Where to Start when You Choose to Become a Model?

Choosing modeling as a career may be a daunting task, especially if you come from some small town or secluded area that has no reference point for you to start. How do you just one day say “Oh I want to be a model”? Well there is no manual to make it as a profession model. Some women are discovered in the most unlikely ways while others work years at trying to build a portfolio and create a name for themselves.

But there are some general guidelines that may prove helpful when trying to become a model.

1. Decide what type of model you would like to be. Be realistic in your approach.

2. Research as much as you can on the specific industry you have chosen.

3. Once you have compiled the information, make phone calls to agencies, send emails to ask questions and gather more data.

4. Read classified ads in newspapers, magazines and online to find casting calls.

5. Go to as many auditions and casting calls possible.

6. Find a photographer with whom you can work agreeably and put together an edgy, catchy portfolio. Before you arrange to have your photos taken, be sure to see a good hairstylist and find a style that complements your overall look. One thing to remember, though, that simpler is better with your portfolio.

7. Speak to local companies to offer your services. For example, if a local hotel is holding a bridal fair, talk to the exhibitors about modeling the dresses, lingerie, jewelry or shoes. Another example is a local magazine. The advertisers might want to show their products with a model instead of the item alone. Offer your services in return for the exposure. A charity fashion show is a great way to gain exposure and add something specific to your portfolio.

8. Network as much as possible. Do not be afraid to ask others for connections or contacts.

9. Hand out business cards and be available for small assignments.

10. If you have something unique about yourself, flaunt it and promote it. For example, you may have been complimented on your hair since you were little. Use that to your advantage. You might just become the next spokeswoman for a famous brand of shampoo.

11. Approach companies to ask about their catalog distribution. If they publish regular catalogs and the clothing is shown but not worn by people, you might suggest they use you for the next catalog to wear some of the clothes in the catalog.

12. Watch out for companies that are holding model searches. Many big brand companies hold regular contests looking for new and fresh faces. Apply to as many as possible.

13. Think twice about marking your skin with piercings and tattoos. These might sound sexy when you are young but most companies are not interested in personal adornments conflicting with their products’ images. Some companies may even require, as part of the application, that you send a photo in a bikini so that they can see whether your body is marked or not. You will be eliminated before you even start.

Lastly, you should be very careful of the many scams relating to modeling. Do not send money to people that you know nothing about. Also, when dealing with an unknown photographer, take along a friend so that you are not alone. And finally, be patient. Being discovered does take time.