Wednesday, January 7, 2015

How to Become a Professional Model



Linda Vojtova in Elle Australia 2014

Becoming a model is a dream come true for individuals who find themselves enamored with the world of beauty, fashion, glamour and travel and who enjoys being the center of attention. 

To become a professional model not only requires strict research to ensure you sign with a reputable agency, but it also requires a strong commitment on your behalf. If you are determined that you have what it takes to become a professional model, follow these expert tips to help get you in the door.

Take Care of Yourself

First thing's first. To become a professional model means you have to take care of yourself. According to Model Management-one of the top modeling agencies in the world, this means keeping a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, working out regularly, getting quality rest and avoiding alcohol and smoking. Take care of your hair and skin. Get your hair trimmed regularly to keep it healthy and keep make up at a minimum. If you choose to wear makeup, wash it off every night to avoid break outs.

Have a Good Attitude

A good attitude and a friendly personality always makes a good impression with agencies. Show confidence. Project yourself as the perfect candidate for the job. Display your vibrant personality, but keep it simple.

Dedicate Yourself

Building a successful career as a model takes resilience, time and effort to navigate the ever changing world of the fashion industry. The modeling industry is a fiercely competitive environment. A strong will and confidence goes a long way in this highly chaotic world.

Apply and attend to as many go-sees and castings as possible. This is your job interview and should be treated as such.

Be Professional

If you crave a successful career as a model, then you must be professional! Nobody wants to work with a model who is negative or has an ego. Keep a helpful, positive attitude.

Fashion shoots require more than just perfect poses, you must also be willing to withstand extreme weather and extended hours with the photo studio or fashion designer. Show up on time, be prepared, answer your phone and always return missed calls.

Prepare Yourself

There's more to modeling than just turning and posing. Classes will help build your knowledge of the industry as well as your confidence. The Internet is a good place to locate the right school, teacher and class. Classes focus on niches such as curvy models, mature models, kids, voice projection, print, runway, self-confidence and more. Some classes also combine acting with modeling for an extra edge.

The techniques taught in class are some of the same techniques employed by today's top models. No matter your goals, modeling classes will teach you how to work the camera, provide make up tips, teach you how to pick clothes that flatter you and provide styling pointers.

Make Your Portfolio Shine

Your portfolio is your resume, therefore, it is imperative that it is picture perfect. Make sure your portfolio has enough variation that beautifully displays your potential as a model. Your photos should portray your comfort with the camera as well as your range of expressions and movement.

Think of your portfolio as your short story that you are telling to potential clients. In other words, be sure your story flows and commands the agency's attention.

Keep your portfolio limited to your best photos. Always select photos that display the type of modeling your wish to do. Choose a sturdy, classy looking binder to display your photos. Mix your images. For example, follow a good portrait "head shot" with a total body shot. Avoid placing similar shots in your book, such as two shots of an identical look. And don't be afraid to mix color shots with black and whites. As you grow, replace novice photos with newer ones to keep your portfolio up to date.

When soliciting a photographer, make sure their style of photography compliments the type of modeling you are trying to do. In other words, if you are trying to be a fitness model, don't go to a high fashion photographer. Always ask to see the photographer's work. Most photographers work can be viewed on their website. Observe if you like their style of photography. Do they look reputable? Is their work published in commercials and magazines that you would like to appear in? A published photographer can also recommend you to agents and really give your modeling career a boost.

It is generally okay to bring a chaperone to photo shoots with you. Beware of photographers that insists you come alone.

Model Agency Representation

If you decide to seek representation from a modeling agency, be sure the agency is reputable according to industry standards. Before you sign, read the fine print. Note commission costs, cancellation terms, duration of the contract, exclusivity and hidden costs. If you have any doubts about the agency, do not sign the contract.

Have Fun!

The professional cycle of a model is a short one, so enjoy the ride with passion. Put your heart and mind into your endeavors, and have fun!



Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com

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