Is It Easy to Become a Model ?

It is certainly not easy to become a model, but it is possible if you are young, possess the right physical characteristics, and are willing to travel and work long hours. Contrary to popular opinion, you do not have to be tall or unusually good-looking to become a model--but you must be photogenic. Clear skin, thick hair, straight teeth and good body symmetry are essential for almost any kind of modeling.

First of all, decide what type of modeling suits you the best. For example, catwalk models average around 5 feet 9 inches with measurements of 34-24-34; plus-size models have voluptuous figures, are between 5 feet 2 inches and 6 feet 1 inch and wear sizes 12 to 14; petite models are between 5 feet 2 inches and 5 feet 4 inches and wear sizes 2 to 4; and glamor models are voluptuous and have oval faces and distinctive features. You could also try to become a hand or foot model.

Your amateur portfolio should be composed of photos taken by a professional photographer, and your portfolio should include at least one head shot, one body shot, and one action shot. Keep some 8x10s handy in case you need to leave them with a modeling agency. Once you get a agent, your agency will help you build a professional portfolio. You will also need to have a "comp card" made. A comp card is the model's equivalent of a business card. The front should feature a head shot with your name, nationality, contact information, height, weight, measurements, shoe size, and hair and eye color. The back should feature a collage of four of your best photos. You should print at least 100 of these--they cost about $2 each.

Almost all successful models work with modeling agencies. The trick is to find a reputable agency. If the agency asks you to pay up-front fees, requires you to pay to attend their modeling classes, or requires you to use a particular photographer, you should be suspicious. Since most reputable agencies usually do not advertise, ask the photographer who shoots your portfolio to recommend a few agencies, and then check them out with the Better Business Bureau. Once you find an agency that seems to be legitimate, mail them your comp card and call for an appointment a few days later. You may be told to wait until their next "open call," an event in which a modeling agency will set aside a particular time and date for new models to come in and meet with them. They will take your measurements, ask you to walk, and perhaps ask you to pose. Once you find an agent willing to represent you, make the terms of your relationship are clearly expressed in an agency contract, and make sure you fully understand it before signing.

Modeling takes more than the right looks and aggressive promotion--professionalism is expected. Punctuality, etiquette, confidence, honesty, dedication, self-discipline and thorough preparation are expected.

Decide in advance how much of your body you are willing to reveal. Showing too much might open doors in one area, such as glamor modeling, while closing doors in another, such as fashion modeling. You might also want to consider how far you are willing to go to advance your career--many models are comfortable with breast augmentation surgery and liposuction, but many are not.