Four Australian models tell us how they got signed
PHOTOGRAPHY BY @ORRLORD
STYLING BY @MOLLYSSHEARSS
WORDS BY CAITLIN CEFAI
“Don’t be scared of rejection and never take it personally.”
Models seem untouchable, with their glamorous lives full of photoshoots, fashion shows and brand deals. I’ve always looked on in awe at those who have somehow broken into the industry overnight, appearing in big-name campaigns and signing with renowned agencies.
Their Instagrams are full of perfectly curated images, all with brands and creative teams tagged and comments from hundreds of adoring fans – like me – who wish they could have a taste of the spotlight.
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But there’s more to modelling than meets the eye, and for many aspiring models, it can seem like there isn’t a straightforward way into this exclusive club. To shed some light on how to break into the industry, I asked four Australian models about their journey to getting signed and what they love most about being a model.
Eddie Nelson, 23, Wink Models
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What’s your favourite thing about being a model?
I would say my favourite thing about being a model is working with other people on a shoot when they are creative like you – seeing what you can shoot and how you can create things. My Stax shoot was really cool. [I loved] working with Matilda and Don [and] seeing how they interpret things and how they directed me with what they wanted! It’s a cool feeling and vibe in the room.
What was your journey to getting signed?
My journey to being signed was actually rather challenging. I applied to Wink back when I was 17 but it wasn’t quite the right time! I applied to other agencies as well, but being 5’8 in height and having a more curvy body shape I wasn’t suitable for those other high-end agencies. I believe timing is a big thing, and when I reapplied to Wink between the ages of 20 and 21, I had worked on myself a bit more and had a bit more to show them! I’m so glad it worked out when it did.
What advice would you give to someone who’s interested in becoming a model?
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My advice would be to not take it too seriously – there is so much that goes into a shoot! It’s much bigger than you. Knowing and remembering that I think takes the pressure off yourself. Definitely knowing who you are inside and having thick skin! I’ve had lots of comments on my body shape, my hair, my ‘big cheesy’ smile – sometimes not so positive . But when you are solid and sure with who you are as a person, those comments just don’t affect you. [The] biggest thing I’ve learned in life – don’t take anything personally!
Eleonor Siervo, 19, People Agency
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What’s your favourite thing about being a model?
My favourite thing about it would have to be the opportunity you get to be a part of an idea or concept. I find it so cool to watch the team behind a shoot bring that vision to life.
What was your journey to getting signed?
It involved a lot of becoming comfortable in front of a camera by meeting photographers who wanted to expand their portfolios. I knew I had to develop that confidence before I ever presented myself to an agency. I believe that translated itself to how I appeared on Instagram because I ended up getting scouted on there by People Agency, so it definitely worked out in the end.
What advice would you give to someone who’s interested in becoming a model?
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Don’t be scared of rejection and never take it personally. Don’t let it dishearten you from your potential to grow. Rise above it and keep going.
Janitha Perera, 26, Giant Management
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What’s your favourite thing about being a model?
My favourite thing is the people you get to meet from different creative backgrounds. It’s really fascinating learning about different people’s creative processes. I have a few favourite projects but I did a Christmas campaign for a jewellery brand yesterday which I’m really excited to see.
What was your journey to getting signed?
I applied for my agency in Adelaide, Finesse, to be signed. After two years with my agency in Adelaide, they signed me with Giant in Melbourne.
What advice would you give to someone who’s interested in becoming a model?
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Practice by doing test shoots with photographers. You can even take photos yourself! Once you feel confident in front of the camera, go ahead and apply to the agencies where you want to be signed.
Alice Carruthers, 30, Bella Management
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What’s your favourite thing about being a model?
My favourite thing about modelling is definitely the people you meet. You meet the most talented, creative people who have unique perspectives which expose you to different ways of experiencing life. My favourite project would definitely be the commercial I shot with Ken Arthur, the footage is on my Instagram. It was such an incredible experience and one I’ll never forget.
What was your journey to getting signed?
When I was 20 I did go seed at all the agencies in Sydney. This is where you go and meet the team, take some digis and they decide if they will represent you. This got me signed with Chic where I was on their books for about two years before I decided to leave modelling to pursue another career. After taking eight years off I was approached by a scout on the beach where I was signed with another agency. I then approached Bella and signed with them. [I’m] now doing modelling part-time while also having a career in sustainability.
What advice would you give someone who’s interested in becoming a model?
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If modelling is something you’ve always wanted to do then jump in and give it a go. I find it’s something that will always stay with you so if you don’t try you may end up regretting it. I’m 30 and I was 20 when I first joined.
Learn more about being a model here.
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