Book Description

This photographer's guide to creating successful model portfolios encourages a dynamic, diversified artistic approach and shares essential knowledge about the modeling industry, portfolio basics, and agency requirements. Photographers learn how to work with models for the best possible results, create and refine a standout portfolio, and sell that product to agents in the United States, England, and Asia. Three actual portfolios are included to help photographers conceptualize, sculpt, and refine their own portfolios to maximize their client's reach in the industry. Photographers learn why particular images were chosen for opening and closing shots, how to arrange the interior images, and what constitutes an appealing design. Featuring information on working with women, men, and children, this book will help new and experienced models and photographers alike in getting the results they desire. ... Read more

Book Description

At thirty years old Naomi Cambell still rules the fashion world, setting runaways and magazine covers ablaze with sophisticated, sultry style that, even after seventeen years in the business, continues to make her a media star with international appeal. This book features brilliant images, including recent unpublished photographs, by top fashion photographers coupled with insightful commentary by leading fashion designers, photographers, and entertainment figures who explain the power and allure of this international icon. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Why is Naomi so really beautiful?
By putting this book together with taste and great fun, N. demonstrates she is a brainy & nice lady. She also seems to be such a prima donna (in the best sense of the expression, really, that is deserving it) that she defies the more mundane categories of talent & beauty -- she really creates herself with determination &, I think, a huge dose of humor. This book is as pleasant an experience to read/look at than looking from time to time at a favorite painting on the wall of a museum. I don't think it will ever age and that it can illuminate an otherwise dull day.

excellent
All the pictures are of high quality.The layout is great. There is also an interview with Naomi.A book you would treasure for years.

Et tu, Naomi?
Everyone seems to be trying to capitalize on celebrity these days, why should a model be any different? But rather than spill her heart out in juicy tell all, Campbell, obviously figuring there were not enough photographs of her in circulation, toots her own horn in this sappy, silly exercise in narcissism by publishing "never-before-seen photographs" of--who else?--herself! There is Naomi in Thailand, Naomi sans make up, Naomi with family. By the time we read about Naomi's friendship with Nelson Mandela (captioned, of course, under a photo of the two together--who says supermodels have no conscience?) we appreciate why these photos have never been seen before, and further, why they should never be seen again.

a must have for naomi's fan's
this book let's you look at naomi in ways you have never seen befor and shows you why she earns tens of thousands strutting on the runway. Twenty dollars is a very cheap price to see her the way you will in this book

A must for every fan of Naomi!
Never mind that some may consider publishing a book full of your photos and flattering text about yourself the ultimate narcissism. Naomi's photo biography is a joy to look at ... Read more

Amazon.com

Michael Gross exposes the day-to-day business of beautiful young women, sex and drugs. Through hundreds of in-depth interviews with models, photographers and agents, he develops a flowing narrative history of the modeling industry from its birth to the present day supermodel craze. It's a story of serendipitous careers like that of industry creator Richard Powers, an out-of-work actor who created a niche for himself by providing beautiful people for the newly-developed fields of photography and advertising. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Excellent book for anybody interested in the subject
Heard and enjoyed the taped version of MODEL by Michael
Gross . . . its subtitle says it all: The ugly business of beautiful
women . . . methinks that this is an excellent book for anybody
thinking of entering the profession--or if you know somebody who
is . . . although the field may seem glamorous, in reality, it is
anything but that.

Though the book was non-fiction, it sounded like I was listening
to a novel . . . also, I liked hearing about the backgrounds of such
famous models as Twiggy and Cindy Crawford.

The edition I heard was from the mid-1990s . . . I understand
that a paperback edition in 2002 has since updated MODEL
and might be worth getting if you find the subject of interest.

Informative historic review of modeling
The strong points of this book become easily evident if even one only looks at the several-page-long bibliography. Mr. Gross has done a commendable job of research and has presented a voluminous material, including multiple interviews, pictures, etc. From a historical standpoint, there is probably no better book written on the modeling business (particularly in the US).( There is actually and afterward to the paperback edition, which brins some current news as of 2002.)

The weak points of the book are rooted in its failure to discuss what its title promises -- "business". Yes, there are salary numbers, but that is about where Mr. Gross stops. In describing the business he talks at length about modelling agencies, magazines and the like, only it happens in a somewhat gossipy style (describing personalities, political battles, etc.), while failing to provide any financial (or any other business) information so as to give the reader an idea of, for example, of how big this business is. As a result, after reading the book, one is short of truly understanding how the business really works, including the interaction of its multiple participants, such as publihhers, designers, etc.

Interesting read
This book does exactly what the title says, it reveals the ugly side of the modeling business. However, it is an older book so you won't hear any recent names. There is another book out there, "Shut up and Smile" that covers more recent models. But the writing from that book is no comparison to this one. This book is by someone that knows how to write and the stories are very in-depth which can only make the book better. The pictures are also better in this book.

Very informative book on the world of Supermodels/Modeling
This is very good book on the history of the Supermodels (Linda, Naomi, Christy, Cindy, etc). Also very informative on the modeling industry and the men that run it. If your daughter or son in pursuing modeling, read this book first.

Raji, please can I have your e-mail? I have a question!
Raji, I saw your posting under the reviews. I don't know any other way of communicating with you, so I hope this finds you. You were talking about how much these books help your knowledge in the fashion world. I have a few/many questions about your agency that you mentioned that you were going to open. Please, when and if you read this e-mail me! ktaylor41@hotmail.com ... Read more

Book Description

Every year, thousands of young men and women descend on America's largest cities to make it big in the world of modeling. Unfortunately, most of them end up disappointed because they lack the knowledge they need to work in this exciting industry.

A few do make it, though, and you can be one of those who do. In The Wilhelmina Guide to Modeling, Natasha Esch reveals all her secrets to give you the edge you need.

In this informative and illustrated manual, you'll learn about:
• How to get started and find the right agency.

• The modeling opportunities in domestic and foreign markets, including new opportunities in the plus-size, male, and ethnic segments.

• The people who make it happen, including interviews with models, photographers, and stylists.

• And much, much more.

Reviews (10)

A Great Book For Anyone Interested In Modeling!!!
I have been modeling for almost three years now; I wish I had read this book when I first started out! It does cover the business pretty well: how to get started, how to pick up speed and get ahead of the competition, etc. Very detailed advice on things YOU NEED TO KNOW, including what is expected from you by agencies and photograpers. I would especially recommend this book to all the aspiring models and New Faces out there!! Just remember that if you want to model, look up a few agencies and contact them TODAY! Never put off something so important that it can change your life forever!

this is why models have management
Like many models getting started in the business, I didn't know which way to turn. The hardest part is to qualify clients and to only work with those that will keep the image of you that you would like to promote in the market place. This book really doesn't outline this aspect of the industry. Good management is what got me a blossoming career in this business. Thanks to Digital White Boy Management, http://www.digitalwhiteboy.com , I've made it in this industry.

Very outdated
I was not impressed with the lack of real information. I could have gotten more information by talking to a "working model" for 10 min. The fact that Wilhelmina has been a part of soo many modeling scams, makes me think that this "advice" is off base too. All fluff , and no substance.

Solid, but Not Great Intro To Modeling
Solid, but by no means detailed book of the modeling industry. I read this book in one day. The font is pretty big and a lot of the advice can be very vague at times. I highly recommend you look into Roshumba Williams book regarding modeling. It's fantastic, and a much better book. I'm a famous male model, and I learned it all from reading Roshumba's book.

I WISH I'D HAD THIS BOOK WHEN I STARTED MODELING
I bought it for my little sister. It tells you everything your agent doesn't have time to explain, BUT YOU NEED TO KNOW -- like getting started, not getting ripped off, pictures, meeting agents, working in all markets -- US and Foreign and finding out where you fit in the industry. Lots of anecdotes from models at all stages in their careers. It took me a while to start making real money in the industry. My sister's gonna have it easy! ... Read more

Book Description

As the Model Editor of Seventeen magazine, Ms. Rubinstein has launched dozens of careers. Big names such as Niki Taylor, Tyra Banks, Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz and Liv Tyler have all benefited from her expertise. With interviews, anecdotes and smart advice, Ms. Rubinstein gives an exciting insider's glimpse of the modeling life. The Modeling Life shows young hopefuls a model's day-to-day routine, the ups and downs of her career, and how she maintains a balanced life in an ever-changing industry. Also learn exactly how to navigate this challenging and competitive business, how to get started without spending a fortune on fancy photographs or high-priced schools, how to avoid common pitfalls and build a successful career. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A MUST HAVE
THE MODELING LIFE is a must have for all those people and their parents who are serious about modeling. I have two teenagers - a boy and a girl - who are into modeling. We use this terrific book as our guide and inspiration. Ms. Rubinstein covers all the bases -- so whoever trashed this book (person from Canada) truly must not have read the book or understood how to use it. Because if anyone thinks that a person with Ms. Rubinstein's credentials and experience would suggest that you should follow the advice of classmates -- must not have read the book. This book has also been endorsed by all the top modeling agents including Ilene and Katie Ford, Monique Pillard, Jan Planit, Irene Marie and Page Parkes. That in itself is reason enough to use this book. Not only that but Ms. Rubinstein has launched the careers of Niki Taylor, Tyra Banks, Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz and Liv Tyler -- so I would say she knows what she is talkng about. So if you want to naively take the modelng world on by youself then that is your choice, but there is no reason to ignorantly trash such an important and legitamite modeling handbook.

INFORMATIVE AND INSPIRATIONAL
The Modeling Life should be required reading for anyone thinking or dreaming of getting into the modeling world! Ms. Rubinstein tells you everything (step by step) you need to know to start you on your way to a career in modeling. She takes on all sujects - agents, assignments, scams to avoid, contests, school, etc. There are even in-depth interviews with over 50 working models! I found these interviews to be an added bonus. It was nice to see how other girls got their start and to learn something through their experiences. Ms. Rubinstein's advice is practical, straightforward and honest. Her credentials alone are enough to make any aspiring model pick up this book and start reading!

More Fairy Tales
When will writers stop glossing over the world of modeling and start telling the truth. Yes, there are superstars, although they are kept at bay these days. Books need to tell young women more facts and less fantasy.

Stating the obvious
If you choose to buy this book, you can happily skip the first half of it. The majority of the book's content is case files from models. Most of this case file information seems to state the obvious, although it may useful to some readers in moderation. After reading one or two models' tales the book becomes painful to read - it is the same story told again and again. The book does offer relevant and useful information on modelling (if a little US centred) but you must be prepared to wade through the endless waffle to find it.

fabulous for beginners
this book was really great and a worthwhile read if you truly know nothing about the buisness. the author is the editor of seventeen and tells you the stories of how she developed some models careers and she lets the reader know that it is perfectly normal to get discouraged in this buisness and that most of the top models in the industry struggled for years before they made it "big" it is important to be educated about this buisness before you start and this is a good book to look over before you get going. she gives you a list of all the reputable agencies and teels you about all the different ways to get into the buisness weather it be by convention or agency or otherwise. the book is easy to read and understand. the diffeent sections are labeled and divided clearly. it was a very helpful book for me. and if you have the time it is defenitly worth the money! good luck ... Read more

Book Description

From the Back Cover
There is no easy road to becoming a successful model. The not-so-secret formula is still dedication, hard work and a little common sense. But there are some shortcuts, some common mistakes to avoid and some things to watch out for in an industry rife with scam artists and get-famous-quick schemes. In this book, photographer MJ Wilson, and SAG sub-agent Apryl Edwards combine their years of experience and expertise in the modeling industry to provide nine concise steps that you need to take in order to get started in the business. This easy-to-follow format answers any questions you might have about the modeling industry and how to get your foot in the door. Subjects covered include initial submissions to agencies, what to look for in professional photos and how to put together an eye-catching composite card. This must-read book cuts through the hype and even lets you in on the "dirty secrets" of the business that could end up costing you money and wasting your time. The first step of any career is research and A Model's Primer is a great place to start. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Could have gotten this information online for free!!!
This book isn't worth the money. I bought it for my daughter who told me it was worthless. I was upset at her attitude but then read it myself. Sadly she was correct, if a bit ungrateful.

Good
Good tips but I was shocked at how few pages there were. Not worth its cost.

Stage-moms take notice
As the mother of a child model I found this book to be extremely helpful in avoiding the many pitfalls of this difficult industry. Highly recommended!

A very educational and necessary book for new models.
" A Model's Primer, " was of great use to me. I am new to the modeling industry and this book showed me step by step what I needed to do to be a sucessful model. I owe much of my success to this book.

An excellent guide for beginning and experienced models.
This book is without a doubt one of the best books available on modeling. It is comprehensive, concise and very well written. I really enjoyed how the authors made sure the reader understood the terminology and then led them through the 9 steps every model should follow. After reading this book, the model or the parents of models should feel much more comfortable and secure about entering and working in this career field. In my opinion this is a real valuable tool every model should have. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Souvenirs of Kiki's Memoirs
Being a veritable Kiki virgin before I read this book, I found Kiki's Memoirs more than helpful in showing the atmosphere of 1920's Paris. I did, however, agree with Ernest Hemingway's sentiments from his introdution-it is impossible to translate Kiki's words very well. It seems like Samuel Putnam was unable to get more than four sentences out without putting in an exclamation mark. This breaks the narrative up considerably. I would have given this book three stars, but I loved the Man Ray photos in it. The real strength of this book lies in the artwork.

Wonderful!
This is Kiki in Kiki's own voice, no one could say it better.This is a wonderful book for those who love Bohemian Paris, and even those who don't. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Good for anyone thinking of modeling
This book offers the dark side of the modeling business, a much needed account since we only see the beauty and glamour associated with it. The dark side consists of grueling shoot hours and strict diets forcing young models into cocaine and drug habits just to keep up with the pace. Then there is the gloomy life of prostitution many struggling models turn to with no help from the horny old agents who would drug or blackmail them to have sex. It is very sick, but intriguing reading since most people like to read about beautiful people. I gave it three stars because the price is pretty steep for such a book. I can't believe I bought it. The pictures are really bad so there was no point of including them in the book. Also, the author went undercover with the intent to expose dirt, but only offers stories from other people's accounts. Most of the sleezy stuff happen to the no-name models so the title of the book is quite misleading. I like the section about the up-and-coming supermodels. My favorite being Devon Aoki because she looks so exotic. You should search for her website...cool stuph. But the chapter on Jenny McCartney and Versace is irrelevant. I pay good money to read about supermodels [...]!

Waste of time
To get into the inside life of being a supermodel, you might as well go talk to someone coming out of one of those instant photo boths at the mall.

A Must Read!
If I could give 10 stars, I would. This book exposes the seedy underbelly of the fashion business. I learned so much by reading this book. I never realized how much dirt covers this corrupt business. I recommend anyone interested in modeling or fashion to go out and pick up a copy. It's essential to read this book to understand what really goes on behind the scenes. Models being drugged and raped repeatedly by men more than 30 years their senior. This made me want to vomit. Perhaps we can all learn a lesson by reading this book, no matter what industry we work in. It's vital to treat people equally and with respect. I highly commend the author for his courage to go undercover and expose this rather seedy business. I encourage any young kid who has aspirations of entering the modeling business to read this book first.

Mildly entertaining trash
"Shut Up and Smile" attempts to cash in on the success of Michael Gross's superb history "Model: The Ugly Business of Beautiful Women." However, it falls far short of the mark.

For one thing, the book design is hideous and amateurish: the cover looks like it was put together in twenty minutes copying pictures from websites. Inside, there are plenty of misspelled words, which, though it does not take away from the quality of the book, disheartened me a lot. Names were often misspelled (Gisele Budchen, Kyle McClaughlin, Cheryl Crow.) I found it appalling that although Katharine Hepburn is listed as a coauthor, Halperin didn't even spell her first name right. Also, the chapters on Stella McCartney (how much did she pay him for that glowing profile?) and the late Gianni Versace seemed to have little to do with the rest of the book.

Halperin totally overuses the word "supermodel", which is usually used to describe the greats of modeling (Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, etc) the greats of modeling and is even appropriate for other major models like Shalom Harlow and Gisele, but he uses supermodel as a replacement for model, which is just about any girl who happened to do some ads and runway.

What was shocking in "Model" (drug use, sexual abuse, agency wars, etc) is made utter trash in "Shut Up and Smile." There are ubiquitous and lascivous descriptions of sex acts scattered throughout the book which I found to be in poor taste.

However, since "Shut Up and Smile" was published several years after "Model", it has a lot of new information, like about Naomi Campbell's supposed suicide attempt and Kate Moss's struggles with addiction. And since it is more of an expose than a history, there are more extensive and shocking cases listed of models (often underage) who were killed, raped, abused and/or harrassed, which further convinces me that anyone who's less than razor sharp is eaten alive in the business; and how an industry verging into prostitution is already crossing the line. The subject of racism in the modern day fashion industry is also interesting.

"Shut Up and Smile" is worth a read, to further convince yourself that you really don't want to be the "gorgeous" girl on the cover of Elle, but only after the much more in depth and serious "Model: The Ugly Business of Beautiful Women."

Interesting Investigation
I read through this book with great surprise. I couldn't believe what really goes on in the fashion industry. Let me tell you, this book was a pleasant read, providing excellent anecdotes about the sleaze in fashion. I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

From high-fashion spreads and runway shows, to shoe, hand, hair, and character shots, to magazine and catalogue ads, numerous types of jobs are described in this guide to a modeling career. Valuable tips on modeling agencies, schools, building a portfolio, setting goals, and breaking into the business are provided.

Debbie Press has been a Ford Agency model, a teacher of modeling classes, and a producer of fashion shows. Skip Press is the author of more than two dozen books. The Presses live in Southern California. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Model & Talent 2001
I think this book can help me a lot for what i want to do in my career because i had always wanted to be a model. People always say that i should be a model because of my body and beauty i really want to get into a school of modeling but i dont know which one i cant find one right now i'm 16 yrs old and i want to start now. So i wish to order that book to know whats up in modeling.
Thank You

Runway, Runway, Runway
This book concentrates both in text and photographs, on runway modeling. Generally, runway models (outside small towns) are models who have already 'made it' in print modeling (editorial and advertising). This book is sorely lacking in the fundamentals of modeling -- like finding out where you fit and where your potential lies.

Your Modeling Career
Because I am in New york I have a lot of chances to get into the modeling world. Finally I have a good guide to help me get started. I especially love the runway photos which are exciting and very well done. This is a great book.

I Really Recommend this book. Excellent!
For someone who lives in a country outside the United States,it is a good thing to find a book like this one which emphasizes theuse of the Internet to find out about the modeling business. I would recommend this book to anyone who is thinking about becoming a model but does not know where to start. There is so much info in it, that having used only a tenth of it, and I'm already happy with my investment.

Must have resource for anyone who wants to model
Books about Modeling sometimes tend to play to fantasies about making it big and becoming the next supermodel. Debbie Press provides solid advice about the business of modeling. Real-life examples illustrate how a "wanna be" can maximize his or her potential to succeed as a model. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

You Need This Book
Aaron Marcus the master of modeling and acting is the writer of this book and boy does he know what he is talking about. My son & I have both read this book and now we know what to do and what not to do. It guides you in every aspect of this industry. You must have this book, if you are planning on doing this for your career. After reading it we realized we were doing it all wrong and now we are on the right track, so my son can and will be successful.

Aaron Marcus Is A Master Of The Commercial Print World!
A knowledgeable book that answered many of my questions about making it in the commercial print industry. Aaron Marcus is very direct about the do's and don'ts of the business, and he offers wonderful advice--from creating the best commercial looks on your comp cards in order to sell your talent, to shopping for the best agents to represent you. A great buy!

great marketing tools
I have read this book and Aaron Marcus has done a great job with suggestions on how to get started in acting. You dont have to be a model to make it in this business. the book gave me more confidence in myself to succeed in the industry. Thank you Aaron.

Peace out

A Must Have!
This is a must have for anyone planning to enter this field. Aaron Marcus is very honest and informative.

A must have for anyone curious about the Modeling Industry
Aaron Marcus's 'How to Become a Successful Commercial Model' is an outstanding guide through each step of beginning a modeling career. Even if you have already worked in the market, this 19 year veteran of modeling and acting provides ideas and techniques that could give any career a boost. If you are looking for a practical, realistic approach of how to get from here to there in the world of modeling, Mr. Marcus's book is a worthy investment. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Fashion Fly on the Wall
It's something of a misnomer, the title of Larry Fink's hilariously gruesome portrait of the fashion world. In Runway, his latest and most spectacular book of photographs, the much-celebrated "catwalk" barely figures at all. Fink's much more interested in the backstage drama, and in this behind-the-scenes record of the culminating moments in the seasonal paroxysms devoted to ready-to-wear and haute couture, he finds theater aplenty.

A pitiless and perceptive social critic, Fink previously documented the brutal heroics of boxing and the bizarre social customs of New York's Upper East Side. Here his camera captures, in unflattering close-up, the unguarded moments of some of fashion's biggest stars. And while he frequently focuses on instantly familiar supermodels, his most memorable pictures tend to be of the designers themselves. Many of them are more recognizable than their mascots, bagged like so many trophies under Fink's unremitting gaze. Isaac Mizrahi strikes a characteristically self-mocking, histrionic pose; a wolfish Oscar de la Renta glares at us suspiciously; Calvin Klein, caught in mid-sentence, could be having a cardiac arrest. In another supremely chilling image, Gianni Versace gazes heavenwards, looking horror-struck; it's almost as if the slain designer's having a premonition of his gruesome fate.

Fink's corrosive visual style derives from influences as diverse as Weegee and Diane Arbus (he studied with Lisette Model, the legendary French photographer who made a habit of the grotesque). He's obviously well aware that his hand-held flash - usually held aloft and angled down - freezes the scene like a diorama, turning humans into statues and vice versa (in one delicious moment captured at a society benefit, we see the lower halves of a line of partygoers filing past a comparatively lively pair of sarcophagi). In page after uncaptioned, full-bleed page, Fink hammers home a harrowing glimpse of a grandly dysfunctional world.

But Fink has a love-hate relationship with this strange and contorted show of human frailty; he glamorizes and demonizes its insanity at the same time. He's abidingly curious about the backstage talents, with their fanatical devotion to craft, who feverishly toil to create the designer's illusions. In one tightly cropped shot, makeup whiz Kevyn Aucoin, with total concentration, grasps a model's head in a vice-like grip (significantly, her face is hidden from us). And always, there are the fashion paparazzi, hovering (like Fink) on the sidelines, getting it all down on film so we can devour it.

"When substance is dead, style lives on," Fink writes in an afterword. Rest assured, both substance and style are alive and well in this damning - and damn amusing - book. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Too Hot
This book has the greatest fashion and beauty photographs ever taken! If you've ever longed for a world in which men take better care of their appearance, let this book work it's magical, balmy spell.:) ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Thundering, Earthquake account of the modeling business
Mr. Halperin deserves to win an award for his unercover account of the model business. The way he posed undercover to get the story behind the story of models is brilliant. From the time I started reading this tell all account, I could not put it down. Anyone interested in fashion should read this book immediately! Trust me, I worked in the industry for 22 years. Finally, someone had the courage to write about what really happens behind the scenes. Bravo!

Brave, Fascinating Book
I read this book straight through last weekend. I could barely put it down. This book really hits home for anyone involved in the fashion industry. I have been involved in fashion for more than 20 years. It's about time someone was brave enough to expose some of the bad dealings of the industry. Hopefully, Mr. Halperin's startling revelations will help make more people aware that it's important to beware of who you get involved with in this business. There are many bad apples out there. I encourage all parents and young models to pick up this book before getting involved in the industry. All your questions of what it's like to be a model and how to choose the right agent will be answered. And of course, you'll be intrigued by some of the horrific experiences some of the top models you see on TV have encountered. The author posed undercover as a model to get all the dirt. And he certainly does not hold back in revealing the truth about our glamorous industry.

good material, poorly presented
I think this guy has like 100 different copies of what is essentially the same book issued under different titles on Amazon and in bookstores. Maybe hoping for double and triple sales from stupid people? I have what I believe is another copy of the same book called "Shut Up and Smile." Much of the material is rehashed from old newspaper reports, other people's books, etc. Some stories on sad lives of lesser-known models is interesting and not something we've read before. The passage on Halperin trying to be an undercover model is a joke. He's not a great writer and the material isn't as shocking as Halperin thinks it is. But some of it is worth reading.

Far Reaching effects of going undercover
Mr. Halperin's excellent book fills a real need to expose the model industry for what it actually is. The book is full of highly informative case histories, and contains clear and understandable info on what it takes to survive in this gruelling business. This is an excellent book which I truly highly recommend.

Couldn't Put It Down
PLEASE, PLEASE fashionistas, read this book. You'll be amazed at the goings on of this crazy industry. Sex, drugs, payola - this book has it all. I literally read it cover to cover. Entertaining and compelling! ... Read more

Book Description

This insider's handbook full of "how to" color photos on the secrets of becoming a model.Not just on hair and make up, but practical information and realistic strategies for presenting yourself at interviews, handling your finances, health and nutrition, modeling opportunities, working abroad, and how to promote yourself. Everything you need to know to succeed. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

LOTS OF USEFUL INFORMATION HERE!!!
This book is quite useful for anyone who knows very little about the modeling industry, and wants to know exactly what to expect if they decide to persue modeling, as either a hobby or a career. This book is extremely thorough, answering any questions you may have about the modeling industry. It even gives names and addresses of popular modeling agencies around the world!!! The make-up tips were somewhat useful, as well. After reading this book, I had the confidence to send my portfolio to a local agency. I have been in 5 print advertising ads and 2 television commercials here in Detroit. I am so greatful I read this book!!!

Read This Book!
My wife and I have been in the modeling business for over 15 years and have started thousdands of models and actors. Marie's book is one that we suggest to all our aspiring talent. It is a great overview of the industry!

Except for Nikki Taylor, who's heard of anybody in this book
I guess everybody's an expert, but I found the hair and make-up techniques recommended in this book silly and outdated. Models today wear no make-up (maybe moisturizer or lip balm)to castings unless they're coming directly from a booking. Ditto for hair-'do's. The book could have addressed skin care and healthy lifestyle for today's young people rather than touting superficial strategies from the 'experts'. Do you want to know how to become a model or how to get a date?

A MUST-HAVE for anyone who wants to model!!!
I've met Marie Anderson Boyd and listened to her speak at a model search. When I got back home from the search, I checked her book out at the library. I learned soooooo much from that book. If you're going to get into modeling, then this book is a MUST HAVE!! You will learn so much that you won't know what to do with all the information. Everything from how to get an agency to represent you to diet and exercise tips. It's not a dry read either, I COULD NOT put it down; very interesting and at times humorous too ... Read more

Book Description

The Ultimate How-To Book for the Young Aspiring Black Model

The new national bestseller Is Modeling for You? The Handbook and Guide for the Young Aspiring Black Model is the first and only comprehensive book on modeling written for and about the African-American model.

The 272 page book has over 60 pages of Black models, and includes such topics as: Super Models and How they Made it to the Top, Finding an Agency, The Modeling Agency and How it Works, How to be Successful in the Modeling Industry, Planning Your Portfolio, Plus Size Modeling, and Children as Models, plus a listing of leading Black Modeling and Management Agencies and a full listing of Modeling Agencies in the United states, as well as International Agencies.

The Handbook and Guide is your constant reference to modeling, the Agencies, where to go, what to do, how to get there, and what not to do in this billion dollar industry. Whether you are aspiring to do runway, commercial print, showroom, trade shows or video modeling nationally or internationally, male or female, teenage or adult, plus-size or child modeling this book is a must have. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Very helpful!
I am just starting out as a model and I had so many questions. Is modeling for you? was the perfect find. It gave me insight into the modeling business and helped me to understand the steps that are necessary to succeed. I feel much more conffident now that I have read this book. Every aspiring model should read it.

Tells you things other modeling guides don't, like...
The fact that the majority of today's sucessful black models started at black agencies, and there's a listing of them in this book. It was helpful, but if you're already established as a model, it may seem redundant.

a great book for all models
i recommend this book, because it gave me all the information i needed to get started in a modeling career. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Beyond the smoke and mirrors of the runway lies another part of the fashion world." It is there that Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Lucian Perkins finds the most compelling images: über-waif Kate Moss sipping champagne decked out in an undershirt, jeans, and a bogling network of curled hair extensions. Design maven Isaac Mizrahi fretting over a voluminous skirt. Glamour-pusses Naomi Campbell and Veronica Webb lolling around, waiting for their curlers to set, while the clock ticks at the rate of $250 per hour. Perkins gets up on the runway, too. He turns his camera on his colleagues, who form an impenetrable wall of extra-long lenses and tripods. He looks out into the audience, where he finds the gender-bending RuPaul, Southern belle Dolly Parton, and actress Mira Sorvino parked amid the ubiquitous fashion editors and buyers and socialites. And he follows the impossibly fabulous creatures as they strut their wares down that most glamorous corridor--the runway.

The unusually long and narrow shape of the book is an excellent format for Perkins's atmospheric panoramic shots, and leaves room for quotes by Azzedine Alaia, Coco Chanel, and other fashion fixtures to accompany the smaller images. Readers who don't share original supermodel Iman's fashion ennui--she's quoted as saying she "couldn't get excited about another dress"--should be more than sated by the 100 fantastic photos of frocks, gowns, and shifts in Runway Madness. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Insightful Photography
I was fascinated by Perkins' book examining the fashon industry---something that was quite foreign to me. His insightful photographic analysis of the industry and the people opened a new understanding of this activity so foreign to those of us in west Texas. His photographs conveyed the the energy, the joy and despair, anxiety and confidence that accompanies modeling. A great "inside look" by an immanently accomplished photographer.

AWSOME!
The books cover caught my attention, I picked it up, looked at it and knew I had to buy it. As a photographer I found this book to be a new way of looking at the world of fashion. "Runway Madness," takes you on a journey of what happens backstage during a fashion show. This book is perfect for anyone who likes fashion and photography. ... Read more

Book Description

Black models are living proof that beauty is more than skin deep.

Skin Deep brings readers face to face with some of the most beautiful women in the world: Black models. For the past 50 years they have redefined beauty, fashion, and style in dramatic ways. Each era would exalt its star models: Dorothea Towles, Helen Williams, Naomi Sims, Beverly Johnson, Iman, Naomi Campbell, and Tyra Banks, among them. Less well known are the many other talented, elegant women who enjoyed careers as well. At every level of achievement, however, they all confronted challenges testing their courage, endurance, and integrity.How they succeeded - and sometimes failed - is thecompelling essence of
Skin Deep.

Only an insider could tell the story of Black models with the authenticity it deserves. Barbara Summers, a Ford model for 17 years, spent a decade interviewing dozens of models and fashion professionals on three continents to record their experiences. With insight and flair, she gives voice to familiar faces. With an artist's eye, she pored over hundreds of images by the world's most acclaimed photographers to select the more than 250 pictures that make this volume a landmark publication.Black models transformed the fashion industry.

Popular culture around the world would neverbe the same again. Beyond advertisements for clothes and cosmetics, they projected visions of a far more precious but far less tangible product: freedom. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Ambitious, but ultimately disappointing
The author has spent admirable energy collecting images, interviews, and historical data. But she has been ill-served by her editor and publisher. The text and images are made incoherent by not having been shaped, as if the author's note cards had spilled on to the page in no particular order (a simple chronological narrative might have been best). Sadly, the result is a book about beauty that is not beautiful. The publisher seems not to have hired a book designer; the images neither flow esthetically nor relate integrally to the text. Even the index shows lack of care for the material, with the font unadjusted to distinguish between pages with images and those containing only text. Black beauty deserves better than this. And yet, since this is the only book of its kind, it is still worth buying... It is a joy to see these fantastic women all in one place. Kudos to Barbara Summers for introducing them to each other and to us.

Compelling, comprehensive and enlightening
This is a first and the most compelling, comprehensive and enligtening book on the subject. I applaud the author and publisher for their vision, tenacity and courage. A must for every library. Kudos!!

It is called a writing class and the author missed it.
I was very excited to read this book and I was highly disappointed. The content was great but the editor and author needs to be slapped. The layout was ridiculously confusing, the chapters had no flow, pictures didn't correspond with the stories, some of the interviews bordered on the foolish, etc.... The was a two paragraph mention about black male models. what about children models? What about the effects of we are portrayed in advertisements through history? Where is the history? A chronological timeline? I've read articles in white mags about black models that gave more information that this book. Don't buy it.

MORE THAN BEAUTIFUL! EXCEPTIONALLY GORGEOUS!
I loved this book from front to back. It gave me an inside perspective on how black models are treated in the fashion industry. After being brain washed and white washed by dozens of "Vogue," "Glamour," and "Cosmo" magazines, I had lost sight of how beautiful and elegant black models/women are. This is unfortunate but true and can only account for the racist attitudes and standards that Western society (especially America) has against ethnic (African, Asian, Latin, and Native American Indian) beauty. Ethnic beauty is copied and exploited. You can see it in every page of the most popular fashion magazines. I also read Eileen Ford's comment about this book. She was wrong wasn't she. Thank you for writing this book Ms. Summers. It is unquestionably a work of art.

Wonderful!
Modeling doyenne Eileen Ford once told the author that a book about Black models would be a short one. Skin Deep is most certainly not. This book is filled with the history of beautiful Black women who have made an impact on the world of style. It was a long time coming. ... Read more