Model material??

I recently shot a 60th wedding anniversary party for a family member. Most of the attendees were over the age of 65 with a few bringing their grandchildren along. After shooting all the required photos I was surprised by a young lady who wanted some pictures done. She was as delightful a young lady as she was photogenic. i told her she should pursue modeling but she has her heart set on being a dermatologist! What do you think she should do?

I don't think it is appropriate to say what she should do but if I were in her shoes I'd go with the medical degree and specialize in dermatology. I don't have anything against modelling as a career but I'd rather have the opportunity to help people improve their health not to mention saving some from dying of skin related cancers.

Never did I suggest she forget her ambition of being a dermatologist to pursue a modeling career....I just told her I think she could be a successful model if she desired to give it a try. She was very relaxed and natural in front of the camera.

Nor did I imply that you suggested such a thing. Your post and question was very clear. There's no accusation or implication about you there. It's just my answer. If you'd like more precision I understand first-hand that pursuing higher education in the sciences requires singular focus for all but the very gifted. Important choices have to be made starting from a young age and there is usually little room for pursuits like modelling. I can't speak for her so again if it was me I would not pursue modelling (even casually) if I wanted a career in medicine.

She has begun her pursuits at a young age indeed....she is just 15 years old and already has a clear idea of where she wants to be in the not so distant future. I guess the question I should have posed is whether anyone other than me thinks she has model potential....

If that was the question then yes. She certainly does. Your obvious skill at portraiture doesn't hurt either

She's a pretty kid! Should she pursue modeling? If she has no interest, then no. My daughter has modeled for me over the years in the studio and on location, always had fun with it, but never had the interest to pursue it beyond our work. The models with whom I've worked have a real desire for it and also have a mindset for it. They also have some real stories. It isn't just posing, moving, emoting, et al. It's working with strangers, typically guys, and having the ability to stay safe either by avoiding a bad situation or leaving a situation before it turns bad. At 15, she'd need a parent or guardian for signing releases, and ideally for being present during the shoot. At 18, she's on her own.

That said, I've worked with many capable and intelligent women for whom modeling is a hobby. One model actually had an editorial in U.S. News and World Report (yes, the national magazine) on US participation in the international market for military drones. Another model is successful in international business. Both of these women are in their mid 20s. Perhaps your young lady friend may decide to model some day. With her look, especially in that second photo, she could. It need not be the sole focus of her professional life however. With a bit of experience and some street smarts, it could be a hobby.

Point-n-shoot-n wrote in post #18737064
Ii told her she should pursue modeling but she has her heart set on being a dermatologist!

It's not an either/or choice. If she wants to model, doing so at age 18+ could help with college expenses.

Have her read this: https://medium.com …fe-of-models-5e398f6d0994 , then let her decide. Had I a daughter, after reading that, I'd not let her model whilst she's getting an allowance from me.

OhLook wrote in post #18737357
It's not an either/or choice. If she wants to model, doing so at age 18+ could help with college expenses.

I was thinking the same. Maybe do some modeling on the side.

That story is an interesting read! I am sure that the things described have indeed happened to some models in their careers. When I asked her if she had ever considered modeling, she gave me a look of minor disbelief....like the thought had never crossed her mind. I don't think she will ever get into it but the potential is there in my opinion anyway. She has a brother who also has the "look" needed to pursue a career in modeling/acting.

Modeling is just a job. Often difficult and unrewarding. Two friends are models and they would join me in suggesting the young lady should do what she seems best and ignore gratuitous advice even when well meant. Well, one of them would be much more blunt and colorful, but the same gist.

Careers and hobbies can coexist . . .