Blog

I cannot tell you how important it is to enjoy yourself during the casting process and even up to and during the job you book.  It can be intimidating going into a job where you aren't quite sure what the plan is.  I have two great examples of moments like this.  Both were fashion shows.....I LOVE FASHION SHOWS!!  Some fashion shows require fittings and rehersals, while others require you to just show up and find your dresser.  This person will assist you in putting on and taking off each outfit.  This can mean that you have absolutely no idea what you may be wearing in the show!!  After your first show, you will learn how important it is to go with with flow and give the client what they want.  Be confident and let your beautiful self shine, no matter what you are wearing.

My first personal example comes from a fashion show I did in Los Angeles.  There was no fitting process after I was casted in the show.  During make-up and hair, we were able to see some of our outfits.  I was so excited for the show to start, the music was pumping and the crowd was packed.  I had my first outfit on and was waiting for the show to start when the person in charge told me that my last look was a THONG!!  For those who need the definition of thong, it's just a pair of very small underwear with nothing covering the backside.  OMG!!  "No problem", I replied.   Inside I was thinking "you've got to be kidding me", but outside I remained confident and calm.  It was one of the best experiences of my life.

I was in a fashion show last week that turned out to be another amazing experience.  There was no fitting or run through for this show, so I found out my looks when I arrived.  I will post the pictures below so you can see what I ended up working with.  It was AMAZING and so much fun to have a different experience on the runway.

I wanted to be really careful when titling this post...I am not a nutrtionist and so my personal path in this area has been made by reading tons of books and paying attention to my body to find out what works for me.  There are so many diets and weight loss plans out there, and if they work for you, GREAT!!  However, I find that many people need help in this area.  I am questioned daily about what foods I eat to stay healthy and keep my skin clear.  Read below to find out my top 5 tips for fe...
Continue reading...

We have mentioned before to beware of those conventions and expensive schools out there. Again, I want to say that some of the schools have real value and teach skill, as well as confidence. However, many people fall prey to schemes out there. My friend Jenifer sent me this link to a story that was on Dateline, NBC. Just in case you missed it, you should definitely check this out.
Continue reading...

I am often asked what sort of fitness plan I follow in order to stay in shape.  I do not have a one or two word answer to this question, but I must say that making a decsion to just move your body, everyday, is a MUST.  I go through phases where I will be extremely dedicated to running and lifting weights.  I am one of those crazy people who gets joy through working out!  I also must admit that there are other phases I go through where a 20 minute walk is all I can fit it. 

If you are new to ...
Continue reading...

So, you finally got an agency and now they are sending you on castings.  The only thing more exciting than this is actually booking a job!  If you are anything like me, you are probably stressing over what to wear.  Standing in front of your closet for hours will not help!  Here are my top 5 tips for choosing the perfect outfit to wear to a casting:

1.  ASK YOUR AGENT!!  I know this seems simple, but agents usually have some sort of idea of what the client may be looking for.  Why risk it when...
Continue reading...

This week I was asked to answer some interview questions for a photographer in Ohio. I thought these answers would benefit our audience as well. It's kind of long but informative;) I encourage you all to let us know if you have specific questions, it may turn into a blog! xoxo- Lady West!

Name: Amy West
Location: Florida
Web site: www.theamywest.com
Years working as model: 7
Continue reading...

This business can drive a person crazy!  Seriously, some days I wonder why I put myself through this and others I am so excited about it that I can hardly contain myself.  I am learning that some weeks can be extremely dry.  Nothing happens.  No phonecalls, no photoshoots, no castings, nothing, none, zip............
This can really take a toll on a person, especially if one is attempting to model as a full time job.  I can be really hard to be patient during these times. 

I have found, that if...
Continue reading...

One thing that is very important to remember in this industry is knowing your look. As I've said before, you are a product. If you know your best features and the best way to dress yourself, do your hair, and do your makeup, you will be much more successful. Of course most people want a model that can be a chameleon. The ability to be versatile should not be underestimated, however if you don't have a specific look that you fit into, you are going to have trouble. Most companies that cast hav...
Continue reading...

I think this topic needs to be addressed. If you are serious about this industry help yourself and the rest of us by being professional. The quickest way of stopping your career dead in its tracks is getting a reputation for being either a no show, a late cancelation, showing up extremely late, or just not communicating back with those you are working with through phone or email. Believe me there are plenty of us willing to show up on time or early for a job because we are serious about our w...
Continue reading...

I left off last time telling you all that I made a decision to end my exclusive contract with my first agency.  Are you ready for more?  I hope so because here we go!  After I left the agency, I did not rush out and sign another contract right away.  Things got pretty interesting and I found work simply due to the people that I was meeting.  Photographers can be an excellent resource!  Remember that lousy portfolio that I was telling you about?  Well, I ended up hiring a fabulous photographer...
Continue reading...