Green Models Print Eco Portfolios, Don't Wear Fur

Here in New York City, models seem to be on every corner. Even I've done modeling here and there. It's easy to get sucked into the 'scene,' but it's important to remember to stay green--even when it comes down to your job/hobby.

Printing a portfolio for a model is kind of like making a CD for a musician. It's crucial. However, those huge, glossy photos aren't the most eco-friendly things out there. There are, luckily, companies out there creating eco-friendly photo paper. PhotoPaperDirect.com is one company that is helping to advance the paper industry and I?d recommend them any model or photographer.

Nonetheless, printing is printing and if you're looking to be a 'greener' model, I'd suggest keeping your portfolio online and only printing photos when absolutely necessary. Most people are more than happy to check out an online portfolio these days... after all, it is much more convenient for both parties involved.

In addition to your portfolio, be choosey about what you're modeling. I know that gigs are hard to come by at times and anything is better than nothing, but if you truly want to stand up for the earth in your modeling, put your foot down when you must. If you can afford to turn down shoots and shows that use fur, leather, or harmful plastics, then do it. The best way to get designers to stop using products that hurt our environment is to get their models to stop working with them.

Just like any other profession, modeling can be made greener. If this is your industry, make every effort you can to green it up a little bit.

This post was inspired by Hollywood Green.