Mia Amber’s Curvy Mail

I received the following letter via email:

Hi Mia,

First and foremost I want to say that I look up to you. You are an inspiration to all women that are curvy and you have shown the world that curvier women are beautiful.

I know you get a lot of mail so I want to thank you for reading this. I am really trying to become a successful full figure model and I don’t know where to start.

How do you know if you have what it takes to model and should I get an agent or contact designers directly?

Thank you,
Shelly

Thanks for writing, Shelly! 

My honest answer is that you should do whatever it takes– WITHIN REASON–until you get your fashionable foot in the door.  Visiting open calls and submitting your photos via the web to reputable agencies (don’t pay anyone ANY money up front) is  a great way to get started. Check out this post I did on OPEN CALLS!

You also mentioned contacting designers directly which I think is a potentially good idea. 

As an actress I would never turn down a great role in a student film with a student director.  The general rule of thumb is that you never know how far that director may go as a filmmaker so it’s best to get in on the “ground floor” with them and they will always remember you!

I say all that to make a comparison to new designers.  A designer who is just starting out may be looking for models to work with and you never know how their career’s may take off.

When you submit to agencies and designers be sure to send the proper photos– no nudity, pets or friends in the photos with you!   Also, do as much reasearch as possible regarding the person/company you are submitting to. 

Another bit of advice is this– be ready! 

If you submitted to an agency tomorrow and they called you in, would you be ready to work?  Would you know how to pose, find your light and behave on set?   Would you know the differences between fit, showroom, print, commercial, high fashion, lifestyle and runway modeling?   Do you know your measurements?  Would you know where you fit in within the industry?

How you match up with industry standards is very important in knowing whether or not you have a “shot” at making a career in modeling. You asked me how to know if you have what it takes– Confidence goes a mighty long way and knowing that you have something to offer will take you even further.

I visited my current agency six times (open calls) before they called me in for a meeting.  Each time they said “no” I just kept working on my own and building my portfolio.  One day, they just called me in and I was ready.

If you aren’t ready, get ready!  Your passion could be realized and you don’t want to miss any opportunity to feed your soul.

XOXO,

Mia

#Curvy.Girls.Rock!

The Icon Issue

The January issue of Plus Model Magazine is LIVE and it is FANTASTIC!  If you are an aspiring plus model it is a must read cover to cover.

The iconic Natalie Laughlin is the cover model for the issue and her interview is not to be missed.

This is one of those issues you’ll want to print out to use as a reference guide for your career.

Happy reading and Happy New Year!

XOXO,

Mia

Plus Model Magazine

The December Issue of Plus Model Magazine is LIVE

If you’re an aspiring model be sure to check out THESE very informative tips!

Happy reading!

XOXO,

Mia

Model Salaries

Former model and actress Molly Sims spoke out recently and revealed that cover girls don’t make as much money as you might think they do.

When talking to Popeater she disclosed that along with herself, fellow Sports Illustrated swimsuit models and cover girls Tyra Banks and Heidi Klum earn what some would deem a paltry paycheck for a lot of work:

“Everyone makes about $300 for a week’s work…basically you are paying them to be on the cover”

Here’s my two cents:

If you’re a model, actor or entertainer, sometimes you have to take a look at the bigger picture.  A perfect example is Molly’s disclosure.  A $300 paycheck for a weeks work modeling may not seem like much but appearing on the cover of SI could change your career and take you to supermodel status.

The bottom line is, sometimes we have to step back and take a look at the complete picture before making a rushed decision…BUT don’t get taken advantage of!

XOXO,

Mia

Mia Amber in Wisconsin & Chicago

August 14th and 15th I’ll be appearing at, “The Strut Your Stuff & Love Your Size Fashion Show” in Racine, Wisconsin

As well as leading a Plus Model Mini-Bootcamp in Chicago, Illinois.

If you’re in the area stop by and say hello!

XOXO,

Mia

Happy Anniversary Plus Model Magazine!

The special, Fourth Anniversary Edition of Plus Model Magazine is live featuring cover model Jessica Lavoie!!

Happy Anniversary PMM!! I’m super proud of the leaps and bounds the magazine has made in four short years and I feel blessed to be a part of it all!

XOXO,

Mia

Mia Amber Presents…NYC Plus Model Intevsive

Ever since I began my modeling career, aspiring models from all over the world have contacted me asking how they can jumpstart their own careers as plus models.

I am overjoyed to announce a project that I have had in the works for quite sometime and I am hopeful that aspiring models who need information will take part in it.

On Saturday, April 17 in the heart of New York City, myself along with Plus Model Magazine and Curvy All-Star Weekend present a day long modeling intensive in which we will break down the in’s and outs of the plus fashion industry.

We will be announcing specifics shortly– like which top-tier plus models and industry experts will be heading up each workshop but in the meantime if you’re interested in participating please email PlusModelMagSeminar@gmail.com

I would feel honored if you would join us.

XOXO,

Mia

Model Networking Sites

Facebook and MySpace are all the rage when it comes to catching up with old classmates, promoting parties and the like but if you’re interested in modeling do you know that there are similar networking sites that could help you promote your career?

The first site I ever had an online portfolio on was MuseCube www.MuseCube.com

Here’s a link to my old Muse Cube Profile:

http://www.musecube.com/MiaAmber/

Muse cube was a free site that allowed you to make separate portfolios and name them whatever you’d like.  I believe Muse cube is still free but like most networking sites you can pay a fee (small to large) and upgrade for more memory.

The next site that I uploaded my portfolio on to was Model Mayhem  www.ModelMayhem.com

Model Mayhem is great because it allows you to upload up to 20 photos for free.  Also, it’s browsing page has several different categories for practically every job in the modeling industry from Hair stylist to Photographer. I also have a portfolio on Model Mayhem for my Style Consulting.

Check me out on Model Mayhem as a Model:  http://www.modelmayhem.com/451927

And as a Style Consultant:  http://www.modelmayhem.com/881190

The newest modeling network is Plus Size Industry Professionals or  PSIP www.PlusSizeIndustry.com

PSIP (Formerly the Plus Model Dirsctory) is specifically for those in the Plus industry and picks up where all other sites fall off. In the interest of full disclosure, it is affiliated with Plus Model Magazine of which I am Creative-Editor-at- Large. 

The Editors of Plus Model Magazine often use the PSIP to scout for models for the magazine as well as suggesting models for clients looking for new faces.

There is something for everyone on the PSIP  no matter what your level of experience and there are even job postings to help you gain experience.

(I can’t show you my portfolio because you have to be a member to see it)

The bottom line is this: If you’re a model without representation these sites may be able to help you to be seen and market yourself. (I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…Please don’t post any inappropriate photos of yourself on the internet.  If you want to be a model who “sells” clothes then you should definitely be wearing them in your photos!) 

If you’re an aspiring model take a look at the pages of working models to get a feel for what types of photos are expected of you. I don’t mean for you to take the same photos, rather, be inspired by the ones you see.

These are just three sites that I have had personal experience with.  If you know of any others please post their web addresses so that we can all learn.

Stop waiting “to be discovered” or signed.  Be proactive in your own career destiny. 

I hope this helps you get started or continue your journey.

XOXO,

Mia

Model Children

Dear Mia,

I get stopped all the time by people telling me how beautiful my little girl is and telling me I ought to get her into modeling.  Do you know any agencies that handle child models?

Thanks,

Suzanne J.

Philadelphia, PA

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I regularly get tons of emails from proud moms asking me how to get their gorgeous, talented, super smart, hilarious and stunningly beautiful children into modeling.

The truth is, getting children into modeling takes a lot of hard work and dedication…on the part of the parents and the children.  If your child is old enough to have an opinion (over the age of three) ask them if it’s something they want to do. If they say ‘no’ then listen to them.

I am not well versed enough in the children’s modeling industry to recommend children’s modeling agencies so I don’t do it.  However, here’s some friendly advice:

1. NEVER pay anyone to represent your child as a model. Agency representation is free.  I have never heard of a legitimate agent who charged for representation.  If your child books a job, the agency generally charges a 20% commission to you and to the client. That’s how agents get paid–not from any other way.  Please stay away from scammers in the mall who tell you they can make your baby a star!

2. You do not need professional photographs to get your child an agent.  A simple Polaroid or snapshot of your child goes a long way. Spending a great deal of money on a photo shoot for a child model before they are booking work is pointless.  Plus, kids change and grow so quickly, photos quickly become outdated.  Please don’t dress your kids up like they’re in an episode of ‘Toddlers and Tiaras’ for their Polaroids. Let them look like kids.

3. Don’t put pressure on your kids to perform. “Stage Moms” can lose jobs for their children or cost them representation.  Your child could be the next big thing but if no one wants to deal with their over the top mom then it could be over before it starts.  Also, in the entertainment industry you will hear ‘no’ more than you will hear ‘yes.’  Before you start your journey to get your child a career as a child model figure out a way to prepare yourself and your child for rejection. Conversely, teach them how to have humility if they achieve success.

Break a leg!

XOXO,

Mia

Open Calls & Agency Info for Aspiring Plus Models

I received the following question via email:

“…what agencies in NY handle Plus Models and do they have open calls?”

Jessica,

New Haven CT

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Thanks for contacting me, Jessica!

If you’re an aspiring model in the NY area, consider yourself very lucky!

NYC is the place to be for fashion, commercial and all around print (and runway) modeling in general.

There are a few major agencies which handle plus sizes, however, even if you are without representation you may still be able to find work because NY is the type of city where you never know who you’ll meet!

Here are some of the NY agencies and where it’s listed, please pay attention to  their requirements.  It is up to you to do your research and see how current this information is.  Also, there are several agencies that are not mentioned in this post–do your homework and find out what’s available in your area!

XOXO

Mia

Ford

Open Call: No

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Wilhelmina

Open Call: Yes

Date/Time: Wednesdays 10am-12noon

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Click

Open Call: No

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Model Service Agency

Open Call: Yes

Date/Time: Tuesdays 10-10:30am

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>IKON

Open Call: Yes

Date/Time: Fridays from 3-4pm

Requirements:

All interested female applicants to be 5’9″ to 5’11″ and all males to be 5’11″ to 6’2″.

We do not require that you have a professional portfolio or composite cards; however, we do request that you take Polaroids or snapshots so as to give us an accurate idea of what you look like.

You should send at least one (1) clear head shot and one (1) clear body shot. Your head shot should clearly show your entire face, and your body shot should give us a good idea of your build and body type.

We suggest that women wear a swimsuit and men a swimsuit or boxer shorts. Please DO NOT send any nude photographs. The pictures do not have to be professionally taken.

Be sure to include your basic measurements with your photos. If you are female, your measurements must include your age, height, bust, waist, hips, hair and eye color.

Please make sure you include name, age, phone number and address. Photos will not be returned and you will only be contacted if we are interested in having you come into the agency for an interview and/or open call.

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IPM

Open Call: No

Requirements:

IPM Model Management represents Plus Size and Commercial Print Women. We are always looking for new talent of all nationalities, shapes and sizes. You should send one full body shot and one headshot. Please do not send any lewd or vulgar photos. Please include your measurements with your photos.
Plus Size female models must be at least 5’9-6’0,
Between sizes 10-16
Physically proportioned and must have great teeth and clear skin.

Commercial Print female models must be 5’8’-6’0.
Models fitting these requirements please use the submission form or send your pictures to the following address:

IPM Model Management
1270 Broadway / Suite 303
New York , NY 10001

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Outside NY? No problem!

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Elite

Location: Atlanta

Open Call: Yes

Date/Time: Wednesdays 3:34-4:30 (You must be in by 3:45 to sign in)

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Heffner

Location: WA

Open Call: Yes

Date Time: Mon-Fri 2:30-3:30pm

Requirements:

Please bring current snap shots of yourself. They do not need to be professional, but need to represent how you look in a photo.

Mail Submissions:
Please mail current photos, measurements and contact information. Submissions WILL NOT be returned unless a self-addressed stamped envelope accompanies them.

Email Submissions:
Please send us an email to info@heffnermanagement.com with photo and measurements attached.
Be sure to include your name and contact information. Note: Send your photo files as jpegs, no larger than 1MB in size.

Here’s what we are looking for:
* You must be at least 12 years of age
* Woment should be close to 5’7″ to 5’11″ in height
* Men should be close to 5’11″ to 6’3″ in height
* Plus size models should be close to 5’7 to 5’11 in height and wear a size 10-16

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Brand

Location: CA

Open Call: Yes

Date/Time: First Tuesday of every month

Requirements:

Brand has an open call for our Adult Print Department Only. Models may DROP OFF their pictures. Open call is to get your pictures in the door right away. It is not guaranteed that you get to meet with someone. Open Call is the first Tuesday of every month from 2-3pm. Please bring three to four candid snapshots that you can leave with an agent. We will not see people that do not have pictures. Photographs will not be returned. Professional pictures are NOT required.

* Models must be at least 18 years of age.

Height requirement for Women: 5’7″ – 5’11″. Height requirements for Men: 5’10″ – 6’3″. Requirements for Plus Size Models:
Height: 5’9″ Dress Size: 12-18.
Talent seeking representation for Commercial (Union, Non-Union, Voice-over, & Host), Tradeshow, Runway, Adult Print, Kids (Union & Non-Union commercial, & Print) as well as Adult Print may submit photos by

MAIL TO:
BRAND MODEL AND TALENT AGENCY
601 North Baker
Santa Ana, CA 92703

Please include three to four non-professional candid photos. Pictures will not be returned. Photographs must include a close up, clear head shot, profile shot, and full body. All submissions should include Name, Phone number, Date of Birth, and Height.
Please clearly mark the proper department for all mail submissions. Do not call the Agency. Do not submit online. If we’re interested, an agent will call you within two weeks to set up an appointment.

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Dorothy Combs Models

Location: FL

Open Call: No

Requirements:

Located in beautiful Miami, Florida, Dorothy Combs Models is a modeling agency exclusively representing plus size models. Our Florida-based agency was founded in 2005 by Dorothy Combs whom has been a model booking agent for more than 16 years. Dorothy’s experience has given her extensive knowledge and expertise in the plus size modeling industry.

Our plus size modeling agency deals with a wide range of international clientele. The models we represent are booked on jobs all over the world including exciting locations such as Austria, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey as well as locations all over the United States.

Dorothy Combs Models looks for beautiful women sizes 10 and up. The height requirement for talent we represent is at least 5’9”. New talent — please feel free to submit your pictures by e-mail or regular mail.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Dorothy Combs Models
Representing Sizes 10+

12550 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 800-PMB 14
North Miami, FL 33181 USA

TEL (305) 459-0553 FAX (305) 459-0553
dorothy@dorothycombsmodels.com

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International

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Bella

Location: Australia

Open Call: No

Requirements:

The list below is used as a guideline, if you feel you have what it takes send 3 photographs: one full length, one headshot and one 3/4 length via email or post. Please note if you email photos they will not be accepted if the file size is to large. Should you need your photos returned , please include a stamped self addressed envelope. We will contact you for an interview if we feel there is a place for you on our model board.

ALL submissions are handled with total confidentiality….Good luck!

• Between 5’8″ and 6’0″
• A size 12 to 18
• Healthy clean, skin, hair and teeth
• Age. 16 to 32 years
• Proportionate as a general rule your waist should be around ten inches smaller than your hips, however there are exceptions to every rule!

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B&M Models

Location: Canada

Open Calls: Yes

Date/Time: Thursdays 1-3pm

Requirements:

If you think you have what it takes to become a professional model, please feel free to drop in during one of our open calls. Open calls happen once a week; every Thursday between 1:00pm and 3:00pm. We schedule these times amongst our busy weekly schedule therefore we kindly ask you not to come to the agency outside of these time frames. Bring any pictures that you may have for us to review but it is not a requirement. Photographs do not need to be professional. Wear form fitting clothes that show off your physique. Ladies, please wear minimal make up.

One of our agents will review your potential on a first-come first-serve basis. We will be open and honest as to your modelling potential with our agency and within the industry.

Men need to be at least 5’11. Women need to be at least 5’7. If you are not available to come in to meet with us during an open call you can email us. Send small res jpegs to info@bnmmodels.com. Don’t forget to tell us your age, height, and measurements and of course a telephone number where we can reach you during regular business hours. We will only contact you if we are interested in meeting with you.