A Model's Guide to Avoiding Mistakes when Walking the Runway

Working as a photographer at fashion shows I can always tell which models on the runway are more experienced than others. Many newer models make the following obvious mistakes.

Mistakes Models Make: Not working the clothing.
Designers will be disappointed if they feel you don't show off their clothing well. If you want to get hired back make sure you know how to walk in all types of garments. Use your arms to swish a short full skirt. Practice unbuttoning jackets while walking. Start unbuttoning from the bottom so your hands are at the collar at the end so you can take off the top in one fluid motion. Be very aware of trains and long skirts. Make sure your pose at the end of the catwalk is appropriate for what you are wearing. Remember that what you are modeling is the most important thing. If the clothing doesn't look good you won't look good.

Mistakes Models Make: Not paying attention to facial expressions.
Many models are so concerned about their walk and the clothing they forget about their facial expressions. You do not want to look like you are concentrating on not falling down. Some designers will instruct you to smile and others will like a more serious look. A serious look does not mean looking bored. Put some life behind your expression. Remember while on the runway you are always being watched and photographed. When you are standing to the side while other models are walking or the designer is being introduced and you are clapping you still need to be conscious of how you look.

Mistakes Models Make: Not being aware of the camera.
Long after the fashion show has ended the photographs will be used by the designers, clients and in fashion publications. You may even want to purchase images for your portfolio. You are modeling for the photographer as well as the live audience. Make sure you are aware of where the official photographers are and pose for them. Give them a moment to get their image.

Mistakes Models Make: Not recovering well from mishaps.
A trip or a "wardrobe malfunction" are bound to happen some time in your career. Keep going. Don't let the problem shake your confidence. It will make you prone to more mistakes. Act as though you meant to do whatever it was that happened and keep going confidently. If you are experiencing a problem with the garment do your best to keep it on and to keep decent. Remember that even the most experienced models make a mistake once in awhile. The difference between a top model and a beginner is how they handle themselves in the aftermath of the disaster.