SHANI SCHERENZEL - ADVICE: MODELING TIPS
Learning More About The Modeling Industry
Interview with Top Elite Model Shani Scherenzel
Q. I really want to model. Please tell me honestly if my height really matters - Kate Moss is apparently 5'6"?
Height matters, yes and no. It matters for high fashion shows and because models need to be similar to each other and height showcases clothes better. In other areas of modeling it matters in that the clothes need to fit well and being short or extra tall means that hemlines and cuffs will not reach the length the designer chose. For advertising and TV commercials it matters far less than other features such as a great smile or acting ability. You can lie about your height but agencies will often measure you and one can always tell if you are shorter just from looking at you even if you are wearing heels.
Sometimes height is a deciding factor, if an agency isn’t sure about taking you on, and you are short, that can be the deal breaker. I have seen a few models who did very well and were short, but they also had excellent portfolios, were beautiful, had an excellent attitude and did body work. I wouldn’t let height completely discourage you, but definitely it is an issue to look at.
If you are short you can still easily work in film, TV or commercials, as a character model, swimsuit/lingerie model, or parts model, etc. These would be easier avenues than trying to become a high fashion runway model.
Q. I was told that I don’t have what "it takes" to be a model physically. Can you help me find a career that can be similar without the physical demands?
TV commercials and advertising often calls for models to not be very "modelly" looking. Find an agency that represents these types of looks. These types of agencies often browse New Faces looking for new talent to represent. If you enjoy fashion; there are many other fields within the industry. You can work in public relations, as a fashion designer, agent, coordinator, art-director, makeup or stylist. These are just a few, they necessarily don’t require formal training but strong connections, sense of hustle and good communication are important.
Q. You have mentioned that one needs the right "attitude" to be a model, what exactly do you mean? Why is it so important, if we hear of supermodels who are difficult to work with?
Attitude can be everything! Part of what makes one attractive is the feeling you give others. People want to be around polite and positive people. This is true in any field.
A model needs to be quick to pick up direction and smart to anticipate how the mood and feel of the shoot or show needs to be. They need to be educated (reading and following magazine and fashion trends) to be aware of what looks and ideas are current. They need to be intuitive to understand the direction and what the client is looking for. They should be confident to ask questions when they don’t know what the client needs. Showing up on time, ready to go is important. Friendliness to everyone on set, including the other models is also a good thing.
These points make for a good attitude which will help get repeat bookings, even if sometimes your look is not perfect for what they are looking for. Sometimes certain people get away with a bad attitude because they are just are irreplaceable. Even then, I believe they likely work less than they could!
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