Fashion models and catwalk models are often interchangeable, as fashion models will sometimes strut their stuff on the runway and catwalk models will sometimes pose for glamorous fashion shoots. Despite their similarities, there are some key differences between the two. Are you a fashion model or a catwalk model, or are you both? Well, sit tight, beautiful people — you’re about to find out.
Fashion Models
Fashion models are models who work closely with photographers and designers, most likely in a studio or on location. It’s like a Hollywood set-up: a director, a producer, a photographer (or videographer or both), a set and of course, the glam squad (aka the stylists and MUA’s). Being photogenic in this case is probably the most important thing. Posing, knowing your good angles and how to position yourself in a way that’s flattering for your body, for the angle of the camera, and for the angle of the light are all strengths of fashion models.
Fashion models, like catwalk models, are there to highlight a designer’s work; they’re there to demonstrate how the clothes or accessories look on a human figure. Together, they become a work of art — fashion meets beauty. The photographer’s job is to capture the perfect moment of that union, and to send it to magazines, catalogues or other publications so they can show fashion-conscious people the latest styles.
Catwalk Models
Catwalk modelling, also called runway modelling, requires the ability to showcase a designer’s work while walking down a long platform, often in front of a pretty extensive audience. If you can walk backwards, spin, and impress a large group of industry people, all while wearing a gorgeous piece of clothing and ridiculously high heels, you’re probably a catwalk model.
Fashion designers will usually have a show twice a year to showcase their new collections to a group of buyers. These people are often the crux of the fashion industry, and though it doesn’t reach as many people as editorials do, you’re often in the presence of some very important figures.
Many catwalk models have some form of background in dance; they are extremely graceful and can flaunt couture while simultaneously striding down a platform. Catwalk models also must be photogenic, but the most important quality a catwalk model must embody is, well, their body. They have to combine fashion and movement. A living, moving image of the designer’s desired look.
So… Which One Are You?
Many models, especially supermodels, are experienced catwalk strutters and fashion photography visions. Whether you’re graceful and fierce on the catwalk or serene and photogenic, you have probably experienced a little of both elements of the fashion industry. And if you know your strengths and are radiating confidence as only a fashion or a catwalk model can than I admire you. Please continue your amazing work and inspire people like me to want to do the same xxx