To an ‘alien’ familiar with China, it is of no secret that working as a part-time teacher and getting modelling assignments are great ways to earn an extra buck. In the past decade, the need for English teachers in China has increased by a huge number, and even more so for native English teachers. There are several advertisements, numerous agencies providing work visas, a salary from anywhere between RMB 10k to 20k, along with other benefits.

My first photo-shoot

In 2012, it was just another ordinary day as I was walking out my dorm in BLCU, Wudaokou, when a woman came up to me, took me to meet a group of quiet people she was with a few feet away and told me she wanted me to let her take pictures of my face. She added – If they needed someone with ‘my look’ they would get in touch. I let them take pictures, never actually thinking that a few days later I would be getting a call. A few phone calls and emails later, next thing I know I’m getting my make-up done for a pharmaceutical photo-shoot. I had a set of foreigners with me – this being a new experience for some. But for 12 hours we were in it together and it was tiring but I have to say – pretty amazing. To be honest, now that I’m back in the city, I do feel like going for more photo-shoots.

I was so unsure of getting into a van in a foreign city with a bunch people I didn’t even know. I remember telling my bestie to call the police if I didn’t pick up her calls or reply to her texts! I reckon we left around 7 in the morning and came back around dinner time, around 8 PM which is when we also got paid and signed consent forms. My make up lady was great, the shoot team were polite and respectful, and very professional, I must say.