Modeling for the first time can be a little confusing. As a new model, there are all kinds of terms and phrases that will be thrown around. You have to learn the lingo of a model fast to adapt! This way you can successfully navigate your modeling gigs.
So, in this post, we’ll introduce you to the most popular and important terms and phrases you need to know as a model.
Modeling Terms and Phrases You Should Be Familiar With:
1. Agent
Agents are individuals that market and represent models. Agents often look for modeling talent and scout them. These individuals can even help you get signed to a modeling agency. Not every model has an agent, but it can be helpful to find a good agent and agency!
2. Age Category
Age category refers to the age range you will be categorized in as a model. Your age category will depend on a few factors. Generally, though, you will be in a category that is five to seven years under or over your actual age. For instance, you can be in an age category that is between 18-25.
3. Art Director
Art directors are important figures in the modeling world. They are responsible for the artistic direction a shoot or project will take. Oftentimes, these directors will tweak the visuals and presentation of an ad or editorial!
4. Audition
Auditions are where models try out for a modeling gig. As a model, you will showcase your skills and looks! Auditions are also commonly referred to as casting calls.
5. Beauty Shot
A beauty shot is a type of headshot. This simple photo emphasizes a model’s natural beauty and facial structure. Generally, when taking a beauty shot, minimal amounts of makeup are used. The hairstyle of the model is also done in a simple but elegant way. Jewelry and other flashy items should be kept out of these shots, as well.
6. Book
In modeling, the word book has a different connotation. In particular, a modeling book specifically refers to a model’s physical portfolio. A model book will be full of headshots, body shots, and past work from a model.
This book can be presented to clients or agencies. It also helps models land jobs and contracts! Model books used to be printed out, but you can also post your book online.
7. Callback
After an initial audition, you might be contacted for a second audition. This is known as a callback. When you get a call back from a client or director, you might be confused at first. However, callbacks are a good thing.
Getting a callback means that you did well in your first round of auditions! In short, the people you auditioned for are interested in your looks and skills and want to see more.
8. Composite
Composites are a model’s business card. These cards are an abridged version of your portfolio. They contain a headshot and four additional pictures on the backside. Composites, or comp cards, also contain stats such as height, weight, and age.
9. Day Rates
Day rates refer to the amount of money you make in a day. Usually, models charge a certain amount of money for a period of eight hours. As a model, you want to set a good day rate. Your agent or agency will negotiate the rate for you. However, if you are a freelance model you will have to set your own day rate.
10. Editorial Print
Editorial prints refer to a select few pages found in fashion magazines. This portion of a magazine helps promote the latest trends in fashion. To sum it up quickly, editorial prints contain photos of the latest clothes and trends.
11. Fitting
Fittings are done before a shoot. Models will try on clothes before photos are taken to ensure that their outfit fits properly.
12. Go-See
Go-see is a type of interview. This can be an individual interview or a mass audition with a ton of other models. Sometimes, this is also called a cattle call.
13. Headsheet
Major modeling agencies all have headsheets. Headsheets are basically a compiled list of the agency’s current models. The headsheet contains a headshot of each model along with some basic stats. Nowadays, headsheets can be found on an agency’s website.
14. Look Book
Look books are made specifically for clients, fashion editors, and companies. A look book contains photos of a model in the clothes of a particular brand or designer. These photos are then sent out to help promote a designer’s line.
15. Modeling Agency
Not every model will join an agency in this day and age. Still, modeling agencies are an integral part of the modeling world. They hire models and represent them throughout their modeling careers. Agencies generally take a cut of a model’s profits.
However, these companies will help models find gigs and will improve their skills. They also help promote a model to various industry professionals and designers.
16. Stats
Stats vary from model to model and help directors and other industry professionals get a feel for your body measurements. If you are a female model your stats include height, weight, hip, bust, and waist measurements. For male models, the same stats are used with the addition of a chest measurement.
17. Test
Test shots help models establish their look and style. Typically, you pay for these photos and use them to assess your skills and looks. In addition, test shots can be added to your modeling portfolio or even used to start your modeling portfolio.
18. Voucher
Finally, the last modeling term we will go over is the term voucher. A voucher is used during the billing process and helps models get paid. When your modeling job is completed, you should receive a voucher. A voucher is an invoice that both a model and the client will sign.
If you are a part of an agency, you will hand this over to your agent. This way the client is properly billed, and you can make your money.