Congratulations, you got the job!

So what now?  I always like to compare modeling/acting to any other job out there, take out the part that you can see yourself in some sort of media and really it is just the same.

You show up to the job, prepared, work as a team to achieve the goal, and leave.


So what does showing up look like for talent?

That depends on a few different things

1.  If it is a studio shoot
2.  If it is a location shoot
3.  Budget

• Studios can range from something the size of your closet to huge expansive spaces with amazing natural light and sets built just for the shoot.
• Locations can be anywhere, a street corner, to a hotel.  Depending on budget will depend on what amenities will be available to you.

What does being prepared look like?

As crazy as this sounds, I have never heard anyone complain about being over prepared.  

1. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early
2. Bring snacks and water
3. Bring something to entertain yourself and your child (if there for your child)
4. Have a pen
5. Make sure you have your paperwork filled out
6. Bring a model bag  http://wsmmodeltalent.blogspot.com/2014/09/whats-with-bag.html
7. wear comfortable shoes
8. come either camera ready or clean face depending on what is required
9. If shooting location make sure you are dressed appropriate.  ie: if you are shooting in a barn in the middle of winter most likely it won't have heat.... 
10. waiting is part of it all

Working as a team...

This should be the easy part right?  Unfortunately, there are models and actors who get the feeling that they are the center of the photo shoot but the real star is whatever is paying your bill.  Just like when you work for McDonald's...from the moment you punch in to the moment you punch out, "McDonald's is the best, how can I help you?"  Your pay rate may be a little different but your attitude is just the same!

When going there with kids there will sometimes be a kids wrangler (depending on budget) their job is to get your child to smile or act a certain way.  You may also be asked to help out.

There will also make up/hair people sometimes a stylist and production people as well as the client.  If it is a commercial or TV/Film then there are more people (directors, producers, AD, PA, etc) and you are just a cog in the machine.

Leaving....

Leaving should be easier as working as a team but this is when you need to get your paperwork signed and send it off to the right person.  We at WSM have a very simple system:

1. you download the voucher from our website
2. get the voucher signed
3. take a photo of the voucher
4. make sure you can read it
5. hand the original back to the client
6. send us a copy to vouchers@wsmtalent.com

Contact names are not always supplied but typically it would be the photographer/AD or production assistant.

Typically payment is received 30-45 days from the job.  A W-9 will be required before receiving a check and payment from your agency will be minus their commission.  

If there is ever a question always call your agent.

IF I HAD A DOLLAR FOR EVERYTIME....

As odd as it may sound, modeling is a job.  The word that should stick out there is "job".  When you look at an ad for a cosmetic line the concept was created by people who have jobs in advertising.  The client called the advertiser, met and discussed working together within their workday...which was most likely between 8am and 6pm.

Once hired the advertisers make calls to photographers, set up times to go over concepts, etc...once again during their workday.  In turn one of several people (photographer, casting director, ad agency) contact model agencies to hire models all during regular business hours to hire models.

Modeling agencies reach out to models, typically during business hours to hire models to hear...

"Unfortunately she has to work till 5.  She was trying to leave early.   Are these castings usually during the weekdays?  Thank you for the opportunity maybe next time it'll work out with our schedules. 

Or 

"Thank you so much for thinking of us but we could not do that.  Unfortunately it is tough for us since we both work..."

It's like the train comes to a screeching halt....Granted this is not all models, experienced models obviously have a clue but this does lead me to ask?  

If you have a job, why seek out another without understanding what it entails?  

Or

If you were looking for a part-time position at a store, wouldn't you ask what your hours would be so they would not conflict with your work schedule?  

Or 

Would you accept the job and when they call you to report to work on Monday you answer with, "does the work only happen Monday-Friday 9-5?"

The exception to the 9-5 rule is Fashion shows and of course fashion week and depending on where you are located (travel, etc) could take time outside of the 9-5.  In a primary market like NYC, Paris, Milan, etc and you would most likely be booked all day and well into the wee morning hours. 

It's coming....what is your social media worth?

     So a plumber walks in for a job interview (stay with here) sits down and hands over his resume.
The employer asks,  "Can you please supply me with your social media links?"

The plumber says, "Oh, of course, you want to see if there is anything negative on those types of sites.  Well, I don't have any, so we are all set."

The employer responds, "Thank you sir, I appreciate you coming in."

The plumber, very confused asks, "you didn't ask me about my experience, you didn't even look at my resume?  I don't understand?"

The employer simply says, "we are only hiring plumbers with the top 10 social media following."

    So what does this have to do with modeling?  Well, it starting here...starting.  Why pay social media specialist when you can hire people who have a following?  (Oh yeah, Mr Plumber...we would like you to take pictures of the work you do and we are only paying you a flat rate.  Yes, I know that is more work....)

Check it out here:

http://racked.com/archives/2014/09/19/fashion-model-instagram-nyfw-spring-2015.php

By the way make sure to follow us!!!!!  We need our jobs!!!!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/124330528917/
https://www.facebook.com/wsmtalent
http://www.wsmtalent.com/WSMwp/
@WSMTalent (twitter)
google.com/+WebbSweeneyMurphy (Google+)
http://instagram.com/wsmtalent

What's with the Bag?

With Boston Fashion Week coming up quickly I thought it would be a great time to talk about what every model should be bringing to their jobs and auditions.

What's a Model Bag?  It is a bag bought by all professional models to every job that contains the tools of their trade.  Usually it is the size of a small carry on suitcase.  I also prefer one that can be locked...you will spend a fair amount of time away from it.  Anything bigger than this, especially with the limited space of a fashion show will only cause problems.  So learning what is essential is important.  As you become more experienced you will be able to alter this list.

Must have items:

• Shoes: Men -Black and brown dress shoes.  Women- Several pairs of heels nude, black and current season.
• Belts: Men- black and brown leather.
• Band-aids/Mini first aid kit/mini sewing kit – Because accidents can and do happen!
• Clear nail polish – The polish is for the occasional run in your pantyhose and of course to add a shiny new top coat to your manicure if necessary.
• Nail file/Clipper/ Krazy Glue – Because nails break and snag clothing Krazy Glue is good for a temporary patch job and it’s also good for repairing jewelry on the spot.
• Double Sided Tape – For plunging necklines and to make a quick invisible hem if needed.
• False Eyelashes & Glue – Because often times makeup artists don’t carry them or they don’t have enough on hand for everyone. Note: If you’re going to carry the, know how to put them on!
• Concealers/Foundation Makeup/Mascara & Eyeliner/Make-up      Brushes – For the times when the makeup artist is late, is a no-show and/or  doesn’t have foundation in your color.
•  Deodorant/Wash Cloth/Baby Wipes/Soap – For freshening up after long hours on the set.
• Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Mouthwash/Floss/Mints or Gum – Because fresh breath counts – Always.
• Lotion/Baby Oil Gel – To combat occasional dry or ashy skin and to keep your feet, hands and legs nice and soft. Note: Use the baby oil gel carefully and sparingly – you don’t want to risk getting oil stains on the clothing.
• Hairpins/Hairbrush/Comb/Scrunchies – For controlling wayward hair and for quick touch ups or quick styling changes.
• Pencil Sharpener – For sharpening your eyeliner and/or eyebrow pencils. Have you ever tried to line your eyes with a pencil that needed sharpening or that you tried to sharpen with a scissor or knife? One word: Painful.
• Visine / Saline Solution – For dry and/or irritated eyes and for when your contact lenses need lubricating.
• Makeup Net/Scarf – For keeping the designer’s garments make up free as you get fitted or change clothes during shows and shoots.
• Makeup Remover, Q-Tips & Cotton balls – For gently removing the makeup from your skin after a show or shoot. Makeup remover is better than soap and water because it has ingredients that help breakdown the makeup quickly for easy removal. Q-tips for cleaning the makeup residue from the corner of your eyes on set. Cotton balls are good for removing mascara and eye shadows from the delicate skin area around the eyes.
• Straws – Use these to drink beverages with on set to keep your lipstick on and to avoid staining your teeth.
• Safety pins – For immediate fixes when a zipper breaks, a garment rips or a clasp breaks on jewelry.
• Airbrush legs/Bronzer - If you are like me and have a few scars leftover from childhood or have varicose veins; leg makeup and or bronzer can help to give you a nice even overall tone.A Small Mirror – So you can apply your makeup and touch up your makeup when necessary.
• Fresh individual mascara brushes and lip brushes – You might need to use or borrow someone else’s mascara, lipstick or gloss in a pinch. To avoid transference of germs use a fresh new applicator every time.
• Accessories/”Bling” Earrings/Sunglasses - Most designers already have a specific “look” in mind when accessorizing their garments, generally when a model does a “mainstream” shows, the designer will bring along the accessories that they wish to accompany their clothing on the runway, so you don’t have to pack your entire jewelry bag. Occasionally on the local level the same thing will occur but when it doesn’t (which is more often the case) it helps to keep a few pieces (a gold or silver bangle, a rhinestone hoop, stud or a “bling” earring) will usually come in handy in a pinch. A standard pair of black or brown tinted sunglasses (I like the Jackie O. look myself) is a good thing to keep on hand too!
• Body Foundation/waist nipper/Spanx/Nude and Black Undergarments & A Strapless or Convertible Bra – A model should never come out of her house without a proper body foundation. Actually a smart model will keep several different ones on hand. A Spanx is a requirement because it keeps the “jiggle factor” down to a minimum. Your foundation(s) should come in both nude and black and a convertible bra in the same colors will drastically lessen the number of bras you need to pack.
• Comfortable Active Wear or Yoga Pants – Good for lounging around in as you sit in hair and makeup and also useful when you have a lot of down time between shots. You will need to either wear of bring something that’s easy to get in and out of when you are on the set of show or spending long hours backstage for a show.
• Curling & Flat Irons and Ponytails & Wigs – It is definitely a good idea to keep one in your bag when doing local fashion show. You might have to pull it out at the last minute and do your own hair if the hair people are running behind or are totally overwhelmed.
• Slippers/flip flops – To protect your feet while you are walking around on set and to give your feet and legs a break before you put on heels.
• Sneakers/Gym Shoes – Keep a simple pair of white Keds in your bag. You’ll probably need them more if you are doing catalog shoots but it’s better to ask beforehand if you need to pack them.
• Pantyhose & Black Tights/Socks – Some designers like them and some don’t; it’s smart to keep a few pairs in the zippered pouch part of your bag just in case. I would suggest you have a few pairs in nude or suntan, black and perhaps a gold or silver shimmer color.
• Snacks & Bottled Water (Fruit & Nuts, Trail Mix, Energy Bars/Drinks) – Not every producer will be thoughtful enough to supply the models with food & beverages on set. More than likely you won’t have a chance to run out and get something to eat (unless you are waiting for hair and makeup and have some down time). It’s good to keep some trail mix bars, some nuts and/or fruit along with a bottle of water in your bag to keep you hydrated and to keep your energy and blood sugar levels up while you wait. Note: Try to pack snacks that are not greasy and/or messy to eat.
• Music (CD or IPod) or a Good Book or Magazine - You will find as you progress in your career that you spend a great deal of the time on set waiting for things to begin. It’s a good idea to pack an iPod or bring a book to read during the down time. You will avoid trouble and on set drama this way.
• Static Guard - Tide To Go - To control annoying static cling on clothing and for quick stain removal. 

Zip lock bags will be your best friend (as in any packing) to avoid spilling or pulling.  I put everything into a Zip lock bag.

The following should go without saying but I’m going to say it again anyway just in case you don’t know. The veterans and the pros in this game already know that you NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT 
these six things:                                                                               

• Your Appointment Book – So you can keep track of how your day is lining up and so that you know where you are headed next.
• Small Notepad for taking notes or a Journal– You will probably learn something or meet someone new on every set or at every show. Remember to write things down.
• Cell Phone/Blackberry – A model is on call at all times. Put your phone or blackberry on the vibrate setting when on set to keep from disrupting things but always keep it on.
• Composite Cards – You can meet a new potential client anytime and anywhere. Your comp card is your business/calling card. If you’re going to call yourself a model you should always have a few on your person. 
• Portfolio – And that potential client might want to take a look at your book. It helps to have it handy. 
• Vouchers - Proof of work performed – it’s how you get paid, keep a few in your bag at all times.

Remember This: Having a properly stocked model bag will make you much easier to work with and will convey to others that you are professional. So pack it carefully and remember to check it after a few shows/gigs and restock as necessary. Remember, your looks, your attitude and your professionalism will either make or break you in this industry. It’s always better to be well prepared than unprepared. Add or edit things as you feel you need to but always keep your bag packed and ready to go at a moment's notice!
list from http://www.studio95photo.com/modelcontentsbag.html

Need a visual helper? http://www.pinterest.com/wsmtalent/your-model-bag-contents/

Massachusetts Conference for Women

"We are thrilled to confirm Elissa Campbell as a speaker at the Massachusetts Conference for Women on December4th in Boston!"

Elissa will be joining Hillary Clinton and Lupita Nyong'o at this remarkable event.  We hope you will join us.  

People Magazine's Boomer Beauty

Massachusetts Model and Advertising Executive Named One of People Magazine's Most Beautiful People as the Face of Beauty 50+

(Salisbury, MA  May 1, 2014):  55-year-old Elissa Campbell couldn't have known that when she hired a photographer last year to update her personal photos, that those pictures would eventually help her land on the pages of People Magazine'sMost Beautiful People issue.

Campbell has a lot to say about her personal and professional experience of life after 50. She shares her advice and insight including:

• The last Boomer turns 50 this year.  By 2017 – half of the population in the U.S. will be Boomers.  They own 70% of the disposable income in the U.S. too.  Advertisers are waking up to the Power of the Boomer.  As an advertising expert and model, Campbell knows this well from both sides of the camera.
• Your Second Act – Making the Most of a Mid-Life Crisis
• Top 5 Tips for a Longer, Healthier Life No Matter What Your Age
• Boomer Beauty, Staying Healthy and Living fully
• Facing 50:  What Your Parents Never Told You
*As seen on The Queen Latifah Show, The Jordan Rich Show, 
The Boston Herald, and www.fiftyplusadvocate.com.

Sink or Swim

We had a lot of work come up for kids these last few months.  A lot!  Some clients are fine with a snapshot other times they are not.  Most parents are confused about this and wonder why one minute it's OK and the next it's not. Simply...different clients require different things.

I often relate this business to sports, which is funny considering I am not a sports fan but it does fit... You do not show up dressed up in football gear for swimming lessons.  Sounds like common sense, right?  Do what your asked and show up in the swimsuit.  If you are unsure, ask.  I try to give the client what they ask, sometimes that means leaving models out that have pictures are less than professional. That may seem unfair but in the end it is my reputation being put out there.

The other thing to consider...my client, isn't just "my client".  They are the client of at least 3-4 other agencies.  After being passed over on a couple of jobs, I asked my client for a little guidance...my client talked to me about the snapshots and need for pictures showing joy and happiness, then shared with me the 50+ models from one agency.  That was just the girls, all had beautiful pictures, which was no surprise.

Modeling is more than having your picture taken it is a job.  If you are lucky enough to land the first job you need to start all over again marketing yourself for the next.  The photos I send out on your behalf are the first thing clients see amongst over 200...just like a resume.  It will be your first cut.

So, how are you showing up to swim class?  It is sink or swim time.

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