Allison Zervopoulos

There is a lot to consider in launching your modeling career or hobby. In my previous post, I discussed a few kinds of modeling and provided some get-started tips.  Today I’m going to give you a few more tips to kick-start your career.

Tips for the aspiring model: Image by Paul Burlingame Photo

Tips for the aspiring model:

1. Take your measurements. Include: height, bust, waist, hips. Use those measurements to determine what areas of modeling you fit into.
2. Look up agencies in your area. See what requirements they have and if you fit them. Find out how to submit to their agency, or if they have an open call.  Submit the required information and photos or go in.
3. Look up Websites where you can meet and connect with others.  This is especially important if you are modeling as a hobby. Use your new connections to book some shoots, and have fun!
4. Do some test shoots, but be careful. Once you have an agency interested in you, you will likely need to do some test shoots with photographers they recommend. DO NOT pay for any in house photographers. Do not pay the agencies directly. The agency should be RECOMMENDING photographers, not forcing you to use theirs, or asking you to make payments to them.
5. Purchase a portfolio and comp cards. Agencies may ask you to purchase is a portfolio. Some agencies request that you purchase theirs with their logo on it; others may let you buy your own. Most will also require that you purchase comp cards, this is generally done through their agency since they will want all their models cards to have the same layout and logos. These generally cost between $150-300.
6. Do reference checks. This is especially important if you are booking work/shoots off of things like craigslist or model mayhem. Always be safe! It’s also a good idea when booking model jobs to make sure a friend or family member knows where you’re going, how long you should be, and a number where they can reach you. It’s just smart to be safe.
7. RESEARCH! Do as much research as you can about the industry, any agencies that you are interested in, or who are interested in you, and everything else you think you may have questions on.
8. Trust your gut. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Want to know even more about being a new model?  Check out this site:

http://www.newmodels.com/modelintro.html

Allison Zervopoulos

Breaking into the modeling industry can be extremely hard and frustrating if you’re not familiar with the business, or what to do. This quick how-to post is designed to give you some insight into making wise career choices.

How to Break into Modeling: Image by Paul Burlingame Photo

1. Ask yourself: Do I want to model as hobby or a career?
   1. If you are modeling as a hobby: There are a number of sites like modelmayhem and onemodelplace where you can meet and network with photographers, models, hairstylist and makeup artists. These sites help you meet relevant individuals who are just looking to make art, or have fun. Modeling as a hobby can be very rewarding because you can do more of what YOU want, versus just shooting what the client wants.
   2. If you are modeling with the hopes of having a career: You need to evaluate yourself and determine the types of modeling you would like to get into.  There are so many!

Types of Modeling to consider:

1. Fashion Modeling:
   Fashion models spend their time on runways and in ads for brands like Gucci and Chanel. Fashion modeling agencies usually have a height requirement of 5′9 and models need to have measurements of 34-24-34, or very close. Models MUST be these sizes because they need to fit into standard sample size clothing.

   Fashion modeling usually requires that you have an agent. You you can look up agencies in your area and ask what their requirements are and how/what to submit to them. Some agencies have you mail in snapshots. Others have you come in for open calls. Generally, unless you have a portfolio full of tear sheets, fashion modeling agencies prefer that you come in with non-professional, simple snapshots.

   A fashion career is usually pretty short. Agencies generally will not accept talent over the age of 22 and prefer girls even younger. Most fashion models will start their career around age 14-16.

2. Commercial Modeling:
   Commercial print models come in all shapes, sizes, and ages. These are the models you see in ads for medications, tooth paste, and more. Commercial print models need an agent. Agencies usually look for models 5′7 and up who are fit and healthy, but they do not have specific size requirements. Commercial print agencies usually ask prospective models to come in with a strong portfolio instead of just snapshots. It’s always wise to call the agents you are interested in and ask them about their requirements, and what to bring in.

Smaller areas of modeling include alternative modeling, art modeling, glamour, and more. Requirements and the type of work available will largely depend on your location, and the type of modeling you are interested in.

Do you model?  How did you break into the business?  I’d love to hear your story.

Stay tuned for part two: Tips for the aspiring model.