Modeling is one of the most competitive industries out there. Not everyone is cut out to be a model, but if you’re willing to put in the work, you may find yourself on the cover of a magazine someday. Read below to find out how to become a photo model.
Get Headshots
The most important step to getting started in the modeling career is to have a well rounded portfolio that showcases your strong point through high quality, stunning images.
Work With Different Photographers
In order to have a compelling portfolio, you need to have a lot of pictures of yourself and all of them should be different.
Some things to bear in mind:
- Ask questions! If the photographer asks you to stand a particular way, ask them to show you what difference it makes. If you know the reason, you’ll be able to do it for yourself next time. Becoming a pro model includes learning to anticipate what will work best: and photographer is more likely to pay for you if knows you can get the results for them quickly.
- After every TFP shoot, update your online portfolio with the photos you got, and credit the photographer, preferably (if the modelling site allows, and the photographer is on it) giving feedback on the photographer too. The photographer will do the same for you – that’s how everyone improve.
- You’ll be asked for the “level” you work to. This is to do with nudity and pornographic work. It’s simply if a photographer is looking for a model to do nude work so it’s pointless for them to hiring someone who will only work in a bikini. Decide what you want to do and stick to it until YOU are comfortable working to a level. Most people start off with a level of “no nudity” or “implied nude only” (that means you may look nude or topless in the image, but nothing is showing). If you’re NOT asked this, ask the photographer so you are not being pushed into something in a shoot you don’t want to do.
- Take care of your personal safety. Models should always bring chaperones simply because it’s better for both reputations.
Research Agencies
Do a Google search for modeling agencies in your area. Check to see what models the agency currently represents, what kind of jobs those models book and how often the models work. Check to make sure the agency is reputable. If they have reviews online, read these to see how the models they represent like working with them
Some Tips To Succeed As a Model
Learn to embrace rejection: You must be able to handle having the door shut in your face with a second thought. Don’t base your self-worth on appearance or anybody else’s approval of you. Start practicing now: challenge yourself to shrug off any and all criticism you receive this week.
Make constantly look better: Take care of your skin, health, body and, hair. Modeling is an aesthetically driven industry and beauty/appearance is undeniably important.
Be professional: Answer phone calls. Return your voice mail and email promptly. There is no excuse to be 30 minutes late for the meeting, casting call and photo shoot.
Build your social media following: Build your social media following it might help you to get a sign with a modeling agency as these days modeling agency considering online following of model while weighing in whether to sign or not.
Have a great online modeling portfolio (create Lensational Magazine profile): You need all the exposure you can get to move up the ladder in the modeling industry. Best way to achieve that is to have online modeling portfolio that showcases your modeling portfolio and can be accessed by client anytime, anywhere.
Know Your Modeling “Type”
The fashion industry is all about putting people in boxes, so to be able to market yourself effectively, you need to know and understand your “type.”
1. Fashion (Editorial) Model – Most Editorial models are incredibly tall, slim, and usually are the ‘complete package.’
2. Swimsuit & Lingerie Model – This model type is usually someone a bit more voluptuous and curvy.
3. Runway Model – Due to the precise sizes of the designer’s clothing, runway models are often a certain height and size. If you are at least over 5’9 then this type of modeling could be for you.
4. Commercial Model – Commercial models advertise a wide range of products in catalogs, campaigns, and commercials.
5. Parts Model – Parts Models specialize in modeling their hands, arms, feet, and legs. A hand model can book a job involving jewelry, where as a foot model can book a job with a shoe company. Clients look for a parts model who has well-proportioned body parts that fit standard shoes and jewelry. Rougher-looking hands may be desired for tool or machinery ads.
6. Fitness Model – These models tend to be the most fit, toned, and athletically built.
7. Mature model – It is never too late to start working as a professional mature model. A mature model is generally above 35-40 years of age and is healthy and physically fit.
8. Child model – Agencies typically look for children who are friendly, happy, interactive and are fast learners. The key is to make sure your child wants to be a model and is comfortable meeting and working with new people.
9. Petite model – A petite model is generally above 5’1″ and not taller than 5’7″.
10. Plus-Size model – Most industries and agencies have a separate plus-size division, which is opening up new opportunities in the modelling world.
11. Expecting Modeling – Maternity models are always needed for parenthood and baby brands.
12. Fit Modeling – Fit models are not seen in ads. Your job is to help the designer and the manufacturer find out how sizes fit on a human body before the garment is produced. This type of job can provide steady work for models.
