How to become a model ?

This page has tips on how to start modelling, how to make the right choices and what to expect from the industry. Despite the glamour and hype you have seen about the modelling profession, it's hard work. It's boring (sometimes). It's tedious. It's filled with rejection, ups and downs, It's a lifestyle, not an 8-5 job. Not all jobs pay well. Unless you are seriously committed about modelling, willing to work at it on your own time, live a healthy life style, etc., you will not succeed as a model. You have to understand that there are lots of other people who want to be models. They are doing everything they can to be successful. Are you willing to put the time and energy into competing with these people, 24 hrs a day?

Do you have what it takes to be a model?
Are you tall and slender and unusually attractive enough that you are as good or better looking than most other models? Be really honest with yourself about this. Beside looks do you have the tenancy, patience, aptitude, interpersonal skills, communication skills, stamina, confidence, business skills, etc.? If you think you do, then go for it! Despite its drawbacks, modelling can be fun, exciting, and adventurous. Be sure to maintain realistic expectations however, the odds of becoming a highly successful or famous model are slim. Famous models: Recently we had Madhu Sapre and Mehr Jesia, now it's Bipasha Basu and Aishwarya Rai, there are not many at the top! .

Measurements
The best measurements for modelling are 5'9" , 34b bust, 24" waist, 34" hips. If you are within one inch of these measurements you will be very versatile to model almost anything. High Fashion models are typically 5'7" to 6' tall and an extremely thin size 7 with 32-35" bust, 22-25" waist and 33-36" hips. They are not necessarily classically beautiful. PETITE measurements would be 5'5" to 5'8" tall and a size 5 to 7. The model MUST have a well proportioned body. PLUS SIZE models are 5'7" to 5'11" tall and wear a size 12 to 14, have a well toned and proportioned body with a thin face, good skin and beautiful hair. Always provide very accurate measurements to the agency and to customers. (Helps to save embarrassment if you get hired for a job and the clothes don't fit because you were not honest). For a man, heights should be 5'11" to 6'2" and you must fit in a 40-42" jacket. .

The ultimate test for an aspiring Model
Well almost... Send your photo and resume to reputable co-ordinators. Set-up an appointment and you will find out very quickly if you have what it takes. These people are very busy, if they don't like the photo you won't get an appointment. If they like it you will be invited for an assessment. Then again if you don't have what it takes they will tell you on the spot. (they want quality models). If rejected don't give up yet! Each coordinator/agency is different and has different expectations and requirements from their models. Always ask about any immediate physical changes (haircut, weight loss, skin treatment, dental work etc.) and work on it for the future. Some coordinators/established models offer good training(in the form of workshops/courses) for local fashion shows and print work. This can be a great way to gain confidence and experience .

How to get started and some tips to Succeed?
An agency or co-ordinator should represent models. The model must have a portfolio, and comp cards. The agency/coordinator provides you with work (That is their main purpose. It is safe to say that they work for you!) They make a commission on your fee (15 to 20%). Be warned about agencies/coordinators who ask for money up front! Also check to see if they are reputable and genuine. The agency/coordinator should provide you with a few photographers name. It's your choice to get the photographer you want. Pay the photographer for the photo shoots not the agency/coordinator. The agency/coordinator provides you with safe working environment and looks after legalities of the paper work for the job. They provide their clients with "Professional" models. Keep copies of all-important papers, such as contracts etc. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency/coordinator. It is wise to choose the agency/coordinator carefully so you can stay with that them. Constantly changing them gives you a reputation of being flighty and unprofessional .

How to find an agency/coordinator?
Since in India there is no system for accrediting Modelling Agencies per sa. It would be best advised for you to look up our co-ordinator section. If you are outside India, please check out the INTERNATIONAL DIRECTORY of MODEL and TALENT agencies & schools, a book with phone and address of all agencies across the world. Printed by Peter Glenn Publications, ltd. .

How to approach an agency / co-ordinator?
The oldest way to go about it is to visit them. Book an appointment ahead of time by phone. Bring at least 2 pictures. They don't have to be professional pictures. A head shot, natural and clear. Also a full length shot that somewhat reveals your figure, a clingy dress , swimsuit, figure flattering clothes or other tight fittings garments should be worn. Forget about baggy clothes! It will tip off viewers that you have something to hide. Ask lots of questions. Ask to see what work their models are currently doing? Ask for names and phone number of clients and call them to verify the information, be concerned if they promise you work right away or promise you high salaries. If they don't allow you time to think about it or if they use pressure techniques to sign the contract, be concerned. They should not ask for money up-front for classes or training. Be concerned if the they claim to be looking for ordinary people. Reputed agencies/coordinators might have open interviews during the week, give them a call and find out. Also you can send your photo and resume as mentioned earlier.

Portfolio: What is it?
It's a collection of your modelling pictures. How many pictures you need varies. You should only keep strong pictures, you are only as good as your worst picture! Models should aim for quality not quantity! Avoid using 2 pictures of the same shoot (same look) Black and White is the favourite of the industry. 9 by 12 inches are the standard size. Your agency will require you to buy an 11 by 14 inches for their book (portfolio). A basic but versatile portfolio would have a casual head shot, styled head shot, body shot (conservative swimsuit or lingerie), a fashion shot (sexy) , action shot, an editorial shot and even a catalogue shot. As you gain experience replace the older pictures with newer one. Keep your best picture at the end to leave a lasting impression! Do not wear jewellery for those prints, it takes the attention away from you. The wrong choice of undergarments may show panty line or bra straps and will distract the viewer (on the job, or in interviews it can mean the difference between looking professional or not). Tailor your portfolio for your strengths and the type of modelling you are doing.

What is a Comp card (not applicable in India)?
Comp card is a card with a few pictures on it. It also has the information on how to reach modelling agency. It contains your statistic and measurements. They cost between US$ 200 to 300 for 200 cards. The model pays for them and your agency will tell you how many you need to get started .

Tips on how to choose a photographer
Avoid "portrait photographer" they often don't understand the need of the fashion industry. See the photographer's portfolio. Do you like it? Does it represent the style and format your looking for? Commercial photographers might be a good source of work! Keep that in mind. Be concerned about photographers who seek to take nude pictures of you or claims to be working on a swimsuit calendar. Photographers should be professional and respectful and you should bring a friend along. Always be cheerful, you never know when you might get a free shoot or a free picture or an extra roll done at no extra cost! If you bring your own clothes to the shoot, always bring extra. If the photographer for example like your look and decides to do an extra roll you will be ready to benefit from it. Keep an open mind photographers loves to do editorial shots.