Who: Nicole Le Bris

What: Plus-Sized Model

Where: New York City

To me the whole modeling world is confused, especially if they categorize YOU as “Plus Sized.” What sizes are considered Plus?

Plus size starts where ‘straight size’ ends. There is no in between category, sadly. So it starts at about an eight, I wouldn’t doubt if some girls are even more of a six, believe it or not! I know it sounds crazy. But I guess it probably sounds crazy to those snotty high fashion people that size six/eight would be considered a fashion model. So they’re pushed up to the plus division. Those in between sizes don’t typically work as much as a solid size 4 ‘straight size’ model or a solid size 14 plus size model.

Do most girls start out in “normal sized” modeling? (Is “normal” even politically correct? What is a better word or what is used by Plus girls?)

I don’t think more girls start out as straight size models. I know a few that have, they can’t keep their weight down so they just switch them into the plus size division. But I think most of us plus models have been bigger our whole lives.
Recently some scandal has followed Crystal Renn for losing a lot of weight. She claims she is a size 8 and has lost weight because she started working out. What is your opinion on this whole thing?

Yeah Crystal definitely has had a lot of buzz lately. From what I understand, she thinks models shouldn’t be categorizied. I see why she says this, I just don’t see realistically how that would ever work. A designer or clothing store ususally caters to a certain woman, whether it be conservative, young, fuller figure or petite. To me it’s just not realistic to ask them to carry size 0-26. And since they don’t, not all models can work for all brands. A plus size line is going to go to a plus size agency, or division.

What pressures do you face from clients/agents? Do they ever ask for you to gain weight or reach a certain size?

I don’t face too much pressure about weight. I’ve had clients joke with me, ‘Nicole, don’t lose too much weight or we can’t lose you’ and I’ve heard them talk about not using a certain model because she gained to much weight. I’ve kept myself pretty consistent, between a size 12 and 14, so I haven’t had many issues myself.
What are the biggest advantages of modeling Plus?

Advantages of Plus modeling for me are probably similar to the advantage of being a straight size model… the glamour of it, traveling, working with amazing makeup artists and hair stylists, model rates at hotels/salons. To me being plus size is even better since I don’t think we have the pressure to stay unrealistically thin. Some models are just naturally stick thin, regardless of what they eat. But I know a lot of straight size models can’t eat certain foods and really limit themselves. I love chocolate, and cheese and wine, and all those yummy things, so it would be pretty painful for me to have to lose weight and keep it off.

What is the life span of a Plus model career?

Another benefit of being a plus size model is that we have a longer career span, for the most part. The models who work the most in the plus division are in their thirties. In the fashion world there definitely is an age limit, unless you’re a celebrity or public figure hired for a fashion campaign. Of course there are catalog models that work well into their fifties in both categories, but in plus size, I think models peak later than straight size. Also there aren’t as many plus models as there are straight size models. SO not as much competition. When I go to these castings where they mix us, I’m always amazed at how many skinny models there are, and they all look like eachother, 6ft, and stick thin. Women gain weight differently, and not a lot of us gain weight proportionally, so there are far less plus models, which means less competition.

Check out Nicole’s portfolio here: www.nicoleheidi.com

Hi mom! We have talked for years about reaching out in one way or another to aspiring models and educating them through the process of beginning their modeling career. When I showed interest in high school, we didn’t even know where to start. We thought our only option was to pay thousands of dollars to an agency that took us to a NYC convention that did nothing for the models but  grab our money and run.
Now 10 years later, you and I both have learned a lot of lessons along the way.

~My mom rode the rollercoaster of emotions with me over the past 10 years…the amazing travels and highs to the many rejections.  Sometimes I don’t think I would have lasted as long if it weren’t for her (and my dad’s) love and support .

What would you have done differently with me knowing what we know now? Most definitely, I would have trusted your instincts more.  You were such a level-headed teen.  You researched everything (and still do) before you made any decisions.  You have loved New York City since you were a little girl.  When you started to talk about moving to NYC, your dad and I were totally against it – we thought it would be a bad career move for you.  Miami seemed a better fit – you have that wholesome blonde, beach girl look which was perfect for Miami, in our opinion.  But when you finally went to NYC, almost immediately, you had jobs, felt very comfortable living there, and – I’ll say it, you LOVED NYC and still do!

I can tell other parents, if you are unsure if the time is right for your teen to start modeling and they are given an opportunity to move to a different city, make sure you make a trip and see for yourself what the city is like.  Check out the transportation, the living quarters, anything your child will encounter and make your own decision.  So much depends on them – how old are they, would you leave them unsupervised at your house for a week?  If under 18, you still make the final decision.

Probably my biggest mistake was taking you to an agency that was 4 hours away.  I should have done more research and found a local agency to start with.  Even ten years ago, the internet would have given me more advice on watch outs.  We just kind of blundered our way into the modeling world and I feel we wasted valuable time.

Do you think I would have emotionally been ready at 17 to start modeling full time? In your opinion what is the ideal age to start? Every person is different.  As a mom, and your dad agrees, YOU were not ready at 17 to handle the rejection, the travel overseas to countries where no one seemed to speak English, living alone in a different state and country, and managing finances.  I am so glad you waited until you were a little older to make modeling your full-time career.  When you got serious about it, you had the ‘know-how’, drive and courage to be successful.  High school was not your happiest time – even pretty girls get bullied.  But, you survived, made a few good friends, played sports, went to proms and learned how to survive some really negative emotional experiences.  Those four years prepared you for the modeling industry whether you know or not.

Do you think I would have benefited from going right to NYC out of high school or are you happy I went to college?  You know how I feel about college or additional education – every year spent in college gives you a polish, shaping the young woman you have become.  Whether you believe it or not, I think your four years in college added to your appeal as a model.  You are so well spoken and confident – much of that came from your years in the academia world.  Maybe if we had let you go to NYC at 17, you would have been another Tyra Banks but I think not.   The modeling world for most is short-lived.  When it is over, you must be prepared to do something else and having a college degree or even college experience is invaluable.

Would you recommend parents put their kids through modeling classes? I have mixed feelings about that.  The agency we chose for you did not give you a choice.  In retrospect, I think the classes helped you be more comfortable with your height.  For the first time, you had adults (other than family) telling you how beautiful you were.  They taught you how to walk, apply makeup, dress like a model and introduced you to the fashion industry in a way you would not have had without the classes.  That program forced you to be in front of people.  But, I will not sugarcoat it – coming up with the money for the sessions was a financial hardship for us.  But, we could see what it meant to you and we felt you really had a chance to be successful – so we made choices.  You were so passionate about the modeling – we had to give you a shot no matter what it meant for your dad and me.  Before any parent shells out money for classes, however, make sure the agency is accredited and has at least 8-10 years in the business.  Insist on meeting with them face-to-face and ask for references from other models or photographers.  Do not sign a contract without reading every single line!

What are the pre-requisites for a girl/boy to have before they enter this crazy world? A good support system – parents, siblings and/or very close friends – are extremely critical to your success.  The aspiring model must have special, compassionate people to call and cry to when the agency tells you your hips are too wide, your hair is too thin, or your face is too pretty (never did understand that one!).

First, ask someone you trust (not just a friend from high school) to be honest about your appearance and be prepared for what you hear.  I believe that we were very candid with you – you have striking features, a beautiful athletic body, and a funny, smart personality.  You were not the stick-thin beauty that some of the runway models show but you had the hunger and drive to make it work for you.  You were determined to be successful and that is imperative for any career – whether modeling or a clown in a circus.

The new model should definitely contact at least one if not two local agencies.  Send the agency candid shots and see if they have an interest.  It is always a good idea to check all agencies with the BBB – we did that for every modeling agency or photographer that showed an interest in you.  If a local agency says you are not model material or you are too young or old, too heavy, too whatever, believe them and look elsewhere for a career. I also encourage all aspiring models to take a class on public speaking.

What about paying taxes and getting paid for the jobs? Help your child set up a spreadsheet to keep track of every job – the date, what was paid, and what expenses you incurred for that job.  This will include mileage, cell phones, printer cartridges, photos you paid for, hair color, pantyhose, shoes, etc.  Write everything down – every penny spent even if you are not sure it counts.  Expect they will not get paid for up to 3 months after the job – this is standard.  Search for a tax accountant that is familiar with actors and/or models.  It takes a special skill to complete the tax forms for this job.

Any final words of advice for parents or for the models?  Be there for your child – encouraging, supporting, and cheering them on.  Trust your gut – if something doesn’t seem right with an agency or photographer, pass it up.  If your child is really model worthy, there will be another job.  Be prepared for disappointment.  You might think your ‘baby’ is the most beautiful in the world but very few make it to the top and pull in lots of money.  Modeling is long hours in often uncomfortable environments and frequently, for little money.

My final advice is ‘neither you nor the agency should push to lose weight’.  My daughter watches what she eats, exercises moderately and has learned to embrace her curvy figure.  There are agencies out there that accept her the way she is and find ways to showcase her attributes.  Stephanie is passionate about eating healthy and not starving herself to get the next job.  Modeling can be rewarding but it is a commitment for the parent as well as the aspiring model.  You will be part of the successes and failures.  Stephanie has no regrets about going into the modeling world.  Our family could not be more proud of all she has accomplished.

For any parents out there who is getting their child into modeling I would suggest you buy this book called Making a Supermodel: A Parent’s Guide. It is written by Supermodel, Sessilee Lopez’s mother/manager.

New York Post shoot styled by Celia herself

Who: Celia Ammerman

What: Model/Fashion Contributer at ElleGirl

Where: Born in Cynthiana, KY and currently resides in NYC

Celia, I am so proud to call you my friend! I have known you for 6 years or so and since then you have moved to New York, gained fans and respect from the fashion industry on Americas Next Top Model, worked at prominent stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Prada, was featured in big fashion publications and snagged a job as Fashion Contributer at ELLEgirl. This is all very admirable and you have stayed humble and kept your head on straight through it all.

Coming from a small town your style has always been very fashion-forward. Where do you draw your style inspiration?

Even when I lived in Kentucky I was glued to the computer researching every trend, fashion blog or online shopping site. During fashion week, I would find a look I loved on style.com for immediate adoption since there was no way I could afford (or access) top designer pieces. I remember taking scissors to widen the neck of an old sweater for an off-the-shoulder piece and borrowing my dad’s button down to achieve a Stella McCartney Fall 2002 look:

You began your modeling career a bit later than most. Do you think this was beneficial in any way or a detriment?

Absolutely! I wasn’t very attractive when I was younger. I really had to grow into my face. Confidence is imperative to modeling and I definitely wasn’t equipped with enough when I was 18.

What advice would you offer young girls who want to be in the industry?

Do you live and breathe Fashion? Yes? You’ll be just fine.

You were definitely a fan favorite on ANTM. I personally think it is because you are so relatable and you are the pretty, funny friend everyone wants to have. (aw thanks

Do you think personality can make or break you in the industry?

While Casting for Top Model, if you weren’t intriguing you didn’t last past the first cut. Sure, it was a reality show but it definitely extends to an actual set. You’re more likely to pop in to mind for the next gig if you’re well liked.

If given the opportunity to do ANTM again or another fashion related reality show, would you do it?

Absolutely. When Top Model gained Patrick Demarchlier, Zac Posen and A.L.T. as guest judges I was like, “Are you kidding me!?” I almost passed out.

Since you have accomplished so much already you must have REALLY big dreams and goals now. What are your plans moving forward?

As long as I’m in fashion, I’m completely fulfilled. I’m living in Manhattan, writing about fashion, working in fashion, modeling and loving every minute.

]]> http://modelvsfood.com/?feed=rss2&p=911 0 http://modelvsfood.com/?p=1112 http://modelvsfood.com/?p=1112#comments Mon, 21 Mar 2011 23:55:44 +0000 modelvsfood http://modelvsfood.com/?p=1112 Hey guys!

Check out the interview I did for my friend on http://robinmckerrellphotography.blogspot.com/

I talk about personal style, setting boundaries for yourself, suggestions for shy girls, etc.

Thank you so much Robin for the feature!! <3

Miami shoot with Melody from Next

What: Model turned Fashion Photographer

Where: Nationwide

How do you think being a model has helped you become a better photographer?
I can guarantee if I hadn’t modeled in NYC I would not be doing fashion photography today. First, modeling (and my struggles with it) inspired me to get on the other side of the camera. By starting off as a model I understand how hard it can be to step in front of a camera, especially when the person behind the camera is a complete stranger. I started modeling at 15. I was shy, barely into boys yet, and I thought that fashion meant matching the color of your bra to the color of your hair tie to your purse, shoes, shirt, eyeshadow, etc. I quickly realized that there was a lot more involved, but I didn’t know how to proceed.

When I’m working with a model I pay close attention to the individual. I talk to them and find out what they like, and what gets them excited. I try to dig deeper and find out if they have any concerns about the shoot. By talking with the model I can create a quick bond that makes them feel more comfortable. I like to keep my shoots easy going, fun, and relaxed. If the model isn’t into it….you won’t get your shot!

Do you enjoy being behind the camera rather than in front of it?
Yes! I love to be behind the camera. Anyone who has watched me shoot will tell you that I can’t wipe the cheesy smile from my face. It’s what I love to do. When I’m not shooting I’m planning more shoots, or looking at models online, or blogging about photography. A great example of my passion for shooting recently took place on a trip to Miami, FL. I was down there to shoot a bunch of models, mostly with Wilhelmina. I had two of their models out on a surf board in the ocean, with me and my Canon 5D markii on the beach. I was about to miss an amazing shot, so I jumped into the ocean (fully clothed) with my Canon 5D markii and got soaked. Then to get another shot I laid down in the sand…completely covering my entire body. Everyone standing around gasped and laughed saying “wow she’s really into this.”

What struggles did you face as a model?
Starting out I was signed with Ford in NY. My biggest issue was that I was young, naive, and shy. I didn’t know enough about fashion or what photographers were looking for. I hadn’t yet figured out how to open up to people quickly, and I def didn’t know how to be sexy. My best advice for girls that are aspiring to be in this industry is to take a good look at yourself and ask yourself some hard questions. Do you have the right proportions for high fashion, commercial, catalog? Where do you fit? Do you like to travel, do you like meeting new people, are you very easy going, do you mind having people tell you what to do all day long, can you adhere to a strict diet and workout regime? These are just some of the basic questions to start out with, but the list goes on and on. There is definitely a model personality type that is more likely to become successful than others. I’m very glad that I knew this was not for me, and I moved on and went to college and found something that I truly love.

What suggestions can you offer aspiring models in terms of being professional on a shoot?
Professionalism on a shoot (and even before and after the shoot) is extremely important! I can’t stress this enough. Your job as the model is to inspire and excite the photographer, enticing them to want to take your photo (and to work with you again or recommend you to others). If you call the photographer before the shoot complaining that you didn’t get enough sleep, or you show up late or unprepared for a shoot things start off shaky right off the bat. Some photographers might even cancel the shoot altogether.

During the shoot you are responsible for a lot like, taking care of the garments you are wearing, projecting energy, staying alert, and being creative and fun. At the end of the day if the model doesn’t perform the photographer doesn’t get their shot. This is why certain models are booked over and over, because they give the photographers what they want.

One of my biggest pet peeves during a shoot is a model that complains. Maybe she doesn’t like her makeup, or the garment she is wearing, or she is cold. As the model these are things that you are going to have to deal with. I used to always remind myself that there were hundreds and thousands of other girls that were competing to take my spot. Also, after your shoot do not repeatedly call or text the photographer asking about the progress of your pictures. This only annoys the photographer and most likely will delay the process even more.

I have a great example of this from a shoot that I did lately, where the model was continuously contacting me requesting photos from a free test that I had done with her. Just to explain a free test means that the purpose of the test is for the photographer to experiment and the model to get experience and build their book. Unless an agreement is made prior to the shoot the photographer does not owe the model anything, except a few of the best shots (which are to be selected at the photographers discretion). So the model continued contacting me and demanding that I deliver shots to her that day for her personal use (not even for her agency). The best part was that she told me that the photos wouldn’t need much editing and that it would be easy for me to do. This is a huge No No. Never assume that you know anything about the editing process for a specific photographer. everyone edits differently and this is their business. Sometimes photographers take days and weeks just to edit one shot. In the future I would be very hard pressed to ever work with this model again, and I definitely would not recommend her to others in the industry such as agencies,other photographers, makeup artists etc. Remember sometimes free tests are available, but usually the models chosen are those that are easy going, appreciative, and patient.

What about in terms of posing, facial expressions, etc?
The best way to learn how to pose is to study magazines, catalogs, and any printed material that features models. Notice the different kinds of poses. Some are confident, passionate, aggressive, shy, meek, feminine, young, sexy, etc. As the model it is your job to understand the audience of the garments that you are wearing, and project the correct image for that style of clothing. For example it would not be correct to turn your feet inward (this stance gives the appearance of being young, awkward, or shy) to pose for a sexy swimsuit ad.

Facial expressions are the same. Look in a mirror and practice. Learn your best angles and features and find ways to highlight or accent them. Most likely when you are shooting the photographer will help guide you. It is up to you to listen and work with the photographer. Find a pace and groove where you pose, he or she snaps the shot, and then repeat. When the model and photographer connect that’s when the magic happens. For the model trust is very important here. Sometimes a pose may feel forced and you might think that it looks odd, but you have to trust that the photographer knows what they are doing. More often than not if the pose feels weird it looks great.

Check out Robin’s blog and some of her beautiful work here: http://robinmckerrellphotography.blogspot.com/

Vanesssssa! My friend, you must be one of the most down-to-earth sweet models I have ever known and I am so happy to have met you 2 years ago!

At what age did you begin your modeling career?

-I began modeling at 18.

What is your advice in regards to finding an agency that you work well with?

-My advice is truly go with your feelings and not necessarily names.

You have reached supermodel level and worked in huge markets with some very well known models. Would you say there is a sense of cattiness between girls in the industry or is there an easy bond created with other models?

-I would say that there is lots of competition out there so there is lots of pressure and you can’t always get along with everyone.

What struggles have you faced in the 8 years you have been in the industry?

-Eating disorder issues due the pressure of being thin. Also, constant travel makes its hard to have stability.

What is the best advice you can offer aspiring models?

-It is really important to be well surrounded with people you love/ trust. You face lots of critics in this industry. You also travel alone to new countries.

What were the worst working conditions you’ve ever had to shoot in? i.e snow in a bikini, etc

-I had it all! Snow,wind, below 0, fur coat while 90 degrees,everything! The worse was recently in NY the next day of a snow storm. Shooting uptown on the riverside where the wind was ice cold + humidity. Thankfully the team was considerate !:)