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 glamor 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 many 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 inner stamina 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? You also need to have the
tenancy, patience, aptitude, interpersonal skills, communication skills,
stamina, confidence, business skills, etc.? If you think you do, then
you can try to be a model. Modelling can be fun, exciting, and
adventurous. Be sure to maintain realistic expectations however, the
chances of becoming a successful or famous model are less. Famous
models: Recently we had Marc Robinson, John Abraham, Bipsha basu now
it's Priyanka Chopra & Ashhwarya 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 are fit 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.
