Lifestyle advice & modelling success. The Model's Handbook

Pinning Alex Beer down for an interview is not an easy task. In between working as a model, photographer and starting up his own production company – Beer Productions which provides solution-packages for events and media – Alex is also planning his upcoming wedding to presenter and long time girlfriend Ruth Francis. Nevertheless, themodelshandbook.com has managed to catch up with him in between castings for a quick chat about his journey to date and hopes for the future.

After just a few moments, it is clear that Alex is brimming with energy, personality, and an almost unquenchable joie de vivre.

The Model’s Handbook: How did you get into modelling?

Alex Beer: Modelling for me wasn’t supposed to happen. I got a chemistry degree and then whilst studying and events management degree I got spotted by Vivienne Westwood in Manchester. That is when my life completely changed. At the time, I didn’t know who she was but she persuaded me to do a fashion show for her and after that I didn’t stop working.

“I get a real buzz from helping people.”

TMHB: Did you enjoy the success?

AB: At first, I couldn’t get my head around the fact that I was making a lot of money and not having to work very hard. I come from a family with a very strong work ethic and growing up I was taught that without a great deal of effort, you’d get nowhere. But there I was: having an easy life and not taking anything very seriously. I spent a lot of money with all my friends and it took me a while to realise that if I treated my career with a little more respect, it could take me to places I have never even considered.

TMHB: So what has prompted your shifting focus from modelling to other pursuits?

AB: Modelling can be tough, especially for guys. When the recession hit, I felt I needed a backup plan. These days, I still find regular work but now when I have a quiet week, instead of worrying about when I’ll work next, I am occupied with following my dreams. I suppose, that’s what I love most about modelling: the freedom and flexibility. When I’m busy with work and castings I feel great and I use the money to fund the purchase of better equipment, etc. Then, when I’m quiet, I have the free time to go after what I really love and what I’m really passionate about; which is photography.

TMHB: Have you always have a passion for photography, even before you started modelling?

AB: Yeah! I used to have stacks and stacks of magazines like GQ, Esquire and Vogue and I was always flicking through them. They just blew me away. I think from a very young age I was already unconsciously preparing to be a photographer. Then, when I started modelling, I used to give my friends ideas for test shoots, preparing mood boards, researching ideas and just trying to be as creative as possible.

TMHB: So when did you first pick up a camera and put these ideas to the test?

AB: Back in 2008, i was lucky to be offered a job in Ibiza for the summer working for Manumission. As i wanted to get into photography, i saw this a great opportunity to buy a camera before the summer. I really wanted to practice while in Ibiza because it is such an amazing place to shoot. It has fantastic light and locations and draws fashion magazines and designers to the island to shoot all the time. Whilst there, Living TV approached a group of us working for Manumission to cover us for the summer – which was amazing. The film crew saw the interest and passion i had for photography. They filmed my first properly organised photo shoot which I then pitched to a few magazines and, amazingly, it got printed it. I had such good coverage from the TV show, that before long, I was working constantly behind the camera.

TMHB: So, let’s discuss your other passion – Beer Productions.  How did that come about?

AB: I decided to combine my background in events management and with something I noticed through the course of my modelling career; that people pay serious money to have models at their events and parties. I approached a couple of potential clients and offered them the services of a few mates. You know, it’s surprising how many good models are willing to help you out if they see you have an idea they can believe in. Anyway, a year or so on and it has just grown from there and now we’re involved in three events a week, every week. I started off with just four guys and now it’s over 25. I’m just starting to represent women as well and now the plan is for Ruth and I to run it together.

“Beer productions allows me to help friends find work during the quieter seasons.”

TMHB: Between modelling, producing and photography, where do you find the energy?

AB: I guess I’m just driven by the need to make a difference. The money I make these days is very secondary. Obviously, you need money to see the world and enjoy a good lifestyle, but what gets me up every morning is the sense that I could help someone and enjoy their journey with them.

TMHB: What do you feel the future holds?

AB: Well, everything for me is an adventure and I am always open to where that may take me. For example, I have just started to manage the career of a musical act that I met recently. She has an amazing energy and a fantastic voice. If I can use my contacts or events to showcase her talents and ending up helping her, then that is so important to me. I am just so excited about life and very grateful for the opportunities I have been given. If I can help my friends, allow others to pursue their dreams, and enjoy the journey along the way, I will be a very happy man.

J.O