Thank you for inquiring about modeling at Cameo Models Internationale, Inc.
Cameo Agents are looking forward to meeting you at your upcoming audition, interview.
Lets talk about your introduction to Cameo Agents, also what Cameo Directors are looking for in new talent and how you should prepare.
First…the proper way to be introduced to Cameo Agents is by way of an audition interview. The next audition interview is coming up.
First Saturday of the month
Cameo Studios, 416 East Main Street, Downtown Richmond
Fashion Test photo shoots begin 12 noon – 4 pm
Model Auditions begin @ 12 noon – The New Model Audition & Seminar is “Free”
Second…Cameo Directors are seeking talented Children, Teens, Women and Men,
Age 4 to 65, who have a sincere desire to succeed in modeling, acting, dancing or singing. Cameo Directors carry no stereotypical image of model or acting types.
Cameo Directors welcome
Petite Model types – 5’ – 5’7” ~ Size 4 to 6
Tall Female Model types ~ 5’ 8” – 5’11” ~ Size 4 – 6
Tall Male Model Types ~ 5’ 10” – 6’ & up Size 42L 44L
Plus Model types – 5’9” & up ~ Size 10, 12, 14, 16 or 18
Trend setter Model Types – Age 35 & up
Talent Actors – all types
Talent Print - all types
Children – with lots of personality, Age 4-12
Cameo Directors wants to see you SHINE and project, Determination, Dedication, Discipline, Desire and true passion as you pursue your dream of modeling and acting. So, Shine, present your best personality and smile a lot.
Third…PHOTOGRAPHY
Professional fashion photography is very important to the growth, development and presentation of new models or actors. Glamour shots or family photos are not acceptable.
Glamour shots use too many rhinestones, jewelry and glitter. You do not need distractions when you are photographed, not even jewelry. Believe me, it takes away from you and looks very unprofessional.
Cameo presents Top Fashion photographer, Mr. Haywood Watkins the day of your audition. Haywood Watkins specializes in fashion and model portfolios. You may elect to shoot with Haywood and audition or just select one activity for the day. Cameo can help you build a great portfolio. I suggest that you Get started, Get excited, Go for it!
PHOTOGRAPHY – Frequently asked questions ???
Cameo Model Agents can help you build your portfolio and design your composite card, once you have professional fashion photo cards to work with.
Why do I need a model portfolio or composites?
The model portfolio and composites are the key to your success in modeling and acting. Your composites are your leave behind calling card.
How important is a head shot?
The right head shot can open up the windows and doors of opportunity
in modeling and acting.
How often should you find yourself in front of the camera?
If your desire is to move forward in the professional industry, then you should be in a professional fashion photo shoot. Professional models shoot weekly, monthly or seasonally, to build a good book and keep your book fresh and up to date.
How often should children be in front of the camera?
Children age 5 – 12, should shoot once a year. There looks are constantly changing. At Cameo Models, No make up is allowed on children.
What do I receive, once I shoot with a professional photographer?
You will receive your own, Photo CD, or Photo slides, or Photo contact sheets, plus a photo review with a professional agent, to help you select the best photos, looks and images for your book or composite card.
If you have accomplished a great head shot or full body shot, you will receive
1 photo placed on the Cameo Model web site. The decision to place you on the Cameo Web site or market you is at the discretion of the Agency director.
Is a Model / Actor responsible for purchasing their own pictures?
YES. All model talent is responsible for purchasing their own work to build their book. The photographer owns the rights to his photography work. Remember Fashion photography is much different from family photos. Rely on a trained eye to assist you with building your book with the best of you.
How do I approach my first photo shoot?
Plan it out. Put together a demi - folio, using tear sheets from top magazines.
Pull facial expressions, and full body poses, 10 – 20 looks. Put them in order in a book, then practice the facial expressions and poses. Select your outfits. Plan hair and make up sessions. Discuss your demi - folio plan, with your photographer. You are off to a great start in your photo shoot, building a portfolio & comp card !
F.A.Q.
What do I wear for an interview with an agent or prepare for a photographer?
Look hip, stylish and young.
Ladies: A black mini skirt, white top, hose and heels are great.
Do not wear outlandish shoes, tennis or flip-flops. Pumps are best.
No jewelry. Minimal perfume. Natural make up.
Hair should be clean and styled in a universal fashion.
Hairstyles should be short and sassy or long and flowing.
French manicure, pale pink or clear nail polish
Men: Wear form fitting jeans, black or white muscle shirt, or creative casual look.
Loafers or a casual shoe. No tennis shoes. Rugged beard or a clean shave face.
Children: Look like a model child out of Good Housekeeping magazine.
Wear a comfortable creative casual look, denim, neon casual clothing.
No tennis, no frills, satin or sequins. Definitely, no make up on children.
What will Cameo Agents be looking for in model and acting talent?
Several things. Remember, I talked about that great smile and personality, it goes a long way. Also a talent that presents a special Determination to succeed, knowing that it is going to be hard work involved. Acting talent or model talent with a great look, or just one that the agent knows she can sell.
I would like to be an actor. How can I really know if I have talent?
That is a tough one. Some people are born with acting skills just like a talented singer, dancer or an artistic painter. Others have to study and work really hard at it. Even professionals who have starred in movies take acting classes to get better and better. If you send me a video tape, I will give you an honest answer.
On your two minute tape, do several TV commercials or a monologue if you wish.
An agent can tell in two minutes if you’ve got what it takes.
What is the major difference between a modeling school and agency?
A modeling school should offer professional coaching, by an experienced, accomplished coach on Runway, Voice in TV commercials, study of acting scripts, photography preparation, personality development, personal empowerment, self confidence, social graces, charm, etiquette, and human relation skills. There is tuition for these services.
Be sure to check the credentials of your model / acting coach. Modeling schools make the bulk of their money from tuition and other products they sell.
An agency, books talent either from direct castings or from your photos which is called stock bookings. If an agency does not have professional photo work of you, they cannot properly represent you or market you. An agency makes the bulk of their income from landing good booking opportunities, with skilled talent that can go in to win the job. You must have skill and talent to back your photo work. These days, clients are not just booking the next pretty face. YOU MUST HAVE TALENT. Always obtain personal references on the companies you decide to do business with.
Does it cost a lot of money to get started in this business?
That depends on what you consider a lot of money. Money is relative in the business and may seem a lot to you and may not to someone else. I find that you usually get what you pay for. There are many things to consider when investing money in your model acting career, which is what you are doing…investing in yourself.
I hate to hear someone tell me, “I heard that if someone wants you, you should not have to pay for anything”. That is the biggest myth in the industry. Everyone has to pay for something in order to further his or her careers started or even get professional photography work done. It is matter of trust. Eventually, you will trust your future in modeling or acting with someone. Be sure you are giving your money to reputable people. Ask for references, photography work samples, or other hidden costs.
Do not ask for guarantees, as there are none in this business. If someone promises you guarantees. RUN.
How do I get started on a local level?
Look in the phone book and call the agencies and schools that are listed, and see if they offer what you are looking for. Ask about cost, the model / actor types they represent, Agents, training, bookings etc. Ask then to send you information. I suggest you get e-mail. This fast paced industry communicates by way of e-mail. Make appointments with the ones you feel comfortable with. If you are under 18, be sure to take a parent or guardian with you on your interview. Finances will be discussed at the end of the interview. Ask for references. Remember there are no guarantees in model coaching or model bookings, only hard work and lots of rejection. Only the strong survive in this business.
What do I need to do, to get started in the business?
You can go about this in several ways. I am hoping that as you review the Cameo information preparation audition package, that you will be in attendance at the next open call. That would be a step in the right direction. I would like the opportunity to coach you or market your skills and talents in modeling or acting. I have contacts all over the world.
I have what it takes to be discovered in the national market. Can you help me?
Cameo is a member agency of M. A. A. I., The Model Association of America International. M. A. A. I., is America’s only non-profit model talent convention in the fine arts, where you can get “discovered” sign contracts, and scholarships, which further your studies in the fine arts. M. A. A. I. is a sponsored convention such as the Olympics, held annually every Easter weekend at the fabulous world famous Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York City. Learn more about how Cameo Agents can help you make your modeling ~ acting & talent dreams come true, by visiting www.maai.org.
Cameo delivers you the Expertise, Experience and Excellence you are seeking in
modeling, dancing, acting and singing. So, Get Excited & Expect the Best!
Renee’ Lacy, CEO Executive Director – Cameo Models Internationale, Inc. 1/2007
