Just back from one of the fashion capitals of the world, a Gr. 12 learner of the Eunice High School, Charné Snyman, appeared in a photoshoot captured in the 19th Annual Edition of the magazine Wedding Guide 2025.
While in Paris, Charné attended the prestigious European Model Showcase.
“We walked into a room with representatives of all the top agencies of the world sitting there and they had the opportunity to meet us one by one and to get to know us individually. They looked at my portfolio and asked questions to get an idea of my personality,” she explained.
The agencies will decide if they want to offer Charné a contract to become a full-time model or not, but it can take up to four months to receive feedback.
Charné did many photoshoots in different locations, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, and all the events took place at the Hilton Opera.
“The highlight for me would be the friends I have made and how we became a family in such a short time. The modeling and professional part was wonderful and a dream come true, but making all these friends is definitely what made the trip worthwhile.”
The photoshoot for the magazine was done at Green Leaves Country Lodge in Hartbeespoort, and Charné featured as the Autumn Daydream bride.
She was chosen to do the shoot after her agency had submitted photos of her to the magazine.
“I was truly happy and very excited to hear that I was chosen for this specific photoshoot.”
The shoot was quite long – and including hair and makeup, it took about 8 hours.
“I felt like a true bride; and as magical as it was, it was very difficult to keep the energy levels high during such a long shoot. We moved locations as well.”
For Charné, the highlight was getting to experience the advertorial side of modeling, as it is different from what she usually does. She had fun experimenting and trying something different.
“It feels ethereal to say that I am featured in the magazine, even if it is small – but it just reminds me how grateful I am to have opportunities like these and have friends and family who give their endless support and love. Sometimes they seem more excited about it than me!”
The modeling industry is challenging and time consuming, but Charné still focuses on her academics as well, as her education is important to her.
“Education and knowledge are something permanent; and the modeling industry is realistically not for the long run, even if we want it to be.”
For aspiring models, Charné recommends a model coach or academy to start off to teach them the ins and outs of the industry, but also to make sure they have lots of love and support.
“You need to stay confident, humble and excited, but you need to have a thick skin for this difficult industry. Give it all you’ve got, try your best and always stay kind to those you work with.”
Next on the calendar is the Opulent Model competition, which is the biggest modeling competition in South Africa.
The finale is in August and Charné is ecstatic to have been chosen as one of the finalists.
