Overview
Monthly catalogs, featuring natural-looking men and women, are a big modeling business. Prospective models who have outgoing personalities, attractive looks and friendly faces are often excellent at selling catalog products. Follow the steps below to learn how to become a model for catalogs.
Step 1
Establish your catalog modeling assets. Men and women who appear in catalogs often sell a product or communicate content to the viewer. Realistically evaluate your look, demeanor, energy and personality. Additionally, consider how your modeling strengths would translate to the catalog pages. Do you appear approachable? Can you connect with the camera? Ensure that you meet appropriate industry standards (outstanding hygiene, straight teeth and clear skin). Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally to increase your modeling marketability.
Step 2
Examine available catalogs. The best teacher may be right in front of you. Study all catalogs and the products they sell (such as clothing, electronics, sports equipment and camping gear). Analyze the models that appear in each. What do they have in common? Evaluate facial expressions, poses and the message their body language communicates. Create a clip file of your favorites for inspiration and career encouragement.
Step 3
Hire a credible photographer. Contact a respected local photographer who understands the modeling business. Practice different poses, wear several outfits and minimal make-up, smile and appear as natural-looking as possible. Purchase composite cards that will serve as your modeling business card. Be prepared to spend over $300 for professional modeling services.
Step 4
Build a modeling portfolio. Those new to the modeling industry should expect to start with low-paying jobs or opportunities that offer photographs instead of a service fee. Compile job photographs and feature them in a modeling portfolio. Practice displaying your modeling range with a variety of professional images. Look for catalog modeling jobs through credible Internet resources and newspaper classifieds. Additionally, consider contacting favorite catalog editors with an unsolicited, professional letter that includes your comp card-- you never know how you will get discovered.
Step 5
Secure an agent. For maximum modeling potential, consider approaching a modeling agency. Follow agency candidate guidelines, be professional and exert a friendly demeanor at all times. Because catalog models must work well with others and feature a marketed product, a stylish appearance, outgoing personality and positive energy are preferred industry qualities.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Maintain a high level of professionalism -- catalog models often receive regular work from the same company.
- WARNING : Modeling is a challenging and competitive business. Be realistic and stay positive.
Watch out for potential modeling scams.
