Welcome to the fashion industry - a world of glamour, grandeur and creative forces often unparalleled. As a model, you represent centuries of trends, some successes and some disappointments, and consistent striving towards making the next "it" look for the fashionista in us all. Should you choose this path, you should know the essentials of the business.
Models need to follow the general requirements, regardless of what niche you choose, in order to be seen by the client in the best light at all times. Taking care of yourself physically is vitally important, as you are a symbol of beauty & health that each woman strives towards. You can do this by keeping your hair well groomed, maintaining an even complexion by drinking lots of water and eating nutritious foods, and establishing a good workout regimen with a trained professional.
Once you have met the general model requirements, the first step towards becoming a working model is figuring out which sector of the industry is your niche. Put that knowledge together with hard work, the right characteristics, and a dash of luck, and you will be well on your way to becoming a successful model. Let's look at the different areas for you to consider when deciding on your market as a model.
Runway Models: Models on the catwalk for the likes of Chanel and Ralph Lauren, are TYPICALLY five foot seven inches and up with a thin frame and small bust. Runway models are often known as "walking hangars," as the designers do not want anything to distract the audience from the line.
Editorial Models: Models in fashion editorials or print are generally slender , most having frames that are proportionate to their height and structure.
Swimsuit and Lingerie Models: To model lingerie or swimwear, curves with a slender waist are generally helpful, and proportional hip size (hips are usually no bigger than bust measurement.)
Plus Size Models: Curvy and full figured, the plus size model has a more round figure that shows off plus size clothing well.
Foot, Hair or Hand Model: If your body is not the ideal shape for the most common forms of modeling, you can use other assets to become a foot, hair or hand model. These are all well-paying lucrative areas of the industry.
Glamour Models: Glamour models display quite a bit of skin in artistic photo shoots. Although it does not require full nudes, the glamour model must have an incredible physique and be comfortable with what is expected with each shoot.
As you explore each niche, please ensure that you are being realistic with your goals. We know of Kate Moss defying the odds as a shorter fashion model, so we know that the limits are pushed and exceeded regularly. Best thing to do is play to your strengths, and you will find more opportunities present themselves from there. The petite modeling industry is always growing, so it may be better as a shorter model to pursue that sector of the industry.
Before you start marketing yourself as a model or find an agency, you need to get some photographs ready. You can just start with snapshots first, showing you in a flattering colored bikini on a plain white backdrop with soft natural lighting. These shots should be very simple with no poses, but rather showing your body shape and facial structure. Use a professional photographer if you can to take these photos. If you're lucky, some will do them free of charge in exchange for a test shoot. Your photographs should display the uniqueness of your look.
What you would want next is to submit these photos to reputable agencies in your area. Most agencies have a way for you to submit digital photos on the internet. Some also have open call times when you can go in to speak with the agents for the "New Faces" department. This often feels like a "cattle call", so it is more advantageous if you can call and schedule a personal appointment with an agent. Be ready to sell yourself and show off your uniqueness. Do not be shaken if you have to put in a good deal of work to find an agency that is a good fit. Prepare yourself to accept criticism, and apply it as a tool for bettering your odds in this field. As you take on this journey, remember that rejection should not be taken personally - you may simply not have the characteristics that the particular agency is looking for right now. They will not sign on another model into the modeling agency that could compete with the other established models they are currently representing.
There it is! Follow these first 3 steps: Fulfill general model requirements, decide on your niche, and take your snapshots to agency interviews. You also always have the option to begin shooting with local professional photographers in order to get familiar in front of the camera. Networking is a very big piece of the puzzle in being successful in this industry, so get started on establishing good working relationships! To achieve success in any field, you need the right team of people supporting you and believing in you! Don't forget that when you land the cover of Vogue!
Models need to follow the general requirements, regardless of what niche you choose, in order to be seen by the client in the best light at all times. Taking care of yourself physically is vitally important, as you are a symbol of beauty & health that each woman strives towards. You can do this by keeping your hair well groomed, maintaining an even complexion by drinking lots of water and eating nutritious foods, and establishing a good workout regimen with a trained professional.
Once you have met the general model requirements, the first step towards becoming a working model is figuring out which sector of the industry is your niche. Put that knowledge together with hard work, the right characteristics, and a dash of luck, and you will be well on your way to becoming a successful model. Let's look at the different areas for you to consider when deciding on your market as a model.
Runway Models: Models on the catwalk for the likes of Chanel and Ralph Lauren, are TYPICALLY five foot seven inches and up with a thin frame and small bust. Runway models are often known as "walking hangars," as the designers do not want anything to distract the audience from the line.
Editorial Models: Models in fashion editorials or print are generally slender , most having frames that are proportionate to their height and structure.
Swimsuit and Lingerie Models: To model lingerie or swimwear, curves with a slender waist are generally helpful, and proportional hip size (hips are usually no bigger than bust measurement.)
Plus Size Models: Curvy and full figured, the plus size model has a more round figure that shows off plus size clothing well.
Foot, Hair or Hand Model: If your body is not the ideal shape for the most common forms of modeling, you can use other assets to become a foot, hair or hand model. These are all well-paying lucrative areas of the industry.
Glamour Models: Glamour models display quite a bit of skin in artistic photo shoots. Although it does not require full nudes, the glamour model must have an incredible physique and be comfortable with what is expected with each shoot.
As you explore each niche, please ensure that you are being realistic with your goals. We know of Kate Moss defying the odds as a shorter fashion model, so we know that the limits are pushed and exceeded regularly. Best thing to do is play to your strengths, and you will find more opportunities present themselves from there. The petite modeling industry is always growing, so it may be better as a shorter model to pursue that sector of the industry.
Before you start marketing yourself as a model or find an agency, you need to get some photographs ready. You can just start with snapshots first, showing you in a flattering colored bikini on a plain white backdrop with soft natural lighting. These shots should be very simple with no poses, but rather showing your body shape and facial structure. Use a professional photographer if you can to take these photos. If you're lucky, some will do them free of charge in exchange for a test shoot. Your photographs should display the uniqueness of your look.
What you would want next is to submit these photos to reputable agencies in your area. Most agencies have a way for you to submit digital photos on the internet. Some also have open call times when you can go in to speak with the agents for the "New Faces" department. This often feels like a "cattle call", so it is more advantageous if you can call and schedule a personal appointment with an agent. Be ready to sell yourself and show off your uniqueness. Do not be shaken if you have to put in a good deal of work to find an agency that is a good fit. Prepare yourself to accept criticism, and apply it as a tool for bettering your odds in this field. As you take on this journey, remember that rejection should not be taken personally - you may simply not have the characteristics that the particular agency is looking for right now. They will not sign on another model into the modeling agency that could compete with the other established models they are currently representing.
There it is! Follow these first 3 steps: Fulfill general model requirements, decide on your niche, and take your snapshots to agency interviews. You also always have the option to begin shooting with local professional photographers in order to get familiar in front of the camera. Networking is a very big piece of the puzzle in being successful in this industry, so get started on establishing good working relationships! To achieve success in any field, you need the right team of people supporting you and believing in you! Don't forget that when you land the cover of Vogue!
About the Author:
Looking to find the best modeling advice on marketing yourself, then visit www.howtomodelcoaching.com to find the best advice on model for you.
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