From Your Favorite Mentor-On Handling Rejection in the Modeling Industry (Men, Women & Others)
What’s Irving Serving?
Hey Superstar,
So… you didn’t book the gig. The agency said, “We’ll keep you on file.” The casting director gave you that look. And now you’re sitting in your apartment, staring at a mirror, asking yourself: “Am I enough?”
First, let me stop you right there.
You are and don’t ever forget it Yah Hear!
And welcome to the club-rejection is part of the game.
Let’s talk real for a second. This industry? It’s glossy on the surface – flashing lights, high-end campaigns, and faces on billboards. But underneath? It’s grit, patience, and more “no’s” than a toddler with a bedtime.
Rejection Is Not Personal (Even When It Feels Personal)
You’re a product, yes-but you’re also a person. And when someone says “not this time,” they’re not saying never. They’re saying you weren’t the right fit for this shoot, this vision, this client. That’s it.
You could be too tall, too short, too edgy, too classic – or maybe the casting director just saw someone else first. You don’t control the tastes, trends, or timing. You control how you respond.
Reframe the “No”
Every rejection? It’s a redirection.
Didn’t book that fitness shoot? Great – now you’re free for the editorial gig coming up. That campaign in Milan didn’t call back? Cool – maybe that opens the door to something more you.
Even legends got passed over.
Ever heard of that Calvin Klein shoot where the now-superstar was told, “You’re just not our guy”? Yeah – they are the guy now.
This Isn’t Just About Men or Women – It’s for Everyone
No matter how you identify- male, female, non-binary, gender-fluid, trans, or otherwise – rejection will touch your journey. The industry is evolving, but it still carries old biases, slow shifts, and confusing standards.
To my male models: I see you. It’s not just “stand there and look good.” The pressure to be hyper-masculine or effortlessly cool is real.
To my women: You already know how much this game tries to define you. Don’t let it. Reclaim your story every time you show up.
To my beautiful “others” – my gender-nonconforming trailblazers and those refusing boxes: you are redefining the industry. Every no you hear echoes in a system you’re actively changing. Keep going.
Tips from Your Favorite Mentor (Yes, That’s Me)
Have a “Bounce-Back” Routine
Rejections sting. Cry if you need to. Then move. Journal. Run. Dance it out. Shake it off – literally.
Build a Support Circle
Find other models, artists, or creators who get it. Talk it out. Laugh about the ridiculous casting call you went to. Share resources. We rise together.
Keep Your Toolkit Sharp
Update your portfolio. Learn new poses. Get camera-comfortable. Rejection becomes fuel when you channel it into growth.
Remember Why You Started
Was it the art? The expression? The dream? Go back to that. That passion? That’s what makes you unstoppable.
Parting Words from Irving
The industry will say “no” a hundred times. That’s fine. You only need one yes to change your life.
So chin up kidz, shoulders back, and keep walking-literally and metaphorically. Because one day soon, someone’s going to look at your photo, your walk, your vibe and say:
“That’s the one.”
And you’ll know-every rejection served its purpose.
From Your Favorite Mentor,
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