What It Takes to
Become A Professional Model
by Lynn Walls
If you think models are just another pretty face, think again!
The world of modeling is extremely competitive and often grueling. There is
certainly not a lack of beautiful people in the modeling world, so in order to
succeed, you will to rely on more than just your looks.
Before you decide to become a model, ask
yourself: "why?" Many individuals start modeling in order to make a jump into
acting or singing, but make no mistake - the professional world of modeling is a
career aspiration in its own right. Far more than a springboard to other
careers, professional models are hard working, highly trained individuals.
Break out of the misconception that only
women can become famous professional models! Male models are often just as
sought out as females, so do not expect the road to being a professional male
model to be any easier than a female model. Furthermore, do not be under this
misconception that models are all six-foot tall and weigh 100 pounds. The
growing trend in the fashion industry is the advent of the plus-sized models.
These beautiful models proudly wear a variety of fashions designed for real men
and women by popular companies such as Lane Bryant.
Regardless of your beauty, shape, or size,
if you do not have the ambition and drive to make it in this dog-eat-dog
business, you will fail. Expect to do more than walk down a couple of runways
and take cover shots for popular magazines. You will have to work diligently at
honing your craft and getting your face and name known. Many aspiring models
choose to work with modeling agencies that will do the grunt work of finding jobs and
promoting their name. Take great caution when choosing an agency as there are
many scam agencies posing to be legitimate. Remember, true agencies make their
money by promoting the models and charging commissions on bookings. True
agencies do not make their money by demanding large sums of money from an
aspiring model up front.
Once you sign with an agency, you will begin
working on your portfolio. This collection of pictures will show potential
clients how you react to a camera. Also, you will need to take what is known
as "model mug shots." These pictures are to show potential clients your looks
and body type. In this mug shot, you are not posing and are usually wearing a
simple bathing suit. It is important that all of your photographs are professional and
fit the industry standards. A modeling agency will be able to provide you with
a photographer who is accustomed to taking both portfolio images and mug shots.
In order to find a modeling agency and be
one of their representatives, you may wish to utilize open calls. Open calls
are similar to open houses where all individuals who are interested in becoming
a model are invited for an interview. When you attend these interviews, keep in
mind they are professional and you should dress the part. Keep your dress and
appearance simple in order to best showcase your features and body type. The
agency representatives must view you as a blank canvas so you can be adapted to
fit a variety of fashions. Wearing simple but professional attire will allow
them to do just that.
In order to excel as
a professional model, you will have to work hard and diligently at your goal.
Just like any career, modeling is a job and should be taken seriously if you
expect to excel.
Copyright 2005 by Lynn Walls. All rights reserved.
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Looking for
information about modeling? Go to
http://www.atozmodeling.com.
A to Z Modeling is a Fashion Modeling
Information Directory and Resource Site which provides
a consolidated listing of the best Modeling and Fashion sites in one
easy to navigate location.
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