How Does a Pin-Up Model Spend a Workday?
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What Is a Pin-up Model?
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There are many misconceptions surrounding pin-up modeling. "Pin-up" is not the same as pornography. Pin-ups feature women in sensual and provocative positions, yet these women are fully clothed. The sexuality is implied, but never explicit. Pin-up models became popular during World War II, when soldiers took pin-up photos with them to war. Modern pin-up photography has not changed much from its 1930s origins. It continues to feature women styled in retro-inspired looks that encompass hair, makeup and fashion.
Pin-up modeling is a respected form, but it is a very precise niche. It falls under the category of glamor modeling, and is sometimes referred to as "cheesecake" modeling.
Getting Jobs
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Models can either work with an agency, or freelance. Pin-up models often fall into the latter category, because this type of glamor modeling is not as commercial. As freelancers, pin-up models must work diligently to advertise themselves and get jobs. One of the most important tools of all models is a composite card, which features a head shot of the model. It also contains personal statistics, like height and age. Models should always have composite cards available to hand out to potential clients.
The next valuable tool is a portfolio--a collection of photos of the model. It gives clients a visual understanding of the pin-up model's different looks. Portfolios are living books, subject to change depending on the addition of new photos and the subtraction of older ones.
Another tool to get jobs is a carefully maintained web presence. A website is especially helpful for a freelance model, because she can direct clients to her page, which also features photos, personal statistics and contact information.
Most pin-up models also go to an audition, or "go-see", where they meet with a designer or casting agent, try on clothing and take snapshot photos. All freelance models search the Internet or local avenues for casting calls and go-sees. It's important for a model to arrive on time at a go-see; to present a polished, clean appearance; and to have both a portfolio and a composite card available for the client's perusal.
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Photo Shoot
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Timeliness is an important virtue for all models, because time is money. The photo studio is often booked by the hour. The model should always be considerate of others' time, because if she's late, it delays the work of the photographer, makeup artist, lighting crew and others.
Some clients provide makeup artists, although many pin-up models must do their own makeup. These details will be agreed upon prior to the photo shoot. After makeup is applied, the pin-up model must get dressed and show up on set. The photographer will then direct the model in poses, although she may have some ideas she can bring up to the photographer.
After the photo shoot is over, the model changes into her own clothes, perhaps cleans off the makeup and exchanges salutations with the photographer. Sometimes, the images from the photo shoot are available to be seen instantly on a computer, but often, the model must wait until a later date to see the fruits of her labor.
Considerations
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It's important for pin-up models to control their image. "Pin-up" does not equal pornography, or fetish, and if a pin-up model blurs these lines, it may prove difficult for her to continue working in this niche.
Pin-up models should also consider studying the original pin-up models. This will serve as an inspiration and help new models understand their craft. Some models learn best in structured environments, like modeling school, which teaches the fundamentals of camera angling.
Portfolios should also be kept relevant with new material. Old material should be edited out of a portfolio.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Ingrid Bergman, courtesy of Yank, the Army Weekly
