The dark side of modeling | what I learned after 1 year of modeling
The Dark Side of Modeling: What I Learned After 1 Year in the Industry
Introduction
In 2015, I worked as a male model in the fashion industry. Throughout my experience, I encountered various aspects of the industry that were not widely known. In this article, I aim to shed light on some of these lesser-known truths about the modeling world.
Women Face Stricter Treatment
Contrary to popular belief, women are actually treated much worse than men in the modeling industry. The industry imposes stricter standards and expectations on women compared to men. Male models can have diverse body types, ranging from skinny to muscular, without facing significant scrutiny. However, during my time as a model, I witnessed instances where female models were forced to change clothes in front of male models due to the lack of proper changing facilities. This practice was embarrassing and uncomfortable for both parties involved, highlighting the industry’s disregard for the privacy and dignity of female models.
Beware of Scam Agencies
There are numerous scam agencies preying on aspiring models. These agencies often approach individuals through social media, offering them the opportunity to become a model. Excitement and anticipation fill the aspiring model, who believes this could be their big break. However, these agencies typically require the model to pay for a portfolio and photoshoots, promising a successful modeling career in return. Sadly, many fall victim to such scams, as they invest their money and time but never receive any job offers or casting opportunities. It is essential to recognize these red flags and thoroughly research any agency before committing to them.
The Myth of High Pay
Contrary to popular belief, most models do not earn substantial salaries. Many models struggle to secure paid jobs or receive minimal compensation for their work. To make ends meet, numerous models work additional jobs, such as bartending or waitressing, to cover their expenses. The expenses associated with modeling, including travel costs for castings, can quickly accumulate, making it difficult for models to sustain themselves solely through their modeling income.
Time and Effort without Guaranteed Returns
Modeling demands a significant investment of time, effort, and personal finances. Attending castings requires both time and money, with no guarantee of being selected for a job. Models often find themselves constantly attending castings without receiving any job offers. This continuous effort can be disheartening as it becomes a cycle of investing more time, money, and energy without seeing any returns.
Conclusion
While pursuing a career in modeling may be a dream for many, it is important to be aware of the potential pitfalls and challenges that exist within the industry. Women, in particular, face stricter treatment, and aspiring models must be cautious of scam agencies that exploit their dreams. The notion of high pay is often misleading, and models frequently find themselves juggling other jobs to make ends meet. Lastly, the modeling industry demands substantial time, effort, and financial investment, with no guaranteed returns. This article serves as a reminder to aspiring models to enter the industry with their eyes open and fully informed.
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