How to become a gothic alternative model
This alternative job fits the bill for:
- Part time jobs for teens (though you'd need an adult to accompany you to shoots)
- Most exciting jobs in the world
- Jobs that allow piercings
- Unusual jobs
- Student jobs
Name: Pepsi
Career title: Alternative Model
Find out more about Pepsi the alternative model on:
Full-time/part time: Part time
What made you want to go into this profession?
I've always wanted to model since I was little but didn't think it was somthing I could get into - until I found websites specially for alternative girls. I just enjoy dressing up and seeing the photos afterwards.
How long have you been doing this? Do you need training or work experience?
I've only been doing this about 6 months, you don't need training but the more experience you have the better. It's good just to take lots of photos of yourself to see what looks good.
How did you promote yourself?
Mainly through my myspace account; I've found most of my work through myspace. I also have my own website and I'm registered with a few agencies.
Do you need any special skills to be an alternative model?
I wouldn't say you need skills, but being confident in front of the camera and knowing what looks good on you and what pose suits you helps.
What do you earn? Do you need to spend any money to make money in your line of work?
For most jobs I've been earning around £50 per hour. I do spend money, but it's usually just on clothing or props for photoshoots.
Job perks?
I really enjoy it. I like dressing up, it makes you feel really good when you see the photos of yourself looking good. I've even had a few people in the street notice me because of what I do.
Downside of the job?
I like everything about it, but you just have to be careful that the photographers who approach you are legit. You can't be afraid of criticism and having perverted messages or comments sent to you.
How physically or mentally demanding is the job?
It's not really, unless you are wearing very high heels for a long time!
Long hours?
No, I just do this in my free time... but it would be great if I could one day do this full time and make a living from it.
Most hideous career moment to date?
Luckily I haven't had anything hideous happen to me yet!
Most glorious career moment to date?
Having my own website.
Do you meet interesting people and if so, who ...? Is there a freak-factor?
I usually only meet photographers or other models and everyone so far has been normal.
Is there a danger factor?
Yes, you have to be really careful when photographers approach you. I've had a lot of people contact me who aren't professionals, they just want to take photos of me for their personal use! I would also reccommend taking a friend along with you and always letting someone know where you are.
Are there opportunities for travel/work abroad with your career?
Hopefully in the future. It's just a matter of getting notcied by the right people.
Do you meet fit, clever, solvent gentlemen in your line of work?
Haha no! I only meet photographers and they are all nice guys to work with.
Is there a sexy uniform?
I usually wear anything I want so I always pick a sexy outfit.
Can you still see yourself doing this in 20 years' time?
Probably not... I guess it depends how well I age! But not many people want to see a women in her 40s in PVC.
What advice would you give young women who are interested in this career path?
Just go for it. Try and get yourself registered with an alternative model agency and get some decent photos taken of yourself. I would say be careful what jobs you accept, no matter how desperate you are for work... don't put yourself in danger.
Photos by: www.bondagechronicles.com, Darkest Angel and Tony Haw
Mookychick loves Goth:
- Goth eye makeup tips
- How to make your own hair falls
- More goth eye makeup!
- Alternative jobs guide: Interview with alternative goth model
- Goth band name generator
- A guide to gothic chokers
- A guide to goth weddings
Goth style links outside Mookychick:
More unusual jobs and alternative student careers advice
Mission statement
Mookychick believes that climbing trees and riding giant turtles is more fun and girly than worrying about make-up. But if you want to worry about make-up instead of turtles? Fine by us. Be you feminist, kitten, punk, emo, indie, goth, witch, vegan, horror junky, intellectual, christian goth, corset queen, geek, unicorn, sea monkey... be you into alternative style, alternative health, spirituality, comics, manga, j-pop, harajuku or jock culture... we will always love you.
