Modeling in Focus

Ellen Breezes into Modeling in the Windy City
by Elias AllStar OMP Member #10270

Chicago-based model Ellen (OMP Model #97471) can't believe she has been modeling for five years. She admits that has come a long way from her first photo shoot at age 15.

"I was going through my ugly-duckling phase, with braces and kinky hair. The shoot was at a park in my hometown in Iowa. But after seeing page after page of beautiful pictures and models in magazines, something propelled me to throw myself into it. I've been able to see myself evolve over the years in my pictures, and it's pretty amazing. Hopefully, the evolution will continue."

Part of that evolution includes the styles of images Ellen has been working on.

"Lately I've been doing more sexy, glamour work, but I am not solely interested in that. My manager and I are going to submit to Levi's in the next few weeks. I'd also love to be in FHM or Maxim one day! I try to keep my goals realistic with my measurements, so when I see ads featuring models such as myself I talk with my manager about working toward getting similar features and we make a game plan on how to get there."

Modeling is not Ellen's only talent.

"I've always had a passion for doing hair and makeup design. I work a hair stylist here in Chicago so I think that had something to do with the modeling interest as well, the whole process of getting 'made-up' for a shoot and the creative concepts behind it."

Her transition from teen model to more mainstream assignments was, in her own words, pretty fluid.

"When I first started, I made sure that my parents accompanied me to every shoot -- which I highly stress for underage models to do as well. I did lots of different types of shoots as far as lighting, location, wardrobe, and styling. I definitely did more 'cutesy' photo-shoots, and in doing so learned what poses worked well for certain outfits, how to change facial expressions, and what looks I did and didn't like. As I got older I became more selective as to photographers I worked with and what I wanted to accomplish with my shoots, instead of just shooting to have pretty pictures to show people! I became more pro-active with my career rather than just 'waiting' for things to happen. I did the time-consuming work of writing to photographers I admired and searching the Internet for promotional and runway work. When I was a teen first starting out, my parents obviously didn't have the drive or goals with modeling that I did. So when I started living on my own, I was able to do what I wanted to start shaping my career as a model."

Her favorite photos shoots range from sensual shots to edgier work.

"I love doing soft, sultry lingerie pictures with the big Victoria's Secret-style hair, which maybe stems from my roots as a hair stylist! I also like shoots where I can play around and work with my surroundings, like at the beach or in an industrial area for a more edgy shoot. I enjoy photos where the outfit and styling contrast with the environment. It has to be carefully done, though."

Ellen's most memorable shoot was her first one with Mark Niemi of CIMM (OMP Member #8742).

"I was so excited to come to Chicago from Iowa to shoot with Mark, who eventually became my manager. I remember being amazed with the photos and I think that was a defining moment in my progress. His words of wisdom and guidance helped me as well. Since shooting with Mark, I have seen my poses and overall modeling improve. I remember the drive home at night sitting in the back seat looking at the city lights and dreaming to make it back to Chicago and do a lot more modeling because in Iowa there isn't much work other than some promos. Three years later, I made that dream a reality and am living here now and doing it!"

The model also appreciates the recognition she has received from her various assignments.

"I really enjoyed being featured in 'Popular Underground Magazine' for June 2008, because the interview was fun and I got to work with a great photographer and make connections. I also love the feeling when I get a new showcase on OMP."

She starts preparing for a photo shoot the week before to fine-tune everything.

"I make sure my hair is colored...no roots! I make sure I'm not staying out too late, getting all my workouts in, and limiting the junk food. I plan outfits if they are not provided, and makeup that coordinates with each outfit as well as accessories. I've learned it's better to overpack things. I tend to do my own makeup and hair most of the time because it's my full-time job as a hair stylist -- I know what works, and am very picky! I make sure everything is packed at least the night before so in the morning I'm stress-free and can just focus during the shoot on getting great results with my pictures."

Ellen is learning to make the most of the modeling scene in the Chicago area.

"It's no L.A. or New York by any means, but Chicago is a good place for models because there are a lot more gigs available for models with my measurements. It's not all about high-fashion here. And I can do runway here and don't have to be 5'9"! There's definitely a lot of promotional work here but I'm very selective with that. I'm not going to hand out cookies or whatever for eight hours just for money -- how is that going to benefit my career? I do get a lot of runway jobs and personal appearance gigs at the clubs downtown, which are fun and good for networking."

She has also used online tools to get information and leads on jobs.

"I've done a lot of online research, along with features and interviews. My manager helps me with access to the bigger gigs, such as our plans to submit to clothing companies and such. The Internet is a great tool for exposure, as OMP has shown."

When asked how One Model Place has helped her career, Ellen responds, "How hasn't it?" She has used the resources on the site to good advantage.

"OMP enabled me to meet my amazing manager and 30-plus other great photographers who have all helped shape my career. Being in the contests and getting showcases has also brought more traffic to my profile. Thanks OMP!"

Her advice to upcoming models includes telling them to trust their instincts.

"Don't limit yourself by your insecurities. Be confident! If you aren't confident and comfortable, your pictures are going to reflect that. If you are unsure about a photographer, ask for references and bring someone with you when shooting with someone new that you do not know. Also, the mirror is your best friend; try out poses and expressions to get comfortable. If you are getting in a posing rut, look online at ads or just other models' profiles to expand your horizons."

For teen models who are moving into the mainstream market, Ellen advises them to be clear on what they want to accomplish.

"It's really about setting your goals. Is this something you are serious about, or just do it for fun and to have pretty pictures of yourself? Once you determine that, write down your goals. When you write something down, it has more significance to you and you will have that list staring at you when you are slacking or feeling unmotivated. Figure out what type of modeling you enjoy most. Also, explore lots of different styles of shoots to find your niche. And when you find that niche, work it to your best abilities!"