Have you ever considered modeling as a career? Many people have at one point or another, but decided that they didn't measure up physically, or they didn't live in one of the fashion centers like New York or Paris. But you don't necessarily have to be tall, young and beautiful to become a model (although it doesn't hurt), and you don't necessarily have to move to the Big City, either.

There are more opportunities for models than ever before. Statistics indicate that models of all types will be in demand well into the next decade. And in addition to the high fashion models you see strutting down catwalks in Paris, there are many other categories of models -- male models, plus-size models, "mature" models (people over 40), hand and body part models, character models, etc.

Models are needed for print and catalog work, commercials, working conventions and trade shows, corporate video productions, and more. And many of these modeling career opportunities are available around the country --and around the world, for that matter--not just in the fashion centers of New York, Atlanta, LA and Paris.



LEARN THE SKILLS NECESSARY TO BECOME A MODEL


Becoming a model doesn’t require any particular schooling or education. In fact, many of the top “supermodels” working in the industry today have no formal training in modeling or the acting industry. As long at you have the “look” that a client is seeking, and you can pose in front of the camera, take directions, show up to assignments on time, and act professionally, you can work as a fashion model.

But you’ll need to have a good understanding of makeup techniques, hair styling, and good fashion sense in order to work in this industry. As a model, you’ll be expected to show off the best features of a dress or other clothing in front of a camera, and so you’ll want to buy and study fashion magazines. Look at the ads and see how the models are posing, their facial expressions, and what “looks” are currently in fashion. And read the articles to keep up on what’s happening in the fashion industry.

Another good idea is to find out if there are any fashion shows or beauty pageants scheduled in your area, and attend as many as you can. If you own a camcorder, take it along and videotape the models as they move and pose for the cameras. Then study the tape when you get home, and try walking and posing in the same manner as the beauty contestants or fashion show models.


CONSIDER SPECIALIZING


As stated earlier, you don’t have to be tall and drop-dead gorgeous in order to become a model (although it certainly helps, especially in high-fashion and runway modeling). As the population ages and becomes more diverse, there are increasing opportunities for ethnic models, “mature” models over 40, male models, petite models, plus-size models, character models for commercials, and hand and body part models.

If you fit into one of these categories, you’ll probably want to specialize in order to increase your chances of finding modeling work in your area.


LANDING THAT FIRST ASSIGNMENT


In order to find work in the modeling industry, you’ll generally have to find an agent first. It’s the agent’s job to establish and maintain the relationship between models and their clients. But of course there’s a fee for this service, and the agent or agency takes a portion of the payment that the model receives from the client. But an agent can be your best promoter and ally, and you should always try to locate the best agent in your modeling category.

Most modeling agencies will have regular open calls or “look sees” as they’re referred to in the industry. These can be a great opportunity to showcase yourself in front of agents. Many of the top models were discovered in these open calls. Other agencies sponsor modeling contests and searches, or they may request snapshots which can be sent in for review. Just keep in mind that very few of the people who attend open calls or send in snapshots are presented with modeling contracts.

A warning – there are a lot of scam artist out there looking to take advantage of young girls. Be especially careful of any agency that you find on the Internet. Always make sure they have a phone number you can call and speak to someone in person. And look up the agency in the Better Business Bureau and make sure they’ve been in business for awhile with no complaints.


WORKING AS A MODEL


You won’t necessarily have to live in one of the fashion centers like New York, Chicago, or Atlanta to have a career as a professional model, but it helps. Most large cities have opportunities for models, especially as demonstrators and product promoters working in department stores and trade shows. This work might not be as glamorous as high-fashion modeling, but it’s a great way to gain experience and build your contacts in the industry.

Your agent might also send you out on a “go-see” along with several other models. The client will then select which model fits their requirements for the project they’re working on. The client will usually want to see your portfolio at a go-see, along with your composite card and headsheet. You want to treat a go-see the same as an interview with a modeling agency, and dress and act professionally at all times.

Before going out to work with a client, a model most first obtain the various details about the work that they’ll be expected to perform. Your agent will usually provide this information, in addition to the time, date, and location of the shoot. You’ll also want to find out as much as you can about the makeup requirements (if there will be a makeup artist or if you’ll have to do your own), and the same for hair styling. It’s also helpful to know in advance what types of clothes or other products you’ll be promoting so you’ll know what sort of image you’ll be portraying at the shoot. 

On the shoot, you’ll be spending most of your time working closely with the photographer. If it’s your first shoot, it’ll probably take some time to relax and move naturally in front of the camera. Normally, the photographer will sense this and try to put you at ease.

Good fashion photographers know how to give directions and establish the atmosphere for the shoot. Like a movie director, they will show you where to stand, how to pose, and give you creative ideas on how to express the “look” they’re aiming for. Many times the shoot will occur outdoors, which puts the model in the most flattering light possible. Working well with photographers is a critical skill in the modeling profession, and as with most skills, you’ll become better and more comfortable with experience.


SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS 


As an independent fashion model, you’ll be operating as a self employed small business. You’ll probably be working from home, so you won’t need to worry about leasing an office or hiring employees. But you’ll want to find out the requirements for operating as a self-employed person in your state, including paying estimated state and Federal taxes every quarter. You may want to hire an accountant to handle you’re bookkeeping (unless you plan on doing that yourself), and an office space designated in your home. You don’t want to be running your business from the kitchen table, especially if you plan on having clients over for face-to-face meetings. The US Small Business Association is a great place to find out more about starting a small business.


CONCLUSION


All and all a modeling career can be a great choice for many people. There are opportunities to travel, meet a lot of interesting people, network, and build poise and confidence. And many have used their modeling as a steppingstone for other careers, like acting, photography, or even work as a modeling agent.

So if you've always wanted to try modeling, go for it. If you've got what it takes, work hard, and get a little lucky, you might just find yourself on the cover of a glossy magazine or in a television commercial in the near future!

Top | Home | Site Map | About Us | Contact Us| Privacy Policy

© CareerAdrenaline.com  All Rights Reserved.