How To Become A Model
A lot of young girls have dreams of becoming a model, sometimes because it’s glamourous and sexy, sometimes because they just love being in front of a camera. Whatever your reason is for wanting to become a model, you must understand it often takes a lot of work to get far in this cruel and competitive industry.
I’ve worked with and helped young models into the industry and want to give you some advice to help you break in. Whilst I cannot guarantee fame and success for you, these few simple steps will help any novice model ease into the industry.
1. Get some portfolios done
You’re not going to make it far in the modelling world if you’re using photos from a friends camera phone from a Friday night out. They don’t need to be done by a well-known cameraman who shot some celebrities a while ago, but they need to be done professionally. There are thousands of wannabe cameramen out there, some near you that will probably shoot you for free if you ask nicely. Be careful of who you choose though, try doing some research on them first and checking with other models they have shot with. Don’t be afraid to take a chaperon to look after you. All good cameramen will let you bring one. And make sure you have seen what photos they have done in the past and what ideas they have for your shoot. Often the more creative, the more respect you will garner.
2. Show off your work
Whilst it’s all well and good showing your friends and family and even your facebook buddies your photos, there are several websites like this out there for you to upload your portfolios for the world to see. Don’t be shy! The more prominent your photos, the more chance of getting seen. And that can only help towards your success. I’m not keen on website’s that charge you to upload your photo, when there are several free ones out there (such as this one) that will do the same job, and more often, a better one. So don’t go round flashing your money at these sites that are happier taking your money than promoting you.
3. Get a website
Whilst portfolio websites will help promote you, getting in touch is the most important thing. Lots of talent scouts can be too lazy to sign up to a site you’re on just to contact you, and won’t bother if your last login was 3 months ago. By having your own website you can provide visitors not only with your vital stats and portfolio, but with an opportunity for them to contact you. Whether you use a form, email or phone number on your site it boosts your chances of getting work considerably. I have created websites for a couple of models in the past, all that have had great success. I can assure you these have been of real benefit.
4. Be careful of agencies
I’ve never known of any agencies who charge money upfront to be a success. Never pay money to a modelling agency. Respectable agencies never charge their models a signup fee. Make sure you don’t either. Good agencies make their money from finding you paid work and taking a commission. There’s no incentive for an agency to find you work if they’ve already charged you up front. Don’t fall for their lies of being “the biggest” or “the best”. Do your research and don’t fall for any of these con artist’s tricks. Legitimate agencies have an office you can visit or a phone number for you to talk to someone.