Overview
Often, aspiring models enter the industry and see many people wanting money to help launch their careers. One of the biggest rules in modeling is that it's actually completely free to begin a career with a reputable agency - pictures, comp cards and all. There are other ways to model that don't include going through an agency. These tips will help launch your modeling career at no cost to you.
Step 1
Have a friend take several digital pictures of you. Include the following: a full length shot, a half-body and a facial closeup. Do these pictures in natural, flattering light with little to no makeup so that photographers and agents can see your natural good looks. Wear something simple yet flattering, avoiding big prints or overly bright colors. Aim to shoot against a plain white background, if possible.
Step 2
Upload the pictures onto your computer and edit them in a free photo program such as GIMP. If you want to retouch small blemishes or coffee stains, that's fine, but don't make any large-scale changes. Crop out any extra clutter and save the pics in JPEG format.
Step 3
Figure out what type of modeling you'd like to do. When making up modeling profiles, sites will want to know if you're willing to do TFP (unpaid shooting for prints) or paid shoots. They'll also ask about comfort with nudity and area of interest. Be honest here, because photographers will contact you based on these answers.
Step 4
Visit one of the websites on listed in the resource section and set up a member page. Upload the shots that you took along with any others from the recent past that show you in a flattering light. These can be used as character shots. Give as much information as possible; take measurements for bust, waist and hips, to give people a good idea of your build.
Step 5
Do a very cautious check of Craig's List and modeling site forums for open castings and calls. Be aware of who you're meeting and where the audition is located. If in doubt, take a friend for safety's sake. Always ask for references and links to online work before giving out any personal information. There are legitimate jobs on public sites, but many fraudulent opportunities are out there for the unwary.
Step 6
Send the digital pictures to a major modeling agency to express interest. Many agencies are out there, ranging from print/commercial to high fashion recruit from Internet entries. You'll be asked to upload pictures and give some information to the agency, which will then contact you if interested. Keep in mind that there are many people sending in pictures every day. However, there's always a chance that someone will let you know about open calls that could lead to work.
Step 7
Attend open calls at major modeling agencies. In New York, agencies hold these events on a weekly basis. Show up with some printed snapshots and a resume listing any previous experience. Be prepared to wait a long time - perhaps several hours, if lucky. Open calls are a good introduction to the competition, and also serve to teach prospective models about rejection. They can be highly educational, with some agents giving very good advice on how to improve your chances.
Step 8
If contacted for work, clarify all arrangements about pay (or shots) before agreeing to shoot. Ask if you'll be supplying makeup and hair services; if yes, be well prepared and bring a wide range of products for use. Arrive on time and ready to work. Afterward, contact the photographer for any prints or tear sheets (published ad or editorial work) to add to your growing portfolio.
Resources
