Introduction to Modeling: Modeling is a career that guarantees so many rewards. It gives the model a platform to hone their skills and reflect very positive attributes to the world. Beyond the glamour and fame that is potentially available to all successful models, it is a very competitive industry and requires a lot for you to stand out. If you are interested in how to become a model, this discourse would sure be a good place to start.
- Maintain a decent and healthy look: One of the unique selling points as a model is how you look. Your hair, fitness level, the glow of your skin, etc all plays a major role in determining your success level. Furthermore, to maintain the right tone or looks, it might be expedient to get a physical trainer that would assist you achieve your objectives and goals as a Model.
- Make Key decisions from the onset: There are so many platforms to begin as a model. However, you must determine if you would need to go to a modeling school, if you would be a freelance model or sign up with an agency, the kind of modeling that best suits you, etc.
- Get all the information you can: You need to research on the modeling industry, hone your skills, read quality write-ups on models and work on positive attributes that would give you an edge in the industry.
The Various Types of Modeling
- Teen Modeling: This basically has to do with age and if you fall into this niche, it is advisable to seek for the consent of your guardians or parent if you are less than 18 years old.
- Body Part Models (Leg, Hand, etc): This category relates to jobs that buttress one body part. E.g. a hand lotion might prefer to use a model in this niche.
- Runway Models: These are usually models used at Fashion shows and events. They apply their trade on the catwalk.
- Plus Size Models: These are models that are on the bigger body size. Some jobs might need this niche for greater emphasis.
- Underwear Model: These are commonly used for Lingerie sales pitch and boxers for men.
It is pertinent however to mention that there are different types of modeling that are available. Some of these are Character Modeling (trying to model someone who truly exists), Mature Modeling, etc.
How to build your Portfolio and get discovered
Building your portfolio in modeling simply means getting a resume and putting together the jobs you had done or anything that can put you in good stead to get a modeling job. Beyond this, it is expedient to position your self to be discovered. Some of the avenues that can help you are participating in modeling contests, conventions, modeling searches or giving it a shot as a beauty pageant contestant.
The Next Steps to Take
One of the best bets on how to become a model that has a professional clout is to join a modeling agency. This is because of the key role they play in getting you the right jobs, giving you professional advice, promoting your works, etc. Consequently, the following guidelines would help you land a lucrative contract from a competent modeling agency.
- Take good shots of yourself: Whatever best promotes your personae and aura as a model must come to bare in the kind of shots you take to the modeling agency. For some it can be a body shot, while for others it might be a head shot. The key aim is to ensure that all your natural features are well portrayed in these shots as it would give you a good pedestal to build on.
- Get an accurate representation of yourself: Find out the color of your eyes, your body weight, your skin tone, your hair color, etc. This data is very important as various modeling jobs have various indices that are used in their final selection. One thing to note is that no matter your natural attributes, there are modeling jobs that best suits you. Working with professionals can also help to accentuate your natural features.
- Go to a Modeling Agency: Modeling agencies usually hold auditions that are called OPEN CALLS. This is where opportunity is given to new talents to showcase their abilities. Your portfolio would be assessed, Interviews might be done and a dress rehearsal for the Model job you are looking for might also be carried out.
- If need be, repeat all the processes above: It is pertinent to mention that due to the competitiveness in modeling , you might be rejected sometimes. This has nothing to do with your abilities but might be a reflection of what that agency needs at that point in time. Never give up, go through steps 1 and 3 and also give a try to any modeling category which you feel you can do well in.
What you need to do as a Model
- Professionalism: It is necessary to be organized, have a good interpersonal relationship skill, be courteous, etc. The demands of the job can be tedious; it needs a very balanced state of mind for you to pull through successfully. Your Professionalism can get you other referrals or vice versa. In whatever you do, just make sure you put the best foot forward.
- Be conscientious on building your career: Just as the popular saying goes, Garbage in garbage out. What you put into your modeling career determines how high you would climb the ladder of success. Treat your modeling as a job that demands only the best from you and the positive results would show in the not too distant future.
- Creativity is Key: Be open to ideas, various angles and photo shoots, put in your energy to make the work come alive. Express your positive attributes to the world and the beauty of this is that you can just end up being a Super Model as you apply yourself to these rules.
Conclusion: The foundational truth on how to become a Model is that you must discover if it’s your passion and then you must pay the price to be a Successful Model.