Expert: Kitty Kavey - 4/26/2009

Question
hi i am sarah i am 14 and i have always wanted to be an actress and a model i
am trying to find an modeling school in brisbane i thought i would start with
modeling then branch out into acting my mum thinks i have bubbles in my head
but i don't want to give up on my dream but i am having trouble finding a good
school would you maybe know of any? thank-you for your time from sarah

Answer
I personally do not suggest schooling or training for models.  While "charm schools" can be helpful in building one's self-confidence, the one thing a model should be - photogenic - cannot necessarily be taught.  Many fashion models who were "discovered" were seen by scouts not in a modeling school, but in an airport, beach, mall or other public venue.  Most types of models do not use a resume, nor is any training a requirement to becoming represented by any legitimate fashion or commercial print agency.

Many actors can improve their craft by practicing in classes and/or with trainers/acting coaches, so perhaps looking into an acting course would be a better use of your time and money.  If you haven't decided what specific type of acting you are most interested in, there are general classes and courses in acting in addition to training that focuses in on a particular type of acting and/or auditioning.

Actors do use a resume, and training is listed on it.  Having no experience or training as an actor can hold you back from getting agency representation.  A modeling agent can assess your modeling potential even from a snapshot or Polaroid - and most fashion and even some commercial print modeling agencies will consider new faces based only on that.  

If you feel you'd rather go to a modeling school than work just now, you can try one of the modeling conventions.  Although they are equally as expensive as a modeling school (often costing thousands of dollars) it gives you the opportunity to meet with agents/managers of different types from many different locations.  Another fun way to learn about modeling can be one of the national or international modeling contests.  Again, many of them cost money to enter, and you have to research what's available in your area, but if you're not ready to work yet without trying it out first, that can be fun.

My advice, though, is for you to find good agency representation in Brisbane for modeling work, and perhaps also look for acting opportunities and/or acting training in the type of acting you most want to do.  

Good luck to you,
~Kitty