Have people told you that you have a great look? Have people told you that you are photogenic or pretty? Maybe you just want to get an idea of what it’s like to be a model, or had someone ask you, “How do I become a model?” Breaking into the business is actually easier than you’d think if you have the right information and the right tools.
Make sure you are confident with a positive attitude and that you are well put-together.
The first actual building block of modeling is finding photographers who are willing to do Trade For Print, also known as TFP, with you. Photographers and models do TFP, which is unpaid work, in order to get photographs and experience that can be used to get paid work later on. If you cannot find time or money for shooting then start practicing posing in the mirror. Learn what looks good in poses, including facial expressions. Photographers who are truly professional in their behavior will allow a friend to come with you so that you feel safe.
How To Become A Model
With any type of modeling you will want to have a great portfolio. When starting off and looking for an agency, one or two great headshots of yourself and one to three full body shots in flattering attire should be fine. As you get work and gain experience then you can add to and enhance your portfolio. Be leery if you attend an agency and they want you to spend a lot of money to enhance your portfolio, you do not have to do this. However, asking you to test shoot for your book with photographers they like is normal. SOMETIMES it costs a bit but shouldn’t be more than a few hundred dollars for each test, hopefully including hair and makeup… try asking if they have any photographers that will shoot with you for free first. If you don’t get photos that show you at your best with natural hair and makeup then it may be best to go in with none at all. Any photos should show how photogenic you are. If they are not amazing quality then don’t use them.
Once you have your portfolio prepared it’s now the time to contact some modeling agencies.
Take your time to do this and don’t pick just any one. Also never pay a fee to sign or apply to an agency. If they like you they will be paying for you to work for them, you should never have to pay to try to get a job.
Thoroughly check the agencies that are out there. Interview them and ask other professionals what they think of them. Pick the top three to five after you have researched them all then call at the beginning of the week to see when their open calls are. Feel free to ask questions of them as they will of you. Be respectful yet determined but do not take any potential rejection personally. Sometimes an agency already has models with your look and they don’t want internal competition, they are not taking any more models at the moment, your look doesn’t fit their agency and the clients that they cater too, or they don’t have time to develop you. Whatever the case, as with most things in life, it’s usually NOT personal so keep your head high and move on to the next agency. If the agency takes you on, great!
You can be a model too!
Measure yourself, and take note of the clothing sizes that fit you best. Pick your best photos, ideally at least one full body shot, a ¾ shot, and one headshot. Congratulations, you now have a portfolio and your vital statistics readily available at hand.
The easiest route for this is to use the images from your portfolio on sites like OMP and Model Mayhem to garner more attention to your abilities. Be careful, though, to check references, and also do a background check on any photographers and agents that you want to work with. Answer casting calls anywhere that you can find them on the net. Search up open calls for modeling work on classified ads as well.
The more exclusive (and often safer route) is to go to licensed agencies in your area, and attend an open call. Bring your photos, and bring your statistics and contact information. Learn what niche of modeling would fit you best.
Fashion models have the most stringent limitations. Most agencies are specifically looking for women who are 5’8″ and above, ages 13-22. Men who are looking to model have to generally be around 6 feet in height. Going into an agency knowing this information is vital, as is knowing not to dress outlandishly nor wear jewelry. Opt for a natural, everyday look, with makeup that would simply cover up blemishes and enhance the eyes. The aim of this makeup is to make it seem as if you aren’t wearing any makeup at all.
A last word of advice, learn how to do your own makeup, and invest heavily in a modeling wardrobe. The more assets that you bring to the table, the more money you can make as a professional model.
Happy modeling!
Models Get To Live The Glamorous Life!
So what’s your first step to becoming a successfully gorgeous model?
Take a moment to fill out our informative QUIZ. Click the pink button below.
This quiz will help you understand your ideal male modeling niche. Knowing your niche will help you get focused, and models who are focused have much more success than un-focused models. So find your focus and take the quick and fun quiz now. You’ll be glad you did! (:
We’ll instantly send you your results, PLUS give you FREE access to our interviews with professional male models, like Branden Rickman (winner of Bravo’s “Make Me a Supermodel”).
Discover the necessary steps you must take to save time and feel confident as you begin! Click the link below to find your niche out and get your free Guidebook (a $20 value).
For more great info on how to become a model, visit the main page!
