What is takes to become a model:

So I bet your all wondering what it takes to become a model, how do I become one and so on, here in this post it will tell you all about 'What it Takes'. (You don`t need to read all of this post if you don`t want, just pick the bit thats right for you.)

The first thing you have to consider is what type of model do you want be? If you are trying for high fashion modeling, the runways of Paris, the cover of Vogue, etc., the requirements are very strict. If you are hoping to do commercial modeling (such as product or lifestyle) the requirements are much broader. If you want to be a glamour, or pin-up model, this area has its own set of requirements.

All modeling, except for some glamour, is client driven. There is no need for a model (or for that matter, a photographer) until a client has something to sell (a product, service, or idea) or in the case of editorial an idea to convey. At this point, the client becomes willing to part with the dollars (the money stream) to accomplish his/her sales or editorial goals and a model is hired. It is the size of the potential sales' goals and the model's importance in those goals that determines how much a model is paid (hourly fees. usage, etc.). Some types of glamour and stock lifestyle modeling can work differently as the photo itself has a value and the buyer can be found later. So, when we look at different types of modeling we are looking at different classes of clients. As an example, the Fashion Industry is dependent on using models in its advertising, promotion, and sales material. In certain top fashion market cities this can lead to many job possibilities and high fees. So when considering a modeling career you must start by looking at the different types of modeling being demanded by clients, the requirements for a given type of modeling and if your physical, talent and personality are right for that type of modeling.

The market determines what models are needed. These needs tend to cluster into market segments and allow us to look at types of models. It is important to understand the type of model you want to be. By understanding the type of modeling you are interested in you can learn what the requirements are and if you can meet them. This also helps in avoiding getting ripped off (more about this on the scam page). I have seen the greatest number of rip-offs and bad business decision happen when a wannabe model is thinking of one type of modeling (usually high fashion) and a scout, agent, photographer, etc. is recruiting for another (life style, Playboy glamour). So it is very important you understand what type of modeling you are interested in.

The Garment and Beauty product industries are large users of models. People want to see what clothes or beauty products look like on somebody. Your high-fashion, designer-label garments, are designed for what fashion designers view as the "ideal woman." This is someone tall and slender, somewhat leggy, with a swan like neck and very young. In major markets like New York, this is someone who is 5'9" to 6' tall and from a size 8 to a size 0 depending on what is in. For men it is at least 6 foot tall and a 40 regular - of course, you have to have that "look" to go with the clothes. In secondary markets we would like to have this but often work with fashion models that don't meet these measurements. It is more important you just have a look of being tall and slender and that the sample clothes will fit you. The "look" can run from classic beauty to some extreme looks for fashion.

If you are going to work in front of the camera you need to be photogenic, and this you won't know until you do a test shoot. Usually the face is oval shape, with symmetry to the facial features. Eyes are almond shape. The cheekbones should be strong and nose straight and proportioned. Lips should be full. All of this just puts you in the general category; from there it is a matter of what the market demands are.

Hope this helped you,
Bye
:)
Lauren.