TYG Mag Interviews BEC Models
Last month BEC models was interviewed by the prestigious TYG magazine. the magazine talks about the future goals for BEC models, how we started and tips for becoming a model. Here it is!
Please can you give us an insight into the history of the agency and its roots?
BEC Models was found in 2020 during lockdown 1.0. With an extensive background in casting and production, I noticed an increase in requests for ‘real’ models. Clients generally play it very safe and tend to stick to the more traditional model. Lately, what we have been seeing within the industry is a more open-minded approach.
Campaigns are being influenced by consumers who are fed up of seeing the ‘same’ person in every window/ magazine and social media post. People want real life models, inclusive of all race, gender, height and age.
Inspired by the industry evolution I decided to take this new authenticity and provide the client with what they want, and there formed BEC models. Clients are becoming braver. People are wanting more to embrace and celebrate differences, which aligns with our agency's ethos. It's exciting.
With this is mind I took the opportunity while I was on furlough to get behind this idea and get on with setting it up!
Different people cope with this strange time in different ways, all acceptable, all right for that individual. For me I needed a project to keep my brain occupied, to get excited about. I saw it as an opportunity to try something new, it was a time that if it didn’t work, if it didn’t go right, it was no loss, so I just embraced it all.
Where is the agency based and what's the fashion scene like there?
Currently, remotely from my home in Buckinghamshire, about an hour outside of London. As a new business I am trying to keep costs down so renting an office space wouldn’t be sensible right now. It's also not necessary at the moment with everything going on. The nice thing about starting an agency is that as long as you have a phone and laptop you can pretty much work from anywhere….oh and coffee is strongly advised! Having said that, as things progress and I can begin to justify it, a lovely studio just outside of London is the dream! I’ve already started to pin ideas on Pinterest!
Do you have any favourite shoots to date?
I spent 2 weeks in Cape Town last year shooting for lifestyle stock content. We completed thirteen shoots in thirteen different locations in those 2 weeks, and although it was full on, and very tiring at times, we had a great team, some amazing models and saw some truly spectacular places. Travel, great people and photography, what more could you want!
Are there any shoots coming up that you're excited about?
Yes, there is a new brand launching soon with organic period undies! They are sustainable, vegan and biodegradable and pride themselves in being totally plastic free. The shoots brief is inclusive of all size, shape and colour so our models are perfect, and should be really fun! - these are the type of brands we like to get behind.
What's the agencies goal?
To break traditional media narratives. Our goal is to become the leaders in this new field of cast representation. We want to create a place for clients to source raw talent that gives a layer of authenticity. We not only want to represent models in the commercial sense but also want to support them through their personal projects, get their personalities and ambitions across and in turn, opens up more opportunities for them. We have a lot of projects coming up that will bring this to life.
Is there anything in particular you look for in new models?
Personality and enthusiasm are everything. The best shoots I have been on are when all the models and crew are relaxed, not taking anything too seriously, but still remaining professional. The chemistry between models and crew members really makes a difference to the success and authenticity of the shoot which really comes through in the final edits. I love to jump on a call or ideally meet face to face when signing up new models, its important for me to gauge their energy and so I know that I can wholeheartedly recommend them, not only because they fit the particular brief but also know that I am putting forward talent that bring that little bit extra. As the saying goes, “In a world that you can be anything, be kind”.
What's the best way for any aspiring models to join the agency?
Get in touch, say hey! I know as an inspiring model it’s hard to build up a portfolio when you’ve had few jobs, but try and send some pictures through and a follow up email with your application. Go out with a friend and an iPhone if you can’t afford a professional shoot and get some nice natural headshots and body shots, practice poses and angles. If you like being on social media, Instagram is a great way to showcase your portfolio as well. As I said above, professionalism and enthusiasm will shine through more than anything. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Full Interview:
https://www.tygmag.com/qa-bec-models
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tygmag/