Overview
The image of the pin-up girl is an enduring and beloved fashion icon. Many modern women and men, enamored of vintage style, have created a large subculture that keeps the pin-up look alive. Vintage-inspired clothing lines, magazines and Web sites are rapidly growing, drawing in an even bigger following of pin-up devotees. These businesses need pin-up models to showcase their wares. Though competition for paying assignments is stiff, these tips will set you on the path to becoming a pin-up model.
Step 1
Perfect your look. The pin-up style is a very specialized genre and requires skill in makeup application, vintage hairstyling and retro fashion. Study the pin-up look and learn to re-create the styles. Follow You tube tutorials on 1940s through 1950s hair and makeup. Hire a makeup artist and hairstylist for a few sessions in order to make sure your pin-up model look is flawless.
Step 2
Practice posing for the camera. Look to modern pin-up girls, such as Bernie Dexter, and iconic pin-up image,s such as the art of Gil Elvgren and Alberto Vargas, for poses and photo shoot ideas. Use your camera's self-timer function if you are unable to find a photographer, and experiment with lighting and perfecting the most flattering poses. Pay very close attention to background when shooting pin-up photos. Too much messy clutter or blatantly modern items can ruin a vintage-inspired photograph. Find a skilled photographer if the photos you're doing on your own aren't high quality. Photography students at the local college and new photographers are good options for the cost-conscious. Above all, strive for very professional-looking photographs.
Step 3
Create a personal Web site or blog centered on your pin-up modeling portfolio. This will make you look professional and shows that you take your modeling career seriously.
Step 4
Network. Create a profile devoted to your pin-up persona, and join Myspace groups such as Pin Up Girl Clothing Models. This group offers some highly useful advice, feedback and information on becoming a pin-up clothing model. Join message boards focused on pin-up style and network with the other members. Post your portfolio on ModelMayhem.com and participate in their forums. Befriend makeup artists, photographers and stylists in your local area. The more you network, the more likely you are to find work as a pin-up model.
Step 5
Contact retro-themed clothing companies and inquire about their hiring protocol. They may be able to point you to other companies who are seeking new models. If your goal is to be featured in magazines such as "Varla" and "Barracuda," follow the rules of submission very clearly stated on their respective Web sites. Constantly promote yourself. Becoming a pin-up model requires a lot of perseverance and tenacity, which could very well be rewarded with a bona fide modeling assignment.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Always conduct yourself with class. Photographers, makeup artists, stylists, and bookers have no love for divas. Your reputation is important, and word of a difficult model travels fast. The most successful pin-up models possess an attractive combination of sweetness, modesty, confidence and professionalism.
The Los Angeles area holds the largest number of opportunities for professional pin-up models.
- WARNING : Use caution when meeting photographers found online, especially those found on Craigslist. Meet first in a public place to discus the transaction, and try to bring a friend to the photo shoot.
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