Before I really dig into the answers I want to say this, not everyone is cut out for the profession, just because you post a few pictures on Facebook and Instagram that friends and family "love" doesn't mean you are ready to go sign a contract.
Reputable agents and talent scouts are brutally honest and very choosy about who they have representing them in public.
This is a very competitive and lucrative career if you connect yourself with the right people, if you don't it can be a costly and damaging career if you find yourself listening to the scammers that are out there. My advice DO YOUR HOMEWORK!
So a few answers to that question, How do I become a Model?
Know the type of modeling you want to do…
The first step in becoming a model is knowing what type of modeling you want to do. There are quite a few areas to choose from–print focuses on magazine photo shoots while runway models walk the catwalk for labels. There are also more commercial options such as being a swimsuit or catalogue model. Plus size modeling has made an impact in the recent years too.
Find the right agency…
Now, that you have figured out what type of modeling you want to do–look for an agency that specializes in the field. You can search online for agencies quite easily. A simple “model agency” query will garner a lot of results. Search for an agency that’s local to your area, and it’s important to remember to research an agency first. Think: What models do they represent? What type of jobs do they book? Are there complaints online about this agency?
And remember, if an agency asks for money upfront, charge you for "workshops" or promise you tons of jobs and money you should stay away at all cost. So called “modeling” schools are also suspect too. There are plenty of scammers out there looking to take advantage of aspiring talent.
Take the right photos…
After you have researched the right agencies for the field you are interested in, you will want to contact them. Most agencies have forms online where you can send in your photos and stats. Stats include your height, measurements and weight. They will also want to see photos of you. Don’t worry, you do not need to get a professional shoot done. And you should never be tied to an in-house “agency photographer” But I would say professionally digital photos are what most agencies prefer. Make sure to do a head shot and full-length shot. Wear no makeup and a simple tank top and pants. Take the photo in natural light so people can see your features. Look for a response within (usually) 4 weeks.
Some agencies will do open calls, where they will see aspiring models from the street–bring your digitals or past professional work printed out. Once again, keep your styling minimal. You may be told you are not what they’re looking for or get a callback later.
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| Image: Gisele Bundchen in H&M Campaign |
Be prepared and think ahead…
If you are lucky enough to get signed, you should also know all the difficulties that come with the job. Depending on the jobs you book, traveling can take you away from home a lot. Rejection is also something, especially at the beginning of the career, you need to get used to. Even if signed, some models have part-time jobs. That’s why we recommend having a backup plan just in case your modeling career doesn’t pan out. But, if you manage to make it, there is a world of opportunities. Models like Gisele Bundchen, Cindy Crawford and Kate Moss have transformed their looks into lucrative careers with their business smarts. Think ahead, always!
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