Whether you have just been given your very first modelling assignment or whether you are an old hand at performing for the camera, it is worth preparing for your forthcoming role.
Being prepared will help you feel more confident and at ease and as a result you are sure to enjoy the whole experience much more.
This means having a clear understanding of where you need to be on the day, when and whether you need to dress in a certain way or bring anything.
Our highly experienced Models Direct agents will ensure you know all of this but do ask them any questions and heed their advice.
Furthermore, it is also worth preparing for the specific character role if possible as this will also help you to feel more relaxed.
Here are some of our tips for getting into character:
- Find out as much as you can about the role. This isn’t always possible but our team members may have an idea of the part you will be playing in the film or photo shoot. Are you a member of a family, someone at work or a passerby, for example? Will you be posing for still photographs or acting in a film – how big will your part be? And, if you are being filmed, will you have anything to say?
- Once you know more about your role, then do your research. Spend time browsing the internet, finding images and watching video clips of people doing what you will be doing. Even if you will be doing something as simple as walking down a street pretending to be a shopper, keep your eye out for people playing the same part on television.
- Get out and about too. Watch real people doing the things you will be doing. Look carefully at the expressions on their faces as well as the way they move. Perhaps you are going to be a builder on a construction site or an assistant in a supermarket. How do they concentrate on what they are doing? What are their facial expressions?
- Do you know anyone who in real life does what you are going to do? Or have they done so in the past? If you are going to play the part of a groom in a wedding ceremony but have never been married, then ask a friend how they felt when they tied the knot. Are you going to model as a mother with three children in the park but don’t have youngsters yourself, again, talk to someone who does.
- Take time out to practise in front of the mirror. Practice facial and body poses if you are taking part in a still photography shoot or move about, act and speak if you are to be in a film. Pretend you are that person and emulate the expressions and mannerisms of the people you have seen on screen or about you.
- Finally, ask a family member or friend to take some pictures of you or to film you while you are in character – or use a tripod and do it yourself. Then spend time looking at the photos or final video and think about how you could improve or enhance the character you are playing.
Remember, however, not to get too anxious about your role as there will be plenty of people there on the day to help and support you.
Other models will be playing their parts, which will help you to play yours.
The director, photographer or lead crew member will give you lots of instruction and you may have a costume or make-up that will also help you to get into character.
Contact your agent at Models Direct too if you are worried as they are there to help you.
Read the reviews from our other models – hearing how much they enjoyed their experience of taking on another character, will help you to ease into your more.
And most of all, remember to have fun!
This is what Maria told us after an assignment through Models Direct:
“When I was shortlisted to take part in this assignment to be an extra on Doritos Christmas commercial, I was really excited as I didn’t know what to expect.
“When I arrived on set I was quite nervous to find out what my role was. My role was to take a selfie at a Christmas party.
“Once I got into character I really enjoyed it and started having fun with it.
“It was a great atmosphere and the best part for me was the final part of the party where everyone was dancing and rocking to the live band performing.
“I would definitely recommend signing up to Models Direct even if it’s just for the experience of being part of a great production.”
