Commercial modeling may be the most common type of modeling. You may not have even noticed how many commercial models are out there; everywhere from magazines and newspapers, to television commercials and cereal boxes, you will see people. How do you become one of those people? Well there are a few easy steps you can follow to get yourself in the business of commercial modeling. Unlike high fashion modeling, there are no strict requirements for commercial models. All ages, sizes and types are needed for commercial modeling work.
First, you have to get an agent. When an advertising agency or photographer needs a model for their product, they go to an agent. They tell the agent what they are looking for, then the agent picks out all the matching talent and sends them to an audition or casting. Here, the casting director and client see and meet all the talent, and decide who is best suited to their vision for the end product. Occasionally, they will book you from your photo without seeing you in person. This is called a direct booking. Sometimes, in a television commercial casting you will be asked to learn a few lines of dialog as well. To find an agent, do a Google search for talent agencies in your city. Many medium size towns have talent agencies. If your city doesn’t have an agency, try the next largest city until you find one. However, you don’t want an agent in a city too far away. It’s a pain to drive hours to castings all the time. You may want to consider living in a big city to break into the business.
Next, determine who you are in regards to the industry. We may be searching for the answer to that all our lives, but in the modeling world, we base this on appearance only. You need to take a realistic look at yourself. Do you look like a young mom or dad in a minivan commercial? Do you look like an older woman who may be taking arthritis medication? Are you a teenager prone to acne or an important business man? If you have an agent, ask their opinion; they know what will get you work.
Lastly, create a portfolio. You need some professional photos for the clients to see who you are. Commercial modeling in most cases is partial to a nice smile, so a headshot with a nice smile will get a lot of attention. Don’t wear too much make-up, and don’t over-do the airbrushing in the editing process. It looks like you’re obviously trying to hide something. A natural untouched photo is what attracts the casting directors. A good photographer can take a photo that makes you really shine, so be sure you like the photographers’ work before you hire them to take your photos. Besides a headshot, you will want a full body shot. If you have a swimsuit body, take a photo of it. If not, a full body shot in a nice casual outfit is necessary for the commercial casting agent to get a full look at you.
Commercial modeling is not always the most glamorous, but it can be the most lucrative and the most fun. You can end up shooting a brochure for a cruise, or maybe a television commercial on horseback. Remember, they need all types, so keeps searching till you find a good agent and follow the steps we mentioned above.
For more information on how to become a model, visit the main page.
Tags: commercial model
