How to Become a Model
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The first step is to find out where most of the modeling agencies are located. This can simply be achieved by googling "model agency directories". Now the obvious is to either move closer to the general location of those agencies. For example, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, or any other major city. However, you don't have to live in the exact area. The downfall to living further away is the expense of traveling time, which means less work and more time on the road. I live 300 miles away from my agency, which requires more planning around my schedule and less time in front of the camera.
After researching the locations of various modeling agencies and what it will take for you to get there, you need to get some good photos of yourself that are portfolio material. I recommend finding somebody you know that is into photography and would be willing to shoot for free or of no charge. Most agencies state that they don't care whether you bring in professional photos or personal photos taken from home. You want to make a good first impression. When I was first searching for an agency, I would often see people bring in bent, small, and horrible quality photos of themselves. It was hard for me to take these people seriously as competition for being selected as a model. It is also better to bring your photos in some type of folder or manila envelope to keep them in good condition.
Most agencies have a website to submit photos. Others require you to show up for walk-in "open call". I suggest doing both. It will require patience and determination. The business is full of rejection. If you get rejected, it doesn't mean you are not model material. It may mean that you are not the specific "look" they are looking for at the moment. Be prepared to spend time in waiting rooms at open calls with other people that are in the same boat as you are. It may be awkward, uncomfortable, and there may even be a competitive vibe as well. The most important thing that you do is stay motivated and confident if you are really set on becoming a model. Don't give up. Sooner or later someone will show interest in you. It is important to not agree to sign with just anyone. It's smart to do a little interest int he business that has shown interest in you. Look into the Better Business Bureaus (www.bbb.com) and find what kind of reputation the agecny has.
Once an agency has shown interest in you, and you have signed a representation contract, it is important to understand that you will be put through more and more rejection. Casting calls will be the majority of your modeling career (at least in the beginning). Becoming a model will be more of an investment if your situation is not convenient with the demands. Most agencies will take 20% out of the earning you make on jobs. The Casting calls require more waiting and competition with other models. The casting call is simply a "go-see" to possibly get selected for a job. Your agency will try and schedule you will castings that more suitable for your experience. They will mainly consist of stock print photography, or some other type of advertisement photography. As time goes on, and the more exposure you get the more work you will receive.
As a model myself, I have only done a handful of jobs of which only a few were decent money. It can become stressful and even frustrating at times. However, if you are set on becoming represented by an agency it can be done with a little determination and patience. How successful you really are depends on how much effort you give into it.
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I was just reading an ad in the Janice Dickenson Modeling Agency window for male models. If you are going to be in the Hollywood/Highland area you might want to check it out.
Breadwrage, did you see any models who were average looking when you were on calls? Or, were they all super attractive/handsome? Is there a market for the person next door?
Not all of the models are very attractive and or handsome. There is a huge market right now for the more interesting/unique look. More European than American.
You look a little like the guy from Smallville. Excellent advice.
Brad, I think Kathy wants you.
Are you the only model with his own PodCast....I think so.
pls post ur picures as many as u can so that i choose what pictures u are attractive
what do you have to study to become a model
If you are considering becoming a model the best thing to do is look at some fashion magazines or ads and get an idea of how certain models pose. If you may have something, it should come pretty easy.
Krystal - study? Are you kidding? Most models (with all due respect to bradwrage) are dumber than a doornail. Have you ever heard Heidi Klum speak? Anorexia starves the brain of vital nutrients.
Would you consider it easier for males to become models than females? Does the industry have stricter guidelines for female models than male models? Not to seem like a pessimist, but it seems like there are more guidelines for female models (especially body size) than male models, though I could be wrong. It's the same way with acting. Many great actors are never heard of, while people who do a terrible job and should never have gotten a job acting are considered great and are highly paid. :P
Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading. However, those really are questions I'm curious about. I could look it up elsewhere if you don't want to answer, though. Anyway, great hub.
Hey, I took a couple pictures of myself and sent them via email to a local reputable agency. I was contacted the following day to come in and meet with the agents. I wanted to ask you for advice as to what I should wear. I'm wondering what they may ask me or what is to be expected at one. I'm also curious if agencies sign on the majority of models they interview or not? Thanks so much. Hope to hear from you soon!
Katie, first of if they contact you in any way it means they are interested. It might not mean you will make it as a model, but that the possibility of giving you a try is very high. As for interviews wear something casual yes fashionable. Agencies like to see that you have some sort of fashion sense. Let me know how it goes.
Great hub subject and we agree for the most part on approach. I am hoping to encourage people to model but not necessarily to be obsessed with it...detracting from soome of the best creative and imaginative work possible....often done without a market driven request. My best to you and your work.
Very informative and useful hub for new talents.
helpful
man Nigga You GAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY
Kathy says:
3 years ago
Post some of your modeling pics, please.