A Beginner's Guide to Modeling

I've been modeling for four years now. I've done both print and film, but my work mainly consists of specialty and promo. For those that don't know model jargon, that means I do character/special talent (people like magicians are specialty) and promotional work. Modeling can be like a completely different world, but if you keep a positive attitude you can succeed no matter what!

Do I have to be 5'9 and thin?

No. You don't have to even be young. Though the majority of jobs available are typically looking for a "high fashion" look (5'9-6'1 for females, and about 120 or less). Currently, 60% of the population is plus-sized, so there's room for plus-size models on the runway, magazines, etc (5'8-6'1 fo females, size 14 & up). You also have a need for that denture lady you see in ads, so grandma can have a job too. What about all those girls you see in Goth magazines with purple hair? Yes. There has to be models for that too. Even those ladies who give you a piece of granola at your local Wal-mart are promotional models doing in-store demonstrations! There's virtually work for every shape, size, and ethnicity available if you're willing to work for it.

How Do I Get Started?

You'll want to take 2 pictures of yourself. The first picture of you will be your headshot. You will need to have on natural make-up (or none at all) and little-to-no hair styling. If you wear glasses, take them off, and don't wear any hats or jewelry. Then take a picture of just your head and shoulders.

The next will be a full body shot. You should wear something that shows your legs, like shorts, capris, or a skirt, if you're comfortable. Then a top that has a classic look, like a button-down, and all the clothes should be free of big brand labels (no Nike tops, etc). Don't get crazy with poses, a simple standing pose will be fine.

You'll then take these photos and either upload them to www.onemodelplace.com, www.musecube.com, or www.modelmayhem.com. OMP (onemodelplace) generally deals with more glamour models (think Daisy Duke), Musecube is more about art models and plus-size models, and Modelmayhem deals with a mashing of all. All the sites are free to join if you're a model and from there you'll be able to "network" with photographers, some agencies, stylists, and make-up artists so that you can set up a shoot for TFP/CD and get professional photos!

What's TFP/CD?

Time for Print (or CD-Rom) refers to when a model and photographer work together for free in exchange for prints or a cd of the photos taken during the shoot. The model will then sign some type of TFP/CD release with the photographer in which the model agrees to only use the photos for "promotional purposes." (Posting in your portfolio either online or in your "book" for agencies and clients.) The photographer will then agree to not use the photos to defame the model's character, etc, but that he will maintain copyright and might sell the photos if possible.

Not all contracts are like this, and many models often get scammed because "photographers" will go and alter a contract to his specifications, so before you sign anything please read it throughly. Many girls have had rude awakenings after they found out that the contract they signed had questionable stipulations for what their photos would be used for.

Internet Modeling Vs. Real World Modeling

Most freelance models (non-agency models) are internet models. Their gigs (work) consist of shooting with photographers so that they can have specific material for either projects their working on, or their portfolio. They also do some print, promotional, or website work. Some make a full-time living, while others will make next to nothing. A good way to find internet modeling work is through www.craigslist.org, or the forums on some of the previously mentioned modeling sites.

That's not to say that real world modeling is better, but there's often more prospects because you're signed with an agent, and working gigs that could be for commercials, print, etc. Agents can also get you gigs that you can't find online because many high-profile clients will only book with agencies so that they'll the best. However there's guarantee that you'll make a living as work can be sporadic if you aren't in a good market (L.A., Dallas, NYC, Atlanta, Miami, & Chicago), or if your type isn't in high-demand.

How do I find an agency?

First you have to figure out what type of modeling you plan on doing. A print model wouldn't try to sign with a runway agency because they don't focus on her type. They have all different kinds of agencies that focus on all different kinds of modeling. Your best bet is to www.google.com your city's name and "agency" and see what turns up. Then you'll need to read their info and submissions information as some agencies will only accept submissions at open calls (a specific time and date when the agency opens it's doors to review new talent), and others will only take pictures through the mail.

If they like your look, they'll contact you (usually within 2 wks), to try to set-up and interview. For your interview, you'll want to dress business casual, with attire being more casual than business. Follow the headshot guidelines as they want to see what "You" really look like, not how good you are at make-up. If they like you, they'll either sign you there, or if it's an open call, they'll contact you later.

Your contract will either be exclusive or non-exclusive, which means you can only do gigs for them, or you can work with other agencies, or scout your own gigs. There's also often clauses about professionalism (showing up on time for gigs), bio pages, etc. Be certain to read everything before you sign because often many "agencies" are scams if they sound too good to be true.

How do I spot a scam?

More often than not, if an agency tries to sell you something, it's a scam. You don't need modeling classes, most of what they teach you isn't worth $900. If the agency tells you it needs money for fees, or anything else, ask them to itemize it. If it doesn't sound right, don't sign with them. Agencies generally charge fees for making copies, etc, but that's normally a part of their commission they're paid when they book a gig for you (commission is generally between 10-20%).

You will have to pay for your own pictures if an agency thinks you need new ones. Often they'll direct you to a photographer that fits your look and style, however you do not have to work with them if you chose not too. Also be aware of photographer's overcharging for pictures. Do some homework and find out what headshots in your area cost from someone of their comparable level.

Don't do modeling conventions or expos! Almost all of them are complete and utter rip offs! You won't meet real agents, work with good photographers, and often you'll spend $500 just to get in to the convention. Nevermind if you had to fly to it's location, book a hotel room, and buy food. The only time you should bother is if there's little to no entrance fee, and when you google them, if "scam" doesn't come up with their name.

When it comes to working with photographers, or booking gigs over the internet, please use common sense. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Find out what they're name is and then www.google.com them and the word "scam" and see if anything comes up. When you do work with people, make certain that you have emails detailing what was requested of you, compensation, etc. otherwise if they try to not pay you, you won't have any evidence to take to small claim's court.

Beware of people that sound creepy, or want you to do odd things for money. There's a lot of weirdos on the internet who are just looking to get some girl home with them. If you're paranoid about meeting a photographer for the first time, meet in a public place, or go to their studio with a friend. If they don't have a good reason for not letting you have an escort, then don't go! (Good Reason: I don't allow boyfriends at shoots because the last model's boyfriend didn't know she was doing lingerie pictures and he tried to punch me. However, I will allow female friends on shoots.) Also, Never feel pressured to shoot nude with ANY photographer. If you didn't agree to shoot nudes before you went there, you don't have too!

Anything else?

Visit your local library, Barnes N' Noble, Borders, Books-a-million, etc and read up on modeling. Learn how to do your own hair and make-up, what kind of clothes are currently "in", and keep up with go-sees (auditions). Very few people are an instant success with modeling, but persistence always pays off.