How to Become a Model for Magazines

Understand the magazine industry. Prospective models should analyze the different types of magazines available, making a list of their favorite editors, photographers and models. Compare personal strengths and determine the right magazine modeling career path. Fitness buffs may find success in sportswear and bathing suit modeling for Self, Men's Health or Shape. Those with memorable, unique faces and slender frames should peruse high-fashion magazines--such as Vogue--while understanding that these magazines are often the most competitive (and coveted) modeling opportunities. Examine how other types of magazines sell products to consumers; what things do the models have in common? How does their body language communicate a need for the product? Study modeling poses, facial expressions, shapes, sizes and ages, cutting out your favorite images for future inspiration. Realistically determine both short-term and long-term magazine modeling goals.

Prepare for the modeling industry. Before you embark on a magazine modeling career, remember that this field is highly competitive and can be flooded with negative criticism. Remain upbeat in attitude and take care of your number one modeling asset--your body. As each magazine campaign will require a different, rigorous standard for model casting, evaluate your strengths (such as skin, hair and shape) and work to improve your attractiveness. Drink plenty of water, follow a nutritious diet, exercise and practice positive behaviors. Cleanse skin, pluck eyebrows, wear appropriately-done make-up and stay positive and outgoing. Additionally, understand that the modeling industry may require long, hard hours of work, extensive travel, uncomfortable wardrobe choices or difficult posing situations. Evaluate your work ethic and ensure you are committed to magazine modeling before embarking on the difficult process.

Contact a credible, professional photographer. Find one that specializes in modeling services and have head shots taken in natural lighting, wearing minimal make-up, in two or three outfit choices and in several different poses. Choose versatile photographs-- from facial expressions to body language to photograph style-- for a composite card. This will serve as your business card to prospective modeling agencies, showing them your natural beauty and modeling range. Ensure that the photographs are a strong representation of your ability and modeling promise, understanding that professional photographs can cost more than $300. Consider it the upfront cost a career investment.

Create a modeling "Look Book." Also called a portfolio, this packet of 12 to 16 photographs will serve as an application to many modeling agencies. It may be difficult to obtain modeling jobs if you have little experience; Consider trade-for-pictures or low-paying positions to slowly build a portfolio. When ready, choose photographs that show your modeling range and are of equal quality. Pick favorites to feature in the beginning and end of the portfolio and ensure that photographs are all the same size and shape. Remember that a Look Book serves as a representation of skill.

Outshine the modeling competition. If booked for a modeling opportunity--no matter how low-paying--ensure that you arrive early, remain professional at all times, are pleasant to the entire crew, follow instructions and work hard the entire shift. Models that are high-maintenance, rude or late are often removed from potential modeling opportunities. Show your positive attitude, keep an organized calendar and exert an excellent work ethic to maximize your modeling potential.

Take advantage of networking opportunities. As magazines are often filled with familiar and recurrent faces, increase your chances of future modeling jobs by networking during a photoshoot. Get to know magazine editors, talk with photographers, understand frequent magazine contributors and work to please the client. Pay attention, ask questions and connect with those around you. Exchange phone numbers, websites and email addresses. Consider sending thank-you cards after photo work is complete.

Apply to a modeling agency. All major magazines utilize modeling agencies; consider the big-name agencies to jumpstart your career, like Ford Models, Elite Model Management and Wilhelmina Models. Research agencies, the models they represent and the opportunities they can provide. Follow all application submission guidelines and ensure your portfolio is high-quality. During the interviewing process, be upbeat, self-confident, outgoing, goal-oriented and professional.