Edited by Elaine Tarutis
This month Amethyst Magazine spoke with model Alice Antoinette.
• AM: How long have you been a model?
AA: I’ve been a professional freelance model for five years.
• AM: What do you like best about modeling?
AA: It’s my passion. And now I run model photography events as well. My company is called Muses in Wonderland, Inc.
• AM: So modeling can lead to even greater career possibilities.
AA: Absolutely! My latest curiosity is switching to the other side of the lens. I’m now learning model photography! My next big goal is to open a modeling school. I love modeling, but I love to do everything in between—from conducting tours, to running events, to picking up a camera, to launching the modeling school.
• AM: Tell us more about the school.
AA: The classes will include how to schedule and book photoshoots, how to organize a modeling business, and an in-depth overview of how modeling has evolved—and what models can expect in this industry today. But the classes will cover other topics too. Like safety issues and how to choose a photographer to work with.
• AM: Sounds like a foundation for new models to become successful.
AA: Exactly. I want to teach models how to be their own boss.
• AM: You mentioned safety issues.
AA: Yes. That’s very important. There are red flags that models, especially models who are newer too. the industry, need to watch out for. Abusive and manipulative photographers tend to target younger people with less experience in the modeling industry.
• AM: Can you give a few examples?
AA: Sure. Abusive and manipulative photographers may take on power-holding roles such as being a “model manager” or a “coach.” They may try to impress you with their work and make big promises, such as “I can get you published in Vogue.” They may have many anonymous or uncredited models in their portfolios because they don’t want you to contact them. A photographer might insist you stay with them if you fly in from out of town or say you can’t bring a friend to the photoshoot. And they might instruct you to model more explicit content that’s outside the boundaries you had discussed.
• AM: What advice can you give newer models to avoid these difficult situations?
AA: First off, if a model ever feels uncomfortable with a photographer, even on the phone, she should leave. Even if she gets to the photoshoot, if anything is different from what she and the photographer agreed to, then models need to know they have the right to leave at any time. Before scheduling a photoshoot with a photographer, models should always speak to previous models the photographer has worked with. These models should be credited in the photographer’s posted images and portfolio, so it should be easy to message them about their experiences. Models should not work with photographers who have photos of models without tags or links to the models themselves—they could be stolen photos, old photos, or photos of models who would never recommend the photographer. Models should look for photographers with up-to-date portfolios, with photos taken in the past year. Never accept emails, phone numbers, or even a list of models from the photographer–they could be giving you just the names of models who will give them positive recommendations.
• AM: What kind of agreement should a model have with the photographer?
AA: Every model should be sure to have terms and conditions written out before scheduling a photoshoot. Things like payment amount and method, time and length of the photoshoot, an overview of how the photoshoot will go, and the address. And this is essential – always share the location of photoshoots with a trusted friend. You can bring them to the photoshoot or arrange beforehand that if you don’t call or text by a specific time, they will call the police. During the photoshoot itself, stick to your boundaries—don’t let someone talk you into being photographed beyond your stated comfort level.
• AM: A lot comes down to safety.
AA: Your safety is the number one priority. Don’t worry about losing money. Fame and riches will come to you from people who respect you. Being a model is a very rewarding experience, given that you meet and work with the right people.
• AM: You’re really talking about good business practices.
AA: Definitely. As I said, I want to teach models how to be their own boss. I hope to leave an unforgettable footprint in the industry for the next generation of models to discover.
More about Alice:
IG: @aliceantoinettemodel or @musesinwonderland www.aliceantoinettemodel.com | www.musesinwonderland.com