Camille's Inspiring Journey as a New Model
We recently sat down with Camille, a new face in the modeling industry, for an insightful interview on the Wyche Studios YouTube channel. Her journey is a testament to embracing new opportunities and discovering hidden strengths, even later in life. Let's dive into some of the key takeaways from our conversation with Camille.
A Lifelong Fascination Takes Center Stage
Camille's interest in modeling stems from a deep-rooted fascination with performing, cultivated during her many years of ballet. That "idea of kind of like being a character" resonated with her. She also spent years working behind the scenes as a personal assistant for a designer, which gave her an insider's view of the fashion world. Despite this exposure, Camille "never thought that she could be a model" until the opportunity "fell into her lap much later in life".
Her entry into the industry was serendipitous: she saw an open call for Philly Fashion Week on Instagram, shared by a Zumba instructor friend who had also modeled in the event. Camille decided to "give it a shot" and was genuinely "taken by surprise" when she got casted. This moment became a powerful motivator, pushing her to learn more and pursue further opportunities. She started modeling in September of last year, marking her first anniversary this September.
Navigating the Learning Curve and Unexpected Challenges
As a new model, Camille faces various challenges. Putting herself out there requires significant networking, learning to speak up, introducing herself to people, and cultivating self-belief. She emphasizes the importance of having "faith in yourself that you're just as good as anybody else".
Another key area of growth has been understanding the business side of modeling, including finding paid gigs, setting rates, and managing work for trade. This is a significant learning curve, but Camille has proactively sought guidance, working with a modeling coach, Danielle Baker, who helped her with crucial techniques like runway walks, poses, and turns. "There's technique and all of that," she notes, "it's not just getting up there and walking".
Key Lessons Learned: Confidence, Community, and the Art of Modeling
After almost a year in the industry, Camille has gleaned invaluable lessons:
• Comfort with Oneself is Paramount: The most important lesson has been to "be comfortable with myself". She found that photoshoots become more fluid and yield better pictures "the moment that I let my guard down and I just I relax and get into the moment".
• Dance Background as an Asset: Her ballet training proved incredibly beneficial, making her accustomed to fast costume changes backstage and the hair and makeup process, which she actually enjoys. This background also contributed to her professionalism on set, as she understood how to carry herself.
• Age is Just a Number: One of her biggest misconceptions was believing that models had to be young. She was surprised to learn that "you can be 40 and still be relevant in the industry," noting a significant market for this age group where women "are coming into themselves more".
• A Supportive Industry: Contrary to her initial expectation of a "cutthroat" industry, Camille has found it to be "very supportive," with people willing to help, give advice, and offer support.
• Modeling as Art: Camille views modeling as an art form, akin to "acting without the words" or "pantomime". It requires immense skill to move and hold the body in specific ways to embody different characters or emotions, whether whimsical or edgy.
High Moments and Future Goals
Camille describes walking in fashion shows as "so much fun" and "exhilarating," especially when wearing designs that others have poured their "hearts and souls into". She also enjoys photoshoots, trying to connect them to her dance background to achieve fluidity and movement.
Her primary goals include getting an agent and being signed with an agency. She aims to pursue commercial modeling and fitness modeling, leveraging her strong fitness background.
Camille's Advice for Aspiring Models & Photographers
For new models, Camille offers three key pieces of advice:
1. Confidence: Even if you don't fully believe it, "act it". Take a deep breath, center yourself, and believe "I've got this," as this belief shines through in photographs.
2. Ask Questions: Don't be afraid to ask for help or advice. People in the industry are often very willing to assist and support you.
3. Observe and Practice: Keep "ears and eyes open". Watch models you admire, especially those booking jobs, mimic their techniques, and practice diligently. Camille practices at home by expressing emotions through her eyes (with paper covering the lower face) and working on various poses and angles, often using Instagram and YouTube for reference. She also stresses the importance of warming up and stretching before hitting the runway.
For photographers working with new talent, Camille advises providing clear direction, especially regarding posing and lighting. Simple tips, like how to position an arm when sitting, can significantly improve the quality of usable pictures. And, of course, "just when they're easy going and not creepy".
Camille's journey is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue a passion. The industry has profoundly changed her, notably by giving her immense confidence, a gift she now hopes to pass on to her daughter. Her story is an inspiration to anyone considering a new path.