#modelmobile

The Good, the Bad and the Beautiful with Model Shreya Patel

By: Jennifer M. Joseph for ModelMob

ModelMob: Tell us one good thing you love about your experience in the modelling industry?

Shreya: Traveling! Modeling is hard work but it definitely gives you an opportunity to explore. Who wouldn't want a job that would call and tell you that you are flying to Koh Larn Island in Pattaya for a shoot?

ModelMob: What is one thing you find challenging or dislike about the modelling industry?

Shreya: One thing I dislike is the narcissism that follows with this kind of profession. I was just never able to relate to it. I met some people in the industry that live in a small bubble. Their world starts and finishes with either themselves or the latest fashion gossip. I wish they would come out of the glam and parties and educate themselves with things happening around them and not just fashion.

ModelMob: What is your favourite experience you had as a model?

Shreya: When I was 18, I remember watching Coco Rocha model for Vogue Fashion Fund and I wished that one day I could do that too. Four years later, I got the opportunity to model for the first ever Vogue Fashion Fund India followed by an invitation to the exclusive round table dinner with designers, FDCI and Vogue India folks. Definitely one of the most beautiful experiences I had :)

The Bad: Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

By: Jessica Christian

One models advice on how to overcome the side effects of the modelling industry. 

INTERVIEW with Top Model RAELIA LEWIS

By: Andrea C | Model and Co-Found of ModelMob

You may have heard of Raelia Lewis, the 6’0 multi-talented beauty and Philly native who got her start on America’s Next Top Model Cycle 21, if not- now you won’t forget her! I met Rae (as her friends call her) last year when we were model-apartment roommates for a short time in Miami. We instantly bonded over similar views on cultural appropriation and stayed in touch while we both pursued our dreams. Since then, Rae has travelled around the world, most recently to South Africa for modelling and now she just released her book; Trust Your Journey; Tools for Making Your Dreams Come True. ModelMob sat down with this modelpreneur to ask her views on the good, bad and beautiful of the current modeling industry. Here’s what she had to say.

1. What city is your favourite to work in? Why?

“I love working in New York City. It’s fast paced, there are a ton of great artists to connect with and it’s super easy to navigate.”

2. What’s your favourite part of being a model In Miami? La? NYC?

“My favorite part about Miami is the weather, and everything is really close together so traveling is super easy. I also love Miami because of its swimsuit/commercial market. I love NYC for its fashion market but it also has a great commercial market as well. I love fashion week and I have several long term clients that I’ve been working with for years. I didn’t work in the LA market professionally.”

3. When and How did you start modeling?

“I started modeling in my hometown as a teen and I decided to pursue it professionally after high school. I freelanced for years until I landed a role on America’s Next Top Model. After getting eliminated, I continued to travel, work and shoot my book until I got signed by an agency. ”

4. If you weren’t modeling what would you be doing?

“If I wasn’t modeling I would be a journalist. I love literature and I’ve always loved writing. Writing is my 2nd love and that inspired me to write my first book. My book is called "Trust your Journey.” It sheds light on the ups and downs of my life and also on the modeling industry. My book isn’t a memoir however, It is a book of hope and it’s extremely inspirational. It challenges the readers to view life from a different perspective and it also teaches the readers how to deal with setbacks and how to remain encouraged.“

5.What would you say the average income of a model like yourself?

"This a tough question because as an agency model your jobs overlap. You wait 30-90 days to receive payment and if you’re constantly working the money grows. As a freelance model I get paid before I work but there are times where I book several jobs at a time. For example from one client I’ve made $5000. Every models income varies. I’m finally reaching a place in my career where I’m learning to create more opportunities and incomes for myself. I have three different agencies and I also wear "different hats”. I am a model, brand ambassador, host, and author. I don’t depend on only modeling as a form of income but modeling is very lucrative.“

6. #1 misconception about models?

"The #1 misconception is that they’re on drugs or living a dark life. I’m very religious, drug free and responsible.”

7. What type of modeling is your favourite? Runway, print, commercial, tv etc.?

“My favorite type of modeling is commercial.”

8. How do you stay fit? Is it natural, or do you have to work really hard in the gym?

“I’m naturally thin but I recently started working out and eating better.”

9.  What’s your favorite blog, website (other than Facebook, Instagram and snapchat) that you visit regularly?

“My favorite site is YouTube. There’s so much great content on there.”

10. Other than from your agency, where / how else do you find modeling. Work/ job? (List website, blogs, jobs sites, social media sites,  whatever the source is)

“Instagram, networking events, other models.”

11. If you could change one thing about the modeling industry what would it be and why?

“The modeling industry lacks diversity. Black models should be working more; we are just as beautiful and capable as any other model.”

12. If someone wanted to start modeling what advice would you give them?

“My advice would be to get in shape and invest in your book (portfolio). I had a ton of trouble getting signed to an agency in the past and I think that more models should be willing to pay experienced photographers to build a consistently strong portfolio. My advice would also be to do your research on the industry. An aspiring model should know different markets, agencies, and have an idea of what it takes to become a professional model.”

                       For the Love of Modelling!

We've all dreamed of being a model one way or another. I remember when I was really young I would watch the Miss USA pageant and picture myself as being one of those girls strutting down the stage in a silky gown with gorgeous, flowing hair. Those girls were perfect wouldn't you say? I'd call this the all American dream, or at least I thought it was as a 10 year old wide-eyed girl.

Now as adult, I can say I've done that along with other jobs within the industry. There are many perks working as a model as it is with any job.

So what are those benefits? Take a look below:

Benefits of being a Model:

1. Travel

Staying in exotic locations are one the perks of modelling along with living abroad for months at a time, whether it's domestically or internationally. The job can require jet setting to different locations around the globe depending on the job, but this lets you meet and interact with people from all over. If you're signed with an international agency, your travel expenses are also covered and you may also receive a side allowance depending on the contract.

2. Income

If you're signed to a top agency and book work, you have the opportunity to make a substantial amount of income. Most models juggle part time work while freelancing to maintain their passion for modelling at the beginning of their careers. This is so they can build their portfolio, network and establish their name. Once you create a brand for yourself and land lucrative work, there's potential to make a good living off of your career.

3. Free Stuff along with Exposure

Modelling gives you the opportunity to work with brands from all over the world along with meeting influential people who may play an important part in the industry. This can help with your career so always leave a lasting first impression on the job. Along with being paid to model, your photos can turn up in the media (newspapers, magazines or the Internet). This exposure can put you in limelight and help build your brand. Along with exposure, models can receive invitations to events, free products and professional photos. The perks of being in the industry can be never ending depending on how well and far you go in your career.

4. Knowing Yourself

Modelling requires you to wear different hats at all times. Change is always constant and you learn to have thick skin with the rejection that comes with not booking work. You may have to sacrifice your time to build your career depending on the age you get your start within the industry. Some sacrifice their youth in order to work as much as possible, but if you gain exposure at the right time, a successful career can be the end result along with a strong sense of self.

5. A Career

Some models stay under the radar while being able to support themselves within their careers, while a small percentage reach the success all strive for; fame, glamour and millions. These models land lucrative, paid modelling work while being able to branch out into different venues of the entertainment industry. Some models become hosts, actors and fashion icons.

As a model what are your favourite aspects about the industry? Leave a comment below. xoxo