• Become a model
Keywords: become a model, model application
How to become a model
A lot of young people dream of becoming a famous model. They think of a glamorous life, wearing the latest fashion while travelling around the world, becoming famous and meeting well-known designers. In fact, modeling is a very hard and competitive business. The castings can be very stressful as well as frustrating as there are many beautiful rivals.
Partner links:
CrazyLeaf FREE Web Directory
LinkBook
Free Website Publishing Directory
Fully Interactive Online Model Community - OnlineModelWorld.com | Best Source for Online Modeling
Some qualitites like clear skin, a symmetrical and healthy appearance, full hair and an interesting face are a must have for every model. You have to decide what type of model you want to become. You should choose the type which matches your physical characteristics and your age the best to be a successful model. Catwalk models for example have to be very tall (at least 5'8) and skinny and should have small breasts. On the opposite a person with a full but beautiful model can be a plus size model. When you do not match the characteristics of typical models there is still the possibility to become a hand, foot or hair model. You could also try to become an amateur model. Amateur models often do not work with fashion but for example toothpaste,cosmetics or foods. Except for catwalk models more and more customers want to have more natural, average beautiful models with a self-confident and comfortable appearance. Some customers even search for the unusual, strange type.
It is also important that your character fits the job of a model. You need a lot of discipline to get the shootings done and take stick. Stressful days and many rivals require stamina. You should be open-minded about different people and the camera.
The next step is to get some photos done. Your photos from the last holidays will not be sufficient. For your application at a model agency you will need professional shots, which show your potential and abilities for becoming a model. The minimum are a head shot and a body shot both head-on and sidewise. A professional photographer will also help you to develop an idea the type and stile you represent. A number of prints provides you with the material you can leave at an agency when asked to do so.
The next step to become a model is to search for a reliable and reputable model agency. You can do this via internet, phone book or recommendations. Before you sign any contract you should have a look at different agencies as there are many that are not reliable, can not help you with your career and just want your money. Dubious agencies ask for money in advance or charge you for coaching. Make an appointment with your favourite agency.
At the appointment bring your documents and photos. They will ask you to do pull different faces, to walk and to take your measurements. Practice walking and pulling faces with a friend and a mirrow in before. Maybe a Polaroid of your face will be taken to compare it with your headshot. You always have to be polite, punctual, organized and honest – especially about your measurements. Also be prepared that 90 % of all applicants are declined by reputable agencies.
How to become a model
Many young women and an increasing number of young men dream of becoming a model. It seems to be one of the most glamorous jobs you can imagine and to offer all kinds of desirable things: big money and celebrity, along with the possibility to travel around the world and to meet interesting people.
Most of us automatically associate the modeling job with the catwalk though there are other kinds of models too, for instance photographic models, hair models, or even hand models.
But it is the catwalk models who are the most popular and who theoratically can make the most money.
Of course, there are physical requirements to be met. You have to be tall and slim, over 1,70 m for a woman and over 1,85 m for a man. And inspite all the media talk about the danger of overly severe weight limitations, modeling agencies will demand that a female model fit in size 34 to 38.
Facial features are not without importance but it is not easy to predict if a person has the famous “something” that will catch a model scout’s eye.
One thing is imperative though: if someone wants to become a model he or she has to be photogenic.
To get quality photos one can go to a reputable photographer which, of course, will cost some money. Then there is the possibility to contact a modeling agency and to apply for test takes.
There are websites which offer not only advice and addresses but also the opportunity to upload photos and information.
Nevertheless, most experts insist on the importance of making an appointment with an agency as soon as possible. It is one thing to know that you will have only a few minutes for making a good impression, an only chance at a good photo, and quite another thing to really experience it.
Television shows where they are searching for a country’s next top model are very popular among young adults. It is debatable if participating in such a show will actually push someone’s carrier toward the desired international success.
But participants as well as spectators are led to understand that ideal measurements, a pretty face and a graceful walk will not guarantee that a person can become a top model if she lacks courage, perseverance, flexibility and social skills, such as politeness and punctuality.
What is extremely important is the ability to take rejection well.
Most of these skills can be trained and they will be useful in nearly every other professional career.
Those who dream of becoming a model should do something about it. Every step toward the anticipated goal can provide them with new insight and useful experience. And if one day they decide to give up on their initial dream, perhaps it will be done from a position of self – knowledge, instead of mere resignation.
