Overview
With the rise of popular shows like "Make Me a Supermodel" and "America's Next Top Model," an increasing number of modeling aspirants are seeing their dreams of modeling fame become more reachable then ever. For some models, this dream came at an early age, but for others the pursuit of a modeling career comes later in life. Read on to find out more about when people first start wanting to become a model.
Time Frame: The Sooner, the Better
When it comes to modeling, the sooner potential models realize they want to pursue a modeling career, the better. Modeling agencies love to sign tall, thin models who are young, and fashion designers are using models as young as 13 and 14 to grace the catwalk in the latest high fashions. In general, models who are tall in their early teens first start thinking about pursuing a modeling career or are told that they should.
Child Models
Photogenic children are often told they should become models as well, and their parents may get them signed with modeling and talent agencies. Kids may have an affinity for dressing up and may want to get into modeling in pageants. While controversial, pageants are one of the most popular ways that children start out as models. Once they develop an interest in modeling, children can also model in catalogs, magazines and commercials.
Considerations: Age and Modeling
While most models start thinking about pursuing a modeling career at an early age, many are not able to turn those thoughts into a reality, due to financial constraints or geographic location. As a result, they may pursue a modeling career at a later age. Surprisingly, it really is never too late to start a modeling career. While jobs in runway and editorial may dry up, commercial casting directors are always hunting for a variety of looks and ages of models, depending on the product the commercial is promoting. The same is true for catalogs. Older women are often featured to model clothing of more mature clothing lines.
The Media and Modeling
Due to the rise of the reality show model, the aspiring model who wins a modeling competition on television and rises to fame, more women and men are starting to consider becoming models. These types of shows cater to a young demographic, and as a result, teens who may not have considered a career in the field before are dreaming of becoming models at an earlier age.
What to Do if You Want to Become a Model
Regardless of the age that people decide to pursue a modeling career, they must schedule photo shoots and build a modeling portfolio. A model's book should include editorial, commerical and beauty shots, as well as full body and head shots for talent agency submissions. Parents and models should submit to modeling agencies in their areas and make sure they are reputable to avoid casting scams. Once a model is signed to an agency, he or she will be sent out on go-sees (meetings with fashion designers) as well as casting calls so they can book jobs. Younger models who are at least 5'8" tend to be sent out the most for editorial and runway castings.
