There is more to modelling than a good pout and a fierce walk. Today’s models are expected to have it all: A devoted fan and a good social media presence. Here’s a model who is doing it right and everything you need to know about him. I am definitely following him and you should too.
Alan John
With his unique features and beautiful melanin skin, Alan John has won my heart as well as others. He has worked with a number of brands in the past few years and has graced the pages of Previder magazine and some editorial campaigns.
Images supplied by Alan John
Alan’s model advice:
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE MODELING SPACE?
Unlike models that were discovered in malls and such, I intentionally wanted to become a model from a young age, having been familiar with fashion from a young age, with my mom who studied fashion design and taught me how to sew after breaking several of her needles on her machine, lol. I sought out the only agency I knew in the small town of Gweru where I was raised and did my first modelling course there.
WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY ABOUT MODELING?
I’ve always loved photography, with my first submission to a big agency being images that I took using the self-timer feature on my then “Nokia N95” phone. That coupled with my love for fashion and film makes me enjoy embodying whatever character I have to assume when I’m modelling. I find the art of “becoming” a particular version of myself each time I’m in front of a camera, or on the runway pretty intriguing.
HOW DOES ONE GET INTO THE INDUSTRY?
We’re blessed to be living in an age of internet and technology. Like everything you might want to get into, research is key. Know what kind of model you want to be and use all you have to be a representation of the model you want to become. Your smartphone could do wonders!, take some good pictures, learn your best angles and apply to reputable agencies that you can easily find online. Most agencies allow prospective models to submit an application form or have an email address that you can get hold of model agencies. If they don’t respond, be bold, DM them on their Instagram (using your Instagram that you’ve posted your best images).
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A MODEL AGENCY IS CREDIBLE?
As mentioned above. The internet is your friend, Google the top agencies in your city or a city close to you. Go to their Instagram, look at the models they represent. Do they seem like the kind of model agency that would represent you? Some models will also respond to you too if you reach out and ask, be bold and do your homework.
WHAT IS A PORTFOLIO AND A Z-CARD?
A model portfolio is a compilation of images that gives an idea to interested parties of what the model’s ability and range is. Essentially this is your resume, giving the client an idea of what you could do, should you be given the opportunity to work with them.
A z card, at times, referred to as a composite card serves a similar purpose to that of the portfolio, but this is more compact, highlighting your top few images and important details like your measurements. This portable format is useful for casting calls where clients request z cards or for agents to send out to clients for prospective bookings.
ANY TIPS YOU WANT TO SHARE TO ASPIRING OR NEW MODELS?
Firstly, if you want to model, do it! Don’t let anyone discourage you. It probably won’t be the easiest of endeavours, but I believe that if you want something, you better go out there and get it. It’s easy to get caught up and feel like a failure if you go to numerous castings and don’t get booked or if you approach agencies and they turn you down.
It’s important to remember that no matter where you start, you’re your own brand, and not everyone is going to like or understand you. Some people will book their first 3 jobs or more in their first month of getting signed, while some won’t book for a year or more. Be realistic with your expectations. Polish up on your presentation, learn as much as you can from those who are doing it and put in the work to be as physically appealing as you can be.
DO YOU HAVE PROJECTS YOU CURRENTLY BUSY WITH?
I’ve been turning my home space into a set of sorts for my self-tape castings that I’ve had to do with the COVID-19 pandemic and adjusting to this new normal. I’m currently working on looks for my new images which I’ll be shooting in a couple of weeks, as I’ve changed my hair (which I do regularly) and need an accurate representation of what I currently look like. The other projects I’m working on, I’d have to keep it under wraps for the sake of the clients, but I’m sure it’s something you’ll like.
SYNC MODEL MANAGEMENT
Instagram: @iamalanjohn
FACEBOOK: iamalanjohn
Model of the moment.
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Alan John you ‘re flames and thanks for sharing.
Hes amazing,
Wow!
lol
I know this guy lol
okay lol
Well he’s a delight!
???