There are a lot of rumours in the industry that a cold and “cool” attitude is the way to behave. Trust me when I see that it is not!

Vitoria Triboni is a fashion model who became a household name after her stint on Australia’s Next Top Model a few years back. We caught up with her to find out just what it takes to become a successful fashion model in Australia.

You became a household name a few years back from your spot on Australia’s Next Top Model, how did the experience help your career as a model?
Firstly, Australia’s Next Top Model is known to select a group of girls who they believe have the required potential to enter the fashion universe. That fact on its own helps every participant gain exposure as it shows the rest of the world that they have what it takes.

Additionally, having national scale, the tv show helped my work get national exposure, which I realised when interstate agencies started approaching me for new contracts.

Finally, one of Australia’s Next Top Model contest prizes was a national campaign with the eminent jewellery brand Swarovski. I won that prize and as a result of the shoot and the output, my portfolio improved and obviously the perception of me as a model was enhanced.

What advice do you have for up and coming models in Australia?
Australia is a very small market compared to Europe and the UK. Before joining the industry, it is smart to do some market research to see if your profile fits the Australian industry, and if your profile isn’t already represented by established agencies.

What I would do is: research the top 5 modelling agencies in the country and closely study their portfolio of models to see if your “look” is already there. Take note of agencies that you feel don't represent your look yet.

It is also important to keep in mind that if you do want to pursue modelling in Australia you will have to move to Sydney or Melbourne.

Have you done any modelling or acting training to help you finesse your skills
100% yes!

I don’t think any model has ever been born with the right technique. Perhaps born being photogenic or with a natural ability to act in front of the camera, but not with all the modelling techniques. Practice makes perfect and established models have been practicing for a lot longer than up and coming ones, turning the competition even harder for those starting fresh. Putting yourself through some training before hitting the industry and contacting the agencies is a brilliant way to help yourself.

Before I started my career, I undertook acting, runway, videography and make-up classes. I can easily say that those courses made me feel a lot more comfortable and confident, as well as becoming aware of areas that needed improvement.

Do you have any casting tips you can share?
Casual clothes and minimal make-up. More importantly be yourself.

There are a lot of rumours in the industry that a cold and “cool” attitude is the way to behave. Trust me when I see that IT IS NOT! Too many girls behave this way making them look the same. You are unique, so you should use that to your advantage, and that includes your personality!

Personally, I make sure to always smile. Your smile is indeed your business card.

As a model, what’s more important? To be yourself, or to be who the casting director wants you to be?
Both. Your personality will set you apart from the rest.

However, it is also important to understand that you may need to enter into a character when shooting for example. Common sense and attention to the casting director's reaction is key!

What business management skills do you think models need to have and why?
In general, you would have an agency representing you but once you are out in castings and/or at jobs you are responsible for your own representation and performance.

Business management, different to what many may think, goes beyond the basic term and also teaches you to manage your life including professional relationships, personal finances and professional behaviour.

Professional relationships and behaviour: The fashion industry is just like any other professional industry and knowing how to conduct yourself accordingly it is crucial for your success, for a solid reputation and to build long-lasting relationships.

Finances: differently to other professional industries, the fashion one is known to be highly volatile. It is imperative to manage your finances exceptionally well if you are going to rely on it as your single income source.

What media skills do you think models need to be successful in Australia
Knowing how to act, how to be the subject of an interview, how to use camera and video equipment, knowing how to apply make-up are all skills that I believe are important, not to mention being confident in front of the camera. Additionally, utilising the power of social media can be useful, but you must be aware of the pitfalls.

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