You can take Modeling classes or a workshop if you want to, just understand that they are not required for you to become, or to continue being, a Model.

Modeling classes and coaching are not as necessary as people think. You can take them if you want, and I’m not saying you won’t learn anything, but a Mother Agency will teach you about the business, the lingo, and how to walk for free. So will other Models and other online resources.

Check out this YouTube video of HOW TO WALK LIKE A SUPERMODEL! (WITH NAOMI & GIGI!) By Loic Prigent

Naomi Campbell learned how to walk from her mom, and at the 19:30 minute mark in the video we see Elite Paris Models being taught how to walk at their agency’s office.

A Mother Agency trains and develop Models, like a manager, then get them signed to international Modeling Agencies. And that education continues for years.

I understand the pressure to take these classes and workshops when you’re a freelance Model as well. But, just understand that you will probably pay around any where from $300 - $3,000 for either a 1 day workshop or a weekend of classes. And be certain that the institute you’re learning from understands you as a Model. I often felt that other Models and coaches/teachers didn’t know how to teach me to pose as a Curve Model or where/how I could find success. I basically had to relearn everything I knew about posing, what brands I should aim for, and my look as well as my marketing when I joined my Mother Agency which is specific to Curve Models.

I was also told by coaches and teachers themselves, at their own workshops and classes, that “no one cares if you do a Model camp”. And so far I’ve found that to be true when going on castings and when I was still applying to agencies.

Also, I know Models who’ve been dropped from agencies for hosting Modeling classes / workshops. So be careful if you chose to host one and check in with your agent first just to be safe if it’s ok with them. You want to maintain a good relationship even if you feel that your agent has nothing to do with what you do outside of the agency.

Now, I will advocate doing a workshop if you get a deal on working with a really good photographer. Especially if their usual rate is $800 per shoot - without hair, makeup or styling - but you can shoot with them at a workshop for only $250. Just make sure to check with your agent if it’s cool with them like I said before, and if you’re freelance, make sure to check in with that photographer about lighting, backdrop colors, and wardrobe before the day you sign up so you know what kind of photoshoot it will be and how the photos will come out.

Also, if Fashion Week is coming up and it’s your 1st time participating and you’re nervous about your walk, ask your agent if there’s someone you can practice with. If they refer you to a runway coach and their prices are reasonable then feel free to do it. But make sure you get individualized attention and that coach knows what brands your agent has and intends to send you to castings for. Because different brands like different walks.

I will say though that my mother agency held a walking workshop, free of charge, at their office. It was quick and easy and I learned a lot!

At the end of the day, modeling is so expensive so I’m always going to advocate for whatever saves you the most money while enriching your skills and materials the most.

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Should I Take Modeling Classes or a Workshop?