How can young people get into the modelling industry?
The modelling industry can be very tough to break into as well as competitive, with young people often asking questions such as: how do I get started? Who do I approach? Do I have what it takes? Lack of confidence and reluctance to venture away from your comfort zone commonly puts people off the fashion industry. But it shouldn’t.
Harriet Isobel is a part time model based North Devon.
After being in the industry for seven months, she has already been published ten times across nine different magazines, as well as modelling for a number of clothing companies such as ‘Hidden Temple’.
At only 17 years old, Harriet knows the struggles of the industry today, making her a perfect role model to any young people aspiring to get involved in the industry.
Firstly, how did you get into modelling?
Harriet: Really I suppose it was down to me never being a very confident person. It got to the stage where I had really had enough of shying away and not seeing anything positive in myself, I felt like everyone else had a talent, or a hobby, or something they were good at. It was time for me to break out of my comfort zone and make myself do something different, in hope that it would make me appreciate myself more. I didn't really know where to go from there, and I'm not all that sure how the idea came about, but I just thought modelling would be a pretty cool thing to try out, so I did! After I'd decided I was going to take the leap out of my comfort zone, I began to research. I looked in to the types of modelling that were out there, and started to think about what genres and styles would suit me best, and I began looking for local photographers that would work in that style. The best thing I did to start with was building up a network contacts. Then I began to arrange a few casual shoots. Then I just kept going - trying different shoots and styles, with different people to build and expand my portfolio. The more people you work with, and the more experience you gain; the further you can go with it.
How has developing your career in modelling, helped develop you as a person?
Harriet: Modelling has developed me as a person beyond words! I've overcome my eating disorder. I accept myself for who I am now. I'm not 100% happy with myself or anything, but I'm content with how I am, and my achievements have given me something to feel proud of. I have a lot more respect for myself after stepping out of my comfort zone and forcing myself into something I've never known. I feel like I have more courage to actually do the things I want to do, and be the person I want to be.
What tips would you give other young people trying to get into the industry?
Harriet: It's a very competitive, and unfortunately sometimes nasty, industry. If you can get past that then you will be fine. It's a shame how it sounds off putting before you even start, but just hold your own ground. When you want something, you have to work for it. It's better to go into something knowing it's not going to happen overnight, than go into it thinking you can conquer the world in five days. You have to be ambitious, but realistic. Versatility and networking are the two key factors if you want to go far. I think it's an industry that more people should venture into if it's something they are interested in, regardless of your age, size and gender. People often don't appreciate how much demand there is for a wide variety of people. You never know where it might take you! Especially if like me, you aren't very confident, and you don't feel like you have much talent. It's something that could really benefit you, making you feel more positive in yourself. Since I started modelling I feel like I've really found myself and my passion.
Some people view modelling in a negative way. What is your view on this and how has it affected your own career?
Harriet: There are people out there that will view all careers in a negative way; you just kind of have to brush it off! When it's a career you're passionate about, you just let the negative people slip. Thankfully I've had a lot of positive support, so no matter what the critics say I won't give up. I've often been accused of things such as: being in love with myself, being a show off, being big headed. It's especially hurtful since I started modelling for all of the opposite reasons, and to be honest, it has given me confidence in myself! But I'm not the type of girl who is going to let my head explode and show off about it, I'm a down to earth person and that's not going to change. Everyone should be allowed to choose their own career, without others’ judgement and unwanted opinions. At the end of the day, what's the point of being in a career you don't believe in and enjoy? If I want to model then I will, regardless of the negative reviews from outsiders. The same as if you want to be a baker you should bake, and if you want to be a poet then be a poet! People may not like your cakes, or your poems, but if you do then that's all that matters.
Check out Harriet’s work on her website: purpleport.com/portfolio/hazza/
Reach her by email at: harrietknock@gmail.com
Or like her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hazzamodelling
Photography: Credit to Alex B
Clothing Company: Hidden Temple
