BANGKOK — 5 August 2026, A transgender model has spoken out after she said she was turned away from a fashion photoshoot moments before filming because the brand owner objected to her gender identity, prompting calls for clearer hiring requirements in the modelling industry.
Speaking to Khaosod Online, the model, who goes by Owen, said she had been hired for a lifestyle clothing photoshoot through a last-minute booking. During discussions with the production team, no requirement was mentioned that applicants had to be cisgender women or that transgender models would not be accepted.
Owen said she arrived at the set on 4 August, checked in with the crew, ordered refreshments and changed into the wardrobe before staff informed her they needed to verify details with the brand owner.
“They asked me, ‘Are you transgender? The brand owner isn’t okay with that, so you’ll have to go home,'” she recalled.
Shocked by the decision, Owen asked the crew to discuss the matter again with the brand owner, noting that she had already travelled to the location and was ready to begin work. However, the team later returned and confirmed the decision had not changed.
She said the production team initially offered compensation for her wasted time, but the amount was less than half of the agreed modelling fee. After negotiating, one crew member agreed to contribute additional money personally because, according to Owen, the brand owner refused to increase the payment.
Owen explained that she normally posts her modelling profile, including her portfolio, body measurements and social media accounts, in online casting groups. Prospective clients then contact her directly to discuss jobs.
She said this was not the first time she had encountered such a situation, although previous incidents had been resolved through discussion without her being asked to leave.
Owen believes gender should not be an issue for fashion still photography, where voice and dialogue are irrelevant. She added that for video projects requiring speaking roles, she always informs clients in advance that she is transgender so they can decide whether she fits the role.
She urged brands and casting agencies to clearly state any gender-specific requirements in job advertisements.
“If a brand is strict about gender, they should specify it in the casting post. I’ve seen posts that clearly say ‘cisgender women only,’ and in those cases I simply don’t apply,” she said.
Owen added that the incident occurred on her birthday, making the experience especially upsetting. Despite the setback, she said she will continue working as a model and hopes employers will communicate their requirements clearly to prevent similar situations in the future.
