Posing in character is a quintessential skill of commercial modelling. Successfully masquerading as a key person in photo shoots and films can make or break a modelling assignment.
Posing in character in commercial modelling terms usually means pretending to be a particular person rather than simply striking poses. You may be asked to wear a uniform, being filmed interacting with other models. You may also be required to “act” in-house with the public. For example, last year our model Eugenie was chosen by Morrisons to act as a member of staff to promote their selected reductions on seasonal items. The Morrisons Christmas campaign succeeded on two levels: it highlighted the struggles some households go through at a time of the year when money can be tight; also, Eugenie helped the renowned supermarket compete against their rivals at their peak season of commerce. The campaign wouldn’t have been as authentic if Eugenie wasn’t posing as a Morrisons staff member. The retail giants were more than happy with the results, and there was minimal acting on Eugenie’s part as she excelled in front of the camera.
With an ever-growing number of modelling jobs on offer, being confident in character posing character has never been so important. Models need to be adaptable and flexible, so posing in character is a superb way for them to put their skills to test and pass off their looks as someone else.
Modelling often involves acting. We’re not talking acting skills seen in the West End or in a Hollywood film. However, models are often required to accurately portray characters in a variety of photo shoots and short films. Models receive directions and support from the on-set crew, so they shouldn’t be too preoccupied with a lack of acting experience. We know that most commercial models are not professional actors, so whilst acting experience is undoubtedly a benefit, it’s not a prerequisite factor.
Posing in character is important to a lot of our clients. They all have a strong reputation in their fields, so interacting with existing and potential customers could be the difference between a solid advertising shoot and one that misses the mark. Another example that perfectly emphasises this is our junior Jet2 models. They were asked by the popular airline to pose as junior stewardesses (“stewardettes”?) to promote their in-flight kid’s meals. What’s more effective than using real child models to appeal to young jetsetters?
The variety of characters models are asked to represent depends on the assignment. They could be pilots, plumbers, shoppers or customers – just like our model Gary, who posed as a Kwik Fit customer for the company’s Motability campaign.
We also have requests for TV extras; posing as a member of the public is second nature to our models!
Just as children enjoy dressing up in just about everything, our models of all ages get paid to dress up posing as something they’re not. Commercial models – we salute you!
