Behaviors of a Pro Amateur Model

Though I'm no modeling expert, I often model with complete newcomers—to them I am an expert! So here is a list of things I do as an amateur model that make me seem like a total pro. 

1. I don't complain. Sometimes I will ask a question or make a comment if something makes me very uncomfortable, and in that case I'll keep it professional rather than blaming or complaining; but if it's just that I'm tired or bored or don't like the clothes I'm wearing, then I keep it to myself. 
2. I tend to genuinely like whatever's put on me. Sure, sometimes I like one option more than another, but I genuinely feel it's an honor to wear any creation, not just the outstanding ones. 
3. I keep my expression neutral or positive when I am trying on garments; if I don't like what they're putting on me, I don't think it's very polite to show it. If I do give a positive reaction, I make sure to positively react to all the options, picking one or two things about it to compliment. One time, I gave an extra positive reaction to maybe the third option a designer tried on me; she then said, "Well now I think you don't like the first two!" Not every designer will react like that, but I think it's good to keep in mind that a designer wants someone to respect the garments they put on you. 
4. When a designer puts a garment on me and gives me a once-over to see how it looks, I always give a little pose—nothing crazy, but I don't just stand there lifeless.
5. I come prepared, whether it's to a casting, a fitting, or a show. I wear an all-black outfit that I can easily take off. I come with nude underwear and pasties already on (and bring multiple additional bra and underwear options).
6. I make sure that once I sit for hair and makeup, I am only wearing things that can be easily removed, so as to not disturb the hair and makeup when I change into my outfit. This also prevents getting any hair and makeup products on the garments.
7. I make sure I get in line for hair and makeup, I don't wait around waiting for someone to get me. I keep an eye on the time and do my own if time is running out, or alert organizers if no one is aware that hair and makeup is way behind schedule. 
8. I do not change my makeup or hair unless instructed by the designer or organizers. Many models leave the makeup chair and immediately go "fix" or change the look, because it's not how they like to be seen. My job isn't to look how I want to be seen—it's to look how the designer wants me to be seen. 
9. I understand my role is to fulfill the designer's vision, not to look good (unless, y'kno, that's their vision).
10. I wear clear, unscented deodorant, to prevent product or sweat from getting on the garment (sometimes this can't totally be avoided, but I at least do my best). 
11. I don't wear any other strong scents or products that would get on the garments.
12. I keep my model bag well-stocked: my black heels, nude heels, black boots if necessary, white tennis shoes if necessary, various undergarments, extra pasties in case other models need some, non-messy snacks, water, makeup and hair products in case I need to do my own. 
13. I stay calm in chaos and come prepared for anything. Sometimes there's no hair and makeup artist. Sometimes we run out of time while preparing. Sometimes a garment is changed last minute—last year I had a designer switch my outfit while we were lined up, after the show had already started.
14. I don't eat food while wearing or standing near the garments. If I do eat backstage, it's away from the garments and only foods I can eat with minimal mess.
15. I keep my nails clean and neutral. No crazy colors, length, or designs. 
16. I do my best to keep a professional expression during the show, even if things go wrong—I don't "break character."
17. I take direction well—I'll do my best the first time, and if the designer gives notes on what to do differently, then I do that. 
18. I'm familiar with the basics of a runway walk, such as: keep your eyes up, don't look down if you can, walk in the middle of the runway when it's your turn, and walk to the side of the runway as you go back so there's room for the next model, pose at the beginning/middle/end as instructed, stay "in character" until you're fully off the runway, then get back in line for the finale. I'm also comfortable changing any of these rules as instructed. 
19. When posting a look on instagram, I tag and credit all involved (to the best of my ability). 
20. I do not post garments on Instagram before the show has happened (some designers don't care, but in general this is a no-no; the garments should make their debut on the runway, not your own Instagram). 
21. Backstage, I take any opportunity to ask for others' Instagrams and follow them, this way I can credit them later, or ask for photos/footage if they're a photographer. The times I leave it until later, sometimes later never comes, and I lose the opportunity to connect with that person via Instagram. 
22. I have an Instagram in the first place: exclusively for modeling, open to the public (not a locked private account), and I showcase my portfolio on my account. 
23. I do my best to capture photos and videos on my own, in case I don't receive any from the organizers or whatever photographers were there. I could be better at posting these after the fact, but I don't get too hung up on that—I at least have some stuff on my profile that shows I'm an active model; it's fine if I don't post every single show. I care about actually modeling, not posting about modeling.
24. I take feedback well. I don't let it hurt my feelings (or if it does, I process that later), I take it into account and do it differently the next time. 
25. I'm nice and kind and helpful backstage. If there's some way I can help, I will do so, whether it's assisting in a quick change or distributing information or finding a person someone's looking for. It's a team effort, and I do my best to help out. 
26. I have fun! A good mood is contagious. It's much more enjoyable to work with a model who enjoys modeling.