From my first shoot with Millie | Margaret River, Western Australia 2016
Firstly, thanks for making the time for a chat today, Millie!
How did you first get into modelling?
In September 2008 I entered the Viviens Live Model Search, with two friends during the Perth Fashion Festival. I didn't think I would even get through, but I ended up being the female winner. (YAY!) I signed with Viviens Model Management and then the rest is history.
Any advice for an aspiring model wanting to start out?
Be patient and dedicated. Modelling is not a career - it's a lifestyle. If you want to be successful in the industry you need to fully adopt the lifestyle. Travel, exercise and healthy eating are not optional.
Top 3 career highlights so far.
I've had so many it's hard to choose!
I loved the Becca Cosmetics campaign.
Last year I was named the Photographic model of the year at the WAFAs (West Aust Fashion Awards) which was such a great honour.
Travelling to model in the US was a really exciting time for me, LA is such an amazing city.
Millie for BECCA Cosmetics Campaign Photography by Nicole Bentley
How do you pick an agency to represent you, or do they pick you?
If you want to get an agency, you will need to make appointments with the agencies that you are interested in and meet with them. If you have already been working as a model then take your book (portfolio), If not then you just go in as a new face. The agency will consult with you and let you know whether you are what they are looking for. If you have a few agencies keen to sign you, pick the agency who you prefer. A good agency will have a good reputation and you should have a good connection with the bookers. (essentially they are the ones who will drive your entire career.)
Millie for Sunday Times Magazine Photography by Cheyne Tillier-Dally
How do you get a portfolio, and should you pay or test?
I personally believe that the best portfolios are built through test shoots and not paid shoots. Unless you can pay for a test shoot with a really good photographer. Test shoots are generally more creative and experimental and the creatives involved are often more passionate about the project then paid test shoots.
Photography by Caroline Zenker
What are your favourite kinds of photo shoots?
My favourite types of shoots are usually creative shoots or location shoots in interesting places. Exploring new places while you work is a win-win situation. I also love shooting with animals. They can make the day a little bit longer but they give a shoot a bit more energy and help to create real moments.
Biggest job you've ever had?
I think that would be the Becca Cosmetics Campaign. It was worldwide and the images were used in Sephora in many different countries!
Photography by Nicole Bentley
Who would you like to be photographed by, sky's the limit?
I just love to work with people who are relaxed and passionate about what they do. I don't see there any sense in stressing out on a shoot. Working with a great team can make all the difference in getting some great images from a shoot.
Can you talk about what testing is, how often you test.
Test shoots are basically a creative outlet for creatives in the industry. Usually the shoot is for creating an editorial or story either for a photographer/stylist/makeup/hair stylists portfolio or for submitting to be published in a magazine.
I usually don't test as much as I used to these days. But this past year I have been testing more to get some fresh images in my portfolio. I am picky with who I test with and will usually ask to see the photographers portfolio and get a mood board. That way I can be sure I am spending my time on a project that I feel good about.
Any disappointments along the way, and how do you deal with them?
There are a lot of disappointments in this industry for models. Mostly with regards to casting for jobs and not getting them. Like they say : "You win some, you lose some."
Sometimes I will feel especially bummed when I don't get a job that I went for but I try to stay positive, something better will come along.
Any post shoot rituals?
Depends on the day. Mostly I love to go home, hop into bed and watch a movie and if I had a really, long, gruelling day I love to have a naughty dinner and a glass of wine to take the edge off, and an early bedtime.
Photography by Gavin O'Neill
I know that you work and travel a lot. How do you manage to look so fresh faced?
There are some days that I look fresher than others. I always try to go to bed early and I avoid salty foods or alcohol before a shoot because it causes puffiness. I use natural skincare products on my face because they are usually softer on the skin, nourishing and they don't contain harmful chemicals or parabens.
Can you talk about your vision for millicentlambert.com
I started my website with the intention to create a place for new faces, aspiring and experienced models to come for information and advice about the modelling industry. It is a place for all things model and fashion related. Tips and tricks of the trade. I have some dreams and plan on adding a few special updates to my website soon, stay tuned.
You can connect with Millie via her website: millicentlambert.com