utahmodels.net
How do I become a model?
Anyone can be a model. There is a common misconception that all models are too skinny and tall, but in today's modeling industry, that is not the case. Advertisers are increasingly drawing on "normal" looking models in order to sell their products to a target audience.
If you have the drive and desire to enter the world of modeling, all you need to do is find a good photographer, get some amazing shots and submit them to a local modeling agency. The "look" of models varies from day to day, but with a little patient, you could be on the next magazine cover.
Here is a list of modeling jobs and agencies:
Commercial Kids modeling jobs- commercialkids.com
Star Cast USA - starcastusa.com
Solo Models - solomodels.com
Model Scouts - modelscouts.com
How do I find a photographer?
Photographers are not created equally. Although everyone can get at least one good photograph per session, a good photographer will get amazing shots. When selecting a photographer, ask to look at their portfolio. Most photography studios have websites you can go to and view their galleries.
Choose a photographer whose style you prefer. Also check on prices. The average photographer will charge between $300-$1000 for a portfolio. Prices do not always reflect quality. Again, ask to see their portfolio.
Questions to ask a photographer before deciding to hire him/her:
Are you experienced in model portfolio development? A photographer with experience will know what types of shots you need.
Do you have references of recent model shoots and can I contact one or two of the models?
Can I bring a friend or parent? If the photographer refuses the request, I suggest looking for a different photographer.
Do you employ a hair and make-up artist? If not, can you suggest some? Do I provide my own clothing?
Do you supply props or should I bring some?
Do you make posing suggestions?
Do you retouch the images? Is it included in the price?
How do I receive my photographs? Are they printed or delivered on CD? How long until I receive them?
What usage rights do I have? Can I reprint the images?
Does the photographer offer a guarantee? If you are dissatisfied with the pictures, what will he/she do?
Skin Care
A modeling agency can't send you out on an assignment if you have poor skin. Here is a list of things to avoid and things to do.
Don't spend a lot of money on a skin care regimen. Purchase items from a professional, but don't go to extremes.
Don't pop a pimple unless it has a white head. Otherwise it will last longer and look terrible. Leaving them alone is best.
Don't leave sweat on your skin. Wash it off, whether you use water alone or soap as well.
Don't be ashamed of seeking medical help for stubborn acne.
Do drink water. 8-12 glasses a day will keep the blotches at bay.
Do wash your face twice a day - morning and night.
Do use a moisturizer (non scented if possible) but make sure you use a small pea-sized amount.
Do sleep at least 8 hours a night. Your body needs a chance to rest and repair itself. Dark circles under your eyes are also unappealing.
Overall, relax. Don't stress yourself out worrying - it shows on your skin and in your body. Make sure you take about 15 minutes a day to relax.
Runway
The purpose of a runway is not to showcase you, but to promote the clothes you are wearing. It does provide the opportunity for you to exposure, however, and exposure is a good thing. So how can you stand out from the others on a runway?
Learn what the professionals do. Watch and study them. Go to or record a few fashion shows. See what the professional models do that is pleasing. Notice what is distracting.
First, check out the posture. Standing straight and tall exudes confidence and grace. Keep your shoulders straight and even as you walk.
Second, pay attention to the eyes. The models do not stop and stare at the people around them, but focus on a distant wall. If models did attempt to look around, they would quickly be blinded by the lights. You certainly do not want to fall off the stage.
Third, look at the model's chin. It is pointed downward slightly to allow a better angle for photographers and the people looking up at you.
Fourth, don't over swing your arms. Females, keep your upper arm against your body so only the bottom swings. Males, let your arms swing naturally. Keep your hands open and make sure your fingers are straight and visible, but not stiff.
Fifth, take longer strides than normal, but don't look awkward. Females, walk with one foot in front of the other so the exaggerated stride doesn't make your arms flail and swing fanatically.
And sixth, confidence is a necessity. Designers may have certain ways they want their clothing displayed, but with confidence, you will fit in nicely at any runway.
Posing
A great pose can make a great picture. Do a little research. Look through magazines and advertisements for ideas. Practice in front of a mirror to see what looks good and what doesn't. Make your transitions graceful. Sometimes the perfect picture is in between two poses. Use props. Props often help relax a model and provide an alternate way to stand or behave.
Here are some posing tips:
Do not hold your breath - it shows.
Keep your back straight and shoulders up.
Bend your arms slightly to look more natural. Do the same with the legs. Rest most of your weight on one foot to look slimmer and more natural.
Don't look directly at the camera for every shot. Turn your head or tilt your neck. Use a variety of head and eye positions.
Use a variety of facial expressions. Smile, frown, scowl, pout…etc.
Point your toes for curvy, shapely calves.
Listen to the photographer.
To emphasize cleavage: bring your arms together at the waist, clasp your hands together below the waist, keep your arms straight at the elbows or cross your arms.
To minimize cleavage: lean backward, slouch, keep your arms apart or raise your arms above your shoulders or head.
What is a tear sheet?
Most agencies will want a tear sheet. Tear sheets are basically pages taken from a magazine to show that a model has been published.
All agencies and serious models have tear sheets. A good way to tell if a company is legitimate is to ask to see tear sheets. If they have them, they are legitimate. If not, go somewhere else.
TIPS