New talent sought at Whanganui open day

Carla Jayne Smith (left) and Amanda Betts talk to visitors at the open day and launch of embrace model management. Photo by Bevan Conley.

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INSPIRATION: Carla Jayne Smith (left) and Amanda Betts talk to visitors at the open day and launch of embrace model management.
PHOTO/BEVAN CONLEY
By Liz Wylie
liz.wylie@wanganuichronicle.co.nz

Aspiring models, makeup artists, photographers, hairdressers and their families attended an open day and launch for embrace model management on Sunday.

The session was held at Nga Tai O Te Awa on the corner of Guyton and Wilson Sts where Amanda Betts of Auckland Agency Red 11 models was making an inspiring speech.

"You need to step forward in to yourself and become who you want to be," she told he audience.

Ms Betts was in Whanganui last month to help mentor six young Embrace models recently recruited by founder Carla Jayne Smith.

Former model and agent Betts said 85 per cent of modelling content will be on video now and it is very important for young talent to be social media savvy and not post things they would not want potential clients to see.

"Contracts are there to protect you," she said.

"They are also there to protect clients who book you."

She talked about the rules around working for more than one client marketing similar products and the various traps for young players.

"Agencies charge 20 per cent and that is the same booking fee the world over.

"They know how to negotiate the best fee because they are the professionals."

Attendees at the open day were offered the chance of a styling session with Ms Smith and Chonel owner Carol Hayward was on hand for hairdressing advice.

"We will teach you all you need to know about styling, etiquette, deportment and modelling," said Ms Smith.

She said embrace model management are planning to organise a community fashion show in Whanganui which will include models of "all sizes, ages and gender."

She said the foundation of embrace model management is to build confidence and self esteem with youth in Whanganui and Manawatu.