Regular Feature
A Day in the Life of... Whether it’s in your favourite magazines or during a catwalk show, the glamour and beauty of the modelling world inspires many of us to follow careers in fashion. So what would it be like to live and breathe this stylish lifestyle? Chloe Franchina spoke to Lottie Benson, a model for FM London, to uncover the reality behind this enviable career.
How did you become a model? Did you need any specific training or education? I was scouted when I was in school, but at the time I wasn’t sure if it was for me, yet it came back to me time and time again. I changed my mind a few years later once I had explored other career options and gathered some life experience. When I felt I was ready I went to London and met with a few agencies before being given an opportunity to work with FM London.
what personal qualities do you think are essential to be good at your job?
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What would be your biggest tip, for someone looking to follow your career path? I would say you need to be realistic; research the industry, the specific type of modelling you are looking for and what requirements agencies may have. Take some photos along with you, just home snaps, and don’t ever pay for a portfolio! If an agency sees potential they will snap you up. Make sure you wear something that makes you feel confident and just go for it – what shall be shall be either way, so learn from it!
There are endless opportunities to meet new people and travel to various locations
what does a typical day consist of? There isn’t such a thing as a typical day in modelling. One day may involve walking/running around to go sees and castings and the next straight shooting. Shoots can take ten minutes or ten hours depending on the brief. Then you’ll have time to grab a bite to eat or a drink with a friend, finishing with a yoga or tai chi class to unwind after a productive day.
What is the best thing about your job? There’s something different every day, with endless opportunities to meet new and inspiring people and travel to various locations you may not otherwise be able to. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone frequently, building my confidence and giving me chances to explore new and exciting places.
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Remember who you are, don’t be tempted by other peoples’ opinions, as much as they might test you.
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You need to be patient, understanding and accepting yet determined, resilient and passionate. You need to have good roots and be able to stay focused, but at the same time you need to be imaginative and ready for anything.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being within a creative industry you are able to interact with every sort of character and if you are lucky enough you can create something really unique and off beat. In particular, I am looking forward to a shoot I am part of coming out in Wonderland magazine.
What’s been the most challenging part of your career so far? My head is constantly in the clouds so I have had to learn what to do in order to concentrate and be organised. I’m also really clumsy, forgetful and a bit of a technophobe – but I’m learning!
If you could spend one day in a different career, what would it be and why? Anything that includes helping, exploring and documenting the world. I have a real interest in everything and how it all fits together.