„When people see models, they often imagine a life filled with glitz and glamour—runways, designer outfits, and exotic photo shoots. While that’s certainly part of the job, I’ve learned through over a decade in this industry that the reality of being a model is a lot more complex. Let me take you through what it’s really like, from my personal experience, and share a few tips for anyone dreaming of walking this path.“
1. Discipline starts the day. „My mornings always start early, usually by 6 or 7 a.m. Staying in shape is critical for me, not just to look good, but to feel strong and ready for anything. I’ll often do yoga or a light workout to keep myself flexible. It’s important to understand that modeling is physically demanding—sometimes you’ll be standing for hours or wearing something quite uncomfortable, so fitness isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about stamina.“
2. Skincare is my daily ritual. „Skincare is one of the most important parts of my routine. I never skip cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen, even when I’m exhausted after a long shoot. The camera captures everything, and healthy skin makes a huge difference. Consistency is key, and it’s more than just the products I use—it’s about maintaining habits, like staying hydrated. Water, in my opinion, is the best beauty secret.“
3. Be ready for anything. „Every day is different in this industry. Some mornings I’m in Nice, and by the evening, I’m flying out to Paris or Milan for a casting or shoot. One day might be a high-fashion runway, the next a lingerie photo shoot, or something completely unexpected. I’ve learned to stay flexible, both mentally and physically, because the only thing that’s certain in modeling is that plans change constantly.“
4. Professionalism goes a long way. „I’ve worked with so many talented people, from famous photographers to designers, and one thing I’ve learned is that professionalism is what makes you memorable. Photographers like Franco Decker, whom I absolutely love working with, appreciate when a model is easy to work with, can take direction, and help bring their vision to life. It’s not just about being in front of the camera; it’s about collaborating as a team and understanding that you’re part of a larger creative process.“
5. It’s not all glamorous. „I won’t sugarcoat it—being a model means long hours and sometimes uncomfortable situations. Backstage at fashion shows, it’s chaos. There’s a lot of waiting, a lot of rushing, and sometimes you’re wearing clothes that aren’t easy to walk in or posing in extreme weather conditions. It’s part of the job. You need to stay calm, smile, and focus on delivering your best every time, no matter the circumstances.“
6. Confidence and resilience are everything. „This career comes with constant highs and lows. Rejection is a huge part of it. There are castings you won’t get, shows you won’t walk, and campaigns where they choose someone else. The key is to not let it shake you. Confidence is what keeps you going—believe in yourself, even on tough days, and always work on improving. There’s no room for self-doubt, especially when you’re constantly being judged on your appearance and presence.“
7. My evenings are about recharging. „After a busy day, I like to slow things down. A warm bath, a good book, or even just catching up with friends over a glass of wine helps me unwind. Mental health is something that can be overlooked in this fast-paced industry, but I’ve learned how important it is to take care of your mind just as much as your body.“
Final thoughts: „To anyone who dreams of becoming a model, I’d say this: Don’t focus only on the glamorous parts. Understand that this is a business that demands discipline, adaptability, and a thick skin. The best models are the ones who bring something authentic to the table—whether it’s your personality, your story, or your look. The industry is always evolving, and if you’re dedicated and stay true to yourself, there’s a place for you.“
— Dasha
