No, skinny isn’t the first criteria. In fact, for most of my clients, an EXACT size isn’t really even in the top five. These are things clients and photographers care about when choosing a model:
The “Right” look for that particular job. I’m putting this one first because it’s often where we start when choosing a model. It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s more important than the other things. In fact there have been times when a client says “can you book So-and-so from Agency A? We love her look.” and I will say no, because she’s notoriously unreliable, or I had some other negative experience with her. Yet, being a good fit look-wise is very important. This can actually be freeing for models to learn because it’s NOT that we want the most beautiful model, we want the right one. Sometimes we need two models with contrasting looks, or a certain funky type. Or even maybe it’s that last year we used a redhead and this year we want something different.
Reliability. I would love to put this one first, but it’s usually second. You’d be surprised how difficult this is to expect from models. It’s not just that they don’t keep their commitments, it’s also that they don’t have reliable availability. They are Suuuuper busy with something else other than modeling and every time we request them the answer is no. I’ve booked models for jobs simply on the knowledge that I know they have a flexible schedule, they will say yes, and they will show up prepared. It matters.
A fit body and great skin. This is more important than a perfectly beautiful face or skinny body. A model that glows with health and self-care is in-demand.
A GREAT personality. Listen, modeling isn’t always easy, and it’s rarely quick. When you have to hang with a model all day, you want them to be cool. Models who are annoying or grumpy are a big no.
Creativity. A collaborative model that has their own knowledge and ideas is an asset and also helps me (the photographer) to relax and focus on my job so I’m not suggesting posing ideas all day.
Height, Beauty, Long Legs, Healthy Hair, Bright eyes, Pretty Feet, Nice Hands…. I am putting all of these things together because YES they matter, but are they the most important thing? nope. They are more of a formula that adds up to an in-demand model. I have yet to meet a perfect model. The great ones have all of the things listed in numbers 1-5 and then several of the ones listed in number six. But no one has all things perfect. NO ONE.