Alternative modeling is a side of the modeling industry that features models who do not conform to mainstream or commercial modeling and has different set of ideas of beauty that often includes acting, dressing up in fantasy-style clothing, having outrageous makeup and the like. Alternative models are often niche-specific, with a personal style that represents subcultures like goth, burlesque, latex and fetishism… but this is not a necessity. An alternative model may for example be tattooed, pierced, or have distinctively sub-cultural hair (shaved, dyed a distinctively unnatural color, mohawk, or in dreadlocks). Alternative modeling can be clothed, unclothed or partially clothed.
Alternative modeling was given substantial mainstream media coverage over the last several years, partly through the creation and popularization of community-based alternative modeling sites, like GodsGirls and SuicideGirls. Alternative modeling community sites promoted their models for their personality as well as for their looks and portfolio. An alternative model’s thinking means that she (or he) believes that no matter what size, shape, race or nationality you are – you can always be beautiful. This means that if you happen to have the style of a goth/rockabilly/pirate-fetishist, you’re still incredibly sexy in your own right, because you’re being yourself. An alternative model has to be comfortable in their own skin and should have the confidence to be daring, crazy and completely unique. The wilder/crazier – the better.
I always look for a woman who has a tattoo (or two). I see a woman with a tattoo, and I’m thinking, okay, here’s a gal who’s capable of making a decision she’ll regret in the future.
So what does it take to be an alternative model? Is it really that hard? How do you make it in an industry that’s open to anyone unique and different, when we’re all pretty much our own person? Can you make money from it? Do you have to pose in your birthday suit?
Be Yourself
As obvious and it may seem, but a lot of girls have dreams & hopes and often times try to be something they’re not. Find your own sense of style, something you know you will feel comfortable in. If you already have your own alternative style and you are confident about it, stick with it. Do not follow another person’s style just because you think it’s cool. Not all alternative models have bright pink hair and a face/body full of piercings, so if it’s not your style, you don’t have to do it. One thing to always remember, the more comfortable you feel in your own skin, the better you will look in pictures. Have a look around places like Instagram or Pinterest for inspiration. Always go with something that feels right for you. Although it does not hurt to be flexible, you should always go for the style that works best for your personality. Perhaps you’re into tattoos and body modifications, or maybe some BDSM fetishes or just love dressing up as some gothic Disney princess & cosplay – the ideas are limitless. Have fun and be as wild as YOU want to be.
Be Ready To Go All In
Remember that at the end of the day Alternative modeling is not about being perfect. Although there are thin alternative models, you have to be aware that there are also others that are buxom or curvy. So, do not attempt to change your body weight just because you want to get into this type of modeling. Keep in mind that modeling is a market that works mainly on being “different” from the other girls and try not to be like the girl-next-door… you do not want to look like most models on the runway. Other things to keep in mind is, you could be posing with strange things & places and in strange poses, and you should be 100% comfortable in your skin, because some sort of nudity could certainly be a possibility (full nude or implied nude). Of course, if you don’t want to you don’t have to, but it does help if you want to get noticed by online modeling sites. Some models who aren’t keen on getting nude normally start by joining freelance modeling websites like Model Mayhem to build up their portfolio, experience and network with others -or- just create their own modeling websites and do their own marketing, often working freelance for magazines or clothing brands – obviously those that want to get naked can do the same thing, but are able to pose for sites like GodsGirls or Suicide Girls and grow in popularity much faster. Remember, your originality is what will sell you, not your weight.
Create Your Identity
One of the things I have noticed, alternative models always try to be creative with their names. Alternative models usually have catchy names, you’re probably not going to find a Melissa Jones alternative model on the net, because she probably changed it to something more interesting like Nova Cane or Trixie Blossombee… please note that some of the cool ones have likely already been snagged up. If you wish, you can also create one for yourself. Seems that many models get inspiration from nicknames they adopted in their youth or search for names on websites name generator that comes up with random names from random items (like “fruit”+”weapon”= Cherry von Dagger). Just make sure that what you have chosen is not already in use. You can check on Google before you decide on your final name. If you want to get a cool alias for your modeling persona, go right ahead… and if your mother happened to give you an amazing name, like Lilith Seaborne, then you’re more than welcome to use your birth name too. Make it a point to steer clear of childish-sounding names though, unless this is your particular style.
Book Your Photoshoot
There is a huge difference between getting yourself photographed by a professional and getting your someone who has a DSLR and likes to photograph whatever in their spare time to take pictures of you… and this can mean the difference between a great portfolio and a less-than-desirable or something to kill any motivation you had to start this adventure. Either way, make sure your photos are of high quality and are shot in original settings. Yes, professional photographers cost a lot of money. In fact, some of the great photographers can really expensive, but like the saying goes ‘you get what you pay for.’ If you want to get into the magazines or make a wonderful name for yourself, spending some hard earned cash on some good photos for your portfolio is definitely worth it. Alternatively (no pun intended), you can also find photographers on websites such as One Model Place or Model Mayhem where you can start out and maybe find some photographers that you can work out deals to exchange you time for their services, commonly referred to as TFP(Print) or TFCD(Image files on CD). Be Prepared to Work for Free. If you are still starting out, then you have to be willing to do projects for free. This will help in building up your alternative modeling portfolio and will show photographers in creating works of art and not just earning a living… this is usually in the exchange of digital images that the photographer has taken of you and agrees to provide you with whatever amount of images that you both decide on. Always attempt to be original and unique in the locations of your shoots, so you can showcase your individuality better. Unless you have a beautiful home with spectacular grounds, avoid shooting at home. This will make your photos appear unprofessional and looking downright cheap.
Be Social
Alternative modeling is not for the meek and the homebody. You have to be very sociable, daring and fun to make it in this world. Get social on every platform possible to get yourself noticed… get on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, MySpace, Pinterest and of course, go out there and make a name for yourself. However, even if your style or personality is more on the dark side, it still pays to be nice and courteous to everyone. Never be snobbish, snide, sarcastic or loud. Remember that while a lot of people may want to work with alternative models nowadays, they are still looking for those that have nice personalities to go with their distinctive looks. Go to parties, events, concerts, etc. Make posts on your blog and social media profiles that you’ll be available for photos and meet-ups when you’re at particular events. Also “like/follow’ other models that inspire you to try and get to know a few well-known models on Instagram/Twitter even to getting yourself introduced at VIP events, this will give you the chance to network with professionals in the modeling industry like makeup artists, wardrobe specialists and photographers. It may seem hard getting started, but if you build up your confidence and make yourself known, then it’ll become easy. Once you’ve introduced yourself to one key member, you’ll have your foot in the door and can meet many more amazing people along the way. Modeling professionals always look for people that are easy to work with instead of those who behave like a diva.
Keep Your Private Life Separate From Public Life
Many girls have found ways to get into trouble with this one. You don’t want your parents or grandparents (who probably just use Facebook to keep in touch with family) to see a photograph of you partially or fully naked playing with weapons or dressed in some skimpy latex outfit on, do you? What about that job you are trying to get or that you already have? Not a good look for any employers… it is best if you will keep your public and private profiles separate. Make sure keep your family life (personal photos of you with your family or close friends) separated from your any part of your modeling life. Do not post your modeling photos along with your holiday photos with your family. Another big problem with this is that there are a lot of online trolls and even creepy stalkers out there that just can’t wait to get you alone somewhere and will go out of their way to do it. So be careful what you post and remember to keep your private life, private.
Limit Selfies
You should also stay away from posting photos you took with your webcam or your mobile phone on your public profiles. “Selfies” and “Wefies” are all good if you’re using it on social media or your blog, but keep your professional photographs to your website or modeling portfolios. Having too many selfies on your website or portfolio makes it seem like you don’t want to spend any time or money on getting “real” photos taken, which in turn makes it look like you’re not serious about modeling. You want to be seen as a unique person, not just some ordinary self-centered childish person. You should also exercise care and caution in updating and posting your statuses on all your social media profiles. As to every rule, there are exceptions to this rule: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Remember that posting a picture of yourself at a local event will gain you a lot more exposure and you might just meet some of those more popular models you’ve been following. This will make you appear more professional, mature and mysterious, thereby adding allure to your personality.
Have Fun
Modeling is fun and should be enjoyed to the max! Whether your style veers into Goth or the candidly cute, there is a possible spot for you as an alternative model. The best part of any kind of modeling is that you get to be who you want to be and the more comfortable and confident you feel in front of the camera, the sexier you are sure look. Keep in mind that alternative modeling is not about being in the mainstream, but it is all about showing your distinctive style and personality and being proud about it. People should always know you as someone who will work hard and can be relied on to deliver the goods no matter what the circumstance. You will get more work this way because modeling professionals will always look for people who are reliable and capable of giving them what they want and need. Don’t be afraid of doing some research online to look for different poses and practice in the mirror. Remember, also be healthy… stay as limber and flexible as you can by doing exercises. Sleep more, eat light meals before shoots and drink lots of tea and water. Doing this will not only help you maintain a good complexion. It will also allow you to adjust to the demands of becoming an alternative model. Just be sure to have fun, stick to your own uniqueness and you will be able to make a name for yourself in this type of modeling in no time.
Note: The use of any website’s/model’s names, likeness, or other personal attributes in connection with reporting or commenting on this topic is for infomational use only and his/her/their identity is protected by the law. Therefore there is no indended exploitive purpose, use of these names or likeness’ for news reporting and other expressive purposes is not exploitative, so long as there is a reasonable relationship between the use of the the identities and a matter of the article used. All models talked about in this article have been published or well known, and just as a key reference to the making/using cool “stage” names in the alternative modeling industry.
Types of Work
In terms of work, alternative models work for lots of different brands, but they are mostly seen working with brands that cater to a more diverse audience. Alternative models are required for brands that represent subcultures like steampunk, emo, goth, burlesque, punk and fetish model. For example, they might be asked to represent independent clothing lines that sell more goth-like clothing, they would look for a more alternative model to represent them. There are many fashion labels in the commercial mainstream market with brand advertising that has an edgy attitude. These brands will feature unique models to set an ultra-cool image that appeals to their market and is popular with the young generation who wish to experiment with their individual look and personality.
You may perhaps be asked to model at things like car shows. Tattoo shops would also look for an alternative model to reflect their target audience. A hair salon that specialises in bright, fun colours would also look for an alternative model. They’re also highly successful in the rock music industry; alternative models tick many of the same boxes as rockstars themselves – attractive with a ‘bad boy’ or ‘bad girl’ image. They might wear band merchandise, promote their gigs, pose on album covers, or appear on stage. Knowing the right people can help in this area, so it’s time to get networking! Alternative models are required all over the world – from Europe to America, the alternative look is ever-growing and always in-demand of models to represent it.
High Fashion
There’s a huge celebration of all things alternative, where alternative models might be hired to walk catwalks at a fashion show. Lots of brands get involved, representing the huge scene that this particular style has in the global market.
Alternative models often aren’t involved in high fashion, but there is occasionally a crossover. For example, some who traditionally meet certain conventions can be hired for other kinds of fashion or even catwalk work. A lot of modelling agencies are opposed to tattoos and piercings. Remember that if this is the kind of work you want most, it may be advisable not to go down this route. Saying that you may have noticed that large companies have recently started using models with lots of tattoos to promote their clothes commercially. When hired by a fashion brand you will take part in a photoshoot. On the day make-up artists and hair stylists will enhance your alternative style.
The best way to find out if you can succeed in the industry is to sign to an agency. This way at casting calls you will be given a fair audition as the agency will have connections with brands who are looking for models with an edgy attitude or to go in a new direction. Casting dates will vary as your agency will contact you as and when the jobs become available.
With the internet there have grown a large number of types of mature content themed jobs and salaries that can be found in demand. Imagine what kind of work you want to do and how much you want to earn, and find a job that suits you.
AV Modeling
AV models are recommended for those who want to become famous and who want to earn a lot in a short period of time. There are several types (working styles) of AV models. The amount of money you make depends on the work that appears, the experience and skill of the model.
Single model (exclusive)
We shoot an exclusive contract with the manufacturer and will appear in one title by shooting once a month. Only models who have passed the screening from the manufacturer can appear, so the guarantee is also expensive. There are also many jobs with one million jobs.
Models who want to become famous can also aim to become single models and expand their fields of activity.
500,000 yen to 1.5 million yen
Planning single model
It is a model who contracts with the manufacturer for each one and shoots.
Since it is not a model exclusively for the manufacturer, there are no restrictions, and if the schedule etc. match, you can shoot many shots a month.
Since the guarantee is more expensive than the planned model, it is possible to earn more than the single model, which is said to be the most profitable.
100,000 yen to 250,000 yen
Amateur planning model
It is a free AV actress. A model who can work freely depending on his / her schedule is called a planning model.
30,000 to 150,000 yen
Shogunmaster Photography discharges a lot of single models from completely inexperienced, and is the top class in AV production.
The model’s guarantee makes a big difference depending on the guarantee negotiation between the production and the manufacturer and the model marketing skill. I’ve seen a lot of models who said, “I actually made more money…”.
Shogunmaster Photography is confident that it can be a model who can make the most of it even if it is inexperienced, with the negotiation skills and connections of veteran managers with 30 years of industry experience. You don’t need skills. Leave everything to Shogunmaster Photography.
If you are inexperienced in the industry aiming for a single model, please feel free to contact us for “Shogunmaster Photography”.
→ Click here for application and consultation
Image DVD Modeling
It is a job to have you appear on the image DVD. Since you will be working in a swimsuit, this is a recommended job for those who are reluctant to work nude.
50,000 yen to 150,000 yen
Gravure Modeling
It is a work of gravure of weekly magazine and monthly magazine for adults. It is a relatively soft and comfortable job among sexy jobs. Please feel free to contact us as there are some shooting contents that do not become nude in gravure work.
30,000 yen to 50,000 yen
Photo Session Modeling
It is a photo session by an amateur photographer. It is held at studios in Tokyo. Since it is a “shooting only” work by an amateur photographer, it will not remain in the work and the photos taken will not be published anywhere.
It will be taken nude, but there is no entanglement, so it is a recommended job for beginners of sexy models.
Some models get a salary of 50,000 yen or more just for a one-day photo session. It is one of the most efficient sexy model jobs as a job without entanglement or actions.
40,000 yen to 150,000 yen
TV/CM/Cinema
It is an assistant in a program and an extra job such as a movie or drama. You can expect income by doing your best with treatment like an entertainment talent.
10,000 yen to 100,000 yen
How you want to work and how much you want to earn depends on each person. At Shogunmaster Photography, we will propose and introduce jobs that match your wishes and goals.
First of all, feel free to contact us. Please apply and consult from “application form”.
We look forward to hearing from you ♫
