Pageantry magazine logo

Search the Web Search Pageantry magazine
 

  Pageantry on Facebook   Pageantry RSS Feed   Pageantry and Promtime YouTube channel
 Fashion Showcase with Prom, Pageant, and Social Occasion Gowns
 
PAGEANT MODELING STANDOUT: Miss East Coast USA Teen NY 2005 Heidi Edwards, demonstrating a grace and wisdom beyond her years, was picked up by Model Management Group in New York City and appeared in runway shows during New York’s Fashion Week.
 

In any competitive field rife with rejection, a young person’s success often depends upon her ability to handle these challenges with maturity.

 
I have never been totally in agreement with the lament of the famous Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw: “Oh why is youth wasted on the young?” I think that in today’s world our young men and women do not waste a minute of their youth. They are imbued with the spirit of enthusiasm, ambition, curiosity, courage, and the determination to take advantage of every moment and opportunity that life has to offer. Obviously life was a lot different in Mr. Shaw’s day (1856-1950), and his mischievous, often caustic, sense of humor infused his writing.
Teenagers are the future of every profession. In the modeling world, they are the reason the industry exists. I am constantly researching the modeling industry and interviewing young models, and I am always impressed with their passion and determination. As this is the time of year when many young women are thinking of career paths, they can learn a great deal about professionalism from the young model. These girls must learn the ropes of their business quickly in order to survive in a competitive profession riddled with rejection. The same commitment applies to contestants in beauty pageants, prospective cheerleaders, aspiring actors, young people involved in playing sports, and in fact to all teenagers no matter what their goals. The dream, the need for patience and financial investment, the excitement, and the disappointments are the same.
 
Here are some invaluable tips for handling challenging situations gleaned from models, which will help no matter what career or interest you are pursuing.
 
Rude behavior. Professional behavior and a good attitude are essential to success. Be reliable, punctual, adaptable, considerate, pleasant, and loyal. A bad attitude will end a career before it starts. If you have had a fight with your boyfriend, a disagreement with your parents, or you just don’t feel like giving 100 percent, you must lose the pout and lack of energy that goes with it before you go on an interview, try out for cheerleading, or take any step in your career.
 
Shailah Edmonds: “I once got a job because I sat up straight in the waiting room with a smile on my face.
I have often been invited to sit with model agents during interviews with prospective models. They all told me that if a girl walked into the room and didn’t smile, greet them, and show enthusiasm, they were just not interested no matter how beautiful she might be. Top international model, Shailah Edmonds, told me: “I once got a job because I sat up straight in the waiting room with a smile on my face. There were a lot of girls there for the same job, but I got it because the clients liked that first impression. You just never know who is watching you, or when.”
 
Weight problems. All teenagers must know how to handle excessive weight fluctuations. Anorexia and bulimia plague the modeling profession, and the industry is blamed unfairly for the rise in these deadly psychiatric problems. In many cases, young people have the problem before they become models.
 
Jules Graff co-owner of Isis Model Management in London, England, told me: “Bulimia and anorexia are not symptoms of modeling if a girl has it when she starts. A girl is not going to become anorexic just because she is a model. Models are naturally tall and thin. That is what is required for the job. That is why they are an easy target.” These eating disorders can often be overcome with good psychiatric care.
 
How you look and feel depends greatly on a healthy lifestyle. Your face will show the first signs of fatigue, which can often be interpreted as a lack of interest or boredom. To constantly fight a weight battle is hopeless and dangerous. Talk to a nutritionist and learn what is right for you. There are 3,500 calories in a pound of body weight. To control weight you must understand the intake and output of these calories. Intake is the easy part! Output means exercise. Balance is everything. Time and effort spent on learning good nutrition is a good investment.
 
Exercise in moderation, follow a healthy and balanced diet, and get adequate sleep. We all need discipline and boundaries in our lives. Learn good habits while you are young and you will have less stress to deal with as you pursue your dreams.
 
Drugs. Drugs are readily available, not only to young models but also to all teenagers, and their use is all-too-prevalent. To be caught with drugs overseas can mean being sent to prison and deportation. Drug use almost always leads to the user’s ongoing downward spiral, resulting in unprofessional behavior, unacceptable appearance, unreliability, ill health, and even death. Don’t become a statistic. Don’t ruin your life. Say “NO” to drugs!
 
Industry scams. There are rogues and self-styled experts in every business, and con artists can be so convincing. Models are easy targets, and the Internet multiplies the risks. Never before in civilization has good and evil traveled so quickly. The web can be extremely dangerous for eager young people who think that, by using the Internet, they can gain immediate success. Perhaps a few can, but more often scams are involved, because if something sounds too good to be true, it generally is. The solution? Don’t answer advertisements without first consulting with your parents, who should check out all the details.
 
Insecurity. Everyone is insecure in some measure. It is a scourge even in the rarified world of the super model. One beautiful top model told me: “We are always looking over our shoulders to see who the next new face will be.” A little insecurity is good for us, for it keeps us humble and makes us nicer people. In order to keep a lack of self-confidence to a minimum, though, it helps to educate yourself in every aspect of your prospective career or interest. Also, having your wardrobe in good shape; keeping your hair, nails and teeth looking their best; and acquiring some general knowledge of current events will help to boost your confidence during interviews or auditions.
 
A little insecurity is good for us, for it keeps us humble and makes us nicer people.
The decision-makers want young ladies who can take care of themselves, hold a conversation, and answer questions or express opinions on current topics. All of the young models I spoke to offer the same piece of advice: “Believe in yourself and be yourself.” A façade becomes transparent quickly. If you are prepared, look and feel great and are honest in your approach, you will feel confident.
 
Although you may not choose to pursue a modeling career, you can learn a great deal from the young model who deftly handles these challenging situations. Here’s one final piece of advice that virtually everyone in the modeling industry would endorse: “Don’t give up your dream!”
 
Eve Matheson is the author of The Modeling Handbook, a bestseller in the industry. She has been writing about the modeling and acting world for over twenty years. Her new book Model Scoop And Acting Info provides a wealth of information on how to have a happy, successful, safe career and is now available. Eve is a journalist and the mother of a former international model. She has worked as a model, and in radio and television as a writer and presenter. Eve lives with her husband, Ian, a plastic surgeon, in Tampa, Florida.
 

Additional Modeling Articles

Modeling articles archive

Read More Modeling Articles

 

Summer 2016

Factors For Success

To guide you on your road to success, Eve Matheson goes to the pros for answers to essential industry questions.

By Eve Matheson

 

Spring 2016

Making it in the Midwest

While it has never seemed possible in the past, America’s heartland has become a great launching pad for young models to make it big.

By Eve Matheson

 

Winter 2015

Starting from Scratch

Former international model Raquel Ann Repka went from runway to representation, and offers her advice for chasing dreams in this fast-paced glamour industry.

By Eve Matheson

 

Fall 2015

Follow in Legendary Footsteps

If you want to become a superstar in the modeling industry, look no further than Gisele Bündchen for inspiration, motivation, and the guts to keep trying.

By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2015

The Value of Hard Work

Breaking into the modeling industry isn’t simply about having a beautiful face, as much as it’s about working to prove you’re worth it.

By Eve Matheson

 

Spring 2015

Turning the Modeling World Upside Down

Australia’s Greg Tyshing is creating runway-ready models by using the lessons that he has learned from the industry since childhood.

By Eve Matheson

 

Winter 2014

Cutting to the Chase

The 2014 European Model Showcase stole the spotlight from some huge events in Paris, while featuring the next models to walk the international runways.

By Eve Matheson

 

Fall 2014

Your Perfect Portfolio

While there’s no specific style set in stone for your modeling photo album, there are things that you can do to definitely catch a scout’s eye.

By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2014

Following Your Dreams

Nobody is going to deny you the opportunity to follow your dream of becoming a model, but that doesn’t mean the journey will be easy.

By Eve Matheson

 

Spring 2014

Clicking at the Right Time

Endurance and a universally respected name have made CLICK one of the most important and successful names in the world of modeling.

By Eve Matheson

 

Winter 2013

Opportunity Knocks

Thanks to the blossoming eCommerce industry, modeling agencies like Leni’s Model Management have been able to succeed despite the economy.

By Eve Matheson

 

Fall 2013

Breaking Barriers

Models from countries that have never been synonymous with fashion are suddenly finding success as the industry opens more doors.

By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2013

Broadening Your Horizons

Industry experts Tony Perkins and Anna Lewkowska encourage models to reach beyond the runways of Paris and NYC.

By Eve Matheson

 

Spring 2013

Think Before you Ink

From tattoos to tanning, aspiring models should put considerable thought into decisions that could possibly affect their long-term appearances.

By Eve Matheson

 

Winter 2012

BEING THE ENVY OF THE INDUSTRY

From London to Las Vegas, success knows no bounds for some of the biggest up-and coming names in modeling and entertainment representation.

By Eve Matheson

 

Fall 2012

Calling for More Support

Inspirational organizations like Models For Christ are becoming more valuable to the careers of aspiring models in need of direction.

By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2012

Words of Wisdom

Between the expertise of scouts at IMTA and the ever-changing methods of industry geniuses, there is plenty of advice out there for aspiring models.

By Eve Matheson

 

Spring 2012

Passport to Discovery

For most people, a cruise is just a relaxing vacation, but this special cruise is packed with the modeling opportunities of a lifetime.

By Eve Matheson

 

Winter 2011

Time Honored Traditions

New York City and Washington D.C. played host to two historical events for the modeling and entertainment industries.

By Eve Matheson

 

Fall 2011

Thinking About Japan

After dealing with consecutive tragedies, Japan’s modeling industry is ready to resume being a major international influence.

By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2011

What's Your Shelf Life?

Your modeling career can be a short one if you don’t take advantage of the right opportunities when they are presented to you.

By Eve Matheson

 

Greene with Envy

Hollywood hopefuls packed the house at IMTA with the desire to become the next Ashley Greene.

By Angel Anthony Mendez

 

Starlight Star Bright

The talented stars of Nickelodeon, Twilight and iPOP! once again raised money for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

 

Spring 2011

Making it in Milan

Some of the modeling industry’s experts weigh in on what it takes for young talent to get to Italy.

By Eve Matheson

 

Winter 2010

Uncover Your Inner Celebrity

Hard work and dedication are your tickets to achieving your goals, and even being on the front of Pageantry.

By Eve Matheson

 

On Top of the World

The International Modeling and Talent Association provides some insight as to what makes their convention an amazing tool for aspiring models and actors.

 

Picturing Your Success

Ryan Lionberger and Nicole Geiger were named this year’s Mr. and Ms. Barbizon at the International Modeling and Talent Association convention in New York City.

 

Next in Demand

The International Presentation of Performers [iPOP!] once again helped guide aspiring young models and actors to achieving their dreams of fame and stardom.

 

Head of the Class

Christina Alvarez and Justin Luz walked away winners with the titles of Miss and Mr. iPOP!.

 

 

Fall 2010

Creating New Opportunities

Karen Lee has used her extensive background to develop a new series of modeling and acting workshops.

By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2010

On the Upswing

The modeling and entertainment industries show enthusiasm about a rebounding economy and more jobs.

By Eve Matheson

 

They’re in the Zone

By earning the titles of Ms. and Mr. Barbizon, Meredith Masteller and Joey Rodriguez are staring at a wide open future.

 

Wish Upon a Star

iPOP! celebrates with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Starlight Children’s Foundation at the bi-annual convention in Los Angeles.

 

“It’s” all up to You

The only person who can truly define the X-Factor known as “It” is you.

By Angel Anthony Mendez

 

 

Spring 2010

Only the week survives

Fashion Week invades new cities and proves that even a slow economy can’t stop the power of creative designers.

By Eve Matheson

 
Winter 2009
iPOP! Convention
Coming together for a cause
The 2009 iPOP! convention in Las Vegas gave participants a chance to get noticed and give back.
 
IMTA 2009
Something for Everyone
IMTA returns to New York for this year’s convention, featuring a priceless schedule of lessons for aspiring talent.
 
Modeling
Limerick to Broadway
Irish eyes have a knack for spotting top talent at the IMTA convention in New York City.
By Eve Matheson
 
Showcase International
Showtime in the Big Apple
Year after year, Showcase International brings together the top entertainment, modeling, and acting talent with the people who make stars.
 
Spring 2009

Defining Normal

Maria Serrao has overcome doubt with determination, en route to establshing a career in a field that some told her she couldn't.
By Eve Matheson
 
Fall 2008

Pack Your Bags

Modeling isn't about where you have to live anymore, it's about where you want to live.
By Eve Matheson
 
Summer 2008

One is Done

Success can still be had in modeling's new era.
By Eve Matheson
 
Fall 2007

How To Walk the Walk

Great runway models aren't born, they're made with a combinations of strong natural gifts, instinctive moves, and plenty of tough love from a coach like Michael Maddox.
By Eve Matheson
 
Summer 2007

The New Color Spectrum

Many opportunities are opening up for women of color to leave a strong impression.
By Eve Matheson
 
Winter 2006

Modeling- Crossovers

Occasional strolls down a runway may spark an interest in expanding into full-time modeling, acting or pageant competition. Whatever the case, here are some expert tips to help you take the next steps toward achieving your goals.
By Eve Matheson
 
Fall 2006

MAAI 2006 Convention

It Happens Every Spring - it can happen to you: Modeling and talent agents convene each year at the Waldorf=Astoria on the lookout for the stars of tomorrow. With any luck, you too can be discovered.
 
Fall 2006

Modeling

Made in Japan: One of America's hottest exports in the Far East may be its fashion models. Here's why girls who cross the Pacific are practically guaranteed to profit from the trip.
By Eve Matheson
 
Summer 2006

IMTA 2006 Convention

Star pupil, star maker: The lifeblood of the entertainment industry is people like Charlie Pasarel and his PMTS International, where so many benefit from his IMTA success as a performer, producer and mentor.
 
Summer 2006

iPOP! 2006 Convention

face-to-face with stardom: The 2006 iPOP! convention brings bright and promising John Robert Powers students up close to Hollywood's legendary siren's call.
 
Summer 2006

Barbizon 2006 Convention

Beautiful dreamers: Ms. and Mr. Barbizon winners discover the training and cool confidence required to reap Pageantry's rewards at their modeling convention.
 
Summer 2006

Enquiring Minds, Essential Answers

Our expert's radio call-in show appearances have elicited a number of common questions from prospective young models. Here's the version of her advice that you can conveniently tear out and keep.
By Eve Matheson
 
Spring 2006

Modeling: Behavior Tips All Teens Can Learn From

In any competitive field rife with rejection, a young person's success often depends upon her ability to handle these challenges with maturity.
By Eve Matheson
 
Winter 2005

Barbizon 2005: Feeding The Beast

Meet the two models whose convention success landed them in the 2006 Pageantry Fashion Showcase.
 
Winter 2005

IMTA 2005 in NYC: Major League Tryouts

Members of a small Tennessee-based talent firm compete in front of some of the biggest hitters in the modeling and acting agency-management professions.
By Ethel Smawley
 
Winter 2005

 iPOP! - Convention Remix

The inaugural iPOP! show sought to infuse the fashion and modeling convention with a music-and-entertainment-industry twist.
 
Winter 2005

Off-Runway Spotlight

How to stay in the fashion modeling field, through jobs that make the fashion industry tick.
By Eve Matheson
 
Fall 2005

Size Counts Even For Plus and Petite Models

When you don't fill the bill as a perfect couture specimen, there's still a chance for success — if you have what it takes.
By Eve Matheson

 

Summer 2005

Modeling: Five Pros Share Their Photographic Memories

These top fashion photographers reveal the characteristics they look for in new models. Find out if you have what it takes.
By Eve Matheson

 

Spring 2005

Modeling Schools: Do They Walk The Walk?

Althought the media spotlights the bad apples, the reputable training centers know how to deliver on their promises.
By Eve Matheson
 
Winter 2004

The Born Supermodel Supremacy

What qualities are needed to send a working girl into the modeling stratosphere? Let this expert explain.
 
Fall 2004

Cashing in on Your Best 'Bits'

How to boost your modeling career strategy by becoming a ‘Parts model.
 
Summer 2004

Five Secrets of a Pageant Queen From John Roberts Powers

How JRP took a diamond in the rough and shaped her into Miss Teen California.
 
Summer 2004

Diary of a ‘MADE’ Makeover

We take you behind the scenes as Miss Galaxy ’04 Gina Ferrer turns an unpolished Texas teen into an “overnight” pageant success for MTV
By Gina Ferrer
 
Summer 2004

Commercial Print Modeling: Representing “Plain Folks”

Commercial print assignments open up numerous opportunities even if you don’t make it in high fashion.
By Cristina DeHart
 
Summer 2004

IMTA: Where the Roads to Hollywood Dreams Begin

Hollywood, the epicenter of the entertainment world, welcomes the USA’s bright new talents.
By Carl Dunn
 
Summer 2004

Barbizon International: So Close to Success They Can Feel It

Acting and modeling contestants give it their all in NYC for agents and casting directors.
 
Winter 2003

IMTA/Barbizon: Roads to Discovery

With its proximity to a plethora of dream makers, IMTA/Barbizon in New York City offers an alluring combination - a chance to be seen, heard, and discovered by those in the modeling and entertainment industry's inner circles.
 
Winter 2000

MAAI: A Close Look at Modeling

The modeling industry is a business just like any other. You must understand how it works and what is expected.
By Eve Matheson
 
Fall 1999

How One Parent Started Her Children

My goal is to help parents and their children benefit from my family's years of experience and success in the field. Here are a few words of advice.
by Susan M. Halter

 

BOOK: The New York Model's Black Book

 

BOOK: Model Scoop & Acting Info

 

VIDEO: Working The Runway

 
w

Pageantry Magazine - NOW IN DIGITAL FORMAT!

Digital Pageantry magazine

Pageantry & PromTime Online Fashion Boutique

 YOU CAN GET IT ALL!
  Click and see for yourself!

Pageantry and PromTime Promotion


© Pageantry magazine 2017 contact & copyright information.