The world of commercial modelling is varied, giving new opportunities to just about anyone with the desire to work with our clients throughout the country. It’s one of the most accessible of jobs, too, with successful models choosing which assignments they’d like to accept.
One of the genres of modelling that models need to know about is editorial modelling.
But editorial modelling is a little different to commercial modelling. However, we do sometimes have openings for editorial models, so it’s important for our models to know the differences between the two, and how they can present themselves in the best light to be chosen by our clients.
What is editorial modelling?
An editorial model is usually a model who is featured in glossy magazines – both in print and online. They typically advertise / market the latest fashions and luxury products such as jewellery and watches. Editorial modelling is seen as being “high class”.
What are the differences between editorial modelling and commercial modelling?
Perhaps the biggest difference is the target audience. Editorial modelling is generally more glamorous. It’s pitched to a more exclusive audience; potential customers can be from a wider geographical range, with perhaps more disposable income and extravagant tastes. Whilst the “average” person wouldn’t be interested in a suit worth £5,000 or a dress on the market costing an average monthly salary, editorial models will often model exactly these types of products.
Requirements for editorial models tend to be more specific. Many briefs call for exact heights and hairstyles (and, unfortunately, ages), so it can limit some models.
Commercial modelling aims to sell to the general population. We’re talking about high street retailers, campaigns for banks and supermarkets, and local / national charities. It’s more relatable than editorial modelling. The audience can be anyone of any age, and sometimes the aim of commercial modelling is not to sell – its purpose can be to raise awareness and educate, such as government campaigns. So, commercial modelling is more viable to many more people.
What can I do to give myself the best chance of becoming an editorial model?
Dreaming of being an editorial model is common amongst models. It shouldn’t be a “no-go area”, but models should realise that it’s more difficult than becoming a commercial model. It’s true that commercial models can be editorial models – and vice versa – although editorial modelling requirements can restrict models from doing both at the same time.
The key to being selected for editorial modelling is in the specifics. You may have the determination to succeed, and you may have the ambition to be photographed in glossy magazines, but you’ll probably need to work on your look to attract a client’s attention.
Here are some tips to stand out:
1. Study poses in magazines that have been perfected by editorial models. Even professionals don’t get the desired poses right on the first attempt. Focus on their head angles, and how natural their limbs look.
2. Experiment with fashions, hairstyles and make-up (minimally, please!)
3. It’s best to ask a friend to take photos of you. Selfies are fine for a lot of photos, but for editorial modelling it’s better to focus on your poses and let someone else take charge of the camera.
4. Get the lighting right – make sure it’s not too bright. You can use shade and glamourous backgrounds such as tasteful curtains and furniture.
