5 Simple Ways to Become a Fashion Model

The most common question that modeling agents and scouts receive from aspiring models is, "how do I become a fashion model?".  There is so much information in books, on websites, and swirling around in modeling forums that it can seem very confusing and overwhelming to a new model who is just starting out. Here are 5 simple steps to help you get started:

                                          1  Take Some Basic Snapshots           

In the beginning the only photos you need to present to modeling agents and scouts are some basic snapshots.  They are looking for a nice face shot (smiling and not smiling), left and right profiles of your face and body, a full length shot and a back shot.  Wear form fitting clothing like skinny jeans or leggings and a simple tank top or t-shirt.  If you are comfortable wearing a swimsuit then include a few swimsuit shots as well, either a one-piece or two-piece swimsuit is fine.  Male models need to show the agents their fitness level so it is recommended that male models wear swim trunks or boxer shorts, or wear jeans without a shirt in at least one of their photos. 

 2  Get Evaluated by a Professional Model Agent or Scout

Most new models start their quest because their family and friends have said “you should be a model’, or they are the prettiest girl or guy in the school, and maybe, they have even won some local modeling competitions. That’s a great start, but it doesn’t necessarily translate into what the agencies are really looking for.  It is essential that you get your modeling potential evaluated by an experienced model agent or scout before you invest too much time or money into your pursuit. 

This step can get a little tricky.  How do you determine whether the agent or scout who is evaluating you has the experience and knowledge to help you?  Also, many new models find that they live in a smaller market where many of the agents are affiliated with a modeling school or photography studios, therefore they may not be getting an accurate evaluation if the "agency" is more interested in selling courses or photo shoots.  This doesn't mean that the agent isn't good or that the courses or photo shoots they are offering are bad; it just means that you need to think about what is motivating them to tell you whether or not you can be a model.  

 Get as Much Exposure as Possible: Many agencies specialize in only one particular area.  Some may only represent high fashion (editorial) models, and others may only represent commercial models, or plus-size, petite or child models.  If one agency is unable to represent you don’t get discouraged, it’s important that you get seen by as many agents as possible and on a routine basis. If you live in one of the major markets you may be able to attend an open call or go-see at the agency.  If you live outside one of the major markets the best way to get exposure is to send your photos to as many agencies as possible.  This can be a very time consuming and expensive endeavor  especially if you are making copies of all your photos and then mailing them.  The cost of prints, envelopes and stamps can easily add up to over a thousand dollars.  Another option is to email your photos, however, because of the thousands of photos that are emailed to model agencies every day it is very easy to get lost in the mix. To increase your chances of being signed to an agency it is important to work with people who have experience and direct connections to all the agencies in a wide variety of markets.  ModelScouts.com is a great place to start and offers the most legitimate and cost effective way for you to get the exposure you need in order to be seen by many agents around the world and in the quickest way possible.

                        4       Know the Best Modeling Market for You

The term “market” refers to the various geographical locations in which models work and earn a living.  New York is a “market”, Paris is “market”, Tokyo is a “market”, and so on.  It can also refer to the category your particular look falls in to, such as the fashion market, commercial market, plus market, or petite market.

While the supermodels you see in major magazines and walking the runways for top clients generally work in every market, there are many successful models who only work in one or two markets.  So, even though you may not get represented by an agency in New York or Paris, you could very well be perfect for Tokyo, Singapore and other Asian markets.   An experienced mother agent can help guide you to the right market for your particular look.

5   Be Persistent

 Becoming a professional model is a process.  It rarely happens overnight.  Even the models who say “I was just walking down the street one day and the next I was on the cover of Vogue” are exaggerating.

Becoming a professional model takes time; for some it takes less time and for others it may take a little more.  Many of today’s top models didn’t get signed to an agency the first time out of the gate.  In fact, supermodel Gisele Bundchen was turned down over 40 times before she was finally signed to an agency.

Stay positive and remember that just because an agency wasn’t able to represent you today it doesn’t mean they won’t be interested tomorrow.

Petite Modeling: 4 Ways Smaller Models Can Break Into the Industry

                 A Total Package of Beauty, Brains and Style Helps Smaller Models Succeed

Think you’re too short to be a model? Think again. The modeling industry has tossed aside its strict height requirements for both male and female models and is now embracing smaller models (not to mention models of any size, age, and ethnicity too!). Instead of focusing on how tall a model is, modeling agencies are focusing on the whole package: beauty, personality, professionalism, and so much more.

Many smaller models (the modeling industry prefers to use the term "small" rather than "petite") have found great success in the industry. You’ve heard of Kate Moss, of course. At just 5’ 8’’ (with some reports that she's really 5' 6"), she’s been an unstoppable force since she was first discovered way back in 1988. Even her little sister Lottie, who’s only 5’ 5’’, signed on with Kate’s agency, Storm Model Management. And let’s not forget about the guys! Take Aaron Frew, a 5’ 7’’ male model from Northampton. Billed as the “new Kate Moss,” he’s starred in international campaigns for Calvin Klein.

Do remember that some industries will be harder to break into—high fashion and runway do tend to favor taller models—but that doesn’t mean your modeling dreams will never come true. There are plenty of other petite modeling jobs that don’t require the stereotypical height requirements of fashion models!

From swimsuit and lingerie to hand, feet, and parts modeling, here are a few ways to break into the modeling industry, no matter your height.

1. Commercial Modeling:  You don’t have to be six feet tall to sell cosmetics, jewelry, pharmaceuticals, hotels, cars, and other products and services outside the realm of high fashion.

Your job is to sell a lifestyle that appeal to the masses, and the masses aren’t a tall bunch. The average female height in the US is about 5’4’’, and the average male height is around 5’9’’.

What makes commercial modeling an especially good industry for petite models to get into, aside from the lack of height requirements, is that agencies and brands are a diverse clientele looking for diverse models. That means they’re looking for memorable models who represent all ages, sizes, and ethnicities!

2. Swimsuit Modeling:  When it comes to swimsuit modeling, a fit, curvaceous body is more important than height. If you have a toned, yet feminine figure, along with beautiful skin, teeth, and hair, you may find your place in the swimsuit modeling industry. Male swimsuit models, too, don’t have to worry too much about their height. What matters most is that you are athletic, fit, and toned (many male swimsuit models started off as athletes or fitness trainers). It’s okay if your measurements are a bit larger than those of a fashion model because you don’t have to worry about fitting into standard size jackets.

3. Lingerie and Underwear Modeling: Just like swimsuit models, lingerie models need to be fit and healthy and have a womanly figure. They don’t need to be as voluptuous and sensual as Sports Illustrated swimsuit models, but they do need to be attractive and comfortable with their bodies.

Male underwear models also need to be fit and healthy (like swimsuit models, many started off as athletes or trainers). They also need to be attractive and have a relaxed, confident attitude while modeling, which isn’t always easy when you’re wearing nothing but underwear!  

4. Parts Modeling:  Parts models only model specific body parts, such as hands, feet, legs, eyes, backs, teeth and even earlobes. So as long as the model meets certain size and aesthetic requirements, it really doesn’t matter how tall they are.

Petite models are highly sought after for parts modeling because their hands and feet are often smaller and more appealing than those of taller models. Don’t forget that part modeling is still modeling, though. You’ll need to know how to work your chosen body part for the camera and take great care to protect it.

Commercial Models - What Are They and How You Can Become One

    Commercial Modeling - A Great Career for All Ages, Shapes, Sizes & Heights

What Are Commercial Models?

When most people think of models and the modeling profession they think of high fashion supermodels like Kate Moss, Gisele Bundchen, and Naomi Campbell appearing on the covers of Vogue, Elle and Harper's Bazaar.  However, there is a very lucrative side of modeling that many people overlook, and that is the commercial modeling industry. 

Commercial models are essentially models that look like everyday people and are modeling or advertising products such as food and household items, pharmaceuticals, travel destinations, sporting equipment and more.

 What Are The Requirements For Commercial Models? Unlike fashion models who must have specific measurements (stats), commercial models can be any age, shape, size and height.  Hooray!  

Do Commercial Models Need Special Training? Commercial models do not need to attend modeling classes, however, it is highly recommended that they have some basic acting skills and training.  Attending a few acting classes or workshops that focus on auditioning skills and how to work on a set is a good start.  A great resource for learning about commercial modeling is the book "How To Become a Successful Commercial Model" by Aaron Marcus which can be purchased at most bookstores and on Amazon.com. 

How Much Can Commercial Models Earn? The income that a commercial model earns can vary depending on the type of job, the market in which the client or model is based, and the model’s level of experience.

  Another factor that can come into play is how the client intends to use the images or film in which the model is appearing.  For example, is the ad appearing locally, nationally or internationally?  How long does the client wish to use the photos, is it for a few months or indefinitely?  The more “usage” the client wants the more the model is paid. In general, commercial models can expect to earn around $250 per hour for the amount of time they are on set with usage and buyout fees ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars.  

What Are The Best Markets For Commercial Models?

In the United States the best markets for commercial models are New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco and Seattle.  Secondary markets like Atlanta, Phoenix, Dallas and Houston can also be great.  Unlike fashion models who focus on big fashion cities like New York, commercial models have many more markets available to them. Commercial models can also work overseas in Paris, Milan and Asia but agencies typically work with commercial models who live full time in these markets. Commercial models don’t usually travel overseas the way that fashion models do.

How to Become a Commercial Model: In order to work as a commercial model you will need an agency representing you.  Therefore, you should start by sending some basic snapshots to experienced modeling agents and scouts who can evaluate your particular look and determine if you will be the right fit for their markets. Unlike fashion models who, in the beginning, are evaluated solely on their physical attributes, commercial models need to put a little more effort into their photos, even if they are just snapshots.  Be sure to show the agents and scouts your true potential by letting your personality shine through in your photos.

It is advisable not to invest in photo shoots or commercial headshots until you have a basic understanding of what agencies and clients are looking for and how the commercial market works.  As mentioned above, a great resource is the book "How To Become a Successful Commercial Model" by Aaron Marcus. Aaron's book is full of tips and advice on how to choose the right photographer, how to get great photos and much, much more. In the meantime, the most important thing is to get as much exposure as you can to as many agencies as possible. A great place to start getting that exposure is with professional model scouting company ModelScouts.com.