Name:  Mégan Gotham 
Location:  Columbus, OH 
Web site:  http://www.modelmayhem.com/1176553 
Years working as model: 2003 - now 
 
made up of beds, porno films, and pictures of penises on the walls.  I just

1.  Please give a quick overview of the type of modeling you have done.  You can describe jobs you have done, what type of modeling you specialize in, photographers you’ve worked with, etc. 
“I'm stereotypically an art/commercial style model, which is quite different from runway models in that you don't have to fit into a size category.  If I were doing runways, I'd have to be at least 5'7” and a size 0-4 to get any work, but as a 5'10” size 8 that's just not a place that I would fit into.  The bulk of my work doesn't focus on clothing as much as focuses on themes, like mock senior portraits, 60s go-go dancer, prom queen, and even zombie-on-the-loose!  My line of modeling allows me to have fun, be expressive, try new things, and really makes the process more like creating art than doing work.”    

2.  How did you get your start in modeling? 
“I was getting into cosplaying pretty heavily, which is where you dress up and imitate a fictional Japanese media character.  Luckily for me, my friend Kristin was starting to dabble in photography around the same time.  So we collaborated and came up with some amazing shots!  Once we parted ways for school I didn't model very often until I was turned onto Model Mayhem, but after I found that site, it was like the flood gates were opened!  I've been modeling almost non-stop thanks to them and the local events and casting calls.” 

3.  Please describe your favorite experience as a model so far and what made it so special? 
Just one!  Oh gosh, there are so many great moments you get when you work with an artistic crowd.  I guess I would say that my favorite experience so far was one of my first times modeling.  My photographer friend Kristin and I were doing a cosplay set for Kagome from InuYasha.  We wanted to find a really pretty, majestic location to capture the feel of the forests of feudal Japan.  We found a really great location at the top of this crazy, curvy road that was completely isolated.

  
We pulled over at this little scenic viewing spot that was awkwardly placed next to  a sharp, jagged turn at the very tip of the mountain.   It just looked perfect to shoot with because the viewing platform was made from this really old wood and had an amazing view of the empty valley.  The shoot was going great, and then out of nowhere tons of cars just started speeding past us.  We were trying to ignore them, but they weren't ignoring us!  There were over five cars that almost drove off the road trying to watch us, and one set that almost drove into each other!  No one wrecked or got hurt, but watching the drivers hilariously confused, twisted faces has never left my mind.

4.  Please complete this sentence (and feel free to expand upon it).  The most beautiful photographs are… 
the ones that hold the viewers gaze!  A regularly beautiful image is seen and usually forgotten, but an image full of details makes people look at it longer, which makes the image more memorable.  There is no one thing to making a beautiful image memorable, it's the pose, the clothes, the mise-en-scene, the make-up, and that extra something that a model draws from to give their essence to the shot.

5.  What’s the funniest thing that has happened on set during a modeling shoot? 
There was a group shoot that I had signed up for where we would shoot in a night club.  The place sounded great, the website looked good, and I loved the whole idea.  I walked in the door of the club, and that's when I realized that it was a swingers club.  I admit I didn't really read up on what kind of a night club it was, but that was the last thing I had expected to see.  I convinced myself that it was just like any other club, that they just hooked up and went home.

6.  What shots do you think every model should have in their portfolio?
I think everyone needs to have the crazy composite where you just make every expression you can think of and put it all in one image.  That just shows a great range for you right off the bat.  I also think that everyone needs the seductive, come-hither picture.  Sexuality sells, so the more appealing you are the more options you can have for commercial work.  I would also say that the art shot is key.  The weird pose with the crazy hair and make-up gives people who are casting an idea of what you can do outside of your facial expressions, which is a huge part in modeling.

7.  Is there a mistake you’ve seen other beginning models make that you would want to warn other newbies about? 
The attitudes!  So many times I see a new model who knows she has a beautiful body or face, and she thinks that's all it takes to be a super model.  Listen to your photographers, they know more than you might think, and they can see you whereas you can only guess what you look like.  Give the photographers what they want and you will typically have some great photos to show for it.  And even if the photos aren't very good you haven't lost out on anything by trying!  Believe me though, a mean model, a diva, or a flake has a hard time getting work, no matter how hot they are!  In most cities the photographers and models all know each other, so a bad attitude with one photographer will get around quickly.” 

8.  What are your goals for your modeling?  What’s next for you? 
Well, modeling isn't really a career for me at this stage.  I've been through college, but since I don't need to work I've just been putting my energy into modeling more and more.  Right now, I'm working on getting more tear sheets (ie getting published) to build a more solid portfolio, then who knows!

9.  What do you think is the best way for new models to turn their interest in modeling into a career that pays the bills? 
“Keep it as a hobby on the side for a long time and just schedule group shoots and time for print shoots as much as possible.  Get with every photographer, even jump in as an extra for other shots.  No shoot is a waste of time, and doing something as a favor might lead to future work.  Don't be afraid of newbie photographers either, they can really surprise you and work for you harder than some experienced photographers.  
“When you've really honed in on your abilities take your book into a talent agency and hear what they have to say.  At first you'll probably only be told your flaws and mistakes, but take that as a learning experience and try your best to do what they say, even if you disagree.  The agencies are one of the only ways to get a serious income from modeling, so making them happy is your first step to modeling for a living.”  

10.  What other advice would you have for new models? (could be pertaining to portfolios, agents, photographers, etc.) 
Don't be dead weight, always think ahead towards a new concept, theme, or idea to shoot.  If you're at a group shoot and only have a one hour time slot to work with a photographer, you don't want to waste any time trying to figure out what you should do.  Communicate with your photographers weeks before you shoot together so that you can coordinate your ideas and get the proper attire and accessories for the shoot.  This is a business built more on reputation than appearance, so your job is to make your photographer happy and wow them.


11.  Many young women are watching America's Next Top Model and similar modeling shows and dreaming of becoming a model themselves.  Having worked as a model for a few years now, how would you compare what we see on the TV show to real life? 
Well, these shows are designed to be drama-fests.  Everyone is in hate with everyone else, they're always trash talking each other and fighting over the dumbest things.  Sometimes this kind of thing does happen, and it's impossible to have everyone like you, but these shows are selling reality-drama to get more people to tune in.  How often will you see people who've been modeling for two weeks posing for a Johnson & Johnson advertisement?  It just doesn't happen!  The models unprofessional behaviors and their mistakes is what we are inevitably tuning in for, and I'm sure when they're interviewing for contestants the producers purposely look for girls who will clash with each other to have those moments on film.  It's all constructed and completely unrealistic.  
 

Now, after saying all of that, I have to admit that America's Next Top Model and Make Me a Supermodel are guilty pleasures of mine!  I absolutely hate all the catty comments and bad attitudes, but they genuinely come up with some amazing ideas.  So, I would not suggest taking these shows as any kind of how-to in becoming a model.  But if you can get ideas for poses, concepts, make-up, and so on out of it, then you're making good use of your TV time!

12.  How do you market yourself as a model? 
My modeling name is The Gotham Girl, which is a play on my name.  Unfortunately, a lot of people misunderstand that to mean that I specialize in gothic modeling!  I couldn't even describe to you what a gothic look would be, so that can get a little difficult to handle.  But aside from that, I try to market myself as a blank slate; someone who is open to most styles.  I have a background in acting, so I feel that I'm competent enough in my skills to take on whatever persona is required.  My principle idea there is to open the networking door a little more, and get some experience and exposure as well as find what my best personal style is in the process.   

13.  Who do you market yourself to? (photographers, ad agencies, art directors, etc.) 
Currently I'm just happy to work one-on-one with photographers.  I still want to have all of my looks and poses perfected before trying to get a agent and high scale work.

14.  Do you feel that being represented by an agency is important? 
For steady, paying work it is the most important thing.  It gives you the ability to take some of the pressure off of yourself and allows someone with solid connections within the industry to find you work.  The average person will never know about the bigger casting calls because companies want professionals, not people off of the street and having an agent or agency is a huge sign of being a professional.

15.  What advice would you give to photographers pertaining to working with models? 
Speak up!  We often can't see ourselves, and we don't want bad photos any more than you do, so tell us if we look puffy at a certain angle, or if we need to move, or if our sexy look is just stupid.  We honestly don't know most of the time!  We're the paint, the photographer is the artist!

16. Have you seen any impact on the modeling world caused by the recent economic downturn? 
In my part of the world, there isn't a ton of commercial work available to begin with.  But I would actually say that the modeling world has seen more work since the downturn.  When things don't sell, companies don't lower prices, they put on bigger add campaigns, which means more money is going into the modeling industry in general.  And, while trying to save money in the process, a lot of agencies and companies are looking for new faces that they can contract for a lot less money than the top models. 

17. In your geographic area, what types of modeling do you think offer the greatest opportunities for new models? 
Sometimes, big magazines and promotions will roll through here looking for people, but overall regular print work seems to be the best way to get your face out there.  Shoots for club flyers, promotional gatherings, photographers comp cards, they all get you out in the public eye, and they're great to collect for your book to show agencies that you have tear sheets.

18.  Is there anything else you’d like to add? 
Modeling is a really tough business to get into, and it's not for everyone.  I would recommend for anyone to try it and pursue it as a hobby, but try not to get delusions of grandeur.  Keep your options open, always follow your passions in life, but make sure you have back-up plans in case professional modeling just doesn't work out for you.

Photo:  Autumn Lace Photography

12. How do you market yourself as a model?
I have a website and belong to several modeling sites. I also have my own business cards made up and hand out at shoots & shows.


13. Who do you market yourself to? (photographers, ad agencies, art directors, etc.)
I have Marketed myself to Photographers Boutique shop owners & On the Web.


14. Do you feel that being represented by an agency is important?
I do feel it's important to get the big Jobs & you are more likely to get hired if you are represented. Something I am working on


15. What advice would you give to photographers pertaining to working with models?
Just be nice!! and It helps when they let the model share ideas to.

16. Have you seen any impact on the modeling world caused by the recent economic downturn?
I haven't personally but don't know how that would really affect modeling.



17. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I think that I have said everything I can think of. After all I am still a newbie to this but have learned a lot & am having fun . Stay positive & enjoy!

Photographs ©Jeffrey Holmes Photography

Name: Emily Allen    
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana 
Web site: http://www.modelmayhem.com/781837 
Years working as model: 5 


1.  Please give a quick overview of the type of modeling you have done.  You can describe jobs you have done, what type of modeling you specialize in, photographers you’ve worked with, etc. 

I have worked with a variety of photographers from life-long professionals to newcomers.  Most of my work has been in commercial, fashion, and more recently stock photography. 

2.  How did you get your start in modeling? 

Purely by luck, a local photographer approached me about modeling for him when I was waiting tables during part of college.  About a year later, I had another opportunity present itself.  After that, I decided to start pursuing modeling on more regular basis. 

3.  Please describe your favorite experience as a model so far and what made it so special? 

My favorite modeling experiences have all involved the few times I have gotten to model with my husband.  During those shoots, I was able to show more natural expressions because of the energy we have together. 

4.  Please complete this sentence (and feel free to expand upon it).  The most beautiful photographs are… 

…those which capture the essence of a person’s soul. 

5.  What’s the funniest thing that has happened on set during a modeling shoot? 

I have done a couple of indoor rock climbing shoots.  During one in particular, the photographer wanted me to pose in a way that gravity would simply not allow, even for a strong climber.  After demonstrating this to him, he had to completely rethink a majority of the shoot.  Although it was unfortunate, it was also humorous that he didn’t take into consideration the laws of physics.  I’m sure when I was trying to get into the pose and failing miserably, it was a sight to behold as well. 

6.  Name 3 types of photos you think every model should have in his/her portfolio.  (could be poses, themes, etc.) 

Every model should have these basic types of shots in his or her portfolio:  headshot, full body, and profile.  This sounds very simplistic and maybe even silly, but it is something that could easily be overlooked.  It’s important to have photos that actually show what you look like from various points of view. 

7.  Is there a mistake you’ve seen other beginning models make that you would want to warn other newbies about? 

There are too many models that do not seem to realize how important their wardrobe is for a photo shoot in the sense that most shoots are supposed to highlight the model, not his or her clothing or the background.  Patterns and outrageous colors are not always the way to go for a photo shoot since they appear very different in print and can take the focus away from the model in the resulting photos. 

8.  What are your goals for your modeling?  What’s next for you? 

I would like to gain more experience in commercial and stock photo modeling.  Being in the Indiana market, these tend to be the most regular opportunities.  Plus, they really make for fun shoots. 

9.  What do you think is the best way for new models to turn their interest in modeling into a career that pays the bills? 

For the most part, the only way for models to make a lucrative career out of modeling is to relocate to a place like New York or Los Angeles and hope to make it big.  Otherwise, expectations should be kept realistic, as virtually no models in the Midwest make a living solely from modeling. 

10.  What other advice would you have for new models? (could be pertaining to portfolios, agents, photographers, etc.) 

Before someone gets into modeling, he or she should really consider what types of work he or she is willing to do, particularly with regard to more sexual themes.  It is far better to let a photographer know your limits in advance rather than wait until the day of the shoot.  You can save yourself and the photographer a great amount of time if you work out these details beforehand. 

11.  Many young women are watching America's Next Top Model and similar modeling shows and dreaming of becoming a model themselves.  Having worked as a model for a few years now, how would you compare what we see on the TV show to real 
life? 

Starting out in modeling is not going to be near as glamorous as being on America’s Next Top Model.  For many shoots, models have to do their own make up and hair as well as provide their own clothing.  And, it’s not all about fashion and glamour for some shoots; sometimes, models have to actually look like normal people. 

12.  How do you market yourself as a model? 

I am represented by a local talent agency; however, I personally have found more money-making opportunities on my own through various websites that have job postings for models and actors.  I also have online portfolios that allow me to have a strong presence on the Internet. 

13.  Who do you market yourself to? (photographers, ad agencies, art directors, etc.) 

I tend to market myself directly to photographers, art directors, casting directors, and similar professionals in the trade. 

14.  Do you feel that being represented by an agency is important? 

Being represented by an agency can take the pressure off a model, but the model may not want to depend solely upon that.  It certainly doesn’t hurt the model to let someone market him or her while doing some marketing of his or her own. 

15.  What advice would you give to photographers pertaining to working with models? 

I have had the pleasure of working with many different photographers, and I would never be arrogant enough to tell them how to do their jobs.  However, some photographers seem to expect models to realize the photographer’s visions without any real guidance on poses and expressions during the shoot.  I personally would like to see more photographers have specific concepts in mind to start out so that the model is better able to feel comfortable in the initial stages of a shoot.  

16. Have you seen any impact on the modeling world caused by the recent economic downturn? 

There are definitely fewer opportunities now that the economy is suffering, which of course means the competition is far more intense.  However, I don’t believe this is the end of the profession, just a temporary setback.  

17. In your geographic area, what types of modeling do you think offer the greatest opportunities for new models? 

Modeling in the Midwest seems to primarily revolve around commercial and stock photography.  These are probably the areas of modeling with the most potential for making money in Indiana and surrounding states. 

18.  Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

Every shoot is a learning experience.  It’s amazing how many tips one picks up just by shooting with different photographers.  Always remember that practice makes perfect, and since all photographers have different styles and personalities, it’s a good idea to gain experience not only at modeling but at working with different photographers so that the model can be ready for anything. 

Photographer:  Simplicity Always, Richmond IN

Photographer:  Charles I. Letbetter, Captured Light Studios

Location:  Louisville, KY

Web site: www.destinylive25.com

1.  How long have you been working as a model?  One year.

2.  How did you get your start in modeling? I have been trying to model for the last 8 years, relying on agencies to get me work. Once I quit my last job and had more availability, I started getting more involved by doing it myself. 


3.  Please describe your favorite experience as a model so far and what made it so special?  My best experience had to be my latest photoshoot with Nicely Done Photography. I loved my hair, makeup, outfits, setting a photographer which equaled and excellent shoot. By far the best photographs I’ve taken. 


4.  Please complete this sentence (and feel free to expand upon it).  The most beautiful photographs are… are when the photographer and model are both in sync and comfortable with each other. 


5.  What’s the funniest thing that has happened on set during a modeling shoot? Having my boyfriend on a shoot with me and we had to “gaze into each other’s eyes”. He purposely was giving me funny looks to make me laugh. 


6.  Name 3 types of photos you think every model should have in his/her portfolio.  (could be poses, themes, etc.) Something with personality, something that shows versatility (out of one’s comfort zone—like a themed shoot), and something with at least one other person to show you can work well with others. 

7.  Is there a mistake you’ve seen other beginning models make that you would want to warn other newbies about? Doing nude shots. Nudity will get you money, but I don’t think it’s necessary unless that’s something a model wants to do. You can make a career without having nude pics. 

8.  What are your goals for your modeling?  What’s next for you? I plan to perfect my port while living in a small market and also networking a lot. Once I’m done with college and get my degree in Journalism, I want to move to a bigger market and use both my modeling and journalism careers with each other while hopefully using my networking connections. 

9.  What do you think is the best way for new models to turn their interest in modeling into a career that pays the bills? Once you get more experience, start naming a price and start being more exclusive to jobs that pay, but in the meantime, you may have to take non paying jobs when you’re inexperienced just to gain the skills. Start from the bottom to get to the top. Once you’re more experienced, you start becoming a hot commodity and people will want to pay to work with you. 

10.  What other advice would you have for new models? (could be pertaining to portfolios, agents, photographers, etc.) Be careful of scams and don’t go to agencies who ask you to pay a lot of money for photographs. You can find photographers all day that will take Time For CD (TFCD). Do a lot of those and it’s a great way to save money while perfecting your skills. 


11.  Many young women are watching America's Next Top Model and similar modeling shows and dreaming of becoming a model themselves.  Having worked as a model for a while now, how would you compare what we see on the TV show to real 
life? The shows on T.V. are looking for ratings. You could be a good model, but if you don’t “bring the drama” producers are looking for, you won’t get considered. And a lot of those shows are editted, they don’t depict the “grit” of the business. It’s not as easy as it looks! 

12.  How do you market yourself as a model? I am on a lot of sites, I created a website and I created my own comp card that I distribute everytime I go on a photoshoot and auditions. I also use social networks like Model Mayhem and even Facebook and Myspace to market myself and find connections for jobs. 


13.  Who do you market yourself to? (photographers, ad agencies, art directors, etc.) I market myself mainly to photographers. They do have connections to jobs. One’s I have established relationships with  have called me about casting calls and also linked me to other connections. 


14.  Do you feel that being represented by an agency is important? If you are represented by a good reputable agency, it will definitely help. But do you’re research on agencies. A lot of models are starting to stray away from them. I found I got a lot more work by finding my own jobs. 


15.  What advice would you give to photographers pertaining to working with models? When doing TF shoots, do not give a CD of ALL the photos to the model that day. For one, the number of pics for the model to choose from is going to be overwhelming, especially for inexperienced models who don’t know what pics are best for their portfolio. Also, unedited pics that the model displays, can represent the photographer in a negative way. 


16. Have you seen any impact on the modeling world caused by the recent economic downturn? I have noticed it’s hard to find paying gigs, however, I live in a terrible market. 


17. In your geographic area, what types of modeling do you think offer the greatest opportunities for new models? There is a lot of promotional modeling in my area. That’s the best way to make money and meet other models and get advice from them about their careers. 


18.  Is there anything else you’d like to add? Patience comes to those who wait. Don’t be in a hurry, you’re career will blow up when its time. Don’t EVER give up! 

Photo:  Ty Lockhart

Photographer: Journey Photography

Photographer: Journey Photography

Name:  Jessica Slone

Location: Dayton, Ohio

Web Site: www.modelmayhem.com/jessicaslone

Years working as a model: 2

1.  Please give a quick overview of the type of modeling you have
done.  You can describe jobs you have done, what type of modeling you
specialize in, photographers you've worked with, etc.

I've worked with many different photographers in the Dayton/Columbus/Cincinnati area doing everything from casual to themed shoots. I was Miss February in the Southern Ohio Beauties Calendar, and a promotion model for many big brands.

2.  How did you get your start in modeling?

I've always wanted to model, but with my short stature I didn't think I could. My husband finally pushed me to pursue my dreams about two years ago, and I haven't stopped since!

3.  Please describe your favorite experience as a model so far and
what made it so special?

I'd have to say working with Todd (& not just because this is his site!) has been one of my most favorites. We clicked really well, and we come up with a lot of crazy ideas! My next favorite would have to be the Mt. Airy Group shoot last September! It was a blast meeting so many different models and photographers! 

3b.  I know you've done work as a promotional model.  Please explain
what a promo model does.

A promotional model can usually be found at events such as fairs, shows and concerts etc.  Companies who want to put their products into the hands of consumers, and raise the awareness of the product will hire promotional models to demonstrate their product. For instance, I just recently did a promotion for Verizon's new Blackberry Storms. As a person would walk past I would smile, and ask them if they've experienced the new Storm. If they were interested I would put the phone in their hands, show them all the new features it had, and answer any questions. However, every promo is different. There are some promo's where you pass out coupons or freebies, or sign people up for a contest, and there's some where you just stand around and look pretty. To be a promo model, you have to be extremely outgoing, be able to learn a product fairly quickly and able to talk to anyone! 

3c.  How would you compare the work of a promo model to that of a print model?

With print modeling, you don't work with the general public. You have a photographer, a backdrop, and a theme, or a product. While both are promoting a product, a picture of me holding and using a Blackberry Storm will peak your interest as you flip through a magazine. If I was promo'ing it at an event, and you would be able to actually pick it up and play with it yourself. Plus, in promotional work, you get to meet hundreds of people from all walks of life, so I think its a lot more fun!

4.  Please complete this sentence (and feel free to expand upon it).
The most beautiful photographs are…

One's that are natural looking. Not some extremely skinny girl with her arms all cock-eyed, and her hair crazy looking. Ones where the model looks like she's genuinely enjoying herself and having fun. Ones that are unique and stand out from the others.

5.  What's the funniest thing that has happened on set during a modeling shoot?

 Like I said earlier, one of my favorite shoots was a group shoot we did last year in a park called Mt. Airy. Well I had a friend who was shooting with a photographer in nothing but a sweater and panties. Well while she's shooting, she sees this guy watching her, so she decides to have some fun and starts getting a bit more provocative. After about 5 minutes she looks over, and realized the guy was looking at the photographer and not her! 

6.  If you could go back and change one major thing about the way your
modeling career has gone so far, what would it be?

I did a lingerie shoot once. Worse experience ever. I'll never do it again.

7.  Is there a mistake you've seen other beginning models make that
you would want to warn other newbies about?

Don't shoot with just anybody, and don't be quick to take off your clothes. Research the guy your working with, ask for references, and ALWAYS ALWAYS take someone with you. If they say you cant have an escort, don't do it.

8.  What are your goals for your modeling?  What's next for you?

I'd like to completely redo my port. I have a lot of the same 'ole junk as other models, and I'd like to redo it so that its more unique and different. I'd also like to step out of my comfort zone and try some new idea's.

9.  What do you think is the best way for new models to turn their
interest in modeling into a career that pays the bills?

Get with a good agency that will market you. Do promotions for a while!


11.  Many young women are watching America's Next Top Model and dreaming
of becoming a model themselves.  Having worked as a model for a few
years now, how would you compare what we see on the TV show to real
life?

We live in Ohio. We don't have a modeling capital in our state, and 75% of the photographers in the area have jobs, and only do photography as a hobby. When you go to a shoot, it's not going to be extravagant as those that you see on ANTM. Your not going to always have a make up artist and a wardrobe consultant and a hair stylist. Your not going to be suspended from the ceiling, or doing anything outrageous. Your probably going to shoot in a small studio with a few furniture pieces that are going to be used over and over. 

12.  What advice would you give to photographers pertaining to working
with models?

Find models who are creative, and love coming up with ideas. 

13. Have you seen any impact on the modeling world caused by the
recent economic downturn?

Models and photographers are both picking up extra jobs and such to pay bills. 

14.  Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Todd's fantastic and I cant wait for our next shoot!