So I’m getting asked a LOT about modeling and all its requirements/advantages/disadvantages and tips to give out. Since I reply almost daily to these questions, I thought I might just spare time and create a page full of helpful tips to get into modeling. BEFORE YOU GO ANY FURTHER, PLEASE KNOW THAT THESE TIPS ARE NOT AN OBLIGATION TO FOLLOW, THEY ARE DRIVEN FROM MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AND MAY DIFFER FOR ANY OTHER TYPES OF MODELING OR IN FUNCTION OF THE INDIVIDUAL (so please read before i get loads f ‘ew your tips suck, they’re not even true’)
General tips & tricks to model:
- Modelling is a business, and as a model, you are your own business! Like any business, it takes time, effort, commitment, and patience to become a successful model. Remember that success does not happen over night.
- Present yourself as the perfect candidate: show confidence, have a good attitude and a friendly personality. Show your personal style, but keep it clean and simple and always make a good first impression.
- Keep a healthy lifestyle: drink a lot of water, hold on to a healthy diet, work-out regularly, get sufficient sleep and avoid cigarettes and alcohol.
- Look after your skin and your hair: use skin & hair care products, keep make-up at a minimum, take off your make-up every night and go for a regular trim.
- Apply and attend as much castings and go-sees as possible: For models, a casting or a go see is a job interview, and should be regarded as such. Be prepared!
- Model agency representation: If you are looking for representation within a model agency, or if a model agency contacts you, please make sure the contract is reliable and includes the standard conditions of the industry. Keep an eye on the following points: percentage of commission, duration of contract, cancellation terms, exclusiveness, any hidden costs or fees (basically read the small print!) If you have any doubts please contact us. Don’t sign a contract if you do not feel 100% sure!
Do you have what it takes to a model ?
There are tons of different kinds of modeling, not everyone fits into the leas, tall figure of the high fashion model. Scroll down to find out all the different kinds of modeling and which one fits you best 
High Fashion
When you see the incredibly tall and lean figures that grace the runways and editorials for the leading fashion houses and designers, these are the High Fashion models. They are generally required to be between 172cm to 180cm (5”8 to 5”11), with a dress size of 4-6 US (6-8 UK), with a typical bust size of 34. The age range can be from 14 to 25. For guys the age range is more flexible and they can start from the age of 16 until their late 40’s. They need to be between 180cm to 188cm (5”11 to 6”2), with an excellent physique and a chest size of 94cm to 106cm (37” to 42”) and 76cm to 81cm (30” to 32”) waist. Guys tend to have longer careers if they look after themselves.
Editorial Print
This is modeling for magazine editorials and covers such as Vogue, Elle etc. The standard requirements for these models are similar to those in High Fashion and you must be very photogenic Quite often the same models will work in both Editorial Print and High Fashion. These editorials provide great exposure for models even though the fees earned are sometimes relatively low. This is normal and it can take a few years to gain the experience needed to get the bigger paying jobs.
Commercial Print
A huge market that encompasses every kind of print advertising. This can range from advertising in magazines to products on supermarket shelves to billboards. The benefit of working in Commercial Print as a model is that the target audience of the advertisers varies considerably. Naturally the brands want to attract and represent the people that will buy their products, so there are many opportunities here if you are not the High Fashion type.
Catalogue Modeling
Companies create catalogues (print or online) to sell their latest clothing lines or various others products, and it’s the models job to make them look good. Here you will find many great opportunities for different model types, as the model is chosen to represent the target audience of the different companies. With the increasing number of websites that require models to promote their goods online, this is very lucrative for many models.
Plus Size Modeling
Modeling for the larger body type, this type of modeling is on the increase and a relatively new phenomenon. If you’re confident, with great attributes and you are between the sizes of 12-16 US (14-18 UK) then this could be for you. More and more advertisers are using Plus Size Models to promote their products in a bid to appeal to a broader demographic. As a Plus Size model you will still need to have great skin, teeth and hair and have that something special about you. For High Fashion Plus Sized Models the height requirements remain at a minimum of 172cm (5”8). (Plus Size Models below – eastwestmodels.de)
Glamour Modeling
Is modeling that emphasizes a models sexuality. Glamour Modeling can range from lingerie and swimwear shoots, to artistic and nude photography to men’s magazines. You will need to be beautiful, sexy and confident, with an extremely outgoing personality. Height restrictions tend not to apply, which is the great attraction to many models. If you are considering this area of modeling, take care as there are many dishonest people that take advantage of young models who are eager to get into modeling. If you are interested in Glamour Modeling it’s advisable to have a reputable agency looking out for your best interests.
Body Parts Models
An area not usually thought about for newcomers, but it is a very relevant sector of the industry. The most common body parts tend to be hair, eyes, lips, hands, legs and feet, which are used to promote many products in print and TV. You will need to have exceptionally well proportioned body parts and know how to look after them. This is definitely an area within modeling that’s worth considering as it can prove to be surprisingly profitable.
TV Commercials
Modeling in TV commercials does not have any overall criteria for height, size and age, as each commercial requires someone different and specific to that job. It is usually necessary to have some acting ability, but this can be natural ability or learned. There are many different types of TV commercials, ranging from the highly stylised photographic, to the performance led reality style. The great advantage in TV commercials for a model is that brands are continuously seeking models, which the general public can easily identify with. This opens up the doors to almost everyone, who feels that they have what it takes to work in this sector. Typically those represented by a model or actors agency have a better chance of appearing in TV commercials.
Real Life Models (People Models) and TV/Film Extras
If you like the idea of modeling, but do not fit into the above categories, then this could be for you. Real life models are used in advertising or corporate campaigns, when companies are looking to represent the everyday person. As a TV/Film Extra you will generally be non-featured (no speaking parts) and in the background of a scene. This can be fun and interesting to be part of, but it can also be long hours with lots of waiting around. The benefits are that if you are flexible with your days, it can be a good way to supplement your income.
For upcoming models, taking their first steps:
As an aspiring model (new face), there are basic steps that you should take into consideration before starting. The first important step is to know your goals. You should know what kind modeling you want to do and how big a part you want modeling to play in your life. When you know this, it’s much easier to get started.
When you are ready to embark on your journey towards modeldom, you should make sure that you have read enough about modeling and that you know what to expect. There are various sources available online for new models that tell more about modeling in general, the different types of modeling you can do, where and how to start and who to contact.
As you are doing your research, take some time to find a list of modeling agencies you could contact. This is an important step as by now you should know how to choose a modeling agency that best matches the kind of modeling you want to do. If the modeling agencies of your choice are in a close proximate to where you are located, why not pay a visit to the agency in person. That’s the best way to get a much clearer and more informed picture of the type of agency you are dealing with.
When you feel confident about the modeling agencies you have found, you should either start calling them or contacting them by email. And this is where photos come in. As an aspiring model, one of your main tasks is to arrange a photo shoot with a reliable model photographer. You want to project a good and professional image of yourself and for that reason it is important to focus on the quality of your photos. Modelmanagement.com has designed it’s exclusive Photo Sessions especially for the purpose of giving a model the right kind of professional photos to show to agencies. If you are unable to have photos taken by a professional model photographer, you could also consider selecting some quality pictures that you already have of yourself.
Another effective way of getting exposure as a new model, you could try to find a source on the internet that could list your information and pictures. You should consider listing with one or more websites that offer these kinds of online services for models. Websites, such as modelmanagement.com, provide an excellent way of getting started as a new model, as they offer a great platform for getting connected with the right industry professionals. It’s free to sign up to on modelmanagement.com, and if you want even more exposure to boost your chances further you can upgrade your account.
To reach many agencies very quickly, create your profile on modelmangement.com and contact them directly. Don’t confuse modeling platforms like modelmanagement.com with model agencies, they are not. Modelmanagement.com gives models exposure via a massive database of connections so the models can find agencies and photographers to further the models’ careers. It also gives models a stylish place to show their photos much like having a personal website. Agencies will represent new models and then take charge of the models’ professional career, as the model will then be contracted to that agency. You should not have to pay an agency to be considered as one of their models, as they will make their money from a percentage of the models future jobs. It is very important to be informed of this before you start the process of contacting modeling agencies.
As long as your goals are set from the very onset of your modeling career, you should have a much clearer and more secure picture of what you should know as an aspiring, new model. And should you encounter rejection, do not give up. All new models experience rejection at one point or another. It is just a fact of the business. So stick to your goals, work hard and start connecting with the right people in order to make your dream of being a model into a reality.
What can I expect from modeling ? Will I be successful ?
Becoming a model is the dream of every young girl or boy who craves fashion, designer clothes, glamour, being center stage and traveling the world.
If you are determined to pursue a professional modeling career, and you feel that you have what it takes, there are a few key things to keep in mind when you decide to take that crucial step onto the catwalk.
Time and Dedication
Building your modeling career and portfolio takes time, effort and dedication. A model must be strong-minded and resilient to navigate the chaotic waters of the fashion industry. Confidence and a strong-will are the best weapons of self defense in this high-paced, ever evolving and fiercely competitive modeling world.
Professional attitude
If you want a successful modeling career, being professional is one of the most important things when working on a photo shoot. However, a fashion shoot consists more than just of a series of poses. You have to be prepared to withstand long hours with fashion designers or in a photo studio, while keeping a positive and helpful attitude. Nobody wants to work with a model who makes the job more difficult with negativity or ego.
Where In The World Am I?
While being a model and having a modeling career has its rewards, one of the pitfalls of the industry is its nomadic quality; a model must be willing to move cities at a drop of a hat. This often results in the feeling of loneliness and the feeling of being out of touch with ones family.
Enjoy The Ride
If you want to succeed in the modeling business you have to put your heart and mind into it. However, keep in mind that the professional cycle of a model is extremely short lived. So enjoy this exclusive and extraordinary race by living it passionately, but don’t forget to take pleasure on what comes next after you’ve cross the finish line.
How to do I make a portfolio ?
Before putting together a modeling portfolio, it is important to know what type of modeling you can do. A portfolio of a Freelance model would probably include a variety of different types of photos, while a portfolio of a high fashion model would have high fashion images, and so on. So be realistic from the very onset of your career to avoid any setbacks or rejections due to the fact that you are attempting to enter a type of modeling that is not best suited for you.
You should know that your modeling portfolio is a true first impression of yourself as a model. A portfolio will always be the first thing that agencies and clients look at before they even choose to see you in person. And for that reason, it is highly recommended to focus on the building of an impressive modeling portfolio that will enable you to establish a successful modeling career.
Pay attention to the quality of the photos you choose to include in your portfolio. These photos need to impress agencies and clients alike and make you stand out from the rest. So always aim to project the best possible image of yourself.
Here are a few things to remember when building a modeling portfolio:
It is better to have fewer photos that are great, than having more photos that are of poorer quality. So the rule of thumb is that less is more. As a new model, your portfolio should have 6 – 12 photos, especially when you are presenting yourself to a new agency. As an established model, your portfolio should ideally have anywhere between 10 and 25 photos.
Always keep in mind that the purpose of a modelling portfolio is not only to show your good looks, but it should also demonstrate your ability to portray different characters, age ranges and personality. For this reason you should include good headshots without makeup, these are called Polaroids. It’s also important to have good body shots, with swimwear or tight-fitting clothes, especially if you plan to apply to the larger model markets.
In terms of the type of photos to include in your model portfolio, there are no specific rules that you should follow, but just remember to keep your portfolio as professional as possible by only including high quality photos. Do not feel pressured to include pictures where you are in a swimsuit or lingerie, unless that is the type of modeling you want to work in. As long as you know what type of modeling you are looking to do, that should be enough to give you some direction as to what kind of pictures to include.
How to model ?
- Know yourself and your strengths. It’s very important to know what you’re able to do and what you want to do as a model. Many models end up working as models accidentally or by chance, while others work hard to become models. In either case, it’s good to be aware of what it takes to work as a professional model. You can always try out modeling schools or classes where they teach you everything from how to pose to being more confident.
- Decide what type of modeling you would like to do. There are many different kinds of modeling that you can do as a model, and that’s why it’s advisable to have a sense of direction as to where you want to take your career as a model and where you think your strengths lie.
- Take some photos of yourself and build a portfolio. Look for a professional photographer to ensure good quality photos. In case you cannot afford to pay a professional photographer to take your photos, ask someone you know to take some good and clear head and body shots.
- Look for a modeling agency Search online and select the agencies that you think match the type of modeling you are looking to do. If you are still unsure as to what type of modeling appeals to you the most, you can still contact an agency. They are very ready to help aspiring models who are in need of direction with their careers and want to learn how to model. Remember to only choose legitimate agencies.
- Visit an agency. Contact the agency either by telephone or by email and make an appointment to see them in person. Remember that first impressions are very important, so always aim to look your best and be prepared for any questions they might have for you.
If and when you are successful and chosen for a modeling job, you will be directed as much as needed and with time and experience you will build your confidence as a model and know how to model like a pro.
So there, you’ve got it all ! Hope this helps, and please know that these tips have been taken and adjusted from different sources. Good luck with your modeling, and please ask if you have any more questions !!!! xx
Via: http://websta.me/p/900302562113283692_1426582232