How to become a model If you want to become a model, here are steps you can take to pursue this career: 1. Decide what kind of model you want to be There are many types of models, including runway models, print models, plus-size models and hand models. There are also models who do not conform to conventional modeling standards. Given this range of options, it is important you begin your modeling career by deciding the type of modeling that best suits you. 2. Start practicing at home You can begin practicing for a modeling career immediately. Look for videos of professional models and study the way they move and pose. Imitate and learn from these videos. You can craft your runway walk in front of a full-length mirror if you have one. Modeling can be a very demanding career, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle and prioritizing exercise can help you stay mentally and physically well. 3. Build your photograph portfolio Start with photographs taken by your friends. Have them take full body and head shots of you wearing simple makeup against a plain background. This helps an agent or client determine if you are the kind of model they are looking for. Look for start-up photographers who might take pictures of you in exchange for permission to use your pictures in their advertising. You will eventually need to invest in a photographer to take professional shots. Make sure you have a good range of pictures in your portfolio showing you in several different poses and locations. This shows you to be versatile and able to work with a variety of situations. 4. Look for an agent You can try getting clients on your own, but most clients prefer working through a modeling agency, so you should try to find an agent. When you visit an agency, take your portfolio and be prepared to audition. You should also know your body statistics, including height, weight, eye color and shoe size. While it is preferable to present professional pictures to an agency, your non-professional pictures may be enough. If the agency likes what they see, they will normally pay for you to visit a professional photographer. Make sure you research an agency to verify they are legitimate before you sign a contract.
Well, all the above is fine but does not you give much to go on, so do you have what it takes to be a model? The first thing you have to consider is what type of model do you want be? If you are trying for high fashion modeling, the runways of Paris, the cover of Vogue, etc., the requirements are very strict. If you are hoping to do commercial modeling (such as product or lifestyle) the requirements are much broader. If you want to be a glamour, or pin-up model, this area has its own set of requirements. You need to be fearless about self-promotion to succeed as a model. Always look for opportunities to model that could get you noticed by potential clients. You could, for example, volunteer at a local fashion show or look for retail outlets that need models to demonstrate products. Perhaps there are local hair stylists or makeup artists who need models to practice on. Be sure to treat each engagement as a professional job, and make sure there is someone there to take pictures of you for your portfolio.
All modeling, except for some glamour, is client driven. There is no need for a model (or for that matter, a photographer, bummer) until a client has something to sell (a product, service, or idea) or in the case of editorial an idea to convey. At this point, the client becomes willing to part with the dollars (the money stream) to accomplish his/her sales or editorial goals and a model is hired. It is the size of the potential sales’ goals and the model’s importance in those goals that determines how much a model is paid (hourly fees. usage, etc.). Some types of glamour and stock lifestyle modeling can work differently as the photo itself has a value and the buyer can be found later. So, when we look at different types of modeling we are looking at different classes of clients. As an example, the Fashion Industry is dependent on using models in its advertising, promotion, and sales material. In certain top fashion market cities this can lead to many job possibilities and high fees. So when considering a modeling career you must start by looking at the different types of modeling being demanded by clients, the requirements for a given type of modeling and if you’re physical, talent and personality are right for that type of modeling. How old do you need to be to start a modeling career? There are modeling opportunities for people of all ages, including child models under 12 and mature models over 60. For fashion modeling, the typical age range is between 16 and 21. The age requirements for most other types of modeling depend largely on the needs of the client for a campaign or project.
