Want to be a Model?

Professional modeling is an extremely competitive field. It's estimated that only 1 out of every 50 hopefuls will eventually make it a successful career. If, however, you're serious about breaking into the business, the following information may be helpful.

Before making the rounds to modeling agencies in the geographical area where you would like to to work, engage the services of a good photographer to have several test shots taken. These will aid agents in determining your potenial as, very often, people photograph differently from the way they appear in person. With these shots, begin building a portfolio. A good one should ultimately contain a wide variety of pictures, taken by several photographers on location and in studios, and showing you in as many ways as possible. Don't try to create one image--such as a "European" look-- and thus typecast yourself. A good photographer can capture various aspects of your personality and appearance and thereby make you marketable.

After you've assembled some professional photographs, then it's time to contact modeling agencies. Do this before approching the art director of a magazine,as agencies have broader outlets for marketing an individual. If an agent is interested in you, he'll often help build your porfolio and, if you sign with them, help with your composite card. This is your calling card, including photographs plus your height, weight, suit  size, agency and telephone number. With it, you can begin making the rounds of magazines or commercial casting agents, depending upon your focus. A card is left with the casting person for future oppotunities.

Send out composite cards, make appointments with casting people, register with an agency, get print work whenever you can. As far as qualifications go, the most important is that you be photogenic. Of course, certain measurements are desirable: height, 6 feet; waist, 32 inches; inseam, 31 inches; suit size, 40 regular. While thae represent an average, variations are posssible, especially if you have an unsual strong point-- for example, a highly expressive face.

So, if you feel qualified and are willing to devote the time and effort it requires to break into the modeling profession, get going, and the best of luck!