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Many people dream of becoming a model, but few understand what it takes to get into the business. It takes more than beauty, it also takes hard work. If you have no clue on how to become a model, but want to try, then you need to learn what steps to take.
To be a model, all you need is to be beautiful, right? Wrong. Plenty of attractive men and women who want to be models are unsuccessful.MarketWatch: The 10 Worst Jobs in America Besides, modeling is not only about beauty. It is about having the "right look," and that depends on what type of model you are.
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Step 1: Understand the Types of Modeling
- When the term "model" comes up, it usually conjures the image of someone like Heidi Klum, Christie Brinkley or Cindy Crawford. While they are models, they are only one type of model: a fashion model. One does not need to have supermodel looks to be a model. There are many different types to fit different needs. Once you have made the decision to become a model, you should consider what type you want to become or best fits you.
- VideoJug: Tips For Aspiring Models: Do I Have to be a Size Zero to Be a Model? (Time: 0:39)
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Fashion Model
- A fashion model is a model that is hired to promote clothing and apparel.
- There are several subcategories of fashion models such as editorial models, high fashion models and catalogue models.
- Fashion models sometimes specialize in a specific body type, such as:
- - Petite models, which are between 5'2" and 5'4" tall and wear a size 2 to 4.
- - Plus models, which are between 5'2" and 6'1" tall and wear a size 12 to 14.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
High Fashion Model
- A high fashion model works for a famous fashion house or designer.
- Needs strong and distinctive features such as high cheekbones, square jaws and long necks.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- Makes the most money in comparison to other types of models.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling
- Requires extensive experience and a proven track record before fashion houses will hire them.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling
- Female fashion models are generally between 14- to 19-years-oldModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling and have specific standards for their bodies:
- - Typical measurements: 34B-24-34ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- - Height: 5'9" and 5'11" tall
- - Weight: 108 to 130 pounds (proportionate to height)
- - Dress size: 6 to 8ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- Male fashion models have a broader age range, from late teens to late twenties and have slightly more flexible body standardsModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling:
Editorial Model
- An editorial model is similar to a high fashion model.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- They only work for a particular publication.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- The pay for an editorial model is much less than that for a high fashion model.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling
- Editorial models need to understand how to pose in front of the camera and produce the right facial expressions.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
Runway Model
- A runway model is a fashion model who works at a fashion show.
- It has the most rigorous standards regarding body size and type.
- Runway models must meet specific clothing size measurements and have long legs.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling COACH Models Blog & Model Guide: Types of Modeling (October 26, 2007)
Showroom Model
- A showroom model is a fashion model who has been hired to display clothes at a fashion party or a boutique.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- - This can involve standing around or walking around a party.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
Commercial Print Model
- A commercial print model is hired to model a specific product for photographs are found in magazines, newspapers, billboards and on the sides of buses.Petite Modeling Tips: Where Would I See a Commercial Print Model? (May 28, 2008)
- - To be a successful commercial print model, you need to be able to provide a variety of looks, emotions and body positions during a photo shoot.COACH Models Blog & Model Guide: Types of Modeling (October 26, 2007)
Catalogue Model
- A catalogue model (also spelled catalog model) is hired to appear in catalogues, either to illustrate clothing or products.
- - The heights and measurements of the average catalogue model varies since each catalog tries to appeal to its consumer base.COACH Models Blog & Model Guide: Types of Modeling (October 26, 2007)
Promotional Model
- A promotional model works at either a convention or a trade show.
Specialty Model
- A specialty model is a model that models a part of his or her body, usually one that is exceptionally attractive.
- Typical parts include the hands, legs, torso, neck, hair or feet.
- The body part in question must have no flaws including scars, wrinkles or blemishes.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
- These models typically focus on modeling items about their specialty.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling For example, a leg model would most likely model razors or pantyhose while a hand model would model lotion, jewelry or nail polish.
Character Model
- A character model is a model that has an everyday look, rather than one that is extremely beautiful.
- They are often used for commercial photography to portray ordinary people.
- Models in television commercials are usually character models.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling
Glamour Model
- A glamour model focuses on the model rather than the product, for example nude or swimsuit photography.
- Pay rates are usually slightly higher than other types of modeling.E-Model.net: Types of Modeling
- There are no set physical requirements for glamour modeling, although an oval face is often viewed as sexier.ModelingPage.com: Different Types of Modeling
Teen or Junior Model
- A teen model or junior model is a model that is between the ages of 13- and 21-years-old.Models Fashion Advice: Teenage Models
Step 2: Avoid the Scams
- If you want to be a model, you need to learn how to avoid the scams. Modeling scams have become so common that the Federal Trade Commission has issued its own warning about them.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams However, you don't have to become a victim. Learn which agencies to avoid as well as a few basic tips to follow to protect yourself.
Agencies to Avoid
- There are some signs right up front that an agency might be less than reputable. As a good rule of thumb, avoid any Agencies that:
- Charge upfront fees. They might be called "signing fees, new account fees or evaluation fees."Modeling Advice: Modeling Scams, Rip Offs and Bad Business
- Require you to use a specific photographer. They might call it a "test shoot." Real agencies will provide you with a list of photographers you can use.Modeling Advice: Modeling Scams, Rip Offs and Bad Business
- Offer you a free photo shoot but charges you for the makeup artist or similar service.Modeling Advice: Modeling Scams, Rip Offs and Bad Business
- Require you to go through their classes, for which they charge a fee. Again, this is asking for money up front.Modeling Advice: Modeling Scams, Rip Offs and Bad Business
- Guarantee you work.Modeling Advice: Modeling Scams, Rip Offs and Bad Business Getting booked as a model depends on several factors, most out of the agency's control.COACH Models Blog & Model Guide: Modeling Scams October 26, 2007
- Advertise. Good modeling agencies receive plenty of inquiries and have no need to advertise.Modeling Advice: Modeling Scams, Rip Offs and Bad Business
- Have you come in on weekends or in the evening.Joe Edelman Photographic: Modeling Agency Scams A successful agency does not need to work nights and weekends.
- Claim you can earn a high salary or work full- or part-time.The Consumer Law Page: Modeling Agency Scams (January 1993) Modeling is by nature irregular and very few models earn high salaries.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
- Only accept payments in cash or by money order.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
- Claim they are the "biggest" or a "major player" in the industry.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
How to Protect Yourself
- In order to protect yourself from any scams, there are a few simple things you should do. Remember, legitimate agencies have no need to pressure you into a situation. Beyond that, make sure you do the following before you agree to anything:
- Get everything in writing. Do not accept any verbal promises.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
- Do not sign anything without reading it thoroughly first.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
- Ask if they are licensed or bonded, if required in your state.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams Your state's Attorney General's office or consumer protection agency should be able to tell you what is necessary in your state.
- Do your homework:
- Check out the agency with the Better Business Bureau, consumer protection agency and state Attorney General. See if they have any unresolved complaints.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
- Check out any claims the agency makes in their brochures or advertisements.The Consumer Law Page: Modeling Agency Scams (January 1993)
- Check out any client claims by contacting the company to see if they have hired from the agency.Federal Trade Commission: If You've Got The Look, Look Out! Avoiding Modeling Scams
- Search the Internet. Doing a Google search by typing in the company's name and the word "scam" or "rip-off" is a good way to discover any warnings that might be online.
- Ask for names and contact information of models the agency has recently secured work for.The Consumer Law Page: Modeling Agency Scams (January 1993) Make sure you contact them to verify this information.
Step 3: Improve Your Looks
- While people might disagree on what looks beautiful, there are a few things everyone can do to improve his or her looks. Dieting, plastic surgery and similar devices are rarely necessary to becoming a model. One must simply work at staying healthy.
- Be meticulous about your personal grooming. Your skin, hair and nails should all be clean, healthy and look good at all times.Net Industries: Model Job Description
- Learn how to dress.Net Industries: Model Job Description The right clothes can help emphasize your body's good points and downplay the negatives.
- Start a regular skin care regimen.E-Model.net: Natural Skin Care
- Learn how to apply makeup.Net Industries: Model Job Description Learning to apply your own makeup to achieve different looks is essential.
- Eat a good diet.HubPages: Become a Teen Model: Practical, Proven Advice No, you don't have to starve yourself down to a size zero, but you will be better off if you cut the sweets and focus on fruits and vegetables.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Exercise.HubPages: Become a Teen Model: Practical, Proven Advice Again, the focus is not on being thin but being in shape.
- Get plenty of sleep. No one looks good with dark circles under his or her eyes.
- Practice good dental hygiene. You should also stay away from cigarettes and coffee because they can turn your teeth yellow.Family Gentle Dental Care: How to Look Like a Model
- Take care of your hair.
- Work on your posture.Net Industries: Model Job Description
Step 4: Practice Your Moves
- Unless you plan on being a body part model, at some point you will be required to provide the camera with a specific look. There are a few ways you can learn how to do this.
- Take classes on acting, dance and speech.Net Industries: Model Job Description These classes will help you learn how to portray different images and emotions.
- Take photography or fashion classes.
- Find a few examples of the modeling you want to do and practice the poses in front of the mirror.Joe Edelman Photographics: Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
- Learn how to work in front of the camera.Modeling Advice: Working in Front of the Camera
- Learn how to communicate emotions in front of the camera using body language.Modeling Advice: What You Can Work on to Become a Model
Step 5: Create a Portfolio and Comp Card
- There are two things that every model needs: a portfolio and a comp card (also called a composite card, zed card or sed card). However, before you can create either of these things you need to decide what type of modeling you plan on doing. This will help you decide what type of photographs you need. Here are some tips on how to get great photographs for your portfolio and comp card:
- Use a professional photographer.ModelingPage.com: The Professional Portfolio
- Never use just one photographer for your entire portfolio.Modeling Advice: How to Find Work as a Model
- Use only the best photographs, even if it means using less.Joe Edelman Photographic: Do I really need a portfolio
- Don't over edit your photographs.ModelingPage.com: The Professional Portfolio
- Update your portfolio regularly and add tear sheets whenever possible.ModelingPage.com: The Professional Portfolio Tear sheets are pages "torn" out of a magazine, newspaper or similar medium that you appeared in.
- Use a variety of pictures', including different angles, profiles, hair styles, expressions, etc.ModelingPage.com: The Professional Portfolio
- Never use two pictures wearing the same outfit or that obviously taken at the same time or place.Joe Edelman Photographic: Do I really need a portfolio
Comp Card
- A comp card is a combination between a resume and business card for a model. It is traditionally a two-sided sheet of card-stock. The front side includes a head shot with the model's name, contact information and vital statistics (height, weight, measurements, nationality, shoe size, hair color, eye color, etc.).Barry Dale Currence Photographs: Modeling The back side includes a collage of pictures. The industry standard is to have four shots.Joe Edelman Photographics: Comp Card Design However, you can have anywhere from three to seven pictures.Barry Dale Currence Photographs: Modeling When you start out as a model, you will only need to print about 100 to 200 comp cards. These will typically cost you about $1.00 to $2.50 a card.Joe Edelman Photographic: Modeling Agency Scams Barry Dale Currence Photographs: Modeling
- Here are a few examples of comp cards online:
- Body Parts Models
- Ioanna Papadimitriou
- Bianca Gubser
- Do Your Print
- Minningmedia
- Flaunt Models (body parts models)
Step 6: Find an Agent
- You are not required to have an agent as a model, however most of the top models have agents. An agent will seek out and negotiate employment for his or her models for a percentage of the fee, anywhere from 10 to 33 percent.Modeling Advice: Modeling Agencies There are three methods you can use to get noticed by a modeling agency:
- Dry Call, which involves mailing your comp card in to them.COACH Models Blog & Model Guide: How to Get your Foot in the Door at a Modeling Agency (October 26, 2007)
- Walk In, which involves making an appointment and visiting the agency.COACH Models Blog & Model Guide: How to Get your Foot in the Door at a Modeling Agency (October 26, 2007)
- Open Call, which is when the agency sets up a time and place for new models to interview with them.Modeling Advice: How to Find Work as a Model
- Again, it is important to thoroughly check out any agency before signing a contract with them to avoid modeling scams. Make sure you make a good impression when you meet with a modeling agency.Joe Edelman Photographics: How to Make a Great First Impression with a Modeling Agency Remember, it is a job interview so you want to be at your best.
Conclusion
- While you might not be the next Tyra Banks, if you work hard you can make it as a successful model. Today, modeling is not about looking thin or beautiful but about looking good on camera and presenting the right image. While it might take a lot of work, you will find that is true any time you pursue a dream.
What to Include in Your Portfolio
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YouTube: A Look inside Delphine's Model Portfolio (Time: 2:47)
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Eventually, you will want a portfolio that includes 12 to 20 photographs and tear sheets. However, initially your portfolio can be much smaller and include only three to five photographs. These shots should include a head shot, full body shot and an actio
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- A fashion model is a model that is hired to promote clothing and apparel.
