How to Become a Model

Intro: I recently got signed by 3 modeling agencies and I am going to share my path to becoming a model with you.

Step 1: First, I used google.com to find all the agencies nearby where I lived in Detroit, Michigan. I pick and choose the agencies which seemed to be the best ones based on how their websites looked and if they were SAG certified or not.

I also went to bbb.org, the Better Business Bureau website, and checked to see if anyone had filed any complaints with the agencies I choose. If the agencies were free from complaints then I was interested in them. If you live somewhere where there are no agencies then you must plan on finding agencies in another state and moving there if they sign you.

Step 2: Now that you found some reputable agencies that you are interested in you can go to their websites or call them to find out where to send photos too. Every agency wants possible new models to send in very recent photos and stats of themselves. Most every agency website will tell you were you can mail photos to. Remember, if an agency ever asks for money up front then they are a scam. The only money you may have to spend is for profressional photos and comp cards (More on this later). Agencies make money when they get you jobs. They usually get a 20 percent commission for finding you a job, this is normal.

Step 3: Have a friend or family member take photos of you outside when the sunlight is best (My agency said before 10 a.m. or between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. is best). You should take a variety of photos, for example, a full body shot in tight fitting clothing, a head shot (Use google images to see example of headshots), and a bathing suit shot (Only if you look good in one). Many agencies websites will also tell you what kind of photos they want you to submit (Headshot, Profile, etc.). Also, include your stats; age, height, weight, sizes, hair color, eye color, and etc. along with your photos. Once you have compiled your photos and stats send them off to all of the agencies you are interested in.

It is not necessary to get professional photos done until you actually get signed by the agency. Agencies sign models based on non-professional snap shots all the time. You either are what they want or you are not. If they show no interest then you can try to find other agencies or wait awhile and send in more professional photos. Some agencies may have a ton of 21 year old females and may not need another one, so don't get discouraged. Keep trying!

Step 4: If an agency likes you then they will call you in for an interview. At the interview they basically just make sure you look like the photos and have you sign a contract. Dress nice for the interview and bring a planner and pen to write down things they tell you. They will want you to get professional shots done because they can't book you for jobs with poor photos. Once you get professional shots done then you can use those shots to get comp cards made.

Step 5: A comp card is the best marketing tool a model can have. It is a 5 inch by 7 inch card with one photo of you on the front and 4 photos on you on the other side along with your stats on the back. A modeling agency will assist you in getting these made and picking out which photos to use. Usually it will cost around $80 for one hundred cards. Your agency will keep anywhere from 20-50 comp cards of yours at their office building. When clients call to book models, your agency will mail out your comp card along with others to people who are looking to hire models.

Step 6: This whole process of finding an agency and getting photos and making a comp card may take anywhere from 2-3 months. Once all of this is completed you will start to book jobs or attend some casting calls your agency sends you to. Once you start gaining experience and gaining exposure you will start to book more jobs. It is important to stay physically fit so your stats don't change for the worse. When a client wants to book a model they want the person they see on the comp cards, not someone with a totally different hair style and 15 pounds heavier.

Step 7: Never give up! I spent six months working out to get the body I needed before submitting photos!

Tips: Never ever give up...

Comments (1)

tracysmith159 said:

	... Good Article on being a model
	report abuse vote down vote up

February 20, 2010
Votes: +0