PLUS MODEL MAGAZINE June 2016 Swim Issue | Page 112

101

modeling

with Madeline Jones
Maria writes…
Do I need a stylist for a portfolio shoot?

Absolutely! A stylist is someone who works in the industry and knows the type of looks you need
for a portfolio shoot. They have relationships with modeling agencies and photographers and can
help bring your portfolio to the next level. I know it sounds easy to put looks together but trust me,
a stylist can make all the difference in the world.
Rachel writes….
I see very edgy pictures on the agency websites. Should I be shooting more like that before I
approach agencies?
Actually I would advise against that. The first thing you want to do as an aspiring model is get
comfortable in front of the camera. Choose some poses from any of the brand websites (Lane
Bryant, Ashley Stewart, etc.) and try to mimic what you see. Ask a friend to shoot you with your cell
phone. Look at hand and feet placement. Do you look relaxed? Are you comfortable smiling, can
you walk towards the camera and model the garment?
Once you feel comfortable, take some snap shots of yourself in a tank top and jeans or leggings and
send those to agencies. If they are interested in you, they will notify you. In the meantime, shoot
with photographers who shoot plus size models and can bring together a team that knows how to
create a portfolio that will impress agencies and potential clients. Edgy pictures are nice but leave
those for later.