So you want to model? Well before walking into this glamorous business there are few things that you should be aware of. First thing first, do you have the potential to model? So many wannabe models don’t realize that it takes more than height to be a model and just because someone says that you are cute does not mean that you have what it takes. So try looking in the mirror and ask yourself “Are there models on the runway, in magazines, or on television that look like me?” If the answer is no, and please be honest do not sell yourself a false aspiration, find a new occupation. In order to be a model or celebrity you have to have that “it” factor. Just recently an agent friend of mine was explaining to me how this young girl came into his office standing 5”1 and wanted to be a high fashion model. This is very disappointing to me, because this young lady apparently didn’t research the field that she wanted to go into. If you want to be a lawyer you educate yourself with the tools needed to be successful, models must do the same thing.
Now for those of you that actually do have a unique look, height, and desire to pursue a career in modeling, you now need to know the tools of the trade. Without pictures you cannot book work, so set up a shoot with a great photographer. Check out several so you will know who works well with your gender, ethnic background, and type of modeling you want to pursue. In this process many young models get caught up, many perverts who pose as photographers lure young hopefuls into their studio for a SFP (sex for pics), and along with this they offer the young amateurs superstardom. One great way to scout the perfect photographer is look for a referral from other models, in some rare cases the model may actually send you in the right direction.
Deciding whether you want to be a freelance model or going exclusive is another important factor in deciding what you want to do with your career. When deciding what you want to do there are pros and cons, if you want to have full control over your career, keep all percentages of your pay, and find your own work then freelance may be the route for you; however if you want career guidance, avoid clients not making payments, and having someone assist you in finding new career opportunities then seek representation. Having an agent is having protection from the scams and deceit that floats throughout the industry. So many people are aware of how many people dream of modeling and they take advantage of them by charging them to model in their fashion shows (registration fees count too), charging for website placement, or agents charging models upfront. One tip to remember is your agent works for you; you pay them after they do the job.
Another aspect of the industry that you should be aware of is the difference between an agent and a manager. Your agent is responsible for sending you on castings and informing you of whether you booked the job or not. Your manager oversees your personal career they make sure you are paid, oversees your image, and basically serves as your parent for your modeling career. One tip that you might want to keep in mind for this as well is make sure your manager is someone that you trust. Although you should trust everyone who represents you, the manager is very important, because they are the person who will oversee most of your career. Can your manager and agent be the same person? Of course, many times managers are the ones who sends the model out for the castings and books the job for them. When working with an agent or manager make sure you are the favorite, so you will be the one on their mind most
of the time and you get first take on everything from jobs, to industry events.
Now that you are aware of some of the many things that are important in jump starting your modeling career now make sure this is the career for you. Some of the most glamorous jobs are not so glamorous when actually working in that field. Many times you have to wait for months for pay, the hours are long and gruesome at times, and you have to deal with a lot of fake people. One thing I learned from modeling is make friends with people with other career aspirations; you cannot trust another model as far as you can throw them. Many models are only looking out for themselves and their own career. If you do decide to befriend a model, please make sure you have different looks, this can cause hardships in your friendship, because you will compete for the same jobs. Always remember even though you feel this way, you never reveal it, keep on your wonderful smile and remember to work this industry like it will work you. Now that you have had modeling 101 you need to make the decision on whether this is what you want, because time is ticking and you will not be young forever.
Written By: Dwight Allen O’Neal
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