Hair, photography and modeling are all important components when trying to advance with getting the next job or landing the first.
A few years ago, someone suggested that I take my daughter to Model Search America.
Having taken a photo of her, with her eyes deeply gazing past the flower she was looking at…we were off to Las Vegas.
It wasn’t that simple at first, though. When the suggestion was made, I had politely declined, and had stated that I really did not want her participating in a “beauty pageant.” My daughter was just barely 5 years old, at the time, and children grow up so fast as it is.
They shared with me that they were recommending Model Search America and not a “beauty pageant.” The reason or reasons why was that there may be an opportunity for us to get her involved into possible print advertising,etc.
I looked them up, and gave them a call. www.modelsearchamerica.com
My personal experience with them was excellent. The staff was very, very informative and attentive. The weekend is not inexpensive, however how they have it set up is well organized for aspiring talent wanting to be discovered.
We stayed at the MGM hotel, and upon arrival the staff of Model Search America greeted us and got us settled in and set up.
What Model Search America is about is getting the talent and the vendors (like MTV & most of the TOP Modeling agencies) together in one weekend. Once there my daughter was given a number that she would wear when she went down the catwalk.
My knowledge was very limited about the modeling world, at the time. Model Search America takes care of that, too. They provided all types of workshops throughout the weekend. Very, very informative workshops about what to expect and also what to watch out for.
The interesting things that we learned that weekend was that there are modeling opportunities for all walks of life. Think about T.V. commericials, especially the pharmaceutical ads and tooth paste ads…they pay and they pay the most!
Model Search America’s concept is to have the aspiring talent an opportunity to be seen by “Who’s Who” in the modeling world and show business. How much would it cost to get that many appointments? What are the chances of getting past the receptionists desk to get an appointment?
We went that weekend for fun, and not being told that my daughter would become the next Angelina Jolie or Tyra Banks. Model Search America did not make any promises.
So, did she get a “call back”? Yes, she did get picked.
My daughter struck her pose on the end of the long catwalk, and that was such a great moment. We went to NYC later that spring.
Getting ready for the event, it is suggested to bring ample amounts of comp cards and/or business cards. You just do not know who you might meet. Once you step onto the catwalk, the vendors will get to see you; as they are all lined up around the catwalk.
Appearance, hair and attitude are everything.
When it comes to hair, be sure to have it be in the best possible condition. Modeling jobs can be tough on the hair depending on what type of work you maybe looking for. Heat from curling irons, blowdryers and straighteners can do a number on the hair without the right protection.
An excellent leave in treatment is 
Redken’s Extreme Anti- Snap. This will keep the hair strong, soft and manageable.
If you have sensitized hair from repeated haircoloring or heavily highlighted hair this line will work wonders for repairing it.
It has a great balance of protein and moisture and will not weigh the hair down. As a hairstylist & photographer I would highly recommend this line for high maintenance hair.
When it comes to having your hair, find a stylist that is up with the current fashion trends and is able to give you an objective opinion and/or advice on what style, look and haircolor will suit your skin and eye color. What is great with working with an expert hair colorist is that when it comes to color…they see the world in color or colors.
An example of an extreme change is below:
Many movie stars and models are able to wear different shades of haircolor throughout their careers because of working with a hair colorist that can “see” what is not obviously there or the delicate undertones of their skin. It may even be the flecks of gold, green, gray or amber in their eye color.
When haircolor is designed with the littlest details taken into consideration, amazing/fantastic results will follow.
How do you get great haircolor? Prior to going into a salon, look through some magazines to find some styles, and/or haircolors that you may be comfortable with. Once you locate a salon, and call for an appointment…start asking questions about their level of experience. Especially since you are now venturing into modeling.
Hair is everything. Once you find a salon that looks promising, it is important to work with one that is willing to offer a consultation. Communication is everything. Passed that it is important to stay open to new ideas that they may have to offer to you. An expert hair colorist may “see” something other than your “comfort level” is allowing for the moment.
How many makeover shows have you watched on T.V.? Just a few, I am sure. Me, too. What is it that makes us watch until the very end….(enduring all of those t.v. ads)… for me it is to see what the hair colorist/stylist has chosen, and of course –The REACTION of the guest. Pins and needles wondering what it will be when they see themselves for the first time?!
If in fact, you are contemplating making a change try to find a salon that does offer “before” an “after” photos. Not only is this fun, but it eases the makeover transition experience. How? First of all…photographs speak 1,000 words, right? Ask to see their “work”. Secondly, once you have decided to go through the process; the “before” photos will give you a glimpse or snapshot of the “original” you.
Haircolor can and is a very emotional service when big changes are being made. What’s great about working with an expert haircolorist is that as you maybe having some doubts or even anxiety about the “new you”…they will have no troubles making adjustments or changing it all together. Keep in mind we are speaking of an EXPERT Haircolorist.
Moving forward. Now you have a drop dead gorgeous new look….what next?
Building a portfolio is very important. A popular networking website is www.modelmayhem.com
Again, here you will be able to find possible castings, photographers, stylists, makeup artists, etc. It you are just starting out and are on a budget it might be possible to get in touch with a local college that has a photography program. Sometimes photography courses may include portraits. Take a look at http://hallmark.edu/
Photography students are in the same situation that you may be. They, too, are looking to build their portfolios.
It hopefully pays to be beautiful……..best luck and wishes.
