Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing/Hi

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Expert: Kitty Kavey - 10/23/2009


Question

Me
I'm 17 years old and was thinking about modelling. However, I have cerebral palsy; I am able to get out of my wheelchair and am able to stand, sit up straight and pose in different positions. I have a slender figure, but my disable does make me a little pessimistic for modelling. Do you have any advice for me? Thanks.

Answer
There are a few models who use wheelchairs, and much of the time they can work with the wheelchair.  Also, models and other talent/artists who normally use wheelchairs are quite often photographed without their chairs.  What's important is working how you are comfortable, and making sure your agent understands what you're comfortable with and would like to do.

That goes the same for non-wheelchair using models; one of the keys of success is a good understanding with your agent as to the type of work you're comfortable doing, and your goals for your career.  It may be that nudity is not something you want to do, or ads for tobacco or alcohol, or you're personally opposed to fur - whatever it is, you can have an understanding with your agent so that you are not submitted for the type of work you can't or don't want to do.

There are few modeling or talent agencies that are specifically for disabled persons.  Some agencies have a division for disabled persons, most do not.  Commercial print agencies often do not have a problem with representing models and/or talent with disabilities of all types, so you can submit your information to "regular" agencies.  

You can use the list on the Screen Actor's Guild: http://www.sag.org/content/find-agent
to locate acting and (commercial print) modeling agencies around the US.  If you choose to mail in your information for their consideration, you can put in your cover letter a line as simple as what you told me - something that says although you are in a wheelchair, you are photogenic and able to get yourself to (accessible) auditions or go-sees and work, and don't require any specific other assistance or aid to get the job done.  Whatever is true for you.  

My first agent knew that I was visually impaired and needed to be booked with someone who could help me around sets.  He had no problem with that, and always made sure I was okay finding my way around with someone I knew.  He was a terrific guy.  I hope you have the same experience.

Good luck to you,
~Kitty

Kitty Kavey

Expertise

I can answer questions from those looking to get into the fashion or commercial modeling industry. Specifically, the requirements, what is needed, how to find an agent, what they look for, how to avoid scams, the difference between what a commercial model does, and a fashion model, would travel/relocation be required, what is on a comp card and in your portfolio.

Experience

Both my acting and modeling resume/portfolio is available online on my website. I am a member of the Screen Actors Guild, and also have available my actor's demo reel and voice-over demo online. I founded both the Florida-Models.com and Florida-Actors.com websites, which provide free modeling and acting info to the public. I have moved into directing, producing and screenwriting - and have won awards for my writing. I have worked in the industry as both a model and actress in Florida, New York City and Los Angeles until October 2007. I now reside in Europe.

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