Frequently Asked Questions
1. How important is a “test shoot” with Lumina?
This is the first step in determining if the Lumina Modeling Agency is a match with what you want to do in the modeling business. The FREE test shoot will allow you to work with one of the top photographers in the Northwest and receive a preliminary evaluation of your potential. (While this session and evaluation is FREE , if you want a high-definition CD of the images from the test shoot, there is a $75 charge).
The test shoot allows you to see what is expected of a working model and will give you a good idea if you like the excitement and glamour that is often associated with the industry.
2. Why should I attend the “So You Wanna Be A Model” workshop?
This 90-minute presentation is designed to answer all your questions about how to get started in modeling here in the Northwest.
You'll learn about the potential for your look and the possibilities of building your own modeling career. We'll share secrets about how to select your photographers and what you'll need in your portfolio to be active in the industry.
We'll also give you information unavailable elsewhere about some of
the scams and rip-offs often associated with the industry.
Do NOT sign up for any modeling courses at any modeling school or agency until you've taken this $20 class. It could save you thousands
of dollars!
3. What is a portfolio and why do models pay for that?
Your portfolio shows that you are serious about becoming a professional model and making money in the business. You need a portfolio when you go out on “look-sees” to show prospective clients the type of work you are capable of doing.
You cannot use the hand-held “MySpace” type shots that show you as unprofessional. And, your portfolio needs to showcase your talent in a variety of settings, wardrobe, and poses.
To get a professional portfolio completed – you will often work with two or more photographers in multiple sessions. And, you will pay the photo-graphers for creating images that will help you get work.
(At Lumina, we have the services of some of the best studio and indoor photographers in the Northwest – so your portfolio will stand out from the crowd.)
4. Why should I shoot with more than one photographer?
Each photographer will see your beauty a little differently. Each will
have his or her own style and add their own creativity to the project. You'll want your portfolio and comp card to reflect that individuality
and creativity.
5. Why do I need comp cards?
Comp cards are your business card – giant size, with photos of you that will help prospective clients remember you for future assignments. These are standard in the business.
6. Is there much work for models in the Northwest?
Depending on the type of modeling that is best suited for you, the answer is yes in most cases. Lots of assignments for promotional and trade show models. Also, plenty of commercial work in print and some TV. Some fashion oriented projects although high-fashion runway like you might find in New York or Milan is somewhat limited here. There is some catalog work and ad agency work as well as stock image modeling.
7. How will the Lumina Agency help me get started?
If you follow the sequence that we suggest –
a. Do a “test shoot” at Lumina;
b. Take the “So You Wanna Be A Model” workshop
c. Register with the agency
d. Begin your portfolio sessions
e. Have your comp cards created and printed
f. Begin to work on assignments as they arise
Lumina Modeling will be with you every step of the way.
8. Am I able to book my own work?
Yes. We do not have an exclusive agency agreement. You are able to “freelance” and you may freely accept assignments from any client NOT contracted through the agency.
9. Should I quit my day job?
Definitely not! Modeling is a bit like winning the lottery. Even though you may be drop dead gorgeous and all your friends tell you that you can be a big time model – please, DO NOT QUIT YOUR DAY JOB ! Modeling in the Northwest is sometimes sporadic, the pay is often low, and the competition is brutal.
Can it become full-time?
Yes. But give yourself some room to succeed first … see how it works for you before deciding to go at it full time.
10. Do I have to pay for any classes?
The only class we recommend is the initial workshop “So You Wanna Be A Model” at $20. (You'll receive a big workbook full of information and ideas about the modeling industry that you'll be able to use for years to come.)
But, do NOT sign up for those modeling classes offered by other so-called modeling agencies. They usually consist of some basic classes about nutrition and posing … and a lot of fluff. They also cost thousands of dollars. Run away from them if you can. You don't need that type of help.
If you want to work the runway, usually a class at the local community college will suffice.
If you want to expand your horizon as a model – then you may want
to take some acting classes. Again, the local community college or little theatre groups will be great (and inexpensive) for this type of training.
There is one more class that we would recommend – and we'll share that information with you during the “So You Wanna Be A Model” workshop.
11. Why should I visit the Lumina Photography studio?
This will give you an opportunity to visit with us, see if you like what we do, and provide you with an opportunity to see how we use our 6,000 square foot studio with 10 Hollywood-style sets in building your modeling portfolio.
To schedule a tour and your FREE test shoot, just call us at: (425) 355-1415 today!
