How to Become a Model

Models work to best show the work of designers through a range of mediums. They may work on the catwalk in fashion shows, on television commercials, with photographers, or at promotional events. Models are used to help market and sell all kinds of products, from clothing to beer brands.

To become a model, you will need to have a lot of confidence. Most models are also quite conventionally attractive and usually tall, although there are a few exceptions to this rule. You will need to work long hours in all kinds of settings, but also may face periods of unemployment also. Many models are known for having attitude, however the most successful in the industry are the ones who are easy to work with. Keeping a positive attitude and a friendly demeanor can go a long way.

Education Requirements to Become a Model

There are no educational requirements to become a model. You can take short courses in subjects like walking and posture, as well as other skills. The best step to becoming a model is finding an agent.

To do this, you will need to have a few basic shots together in a portfolio. At the most you need five shots or so. They should include a close up portrait of your face, as well as a full length body shot. You could have a friend take these for you, or hire a photographer yourself for a more professional look.

It's very important to be aware that there are many scams surrounding the modeling industry that thrive on people looking for an agent. Never sign with an agent that wants you to pay a fee to be on their books. Nor should you go with someone that want to put you on their books, but requires you to have an expensive set of portfolio shots taken.

Model Job Description

A model poses in a variety of mediums, they could be in a photograph, an advertisement, a television ad, or even in a show or film. Some models work on the catwalk, while others get work at promotional events.

A shoot could last over many hours, and models need to learn to be uncomfortable sometimes. Cold weather, shoes that don't fit, and hours staying in the same position are all just part of the job.

There are also many perks to being a model. You may get paid a large amount of money for just a few hours of work. Many models get to attend exclusive industry events, and many are given free gifts.

Here are some different areas models often find themselves:

Fashion models - these models pose for clothing ads, magazine shoots, and sometime television commercials. Most fashion models are at least 5'5" tall and quite slim. There are also few models over the age of 25.
Runway models - similar to a fashion model, but works a lot in fashion shows. Many fashion models are also runway models.
Swimsuit models - Swimsuit models need to have excellent bodies and perfect measurements. While still quite slim, they are often curvier than fashion models.
Fitness models - Model a range of fitness attire, while still tall and slim, they are a lot more muscular than fashion models.
Hair Model - Hair models work in commercials for hair products, and also with hairdressers as a part of shows. You'll need gorgeous hair to get this work, and not need to mind what happens to it in terms of length, style, and color.
Promotional Model - These models work at events and promotions, often selling a particular product. They interact with the public a lot. While you don't need to be tall, you do need to be attractive, and also good with people.
Plus size model - Plus sized models work to model clothing aimed at larger men and women.

Model Salary and Career Path

Most models start their career by signing with an agent. Many start their career quite young, there are many successful fashion models that are no older than 15. Some start modeling as children, then continue on into adulthood.

Deciding to become a model can be quite lucrative, however many find themselves struggling to make ends meet. Many find that by the time they get to their late twenties that they can no longer get work, with the exception of a very small few.

Many models also work as actors, and gain work in this field when they get older. Some move on to other areas of the industry, such as casting, design, or fashion journalism.

Becoming a model can offer a very rewarding and glamorous career, however competition can be high. While some jobs may pay a lot of money, models can also face long periods without work.