Expert: Kitty Kavey - 2/7/2008

Question
QUESTION: i want to be a model or an actor and i have a lot of scars, none of them are huge, or even big, but i do have one on my chest.  would this ruin my chances? also i have been thinking about getting a tattoo on the inside of my upper arm, (bicep).  what are your feelings on that too, as far as acting and modeling.  i haven't done anything with modeling yet but i don't really want to lower my chances.  one more thing, I'm barely 5 11, i don't want to do runway modeling but is that too short to do anything else? thanks!

ANSWER: If you are planning to do nude, swimsuit or underwear modeling, having scars that cannot be covered by makeup (such as Dermablend) might be a problem.  But generally for commercial print or even fashion modeling, it might not be an issue, particularly if the scar or scars can be concealed.
Tattoos are not usually great to have on models, but for actors it is less of an issue.  There are both models and actors both famous and less so who work regularly, although they may have one or more tattoos - so it's certainly possible to do.
With your height, you may want to look into doing commercial print/lifestyle modeling instead of fashion modeling, but you can certainly check to see if there are fashion agencies in the market closest to you that accommodate shorter fashion models.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: yeah i wouldn't want to do fashion modeling, more prints and things, and my real goal is to become an actor for film.  i guess they could always airbrush them, cause i know Jolie, she has a lot of tattoos but i never see them in her movies.  i do dermablend a little, but not that bad at all.  most scars are on my hands and i have one on my stomach from a newborn operation, but it isn't that noticeable.  the only one that might give me trouble is the one on my chest.  i was thinking about going to a doctor and try to not make it as noticeable, cut a new one or something and stitch it better and mine right now is small but dermablended.  just would like to know your thoughts, thanks!

ANSWER: If acting is your passion, then the scars shouldn't be a problem at all.  Many actors cover tattoos with makeup as you mention, and most acting does not focus in on nude chests or closeups on hands.  You can also request to your agent that he or she not submit you for roles that will ask you to go shirtless.  Agents are used to accommodating their talent as best they can, so make your concerns known to them.
In fact, there may be roles where you could use your scars to an advantage.  If you were playing a darker role where you are supposed to be tough, from the street, or in a hospital, etc., you may be able to enhance your scars for a better effect.  
A good agent will be able to evaluate how to best market you, what roles you'd be most suited for, and avoid submitting you for roles where the scars you have would be a disadvantage.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: well i wouldnt mind at all being shirtless, haha

Answer
Then in that case, make that known to your agent, and ask them to submit you for roles where any visible scarring would not be an issue.  They will have direct contact with the client, and as your agent will not earn money unless you work - so part of their job is marketing you/submitting you for roles they believe you are most suited for, and most likely to get.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty