Pensées #2: When Being a One-Trick-Pony is Not Enough

Have you ever wondered why most male models look like they have just been slapped in the face by a wet fish? Or why they stare blankly at the camera as if they have forgotten how to smile? Or why do they seem to have only one facial expression that they use for every occasion?

It’s not you, it’s real. I have been working as a fashion photographer for over a few decades, and I have seen my fair share of one trick ponies. These are the male models who have only one look, one pose, and one attitude. They think that by being cool and aloof, they are projecting confidence and charisma. But in reality, they are boring and bland.

Don't get me wrong. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. There’s nothing “wrong” with having a signature style or a trademark expression. Some of the most iconic male models in history have had them. Think of David Gandy's smoldering gaze, or Tyson Beckford's cheeky grin, or Sean O'Pry's piercing eyes. These are expressions that convey emotion, personality, and mood. They are expressions that make you want to know more about the person behind them. But it’s not a good thing if it’s a schmuel posing to be an “experienced” model.

But these expressions are not the only ones that these models can pull off. They can also switch to different modes depending on the context, the theme, and the mood of the shoot. They can be playful, serious, seductive, angry, happy, or anything in between. They can adapt to different scenarios and different audiences. They can bring life and energy to a photo shoot.

That's what makes them professional models. That's what makes them stand out from the crowd. That's what makes them worth hiring. This is not only frustrating for me as a photographer, but also for the clients who hire them. Imagine spending thousands of dollars on a campaign that features a model who looks like he doesn't care about anything. Imagine trying to sell a product or a service that is supposed to be exciting and fun with a model who looks like he is bored and unhappy. Imagine trying to create a story or a mood with a model who looks like he has no emotions at all.

It's a waste of time and money. It's a waste of potential.

That's why I prefer video portfolios over static ones. Video portfolios allow me to see how the models move, how they interact with the environment, how they express themselves with their body language and their voice. Video portfolios allow me to see their range and their versatility. Video portfolios allow me to see their personality and their energy.

Video portfolios allow me to see if they are more than just one trick ponies.

Frankly, I get infuriated when I'm given a model for a photoshoot who has only one expression and brings no energy into a photo shoot. I want to work with models who can surprise me, who can challenge me, who can inspire me. I want to work with models who can make me say wow.

"Hello, is anybody home? The One-Trick-Pony Model

"Video portfolios allow me to see if they are more than just one trick ponies."