The Art of True Collaboration: A Guide for Aspiring Models By Kal Kalim, Creative Director
If you are a young model starting out in the fashion industry, you have probably heard the word “collaboration” many times. Whether it is a photographer offering a shoot for your portfolio, a designer looking for someone to wear their clothes, or a makeup artist offering a makeover for exposure—collaborations are everywhere.
But what does a real, meaningful collaboration actually look like? And how can you make sure you are entering one that helps—not hinders—your growth as a model? When you collaborate, your contribution should feel seen, respected and appreciated.
Let us explore what a collaboration should feel like—and how you can approach it with confidence, clarity and grace.
What is a True Collaboration?
A true collaboration is a partnership where everyone involved brings something valuable to the table—and everyone benefits. It is not just about getting free photos or exposure. A real collaboration is when two (or more) people come together with a shared idea or goal that they all believe in and contribute to equally.
You may be new to the industry but that doesn’t make your contribution any less important. Sometimes, one person may be more experienced or established, but that doesn’t mean the other has less to offer. Your time, energy, ideas and unique presence matter.
Why Understanding This Matters
The word “collaboration” is often used loosely, and sometimes even unfairly. You might be asked to shoot “for free” with vague promises of “exposure,” or be left waiting for images that never come.
That is why it is important to understand what you are saying ‘yes’ to. When you approach collaborations with awareness and clarity, you protect your energy, your confidence and your growth.
But don’t let fear hold you back. There are so many amazing, kind and creative people out there who do believe in fair, empowering partnerships. And some of the most magical moments in your journey may come from these collaborations.
Collaborations can be powerful, beautiful partnerships that create lasting memories, strong connections and new opportunities. The key is knowing how to recognise and choose the right ones.
Tips to Navigate Collaborations with Confidence
- Know Your Worth Even if you’re just beginning, your time and talent matter. Always remember that you are giving something valuable.
- Ask the Right Questions Before you say yes, ask things like:
- What is the concept or story behind this shoot?
- Who else is involved? (Stylist, makeup artist, designer, etc.)
- How many final images (or videos) will I receive?
- When will I receive the images?
- Will I be able to use them on my portfolio or social media?
- Where will the images be shared or published?
- Be Clear on Deliverables How many outfits or looks? How long will the shoot take? What is expected from each side? The more clarity you have, the better.
- Align on Values Do you believe in the idea? Do you feel respected and inspired by the people involved? Trust your instincts here.
- Stay Professional Polite communication can go a long way. Keep things clear and respectful—your professionalism will be remembered.
- Confirm in Writing Even a simple message like: “Just confirming that we are shooting on (Date), for (X hours), and I will be receiving (X) edited photos by (Date)”—can help avoid misunderstandings later.
- Know You Can Say No If something doesn’t feel right or if the collaboration doesn’t serve your growth, it is okay to walk away.
When Collaborations Truly Work
Not all collaborations are about money. Some of the best partnerships are built on shared energy, aligned purpose and mutual upliftment.
I have seen young models shine through collaborations that began casually—but turned into lifelong creative partnerships or even career-changing opportunities. I have also seen photographers, stylists and designers go above and beyond to mentor, guide and support new talent.
Those are the collaborations we honour. The ones where everyone feels valued, everyone grows and something truly beautiful is created.
Your Journey, Your Power
As you grow in the industry, you’ll learn that collaboration isn’t just about working with others—it is about building your voice, your boundaries and your belief in yourself.
So keep showing up. Keep asking questions. Keep learning what feels right for you.
Because when done with clarity and care, collaboration becomes one of the most empowering and rewarding experiences of your journey—not just in fashion, but in life.
A Model’s Collaboration Checklist
1. Creative Direction
- Do you clearly understand the concept or theme of the shoot?
- Have they shared a moodboard or visual references (5–8 photos)?
- Does the vision align with your style and comfort level?
2. Team & Communication
- Who is part of the team? (Photographer, stylist, MUA, designer, etc.)
- Have their profiles and previous work been shared?
- Are you able to contact everyone involved in case of questions?
- Are expectations and deliverables clearly discussed and confirmed in writing?
3. Shoot Logistics
- What is the exact shoot location, date, and time?
- Who is bringing the clothes and accessories?
- What’s the hair and makeup plan?
- Are there outfit changes? Is there a safe, private space to change?
- Will travel and food be covered? Are breaks planned?
4. Post-Shoot & Deliverables
- How many edited pictures will you receive?
- When will you receive them?
- Are high-resolution images included?
- Where will the images be published?
- Are you allowed to post them on your social media or portfolio?
- Will proper credits be provided?
5. Wellbeing & Safety
- Are you 100% comfortable with the concept, location, and styling?
- If you’re under 18, is a parent or guardian involved?
- Is the shoot location safe, supervised, and appropriate?
- Is someone responsible for your safety and any emergencies?
- Will there be someone to assist with wardrobe changes, if needed?
Important: A professional collaborator will never make you feel bad for asking questions, wanting clarity, or prioritising your safety.
Parents Guide to Collaborations
A Guideline & Checklist for Parents
As a parent of an aspiring model, especially someone between the ages of 14–18, your support and guidance can make a world of difference. The fashion and modelling industry can be exciting, but also unfamiliar and at times, overwhelming. Many parents don’t come from this world and may feel unsure about how to help their child navigate it safely and wisely—especially when it comes to the idea of “collaborations.”
This guideline is designed to give you clarity and confidence. It is here to help you ask the right questions, spot red flags and ensure that your child is entering into respectful, fair and valuable collaborations that help—not harm—their journey.
What is a Collaboration?
A collaboration is when two or more people come together to create something—be it a photoshoot, a campaign or a content piece—by combining their individual skills and resources. In modelling, it often includes a model, photographer, makeup artist, stylist, or brand working together mostly without monetary exchange.
True collaborations are mutually beneficial. Each person involved should feel seen, respected and valued. Unfortunately, the term is often misused to justify one-sided deals where young talent may be exploited in the name of “exposure.”
Your role is to help your child recognise the difference.
What should a good Collaboration look like?
✅ Clear communication and agreement on what each party is bringing to the table
✅ A safe, professional and respectful environment
✅ An opportunity for growth, learning or meaningful exposure
✅ Equal benefit: your child should receive something valuable in return—images, visibility, credits, learning, networking, etc.
✅ No pressure to compromise values, boundaries or safety
Checklist for Parents: Questions to Ask
- Who is involved in the collaboration?
- Have you checked their profiles, previous work and reputation?
- Where will the collaboration take place?
- Is it in a safe, public or professionally supervised space?
- Who is going to be present during the shoot/event?
- Will there be other models, assistants or adults around?
- What is the concept or goal of the shoot/collaboration?
- Is it aligned with your child’s values and goals?
- What will your child receive in return? Photos? Credits? Experience? Social media exposure?
- Is everything being discussed clearly over messages or emails? Ask to see these conversations.
- Can you or a trusted adult accompany your child? For minors, this should be non-negotiable.
- Will there be a written agreement or at least a confirmation of terms?
- What are your child’s instincts saying? Encourage open communication. If something feels off, it probably is.
- Are they excited and learning from the experience?
Encouraging Independence with Support
You obviously don’t want to control every decision your child makes—but being informed and involved in key moments can make all the difference. Teach them how to trust their intuition, ask questions and value themselves. This is also an opportunity for them to learn life skills like negotiation, professionalism and self-respect.
Final Thoughts
You are your child’s biggest cheerleader—and their safety net. With your encouragement, wisdom, and watchful eye, they can pursue their dreams with confidence and safety. By understanding what a true collaboration means, you are not only protecting them, but also empowering them to build a strong, ethical and sustainable career in fashion.
We are in this together. Let us help the next generation rise—ethically, beautifully and powerfully.
Grateful,
Kal Kalim, Creative Director
Australian Supermodel of the Year
www.supermodeloftheyear.com
