KIT & CLEAR NAIL POLISH - You never know when you might break a nail! For all bookings, models are required to have neat and tidy nails. Sometimes the client might request that your nails be a certain length or shape. Unless you are expected to have an elaborate mani, it is unlikely that there will be a manicurist on set, so be prepared to do it yourself. Also, clear nail polish works great when applied on to snags in hosiery, to prevent them from running and getting larger.
TRAVEL SEWING KIT - For any wardrobe malfunctions during castings and bookings.
SHOES - Although you will most likely have a whole other bag full of shoes to take with you to bookings, you should also throw a pair or two into your model bag, suitable for last minute castings or digis.
WATER & SNACKS- For when you don't have time to pick up food in between castings and bookings, or if the catering is not your cup of tea. It's important to keep your energy and sugar levels well regulated.
PHONE & WALLET - Just DON'T leave home without them! And, remember to charge your phone.
MAP OR PRINTED DIRECTIONS - In case your phone gets flat and you can't charge it, or you have bad reception, it's always good to have a backup for locating where your bookings and appointments are.
Five Safety Tips When Traveling To Other Markets
Traveling alone can be daunting, especially when you are going to a place for the first time. Inexperience in air travel, navigating your way around a new city, and not understanding the local language, has the potential to put you at risk.
Here are a few tips that will help keep you and your belongings safe. Adopting these, along with your every day common sense, should limit possible incidents of theft/loss of property and personal harm. So, now the only concerns left are; what to pack and how to slay your new market.
Checked luggage can easily get lost, or left for others to help themselves to your belongings. Make sure that you put all your valuables in your carry-on bag, such as:
- Mobile phone (don’t forget to fully charge it).
- Adapter and chargers for electrical appliances.
- Laptop or tablet (with all your portfolio images).
- Valid passport.
- Visa documentation.
- Money/Credit Cards
- Contact telephone numbers and addresses of your accommodation and agency.
- Portfolio.
- Valuable jewelry or watch.
- Medication/Prescriptions (make sure you bring more than you need in case you lose some, or stay longer than expected)
Avoid getting sucked into the promises of nightclub promoters; free drinks, food, parties, and even trips. They usually have an ulterior motive. Some promoters will encourage you to attend parties and clubs so that they can draw in more customers to buy alcohol - which may seem harmless. However, a few have allegedly coerced models into very dangerous lifestyles. Promoters not only work the nightlife scene, but they also hang around where most of the castings are held, and even find out the phone numbers and addresses of the model apartments. This is all in hopes to lure models into the clubs and get paid very well doing it. If you are of legal age and want to explore the local nightlife, go with a roommate or a trusted friend. Be careful not to consume a lot of alcohol, or stay out too late. Lastly, and most importantly; don’t walk around at night by yourself.
Study the city or town that you will be visiting. Familiarize yourself with a map of the local area, and pinpoint where your lodgings and model agency is located. They will be easier to find once you are there. If you are traveling to a country that has a different language; it is advisable to learn a few key words and phrases:
- “Hello” and “Goodbye”
- “Please” and “Thank you”’
- “My name is…”
- “I am from…..(country)”
- "How much is...."
- Your birthdate
- How to order food and drink
- How to ask for directions
- Days of the week
- Numbers
- Emergency words “Help”, “Fire”, “Police”, “Hospital”
Also, be aware of the local customs; whether it is how you greet people, attend public events, or even dress code. Showing respect towards their culture will improve the way the local’s assist and respond towards you.
Although you should have some cash in the local currency, it is advisable to have most of your allowance in the form of an internationally used credit card; such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Should it get lost or stolen, you can call the bank to freeze that card and send you a new one. The card will also protect you from paying for any fraudulent charges.
Bring a phone that has a cost-effective international plan. Make sure that the following numbers are stored in your phone, and written down. This is so you can quickly reach the people you need during an emergency. Also, don’t forget to take note of the local and international dialing codes:
- Local model agency
- Mother agent
- National emergency (Police/Ambulance/Fire)
- Your bank’s Fraud Protection hotline
- Travel insurance company
- Family Member/ Guardian
