I'm getting complaints of people saying they haven't seen pictures of me around even though I say I'm working on shoots. I just want to set one thing straight: very little modeling is in front of the camera.
"Claire, that's all models do is look hot in front of a camera!" You obviously don't know the industry if you say that. Here is how a normal shoot goes, from start to finish: Have an idea/need for a model, find a model (usually a wannabe), measure him/her, audition him/her (by this point, out of 100 initial people, you might have 3 left if you are lucky), plan the shoot, make sure the model is okay with it, sign contracts, set up scene and equipment, shoot, and after that it's all post-production. I may have left a few things out.
So, where do I come in? One thing a lot of people forget is that the best way to get into an industry is to be an assistant. Of course, there are pros and cons to this, but it works. It helps to find an agency instead of just a small team because there's more to do. Legally, I am an advisor at MC. Actually, I am an assistant to everyday tasks who gets paid fairly cheaply and occasionally models. Morgan, on the other hand, works at the same place but is a photographer. Legally. You get my point.
What do we do? Help during setup, judge during auditions, but most of all get involved in what is going on. The more people we meet, the more connections we have, and the better chance we have of doing something other than picking up trash on a set. I've literally done... I think 4 shoots since I started working here. I've WORKED on about 50. The difference? Well for one, where you are in relation to the camera lens is proportional to your pay. Secondly, and most importantly, you meet people who can help you to your goal, mine being a VS model.
Let's talk about goals in this industry. I know I'm not tall enough and have too much visual bust and waist to be a VS model, but I keep aspiring to that. Why? Because it gives purpose. I could just as easily be a biochemist earning enough to replace Ferry every year, but I don't. I'm doing what I like. That should be your main goal: do what you want to do. My parents always frowned on me saying that, but it's true. There's no point in doing what you hate if you can be happy... if less financially secure.
