how to become a MODEL

Have ideas about becoming a professional model? Many young women want to be models because it's glamorous and sexy. The truth is, many more models don't make than do. Being a model is grueling and takes a lot of hard work. Even with the hard work, modeling doesn't mean you'll make it. We've put together some realistic advice to help you make it happen.

First you'll need to realize that there are certain qualities that every model needs to have. Depending on the type of model you want to become, you will need to be in generally good health. Clear skin, healthy hair and attractive features are a must. Other qualities such as height and weight will play a role in your career depending on what type of modeling you pursue. There are several exercise programs designed for models that help build your body for modeling.

You'll also need to decide what kind of model you want to be. Anyone who wants to be a model can do it, but unless you possess the basic requirements, you will find that there is very little work available to you. If you don't look like the runway models you see on television and in print, you might want to try different types of modeling.

If you're a tall person, very thin, with small breasts, you might want to consider pursuing a career as a catwalk model. If you’re more full-figured and curvy, you might be a good candidate for plus size modeling. If you have large breasts but don't have wide hips, you might look for work as an underwear model. If you don't fit any of the typical model body or face descriptions, you might want to consider auditioning for foot, hand, or hair modeling.

Plan on getting photos done. Your first photos do not need to be professionally done but they should be made for the purpose of showing your ability as a model. Most agencies don't mind snapshots, but they will want the snapshots to be focused and serious. At a minimum, you should have one very nice headshot and one very nice body shot. Take a lot of photos and decide on our favorites. Next you'll need to get prints of the photos. You'll need carry 8x10 photos in case you're asked to leave one at an audition or interview. These will be fine until you are able to get professional photos done. Save these photos and don't try to give them away or distribute them. Remember, these are not professional photos and you'll probably do much better once you have professional photos done.

Another good idea is to look up a reputable modeling agency. You can find reputable modeling agencies by searching the internet. You can also usually find them in your local phonebook. Either way, it's a good idea to research the agency you choose just to be on the safe side. When you go to your appointment with the modeling agency it's important to be prepared. You might be asked to show different facial expressions and should be prepared. Practice different faces at home in the mirror so that if you are asked to perform, you will be comfortable and ready.

Lastly, be prepared to accept rejection and criticism. It is important that you accept rejection and criticism politely. Be professional and polite and, of course, be timely. All these tips along with your passion for modeling and you commitment to succeeding should ensure that you have a positive modeling experience and possibly a great modeling career.

MODEL PHOTOGRAPHY

If you have been booked for an upcoming casting call there are a few things every model should know about the unwritten rules of a model photography shoot. You should relax and enjoy your shoot of course, model photography can be fun – but there is also a business aspect of the shoot too. If you want to be called back again, there are some simple tips you should learn.

Get Ready

Take a small selection of clean, pressed clothing that fits the role you will be auditioning for. Bring your own makeup even if there will be a makeup artist available. The makeup artist could be cancelled. Get your hair styled or cut neatly in a manner appropriate for the shoot. Be sure to get a good night's sleep before the shoot.

Get There on Time/p>

"On time" doesn't mean the exact minute scheduled for the shoot. You should be absolutely ready to go at the first moment you are called. This means you must get to the shoot early – period. Thirty minutes early is good, fifteen will do.

Be Friendly

Try to be cordial with everyone you meet and introduce yourself to everyone you possibly can. You will be surrounded with people who can help you get more work. Be as friendly as you can and they might return the favor.

Don't Talk Money

Refer all questions about rates and terms to your agent. Do not negotiate the terms of a shoot without your agent. If you are asked to change terms at the shoot call your agent. Do not sign a photographer's release form without your agent's approval.

Do Sign the Form

Always be sure to take your copy of the voucher or any releases that are signed at the shoot. Sign the form and take one copy for yourself and one for your agent. Don't forget to leave a copy with the photographer.

Have Fun

Remember you are about to do what all models want to do. Model photography can be fun. Relax and enjoy yourself.

SWIMSUIT MODELS

SWIMSUIT MODELS

Swimsuit modeling is a separate part of the standard modeling business and it is not for everyone. As a swimsuit model you will obviously be showing off your physical characteristics. You will be required to give your sizes and you will need to have an attractive and healthy body. There is a different type of training and posing that goes along with being a swimsuit model when compared to standard fashion modeling. The ways you stand, walk, hold yourself, pose and play to the camera are all a bit different for a swimsuit model.


Although the ages utilized in swimsuit modeling and its near cousin, lingerie modeling, can begin in the early teens, there can be moral issues when posing young models. It is up to the parents and the agent to make sure all work is done in a non-offensive, tasteful manner that won’t present negative issues later in a young model’s career. An adult swimsuit model is responsible for judging the content and quality of their own work. Never agree to change the elements of a shoot due to pressure on the set. It is up to you to insure everything you do is tasteful and of high quality. If you have issues with the photographer or the shoot in general, contact your agent, and he or she will intervene on your behalf.


Physical appearance rules in the swimsuit modeling field and you must be well-proportioned and have some meat on your bones to avoid looking too skinny or too athletic. A good sized bust and posterior can help when it comes to filling out a swimsuit properly for the camera. There are many quality jobs available in the swimsuit model field but you will need a good agent to find the best ones. The top swimsuit models can earn quite a bit of money and are often superstars in their own field.

MODELING AGENTS/SCOUTS

AGENTS/SCOUTS


Anyone serious about a career in modeling should be serious about obtaining the services of a professional modeling agent. Exactly what does a modeling agent do? They find models work. Modeling agents negotiate job contracts and serve as employment agents, connecting models with paying clients that represent companies and products. Typical clients a modeling agent might have would be clothing companies, make-up manufacturers, retail stores and catalog companies.

Modeling agents can work for an agency or they might work independently. There are also modeling agents that specialize in specific areas of modeling such as runway, film, children or plus-size.

PLUS-size MODELING

PLUS SIZE MODELING


Have you ever heard the comment ... "You're so pretty – you should be a plus size model"? Plus size modeling is for women of a certain height and size. The specific plus sizes are usually from 12 to 18 for print models – sizes 12 to 24 for runway modeling and size 18 for fit modeling. The target height for plus size models is generally 5' 4" and under for petite models and above 5' 9" for high fashion work. Many successful plus size models do not fit these exact measurements and yet still find work in commercial or lifestyle plus size modeling, where the promotion of products or services are more important than specific plus model sizes. This includes modeling for print advertisements, television commercials, infomercials and trade shows.



Regardless of your exact size and the type of plus size work you choose to audition for – all plus size models need to look fit and healthy and exhibit a personality that is likable and easy to work with. It will also help if you have plenty of patience, punctuality and a flexible schedule.

Tips for Plus Size Modeling

* Wear a modern but classic hairstyle. Don't get too wild or "trendy"

* Use minimal makeup appropriate for your skin type

* Wear stylish but not outlandish clothing. Simple is better than complicated

* Exercise regularly to maintain a firm and fit appearance overall

If you can present something unique about yourself to the casting directors you will make a much more memorable and lasting impression than if you just show up and go through the motions.

Plus size modeling is serious business and can be very lucrative too!

GLAMOUR MODELING

GLAMOUR MODELING


In the world of glamour modeling, having confidence and being secure with your body and looks, is very important. Successful glamour models have a passion for posing, walking in front of an audience and performing. Because glamour modeling often involves nudity or partial nudity, glamour models must be over the age of 18. Although glamour modeling does involve some nudity, it is not viewed as pornography or anything of a negative nature.

There are some physical requirements in order to become a glamour model. You need to be at least 5'8" tall and your body weight should compliment your height. You'll want to have clean, fresh skin without blemishes, scars, or excessive pimples. Your hair should be in good condition without split ends or damage and your teeth should be white and straight. A great smile will also help you toward success.

If you are interested in becoming a glamour model there are some things you'll need to look out for. One major tip is to be sure who you are working with. You'll want to know ahead of time if the job requires any nudity so that you can decide for yourself if the job is for you. You should always ask up front about how any photos or video will be handled and how they might be used in the future. It's a good idea to get this information in writing to avoid future problems. Visualize yourself as a successful model and start working towards it today. Working on your appearance and learning as much as you can will only help you get jobs.

HAIR MODELING

HAIR MODELING


Many successful models began their careers as hair models. Hair modeling can be an important step towards a successful career in modeling. Most hair models receive high quality photographs and exposure on the runway. Hair models receive experience and great haircuts at no cost. More successful hair models have never had their hair dyed or permed. Typically, hair models with longer hair stand a better chance of getting hired at casting calls and having a great personality is another factor casting directors consider.

Some hair models set guidelines for themselves in terms of how much they are willing to experiment with their hair. Keep in mind that if you are willing to be more daring and allow more experimentation, you stand a much better chance of being hired.

Maintaining healthy hair by conditioning regularly and avoiding processing is a key factor in successfully getting hair modeling gigs. When auditioning for a hair modeling job, try to be outgoing and positive. Attitude is important when auditioning for a hair modeling job. Expect that casting calls will be busy and the competition will be tough. Plan on walking the runway and expect to receive criticism.

Make sure that you are compensated in some way. You might receive free copies of your photos, free hair products, free hair styling or even cash payment.