Decide what kind of model you'd like to be. Technically, anybody can be a model. However, do remember that if you don't meet certain requirements, the work available to you will be incredibly limited, and you may have to compensate in other departments (reliability, technique, etc).
- A Plus Size Model. If your body is full and curvaceous, you may be able to be a plus size model.
- A Cat-Walk Model. If you're tall and very skinny with a small upper body, you can be a catwalk model.
- Other Types of Modeling. If you don't fit any of the face or body descriptions, perhaps you can be a foot, hair or hand model.
- Consider your "look".
Get some photos done. These don't have to be professional but they should be created for the purpose of showing your ability as a model. Although agencies say they are happy with snapshots, that doesn't mean they want to see an out of focus shot of you out partying with your friends with a little note attached saying that you're the one on the right! As a bare minimum, you will need one head shot and one body shot.
- Get your favorites printed into 8x10s. Save these in case you are asked to leave a photograph anywhere before you have professional ones done. Don't force these on people or try to hand them out. You'll be better off waiting for the professional shots instead of taking risks with an amateur photo.
- Consider getting the photos professionally done. Professional photography, even if it is expensive, will give you a better idea of what kind of look you project. You will eventually need these photographs to snag an interview, so think of it as a worthwhile investment!.
Look up the number of a reputable modeling agency. You can find these in your area chance for this photo. They'll use this to compare to your head shot. They will ask you to walk and take your measurements, so be prepared for all of that as well. Learn to accept rejection or criticism politely.
- Be professional. Be polite and always turn up on time to any appointment or shoot. If you're late or rude, word soon gets around and then nobody will want to work with you.
- Be organized! Models often get called off places at the last minute and have very busy days. You need to be on top of things if you want to succeed. Buying a day-to-day planner can really help.
- Confirm whether or not there will be a make-up artist on site for any work you are doing. 99 times out of 100 there will be one, but there may be the odd occasion where you are required to do your own make-up. If there is a make-up artist, then arrive fresh faced.
- Be truthful about your measurements. Don't say you're skinnier than you are just to get a shoot. Once there, the stylist will have problems and you will get found out. Word will get around and you could find yourself without a career!
- Treat modeling like a real job. Girls that don't take it seriously have small chances of succeeding in their modeling career. Realize that it is harder than it appears and there's a lot of work behind all that glitz and glamour at fashion shows.
Tips
- You may have higher chances to become a model if you have a pretty face. However, this is not a requirement; most models actualor models. Any skills you can add to your arsenal will only help your future career.
- You can also enter modeling contests. However, make sure you check that these are being run by a reputable agency.
- If, for whatever reason, you've decided signing with an agency isn't right for you, you could consider going freelance. But be warned: the pay is usually considerably less and there are fewer safety precautions.
- Get your parents' permission if you're under the age defined as being an adult. (18 years)
- Get a website. It helps spread the word that you're out there and also serves as a place for your adoring fans.
- Know your limits on style and bold shoot. If you don't want to do glamour work or are uncomfortable doing full bold shoots, speak up and don't let people push you past those limits. Also, consider where you want your career to go in the future. Sure, you may be comfortable doing glamour now, but what if you decide you want to do fashion or catalogue work in the future? You might be discriminated against if they know you have done this line of work.
- Have a portfolio it helps when bringing to clients. Go to a Go-SE, and go- see the clients.
- Show attitude.
- Have a lot of Fun!
- Magazines are a great source for beginner, freelance, and amateur models. You can make connections with photographers, make-up artists, and other models. While agencies do not use this site, it can help to build up a portfolio and find smaller paid assignments. Many photographers there work on a time-for-print basis. This is a great way to build up a portfolio without paying for a professional. But do note that you need four pictures to sign up, and you want pictures that will grab attention.
- It may also be worth your while to try sites that allow you to talk to experts in the modeling Industry. These sites allow you to ask industry professionals questions and get the answers you want and many, like those mentioned above, also provide additional services like photo and portfolio advice, as well as management contracts etc.
- Be careful when signing contracts or releases. Some contracts may require you to model exclusively for a particular agency. A lot of releases, which are more like mini-contacts that are done for a single shoot, will emphasize the photographer's right to an image, saying that they may do whatever they wish, but don't mention the model's rights. It is your image they are using, and you have a say in what is done with pictures taken of you. Make sure to discuss this before signing anything.
