Model, Nadia Dearing, shares tips for booking your next modeling job on site.

By Nadia Dearing

As a model, you're always searching for the next big gig. Applying for a gig is thrilling—you're never quite sure if you'll get it, but you apply anyway. I had that same thrill recently, when I applied to the Detroit Netwerk Spring Meet-Up photoshoot. Stephanie aka ‘The Bagladie’ is known for her work as a Thifted Stylist, Creative Director, Model, and more! When I noticed her initial casting call, several other girls had already responded before I could. I instantly had so many doubts – Would she see my caption? Had she already chosen the models she needed? 

All those doubts disappeared when Stephanie reached out to me! We discussed my current hairstyle, other wardrobe details, and then she said that if I found a makeup artist I could be a part, so I was happy to book Kiara Binion, a super creative, welcoming, talented, and educational makeup artist, for the shoot.

On the day of the shoot, myself and a few other models woke up feeling fatigued, so I quickly ran to grab us all breakfast. After we ate, Kiara completed my makeup then I took out my hair rollers and got a nail set to match the designs I discussed with Stephanie. Once everyone was dressed and ready, we headed to the shoot location.

One of the photographers of the day was Stéphane Parker who is phenomenal at making models feel fierce, safe, and welcome during shoots. When it was my turn to shoot, I walked to the designated area where the colors were vibrant and accentuated the outfit I was styled in so well. What I loved the most was how Stephanie chose pieces that you might not understand individually, carefully styled them and made a masterpiece. Each look had its own theme and Stephanie cared about every detail – the hair, the nails, the clothes, shoes, and jewelry. The shoot turned out absolutely amazing, and overall, everything flowed together well.

Soon after I completed the Spring MeetUp Photoshoot with Stephanie, I received an offer for another modeling opportunity with Weardoh. It turns out the original model that got casted for her branded shoot was unable to attend. Maeva reached out to me to be the model for that branded shoot the very next day! Mavea gave me a call later on and we went over the concept and requirements for the shoot.

I re-packed and organized my suitcase accordingly and on the day of the shoot we met in Downtown Detroit. Our photographer was already there waiting for us. We went over the looks and matched them with Weardoh's blazers – Weardoh's Yoyo Blazer and Flavy Blazer, designed for all sizes.

My first look was styled with the Flavy Blazer, paired with a tan jumper, and my nude heels and purse. I have so much fun posing for commercial shots and the energy in this shoot was electrifying. The whole team was sweet and welcoming.

What I found particularly fascinating was that the designer had us convey both business casual and streetwear looks to demonstrate the versatility of the blazers. Overall, the shoot turned out amazing, and it was my first time doing a business photoshoot using some of my own items.

I highly recommend Weardoh – Mavea, the designer, was so sweet and the blazers were truly one-size-fits-all. It was awesome to witness the blazer comfortably fit my size as well as another model with a completely different body type. I was also thrilled to learn more about Weardoh’s values and felt truly inspired after talking to Mavea about her career path and educational journey that led her to this point.

After a busy day of modeling unexpectedly turned into two gigs, my advice to other models is to be prepared every day for a potential opportunity. You never know when your next opportunity will present itself.

A strong physical and digital portfolio, and simply being ready can do wonders for landing your next gig!