Featured Photographer: Getting to Know Bernie de Belles

TopModelAdvice caught up with US based French photographer Bernie de Belles, who specializes in edgy editorial fashion images, to find out what it takes to get awesome photographs every time and how a positive, memorable personality can take you a long way.

The best way Bernie’s work can be described in one word is “bendy”.. if you can distort your body to do crazily creative things without minor injures to your limbs, you’re good to go.

What do you look for when selecting a model?

I select the model based on the project or concept. Different projects have different needs. For my personal work, I prefer runway type models with long natural hair who are toned and bendy. But then again, that’s my personal preference for aesthetic.

How can a model stand out?

Personality and confidence go a long way. Models that aren’t memorable are less likely to see repeat business.

What’s the craziest or the most diva thing a model did on a shoot?

Other than being 12 hours late lol? I was testing in LA.  After the makeup artist spent an hour putting on the makeup, the model had the audacity to go to a mirror say that she didn’t like it, and proceeded to take it off and do her own makeup.

Did you ever have to call off a shoot while it’s in progress?  

A few times. Like the time above. No sense wasting time.

How often are models late?  

Modeling attracts people from different backgrounds, some that   value other people’s time, and some that don’t. Which is why you use agencies. You communicate this to the agency, and in the case  of no show’s they are able to send someone else. Word gets around  with those that aren’t professional.

 And if this affects, then will you hire them again?

Only if the client insists and is paying for my time…

Have you worked with anyone famous?What were they like?

Don’t we all have our 5 seconds of fame ? I’ve worked with several well known models and musicians. The common factor is that they are professional, personable people typically with something that makes them unique. What’s shocking is that I’ve gotten more diva attitudes from models who think they are entitled versus ones that are accomplished. Being humble goes a long way.

What scams and things have you heard that models should lookout for? 

If something seems to good to be true, it usually is.

 How can great photos help in landing more bookings? 

No matter what your genre of modeling, your book needs to represent you well, and make you stand out or at least be as good as everyone else. It’s a competitive world and sometimes you need to invest in yourself.

Any tips to help a model achieve good photos all the time?

Experience, experience, experience. You need to work with good teams who push you. If your photos aren’t great and you keep working with the same kind of photographers, you’ll keep getting the same results.

What do photographers hate most?

I dislike the lack of professionalism, respect, divas, drama, and models that can’t emote.

 In your opinion at what point could a model be called “confident”? 

Confidence is when a model knows what she needs to do and does it.

From your own point of view, what are the best ways a model can deal with rejection?

It’s a numbers game. People have a personal preference and you may not be it. If you don’t have tough skin, this is not the industry to be in.

What should a model do if she/he is not getting booked?

If it’s occasional, keep at it. If it keeps happening, make sure you’re in the right modeling market. If you are, compare your book to others in the same market and see what’s missing. All of this while maintaining a good positive attitude.

What are the possible reasons why a model is not getting booked despite the awesome portfolios and great potential he/she exhibits?

Personality or being in the wrong market.